How to Wash Pillows (UK) – Step-by-Step Guide for Clean and Fresh Pillows
We all know that a good night’s sleep is essential for our overall health and well-being. And what better way to ensure a restful sleep than to have clean and fresh pillows to lay our heads on? Over time, our pillows can accumulate dust, sweat, and other dirt particles, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards. That’s why it’s important to regularly wash our pillows to keep them clean and hygienic.
In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of washing your pillows in the UK. Whether you have feather pillows, down pillows, or synthetic pillows, the cleaning process remains the same. With a few simple steps and the right cleaning products, you’ll be able to enjoy clean and fresh pillows in no time.
First, it’s important to check the care label on your pillows. Some pillows may have specific washing instructions, such as hand washing only or machine washing on a gentle cycle. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the best results. If there is no care label or you are unsure, it’s generally safe to wash most pillows in the washing machine on a gentle cycle.
Before washing your pillows, remove the pillowcases and any protective covers. If your pillows have stains or odors, pre-treat them with a stain remover or odor eliminator spray. Allow the cleaning product to penetrate the fabric for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step. This will help ensure that your pillows come out clean and fresh after washing.
Step-by-Step Guide for Washing Pillows in the UK
1. Check the care label
Before washing your pillows, check the care label for any specific instructions or restrictions. Some pillows may have specific cleaning requirements.
2. Prepare the pillows
Remove the pillowcases and pillow protectors, if any. Give the pillows a good shake to remove any loose dirt or debris.
3. Sort the pillows
If you have different types or sizes of pillows, separate them into different piles to ensure the washing process is easier and more efficient.
4. Check for damage
Inspect the pillows for any signs of damage, such as rips or tears. If you find any, it’s best to mend or replace the pillows before washing.
5. Pre-treat stains
If your pillows have any noticeable stains, pre-treat them with a stain remover or a mixture of laundry detergent and water. Gently rub the solution into the stain using a clean cloth or sponge.
6. Load the washing machine
Place the pillows in the washing machine. If you have multiple pillows, make sure there is enough space for them to move around freely.
7. Add detergent
Add a mild laundry detergent according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using too much detergent can leave a residue on the pillows, so be cautious.
8. Set the washing machine
Select a gentle or delicate cycle with warm water. Avoid using hot water as it can damage certain types of pillows, especially those with foam or memory foam filling.
9. Add an extra rinse cycle
To ensure all the detergent is fully rinsed out, add an extra rinse cycle to the washing machine settings.
10. Dry the pillows
Once the washing cycle is complete, remove the pillows from the washing machine. Gently squeeze out any excess water without wringing or twisting them. Place the pillows in the dryer on a low heat setting or air dry them in a well-ventilated area.
11. Fluff the pillows
After the pillows are completely dry, give them a good fluff by gently kneading and squeezing them. This will help restore their shape and provide maximum comfort.
12. Replace the pillowcases
Once your pillows are fresh, clean, and dry, put them back into their pillowcases. Consider using pillow protectors for added cleanliness.
Additional tips:
- Washing pillows every 3 to 6 months is recommended for maintaining cleanliness and freshness.
- If your pillows are not machine washable, you can spot clean them with a mixture of mild detergent and water.
- Consider using a fabric freshener spray or baking soda to keep your pillows smelling fresh between washes.
- Fluff and rotate your pillows regularly to prevent them from becoming lumpy or flat.
Gather Necessary Supplies
Before you begin washing your pillows, gather the following supplies:
- Laundry detergent
- Bleach (if applicable, check the care label)
- Vinegar
- White towels
- Washing machine
- Dryer
It’s important to read the care label on your pillows to check for any specific washing instructions or prohibitions. Some pillows may not be suitable for machine washing or the use of bleach.
In addition to the supplies listed above, it is recommended to have an extra pillowcase or pillow protector to use when covering your freshly-washed pillows.
Remove Pillowcases and Protectors
To begin washing your pillows, you will need to remove the pillowcases and protectors. These are typically made of cotton or a similar material and can be easily removed by unzipping or unbuttoning them. Make sure to remove all pillowcases and protectors from each pillow you plan to wash.
If you have multiple pillows, it can be helpful to separate them into piles based on the type of pillowcase or protector they have. This can make it easier to keep track of which pillow belongs to which pillowcase or protector when it comes time to reassemble everything.
Once all the pillowcases and protectors are removed, set them aside to be laundered separately. Check the care instructions on each item to determine the appropriate washing method. Most pillowcases and protectors can be machine washed using a gentle cycle and mild detergent. However, if the fabric is delicate or has special care requirements, it may be best to hand wash or dry clean them.
By removing the pillowcases and protectors before washing the pillows, you can ensure that both the pillows and their coverings are thoroughly cleaned and refreshed. This step also allows you to inspect the pillows for any stains, tears, or other damage that may require additional attention.
Pre-Treat Stains and Spots
Before washing your pillows in the washing machine, it is important to pre-treat any stains or spots to ensure they are fully removed during the wash cycle.
Here are some steps you can follow to pre-treat the stains and spots:
- Identify the stains: Carefully examine the pillows to identify any stains or spots that need pre-treatment.
- Spot clean: For small stains, spot clean the affected area using a mild detergent or a stain remover. Gently rub the detergent or stain remover onto the stain using a clean cloth or sponge.
- Allow the pre-treatment to work: Let the detergent or stain remover sit on the stain for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate the fabric and work on breaking down the stain.
- Blot the stain: After allowing the pre-treatment to work, gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing the stain as this can spread it further.
- Repeat if necessary: If the stain is still visible, repeat the pre-treatment process until it is fully removed.
It is important to note that different types of stains may require different pre-treatment approaches. Always check the care label of your pillows for any specific instructions or recommendations from the manufacturer.
Once you have pre-treated the stains and spots, you can proceed to wash your pillows according to the instructions in the next section.
Choose the Right Washing Method
When it comes to washing your pillows, it’s important to choose the right washing method based on the type of pillow you have.
1. Synthetic Pillows
If you have synthetic pillows, you can usually wash them in the washing machine. Check the care label on the pillow for any specific instructions. Generally, it’s recommended to use a gentle cycle with warm water and mild detergent.
- Remove the pillowcase and any protective covers.
- Place two pillows in the washing machine to ensure balance.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Set the washing machine to a gentle cycle with warm water.
- After the cycle is complete, remove the pillows and check for any lumps or clumps.
- If necessary, squeeze out any excess water gently.
- Place the pillows in the dryer on a low heat setting or air dry them.
2. Feather Pillows
Feather pillows require a bit more care when washing to prevent damage to the feathers. It’s best to avoid using a washing machine for feather pillows and instead opt for hand washing.
- Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle detergent.
- Place the pillow in the water and gently squeeze it to immerse it fully.
- Allow the pillow to soak for about 15 minutes.
- Gently squeeze the pillow to remove excess water, being careful not to twist or wring it.
- Rinse the pillow with clean water to remove any remaining detergent.
- Press the pillow between towels to remove more water.
- Hang the pillow to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
3. Memory Foam Pillows
Memory foam pillows are not suitable for machine washing as it can damage the foam. Instead, spot cleaning is recommended.
- Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water.
- Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the soapy water.
- Gently scrub the stained or soiled area of the pillow.
- Rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wring out any excess liquid.
- Wipe away any remaining soap residue from the pillow.
- Allow the pillow to air dry completely before using it again.
Remember, always check the care label on your pillow for any specific washing instructions, and if in doubt, consult a professional cleaner.
Dry and Re-Fluff the Pillows
After washing your pillows, it’s important to properly dry and re-fluff them to ensure they maintain their shape and freshness. Here are the steps to follow:
- Place the pillows in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation. Avoid direct sunlight as it can fade the fabric or cause it to become brittle.
- Fluff the pillows regularly during the drying process to help redistribute the filling and prevent clumping.
- If you’re using a dryer, set it to a low heat setting. Adding a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls can help fluff the pillows and prevent them from clumping.
- Check the care label and follow any specific instructions for drying the pillows. Some pillows can be tumble-dried, while others may need to be air-dried to prevent damage.
- For air-drying, place the pillows on a clean, dry surface, such as a clothesline or a clean towel. Make sure they are evenly spread out to allow for proper airflow.
- Rotate the pillows periodically to ensure they dry evenly on all sides.
- Once the pillows are fully dry, give them a good fluffing by hand to restore their shape and loft.
It’s important to note that not all types of pillows can be washed and dried in the same way. Some may require special care or professional cleaning. Always check the care label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
FAQ
How often should I wash my pillows?
You should wash your pillows every 3-6 months to keep them clean and fresh.
Can I wash my pillows in the washing machine?
Yes, most pillows can be washed in the washing machine. Just make sure to follow the care instructions on the label.
What temperature should I use to wash my pillows?
It is best to wash your pillows on a warm water setting. Hot water can damage the filling, and cold water may not effectively remove stains and odours.
Can I dry my pillows in the dryer?
Yes, you can dry your pillows in the dryer. Use a low heat setting and add a couple of tennis balls to help fluff them up.
How do I know if my pillows need to be replaced instead of washed?
If your pillows are lumpy, flat, or have a lingering odour that doesn’t go away after washing, it may be time to replace them.
