How to Wash, Whiten and Re-Fluff (or Replace) Your Pillows

You may know that it is important to wash your pillowcases regularly. But, are you washing and replacing your pillows on a regular basis? If would like to know more about How to Wash, Whiten and Re-Fluff (or Replace) Your Pillows, continue reading for some amazing tips!

Should you replace your pillows?

• Does your pillow have lumps when you remove the pillow case? Then it’s time to replace your pillow.
• Does your neck or head hurt in the morning after laying on your pillow all night? If so, you may need a new pillow.
• Does your pillow smell? If it smells like mildew, you need to throw it out immediately!
• Have you ever tried folding your pillow to see if it’s worn out? If you fold your pillow and it does not bounce back into shape, it’s time for a new one. It’s also time to go pillow shopping if your pillows are more than 5 years old.

It’s suggested that you wash your pillows every 6 months. Here’s how:

• Wash 1 to 2 pillows per load. If you have a top-loading machine you can wash 2 pillows at a time to keep the machine balanced.
• 1 cup of mild liquid detergent
• 1 cup of liquid dishwasher soap
• 1 cup of bleach
• 1/2 cup of borax
• Remove pillow cases and check on the tag to make sure the pillow is washable. Use the gentle cycle of the washer along with hot water and detergents. Let the water fill with the water. Wait until the detergent dissolves before adding the pillows. Make sure to read the pillow label again before you dry your pillows. Each type of pillow will likely have drying instructions.

Did you know you can fluff pillows with lumps? Here’s how:

• Use a dryer sock: Put a tennis ball into a long sock and tie the sock into a knot to secure the tennis ball. Place the tennis ball-in-sock contraption into the dryer along with your pillow to agitate and return the pillow back to their fluffy state.
• The Sunshine method: Place the pillow outside in the sun on a bright, sunny day for a few hours. Over the hours, the sun will help evaporate any remaining moisture inside your pillow.

When you wash and maintain your pillows at home instead of the dryer cleaner, you will save vast sums of money in the long run! Now you know that just because there is a dirty spot on your pillow doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to purchase a new pillow! Cleaning your pillows at home will also keep them allergen free.