You change your pillowcase regularly but how often do you wash the pillow itself? This matters for your health and for a fresh nights sleep. So how often should you wash your pillow and what is the best way to do it We have gathered all the dos and donts 👇
Why is a clean pillow so important
Cleaning your pillow is one of those jobs that is easy to forget. Still it is smart to freshen it regularly and when possible to wash it. Why
✔️ Healthier sleep environment Regular washing stops dust mites mould germs and other bacteria from settling which can also reduce allergy symptoms.
✔️ Fewer bad odours Sweat saliva and dust can soak into your pillow. You cannot avoid that completely but washing helps keep smells at bay.
✔️ Clearer skin A clean fresh pillow can be good for your skin. By cleaning it regularly you help prevent breakouts and blemishes. Read more tips for healthy skin while you sleep.
✔️ Longer pillow lifespan Your pillow will last longer if you wash it regularly. Spot yellow marks Wash it as soon as you can so the stains do not set.
How often should you wash your pillow?
We recommend washing your pillow at least every six months. If you have allergies sweat a lot at night or have recently been ill wash it more often. Use these simple guidelines
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Every six months this is the minimum for most pillows. More often is fine. Tip add a twice yearly reminder to your calendar so you will not forget.
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Every three months if you are prone to allergies or often have a blocked nose. For childrens pillows we suggest every three months.
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When you see stains once yellow marks appear it is time to wash. That is better for your health and for the life of your pillow.
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When it smells musty a stale smell means it is ready for an extra wash so you can sleep sweetly again.
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After illness if you have had a cold or the flu wash your pillow to remove lingering germs.
How do you wash a pillow?
First things first always check the care label. Most pillows cannot be washed in one piece in a machine as the filling may clump or degrade. Fortunately some pillows such as Cloudpillo have a removable cover that can go in the machine. If not hand washing is a good option.
Pillow with a removable outer cover
Step one Remove the outer cover
Step two Wash at thirty or forty degrees follow the care label
Step three Use a mild detergent
Step four You can wash it with other white items
Step five Use the highest spin speed
Step six Do not tumble dry the cover lay it flat to dry
All Cloudpillo pillows have a zipped outer cover you can wash quickly and easily. It dries in no time so you can sleep comfortably again the same evening.
Pillow without a removable outer cover
Step one Check the care label to see whether machine washing is allowed
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Machine washable choose a low spin speed a mild detergent and a low temperature
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Not machine washable wash by hand with a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth
Step two Pre treat stains and remove excess dirt
Step three Do not tumble dry lay the pillow flat to dry
Other ways to clean your pillow
Prefer not to use the washing machine? Or want a quick touch up between washes? Here are simple ways to clean and care for your pillow. Do not forget to freshen your duvet and mattress regularly as well.
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Air it outside this reduces odours and helps remove dust and bacteria.
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Vacuum use a soft brush attachment to remove dust skin flakes and dirt.
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Baking soda sprinkle a light layer over the pillow leave for fifteen to thirty minutes then vacuum.
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Steam use a handheld steamer to kill bacteria and refresh the pillow.
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Pillow protector prevention is better than cure. Add a separate outer cover or an extra pillowcase for extra protection so your pillow stays like new.
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Refresh the filling regularly you often cannot wash the inner filling so consider ordering fresh pillow filling from time to time.
Is your pillow no longer coming clean?
Have you tried everything and nothing works? Then it may be time for a new one especially if you have used it for more than four years. Over time the filling can absorb dirt and bacteria and lose resilience which can reduce sleep quality.
Find out if your pillow needs replacing
100 day trial with Cloudpillo
Ready for a new pillow with a washable outer cover? Try one of the Cloudpillo pillows. Order your favourite in our shop and test it for thirty nights. Not a match Return it for free and we will stay friends.
