With how to wash pillows in a washing machine at the forefront, this task might seem daunting but it’s easier when you know what to do. The key is to determine if your pillow can be washed, prepare it for the wash, choose the right washing machine settings, and finally dry and fluff your pillow to its original shape.
This article will guide you through each step of washing a pillow in a washing machine, from checking if it’s washable to drying and fluffing it afterwards. We’ll cover the materials needed, the right washing machine settings, and even provide tips for specific types of pillows.
Understanding Safe Pillow Washing
Before washing your pillows, it’s essential to check if they can be machine washed. This will prevent damage to the fabric, stuffing, or other materials, and ensure a clean and hygienic result. Not all pillows are created equal, and some may require special care.
To check if a pillow is washable in a machine, look for labels or symbols on the cover or tag. Typically, pillows with removable covers can be washed by hand or in a machine, while those with built-in covers may require dry cleaning. However, it’s always better to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Detecting Washing Symbols and Labels
When checking a pillow for washing symbols or labels, you’ll often find a mix of color-coded symbols and written instructions. Here are some common symbols and labels you might encounter:
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- A crescent moon symbol () indicates that the pillow can be washed in cold water, usually between 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F).
- A square symbol () means that the pillow can be washed in hot water, usually above 60°C (140°F).
- A triangle symbol () may be used to indicate that the pillow can be tumbled dry, while a circle symbol () means it can’t.
- Labels such as ‘dry clean only’ or ‘spot clean’ indicate that the pillow should not be machine washed. These labels are usually found on built-in covers or delicate fabrics.
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To decode these symbols and labels, it’s essential to understand the associated washing instructions. For instance, a pillow with a ‘dry clean only’ label should not be machine washed, but rather taken to a professional dry cleaner.
Fabric Labels and Washing Symbols
Not all fabric labels and washing symbols are created equal. Different symbols and labels may have varying meanings depending on the manufacturer or country of origin. To ensure you’re following the correct washing instructions, always check the pillow’s care label or manufacturer’s website.
For example, the European Union has introduced standardized washing symbols, which include:
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
| Hand wash | |
| Machine wash | |
| Iron while damp | |
| Tumble dry normal |
In conclusion, understanding safe pillow washing requires attention to detail and a careful reading of labels and symbols. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a clean, hygienic, and damage-free pillow that will provide comfort and support for years to come.
Washing Pillow Covers and Stuffing: How To Wash Pillows In A Washing Machine
Washing pillow covers and stuffing can be a challenging task, but it’s essential to do it correctly to maintain the quality and hygiene of your pillows. Removing pillow covers and washing pillow stuffing requires some care and attention to detail to avoid damaging the covers or creating lumps in the stuffing.
Removing Pillow Covers for Machine Washing
Before washing your pillow covers, it’s essential to remove them from the pillow. This can be done by carefully unzippering or unzipping the covers and taking them off. Make sure to inspect the covers for any signs of damage or wear and tear, and wash them separately to prevent damage.
To remove pillow covers without damaging them:
- Check the care label on the cover to see if it can be machine washed.
- Remove any buttons, zippers, or other closures to prevent them from getting damaged during washing.
- Turn the covers inside out to prevent any logos or designs from fading.
- Wash the covers in cold water using a mild detergent.
- Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric.
Washing and Drying Pillow Stuffing
Pillow stuffing can be washed and dried, but it requires some special care to prevent lumps from forming. The goal is to wash the stuffing to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated, and then dry it to restore its loft and shape.
To wash and dry pillow stuffing:
- Check the care label on the pillow to see if it can be washed and dried.
- Wash the stuffing in cold water using a mild detergent.
- Use a gentle cycle with a short spin to prevent lumps from forming.
- Remove excess water from the stuffing using a clean towel or cloth.
- Dry the stuffing by air-drying or tumble-drying on a low heat setting.
- Fluff up the stuffing to restore its loft and shape.
Risks of Over-Drying Pillow Stuffing and How to Avoid Them, How to wash pillows in a washing machine
Over-drying pillow stuffing can cause it to become flat and lose its loft, making the pillow uncomfortable to sleep on. To avoid this, it’s essential to dry the stuffing thoroughly but not too much.
To avoid over-drying pillow stuffing:
- Check the stuffing regularly while it’s drying to prevent it from becoming too dry.
- Use a low heat setting when tumble-drying the stuffing to prevent it from becoming too hot.
- Avoid using high heat settings or leaving the stuffing in the dryer for too long.
- Fluff up the stuffing regularly to restore its loft and shape.
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when washing and drying pillow stuffing. It’s better to dry it a bit longer than to risk over-drying it and losing its loft.
Drying and Fluffing Pillows
After washing and rinsing your pillow covers and stuffing, the next step is to dry and fluff them to their original shape. Proper drying and fluffing are essential to prevent moisture accumulation, which can lead to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. To maintain your pillow’s shape and freshness, you’ll want to follow these steps carefully.
Drying Pillow Covers and Stuffing
When drying pillow covers, it’s essential to air dry them or use a low heat setting on your dryer. High heat can cause damage to the fabric, reduce its lifespan, and compromise its loft. If you prefer to air dry your covers, simply hang them over a clothesline or a drying rack. Make sure they are completely dry before placing them back on your pillow.
If your pillow has a removable cover, follow the care label instructions for washing and drying it. If the cover is not removable, consider using a pillow protector to keep the pillow clean and dry.
Fluffing and Shaking Pillows
After drying and before placing your pillow covers back on your pillow, it’s time to fluff and shake them. Fluffing helps to redistribute the filling evenly, maintaining the pillow’s loft and shape. To fluff a pillow, gently squeeze it and then release it, repeating this process several times.
Shaking a pillow helps to remove any clumps or uneven filling, ensuring it stays in shape and doesn’t lose its fluffiness. To shake a pillow, hold it by the corners and gently wag it back and forth.
Maintaining Pillow Shape and Fluffiness
To keep your pillow looking and feeling its best, follow these tips:
- Rotate your pillow every 3-6 months to ensure even wear and tear.
- Vacuum your pillow regularly to remove dust mites and other allergens.
- Dry your pillow in the sun periodically to sanitize it and maintain its loft.
- Avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets when washing your pillow covers, as they can reduce the pillow’s loft and cause it to lose its shape.
Remember, a well-maintained pillow is essential for a good night’s sleep. By following these steps, you’ll be able to keep your pillow fresh, clean, and fluffily, ensuring a comfortable and restful sleep.
Additional Tips
To extend the life of your pillow and maintain its shape, consider the following:
- Use a pillow protector to keep your pillow clean and dry.
- Wash your pillow covers regularly to prevent buildup of dust mites and other allergens.
- Fluff and shake your pillow regularly to maintain its shape and loft.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your pillow for years to come.
Tips for Specific Types of Pillows
When it comes to washing pillows, not all pillows are created equal. Some pillows require special care, while others can be washed with standard procedures. In this section, we’ll dive into the tips and tricks for washing pillows with special care labels, feather or down filling, and different types of pillows such as body pillows and travel pillows.
Pillows with Special Care Labels
Always Check the Label
When you see a ‘dry cleaning required’ or ‘hand washing only’ label, it’s essential to respect the manufacturer’s instructions. These labels are there for a reason, and ignoring them can damage your pillow or shorten its lifespan.
- Dry cleaning can be harsh on pillow materials, so it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for care.
- If the pillow requires dry cleaning, use a reputable dry cleaner and follow their instructions for cleaning and drying the pillow.
- Some pillow manufacturers may recommend hand washing instead of dry cleaning. In this case, use a mild detergent and cold water, and gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the pillow.
Pillows with Feather or Down Filling
Feather and down pillows can be more challenging to clean due to their delicate filling. However, with the right techniques and precautions, you can keep them clean and fresh.
Main Considerations
Before washing feather or down pillows, ensure you:
- Check if the pillow is machine washable. Some manufacturers may recommend hand washing or dry cleaning.
- Use a large, mesh laundry bag to protect the pillow during washing.
- Choose a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.
- Avoid using fabric softener, bleach, or other harsh chemicals that can damage the filling or the fabric.
Body Pillows, Travel Pillows, and Standard Pillows
These types of pillows are typically made of removable covers and can be washed with standard procedures. However, it’s essential to check the care label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying.
General Tips for Washing Standard Pillows
When washing standard pillows, remember to:
- Check if the pillow has a removable cover. If it does, wash the cover separately from the pillow filling.
- Choose a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.
- Use a large, mesh laundry bag to protect the pillow during washing.
- Avoid using fabric softener, bleach, or other harsh chemicals that can damage the pillow filling or fabric.
Final Conclusion
Washing your pillows in a washing machine can be a straightforward process if you follow the right steps. Remember to check the fabric label, separate the pillow cover from the stuffing, choose the right washing machine settings, and dry the pillow cover and stuffing separately. With these tips, you’ll be able to keep your pillows clean and fresh for a longer period.
Essential FAQs
Can I wash all types of pillows in a washing machine?
No, not all pillows can be washed in a washing machine. Check the fabric label for care instructions, and avoid machine washing pillows with special care labels like ‘dry clean’ or ‘spot clean’.
How do I prevent my pillow from getting lumpy after washing?
To prevent your pillow from getting lumpy, remove as much water as possible after washing and drying it on a low heat setting. You can also fluff and shake the pillow regularly to maintain its shape.
Can I wash pillows with feather or down filling in a washing machine?
No, pillows with feather or down filling should not be machine washed. Instead, dry clean them or take them to a professional cleaner.
How often should I wash my pillows?
It’s recommended to wash your pillows every 6-12 months, depending on their usage and the type of fabric they’re made of.
