Keep your pillows clean with tips from the experts.
We all know how wonderful it feels to sink into a clean bed at night, and better yet when it’s a fresh bed. But nothing makes a bed fresher than newly cleaned pillows, and it seems no one is doing this often enough.
Regular washing not only keeps your pillows fresh but also extends their life, ensuring you always have a clean place to rest your head. Learn how often you should be washing your pillows to keep your sleep routine clean and dreamy.
Meet the Expert
is the owner of Clean Mama cleaning blog and natural cleaning product franchise.
How Often to Wash Pillows
Generally, it’s best to wash your pillows every three to six months, according to Becky Rapinchuk of Clean Mama. This routine helps get rid of all those pesky allergens like dust mites, sweat, and skin cells that tend to build up.
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Signs It’s Time to Wash Your Pillow
There are a few telltale signs that it’s time to give pillows a good clean:
- If you notice yellow or brown stains, that’s sweat, body oils, and maybe a bit of drool. Not only do these stains look gross, but they can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and allergens. When you see these marks, it’s time to wash your pillow.
- Pillows can trap odors from your body and the environment. If your pillow smells musty or just generally unpleasant, it has likely absorbed sweat or other fluids and should be washed.
- : Your pillow should feel supportive and comfortable. Regular fluffing and washing can restore its loft.
- : If you can’t remember the last time you washed your pillow, it’s definitely time to do it. Try marking your calendar for a biannual or quarterly wash to keep on track.
and hygienic but also helps them last longer. This ensures you always have a clean, comfortable, and supportive pillow to rest on each night.
When Should You Replace Your Pillow?
Even with regular washing, pillows don’t last forever.
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Investing in a good quality pillow and replacing it regularly can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall health.
Tips for Longer-Lasting Pillows
To get the most out of your pillows, here are some practical tips to help them stay fresh and supportive for as long as possible:
- These act as a barrier between your pillow and things like dust, sweat, and spills, Rapinchuk says. They’re also usually machine washable, making it easier to keep your pillows clean. High-quality, hypoallergenic protectors are the best choice.
- If you spill something or notice a small stain, spot-clean it with a mild detergent and a clean cloth. Avoid soaking the pillow, as too much moisture can make it too hard to try without putting it in a dryer. Spot cleaning helps keep your pillow looking and smelling fresh between full washes.
- “In order to wash pillows properly, you need to determine what type of pillow you’re sleeping on,” Rapinchuk says. She advises people to check the manufacturer’s washing instructions for their pillow type.
- After washing, make sure your pillows are completely dry to prevent mold and mildew. Use a low heat setting on your dryer and consider adding clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff the pillows as they dry. For pillows that can’t be machine-dried, air drying in a sunny, well-ventilated area is best.
- If you use multiple pillows, rotate them regularly. This practice distributes the wear and tear evenly, so no single pillow gets overly compressed or worn out too quickly. Rotating helps maintain their shape and support for longer.
By following these tips, you can extend the life of your pillows and maintain a healthier sleep environment. Regular care and attention ensure that your pillows continue to provide the comfort and support you need for a restful night’s sleep.
The Spruce
