how to wash my pillow in front load washer

Pillows are an essential part of our bedding and contribute to a peaceful and comfortable sleep. But with extended use and exposure to sweat and oil, pillows can easily become dirty and harbor bacteria, leading to an unhygienic sleeping environment. To maintain hygiene and prolong the life of your pillows, it is necessary to clean them periodicity. In this article, we will discuss how to wash your pillow in a front-load washer.

Gather Your Materials

Before washing your pillow, you must gather the necessary materials to ensure a successful wash. Firstly, remove the pillowcase, and then inspect the pillow for signs of damage. If your pillow has any tears or holes, it is best not to wash it as it may cause the stuffing to come out and damage your washer. Next, check the care label on your pillow to determine whether it can be washed and its recommended cleaning method. Once you have determined that your pillow is machine washable, you will need the following materials:

A front-load washer

A mild detergent

White vinegar

Tennis balls or dryer balls

Washing Your Pillow

Once you have gathered your materials, it is time to start washing your pillow. Begin by placing a maximum of two pillows into your front-load washer. This ensures that your pillow has enough space for the detergent and water to penetrate the stuffing, ensuring that it is thoroughly cleaned. Add a mild detergent to the washer and set it to a gentle cycle with warm water. Do not use hot water as this may shrink or damage your pillow. Additionally, add half a cup of white vinegar instead of fabric softener to the rinse cycle to remove any remaining dirt and bacteria and also help remove any remaining detergent. This also helps to remove any musty smell that may be present.

Fluffing Your Pillow

Once the washing cycle has ended, it is essential to fluff your pillow to help distribute the stuffing evenly and to ensure that it's fully dry. To fluff your pillow, remove it from the washer and use your hands to press down and reshape it. Next, put your pillow in the dryer with two tennis balls or dryer balls. The balls prevent the stuffing from clumping together by continually fluffing the pillows. After a few minutes, remove the pillow from the dryer and fluff it again with your hands. Repeat this step until your pillow is fully dry, and you are satisfied with the fluffiness.

Cleaning and Drying Tips

It is equally vital to care for your washer when washing your pillows. Wipe the inside of your washer with a white cloth and white vinegar to prevent any buildup or odor. Additionally, avoid using fabric softener in your washer, as it can cause the feathers to become clumpy and decrease the fluffiness of your pillow. If you are washing feather-filled pillows, it is best to dry them in the sun or with low heat in the dryer as high heat can damage the feathers. If you are using the sun, ensure that the pillows dry out evenly to prevent any musty smells.

Conclusion

By following the above steps, you can ensure that your pillow is not only hygienic but also adequately taken care of. Washing your pillows periodically ensures that they last longer and remain in good condition for a peaceful and comfortable sleep. You can further extend the life of your pillow by investing in a pillow protector, which is washable and helps to maintain the cleanliness and freshness of your pillows.