Pillow Talk: Getting the best out of your pillows

When it comes to cleaning pillows, we usually assume that just washing the pillowcases is enough to keep our bedding fresh, meaning the pillows themselves are often get neglected. But dirt, dead skin and dust mites penetrate through the cases, and after just two years these unwanted extras can form one third of a pillow’s weight. Yuck!

For advice on how to get rid of the dreaded dirt build-up, here’s our guide to pillow care…

How often should you wash pillows?

Over time, pillows soak up sweat, dirt and attract dust. Give them a wash every couple of months to keep them fresh. A cleaner pillow can improve your health, as dust mite build up can heighten allergies.

How to wash pillows in the washing machine

Before you start pillow cleaning, always check the laundry care label for any specific instructions as some memory foam and feather pillows need to be treated differently.

What to do

1. Remove pillowcases and shake the pillows to get rid of any dust.
2. Load two pillows into the washing machine, to make sure weight is distributed evenly and the washing machine spins correctly.
3. Add washing powder. It’s a good idea to add some laundry cleanser to the machine too, as this kills up to 99.9% of bacteria, keeping your pillows extra clean.
4. Wash the pillows at the temperature recommended on the laundry care label and add an extra rinse cycle to be sure that all the soap is gone.Set the washing machine to do a slow 400 – 600 RPM spin first, as some machines struggle to spin heavy wet pillows at high speed. Spin again at 1200+ RPM to remove more of the water.
   

   

5. Remove the pillows and shake to redistribute the filling.
6. Line dry, if possible. If you have pillows that can be tumble dried, finish them off in there so they’re totally free of moisture. Drying pillows thoroughly will reduce the risk of dampness breeding mould, which can lead to health problems.

When should I replace my pillow?

Pillows gradually lose their shape so you get less support over time. But how do you know when yours has reached the end of its life? Try this trick…

Fold your pillow in half: If it stays bent instead of springing back open, the material inside has had its day. Likewise, if your pillow is torn or heavily stained, it’s time to say goodbye and invest in a new pillow.

Keep your bed in tip-top condition with our mattress care and cleaning guide.

Source material from Daisies & Pies.