Yes, You Really Should Clean Your Pillows — An Expert Reveals How

Maintain cleanliness of your pillows using advice from professionals.

Everyone understands the delightful sensation of sliding into a pristine bed at night, especially when it’s endowed with new linens. However, even these aren’t as rejuvenating as freshly laundered pillows, which people tend not to refresh frequently enough.

Frequent laundering doesn’t just keep your pillows smelling nice; it also prolongs their lifespan, guaranteeing you a hygienic spot for your head every night. Discover the frequency at which you ought to wash your pillows to maintain a pristine sleeping environment and blissful nights.

Meet the Expert

Becky Rapinchuk owns the Clean Mama cleaning blog and operates a franchise for natural cleaning products.

How Frequently Should You Clean Your Pillows?

Typically, it's advisable to clean your pillows every three to six months as suggested by Becky Rapinchuk from Clean Mama. This regular cleaning aids in eliminating various irritants such as dust mites, perspiration, and dead skin cells that often accumulate over time.

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Indicators It’s Due for a Pillow Cleaning

Several clear indications suggest it’s due for you to thoroughly wash your pillows:

• Visible stains: If you spot yellow or brown discolorations, those likely indicate sweat, sebum, and possibly some saliva. These unsightly spots not only appear unpleasant but may also foster bacterial growth and allergens. Upon observing such markings, it’s advisable to launder your pillow.
• Odor: Pillows may retain scents from your body and external sources. Should your pillow emit a moldy smell or an overall unappealing odor, it might have soaked up perspiration or other liquids and requires washing.
• Loss of fluff Your pillow needs to be both supportive and comfy. Fluffing and cleaning it regularly can help maintain its thickness.
• Time since last wash If you can’t recall when you last cleaned your pillow, it’s certainly overdue. Consider setting reminders for either twice a year or every three months to ensure you stay up-to-date with washing it.

Regular washing not only keeps your pillows fresh Moreover, this makes your pillows last longer. Thus, guaranteeing you a consistently clean, comfy, and supportive place to lay your head every evening.

At What Point Should You Change Your Pillow?

Despite frequent cleaning, pillows have a limited lifespan.

Regardless of how frequently you do it wash your pillows They can still turn into a trap for soaking up perspiration and cosmetics. If your pillow fails to return to its initial form when folded in half, or if you find yourself waking up with discomforts and pain, it might be time for an update. new one .

Purchasing a high-quality pillow and changing it frequently can greatly enhance your sleep quality and general well-being.

Tips for Longer-Lasting Pillows

To make the best use of your pillows, consider these useful suggestions to keep them feeling clean and supportive for an extended period:

• Use pillowcases: According to Rapinchuk, these barriers prevent elements such as dust, sweat, and spills from reaching your pillow. Additionally, they can typically be cleaned using a washing machine, simplifying the process of maintaining their cleanliness. Opting for high-quality, hypoallergenic protectors is recommended for superior performance.
• Spot cleaning: In case of spills or minor stains, gently cleanse them using a gentle soap and a clean fabric. Steer clear from immersing the pillow since excessive dampness might cause it to become overly firm when drying naturally outside of a tumble dryer. Intermittent cleaning aids in maintaining the freshness in both appearance and odor of your pillow until a thorough washing becomes necessary.
• Follow care instructions: “To clean your pillows effectively, you first need to identify the kind of pillow you have,” according to Rapinchuk. She recommends checking the cleaning guidelines provided by the manufacturer for your specific pillow type.
• Dry thoroughly: Once you have washed them, ensure your pillows are entirely dried out to avoid mold and mildew growth. Set your dryer on a low heat level and add clean tennis balls or specialized dryer balls to assist with plumping up the pillows during the drying process. If some of your pillows cannot go into a dryer, opt for laying them out in a bright, airy spot outdoors for natural drying.
• Rotate pillows: When using several pillows, make sure to switch them around periodically. This rotation ensures an even distribution of wear and tear, preventing any one pillow from becoming excessively flattened or deteriorated rapidly. By doing this, you help preserve their form and supportive properties over time.

By adhering to these suggestions, you can prolong the lifespan of your pillows and sustain a cleaner sleeping area. Consistent maintenance and oversight guarantee that your pillows keep offering the ease and backing required for a peaceful night's slumber.

Read the initial article on The Spruce