The Ultimate Guide To Washing Pillows
If you are like me, then I am sure that your bedding is always clean. While we may clean out bedding, we may not spend as much time on our pillows because they don't touch the floor or get gross (fingers crossed), it's still important to keep them from getting all dirty and smelly!
How exactly should you wash your pillows? Can you put them in the washer? Do you have to hand wash pillows? Will they shrink in the dryer? In this article we will cover all the nitty gritty tied to washing your pillows.
What type of detergent should be used to wash your pillows?
Since your face spends so much time touching your pillow, it is important that you use a hypoallergenic laundry detergent, ideally free of parabens and other harsh chemicals. Conveniently, Tru Earth Eco-Strips Laundry Detergent is the most convenient way to do laundry and also happens to be free of harsh chemical.
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How to wash pillows in the washing machine?
Yes! However, it is always a good idea to read the label for cleaning instructions prior to washing your pillows in the washing machine. But if you are washing your pillow for the first time, there are some important things that you should know before tossing your pillows in with all of your clothes and running water.
What washing machine setting to wash pillows on?
Most pillows can be washed using warm water on the gentle cycle in your washing machine- but make sure to avoid heavy duty washing cycles as this can damage or tear your pillows! After removing any loose debris like feathers or loose stuffing, toss your pillows in with other laundry items using hot water.
How to Spot-Treat Pillows
When it comes to spot-treating your pillows, you should take into account the type of pillow. For foam pillows, we recommend using a damp cloth dipped in mild soap solution and wiping any soiled areas until clean. Other types can be pre-treated depending on what substances have been spilled onto them such as blood or saliva - enzymes will do the trick!
How to Wash Pillow Covers
If you're looking for the best way to wash pillow covers, the first thing you should do is read the label and make sure your pillow cover is laundry machine safe.
Next, as recommended above, since your face spends a lot of time in contact with your pillow, we recommend using a hypoallergenic laundry detergent (like Tru Earth Laundry detergent strips) in your washing machine.
Add the percale or linen cover to any temperature setting. We recommend washing your pillow covers by themselves, so that they are not exposed directly with other fabrics during high-speed agitation of the spin cycle.
If your washing machine gives you the option, turn on a long rinse time at least five minutes before turning off the washer (this ensures all soap residue has been removed).
When done, remove your pillowcases promptly from the wash. To dry your pillow covers either hand dry or tumble dry on low heat.
How to Wash Foam Pillows
Fun Fact: The inner foam in your pillow can be damaged or even shredded into little pieces if it goes through the washing machine. To make sure that doesn't happen, it is common practice to only was your foam pillow cover. Remove the cover from your pillow and wash the cover by itself.
For the memory foam pillow itself, the best option is to just use a vacuum attachment. Simply attach it and start sucking until all of the dirt and dust has been removed from this fragile cushion.
If there are still stains on your foam pillow, dissolve 1/4 strip of Tru Earth Laundry Detergent in a bowl of water, then use a rag dipped into the soap to scrub off any stains (or even get out a bad smell). Allow the pillow to air dry before putting the pillowcase back on.
How to Dry Pillows
Want fluffy pillows? Here's an easy way to dry them. It's perfectly fine to allow your cotton and feathers pillows to air-dry in a well-ventilated area with no direct sunlight or heat source for up to 72 hours. You should avoid leaving them wet for longer to avoid the risk of mildew build-up. You can also give them some time in the dryer depending on what the cleaning instructions say - be sure that they're not overheated as this may cause shrinkage!
How to Dry Memory Foam Pillows
In the event that you hand wash your memory foam pillow, don't make the mistake of throwing it in the dryer. The foam used to create these pillows can create a risk of fire.
Remove the pillowcase and wring the water out of the memory foam pillow by hand. You want to try and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
Next, either set the pillow out in the sun to dry, or place it in a warm, well-ventilated room.
Before putting the pillow back in the pillowcase, press the foam between your fingers to test for moisture. If moisture persists, throw it back in the sun, or in your warm-ventilated room.
Thanks for reading our guide for how to wash pillows!
To sum up, washing your pillows is not complicated. When possible, follow the instructions on the pillow's tag. Since your face spends a lot of time in contact with the pillow, we suggest washing your pillow with laundry detergents free from harsh chemicals like Tru Earth Laundry Detergent Strips.
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