Can You Wash Pillows In The Washing Machine? Here’s The Ultimate Guide!
What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about washing pillows in a washing machine, from choosing the right settings to drying and fluffing them.
- Wash feather pillows in a large washing machine and use a normal cycle.
- If the filter is clogged, the dryer may not be able to remove all the moisture from the pillows.
Are you wondering if you can throw your pillows in the washing machine? The answer is yes, but it’s crucial to follow the proper steps to avoid damaging them. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about washing pillows in a washing machine, from choosing the right settings to drying and fluffing them.
Selecting the Right Pillows for Machine Washing
Not all pillows are created equal when it comes to machine washing. Some materials, such as memory foam and down, require special care. Here are some guidelines:
- Memory foam: Avoid machine washing memory foam pillows, as the agitation can break down the foam.
- Down: Down pillows can be machine washed, but use the gentle cycle and a mild detergent.
- Synthetic: Most synthetic pillows, such as polyester and microfiber, can be machine washed without issue.
- Feather: Feather pillows can be washed in a washing machine, but they may require a longer drying time.
Preparing Your Pillows for Washing
Before tossing your pillows in the washing machine, it’s important to prepare them properly:
- Remove pillowcases: Take off any pillowcases and wash them separately.
- Check for stains: Inspect your pillows for any stains. If found, pretreat the stains with a stain remover.
- Zip up covers: If your pillows have removable covers, zip them up to prevent the stuffing from escaping.
Choosing the Right Washer Settings
The key to successful pillow washing is choosing the right washer settings:
- Water temperature: Use cold water for all types of pillows.
- Cycle: Select the gentle or delicate cycle for all pillows, except for feather pillows, which may require a normal cycle.
- Detergent: Use a mild detergent specifically formulated for delicate fabrics.
Washing Your Pillows
Once your pillows are prepared and the settings are selected, follow these steps:
- Load the washer: Place the pillows in the washing machine, leaving some space for them to move around.
- Add detergent: Add the appropriate amount of detergent to the dispenser.
- Start the cycle: Press the start button and allow the washing machine to complete the cycle.
Drying Your Pillows
Drying your pillows correctly is crucial to prevent mold and mildew:
- Tumble dry: Place the pillows in a dryer on low heat.
- Tennis balls: Add a few clean tennis balls to the dryer to help fluff the pillows.
- Check regularly: Check the pillows every 30 minutes to ensure they are drying evenly.
- Fluff and air: Once the pillows are dry, remove them from the dryer and fluff them by hand. If possible, air them out for a few hours to remove any lingering moisture.
Tips for Washing Different Types of Pillows
- Memory foam: Hand wash memory foam pillows with a mild detergent and air dry them.
- Down: Use a down-specific detergent and add extra rinse cycles to remove all detergent residue.
- Feather: Wash feather pillows in a large washing machine and use a normal cycle. Dry them thoroughly to prevent mold.
- Synthetic: Wash synthetic pillows on the gentle cycle and tumble dry them on low heat.
Troubleshooting Common Pillow Washing Problems
- Pillows come out lumpy: This may indicate that the pillows were not rinsed thoroughly or dried evenly. Repeat the washing and drying process.
- Pillows have a musty smell: This could be due to mold or mildew. Wash the pillows again with a stronger detergent and dry them thoroughly.
- Pillows are still wet: Check the dryer filter and ensure it is clean. If the filter is clogged, the dryer may not be able to remove all the moisture from the pillows.
The Importance of Regular Pillow Washing
Regularly washing your pillows is essential for hygiene and health reasons:
- Removes allergens: Pillows accumulate dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens that can trigger allergies and asthma.
- Prevents bacteria growth: Sweat, saliva, and other bodily fluids can create a breeding ground for bacteria on pillows.
- Improves sleep quality: Clean pillows provide a more comfortable and hygienic sleeping environment.
What People Want to Know
Can I wash my pillows with bleach?
No, it is not recommended to wash pillows with bleach. Bleach can damage the fibers of the pillow and reduce its lifespan.
How often should I wash my pillows?
Pillows should be washed every 3-6 months, or more often if you have allergies or pets.
Can I machine wash a buckwheat pillow?
No, buckwheat pillows should not be machine washed. The buckwheat hulls can absorb water and become damaged.
