Pillow Washing Mistakes You Might Be Guilty Of On Laundry Day

Did you know that you're supposed to regularly wash your pillow – not just your pillowcase? Just like their covers, pillows can also get a buildup of oil, sweat, dust mites, and bacteria. Over time, this turns the pillow yellow, wears it down, and makes it more uncomfortable. One of the top pillow-washing mistakes is just that — not washing it all. Throwing your pillow in the wash at least twice a year will not only keep it cleaner but also more soft and fluffy.

It's also essential that you give your pillow the proper care when washing it. Another common mistake is washing the wrong type of pillow. Certain types of pillows are not suitable to be cleaned in a washing machine. While most cotton, down, and feather pillows are usually safe to be thrown in the wash, memory foam pillows need an alternative cleaning method. Always take a look at the pillow's care tag before you wash it.

If your pillows can be cleaned in the washing machine, make sure you're loading the washing machine correctly. Always wash two pillows at a time to keep the washer from getting off-balance. An off-balanced washer from just one pillow could result in expensive repairs to the machine itself. In addition, avoid washing your pillows with other sheets and bedding to prevent the sheets and pillows from getting entangled. Washing your pillows separately will also ensure they get fully and evenly cleaned. 

When they're done washing, allow your pillows to fully dry out all the way before sticking a pillowcase back over them. Some experts say you can stick your pillows in the dryer on a low-heat setting, and check on them and fluff them every 15 minutes. However, certain types of pillows should not be thrown in the dryer, and a high heat could possibly damage them. For your safest bet, take your pillow outside and let it air dry for several hours in the sun. This is also a quick and easy way to freshen up your pillows and get rid odors without having to throw them in the wash.

If you have a pillow that can't be cleaned in the washing machine, or you simply want to clean it without throwing it in the washer, there are some other ways to freshen up your pillow and get rid of odors. One method is to use a small handheld vacuum on both sides of your pillow. This can be done quickly and easily in less than a minute. Or, you may prefer doing a quick clean with a damp towel. Use a Tide pen to spot treat any small stains.

However, be careful what you use to clean your pillows. Another common pillow washing mistake is using the wrong type of cleaner. For example, despite a viral TikTok cleaning hack, you should never use lemon juice to clean your pillows. Your fabrics can degrade and eventually tear more easily due to the citric acid. This is also true for vinegar, another highly acidic cleaning agent. Keep in mind that no matter how many times you wash your pillow, you'll still want to eventually replace it every few years. When you're shopping for your next pillow, make sure you choose one that's not only comfortable but also easy to keep clean.