Cleaning down and feather pillows is straightforward and beneficial, as it restores their fluffiness to original levels—a feat not often achieved with synthetic pillows. These pillows, regardless of washing machine size, emerge from cleaning looking splendid, thanks to the superior natural materials used in their filling. This ease of care highlights one of the many advantages of choosing natural over synthetic fills, known for their comfort and effortless upkeep.
Contrast this with the risk associated with washing synthetic pillows, which can end up lumpy and unusable, prompting many to avoid cleaning them altogether. This often results in the disposal of these pillows far sooner than necessary, contributing to waste.
On the other hand, down and feather pillows, whether filled with duck or goose materials, can be washed repeatedly without concern. Regular washing not only maintains cleanliness but also prolongs their lifespan. The critical aspect of cleaning these pillows lies in ensuring they are thoroughly rinsed and dried, considering their thickness and density.
Why do pillows turn yellow?
Pillows often turn yellow primarily due to sweat, a common issue for everyone. Nighttime sweating varies from person to person, influenced by individual sleep temperature preferences.
Factors such as specific health conditions, pregnancy, and menopause can increase night sweats. Beyond sweat, the natural oils from our skin and, although less frequently acknowledged, drooling, contribute to this discoloration. While it's a bit of a humorous notion that only the "neighbor's" pillow might suffer from drooling, it's indeed a universal cause.
Using pillow protectors is a practical measure to safeguard against these common causes of pillow yellowing, keeping them fresher and cleaner for longer.
CLEANING DOWN OR FEATHER PILLOWS
·Pair Up: Wash two pillows simultaneously to maintain balance during the spin cycle.
·Water Temp: Choose hot, warm, or cold. Note: Warm or hot water may cause slight fabric shrinkage.
·Spin Cycle: Opt for the highest speed to extract maximum moisture.
·Extra Rinse: Include an additional rinse cycle to ensure complete removal of detergent.
·Detergent: Use a mild, additive-free soap for the safest clean.
DRYING DOWN OR FEATHER PILLOWS
·Temperature Setting: Choose from hot, warm, or low. Remember, higher temperatures might cause fabric shrinkage.
·Drying Duration: Patience is key. Drying might require several cycles, but it's crucial to ensure the pillow is thoroughly dry.
·Signs of Inadequate Drying: If your pillow shows signs of clumping or emits an odor, it's not fully dry. Continuing to dry until these signs disappear is essential to prevent mold.
·Dryness Check: Fluff the pillows by hand after each cycle. They may appear dry externally but could still be moist inside. When in doubt, opt for additional drying time.
Optional Tips:
·Use Tennis or Dryer Balls: Including 1-3 balls can hasten the drying process. While it may sound harsh, these balls won't damage your dryer.
·Freshening with Dryer Sheets: For a fresh scent, consider adding a dryer sheet during the cycle.
Tips for Extending the Life of Your Pillows
Using pillow protectors is an effective and budget-friendly way to extend the lifespan of your pillows while reducing the need for frequent washes. Instead of washing the entire pillow regularly, you can simply remove the protector and wash it, saving both time and effort.
Revitalizing Your Pillow Between Cleanings
Remember to fluff your pillow upon arrival, as it may be compressed from shipping. Additionally, these steps can be used to rejuvenate your pillow between washes.
REVIVING YOUR PILLOW'S FLUFFINESS
·Set the dryer to a low heat.
·Include 3 tennis balls or dryer balls.
·Add a slightly damp washcloth.
·Toss in a fabric softener sheet for a fresh scent.
·Run for 15-20 minutes.
When is it Time to Wash Your Pillows?
It's advised to wash your pillows every six months, or perhaps every three months for those that see heavier use. Here's why: our pillows accumulate skin cells, dirt, and dander, much like our beds. Daily life means we inevitably shed and add to this mix sweat, oil, and saliva, which can diminish the pillow's fluffiness over time.
While pillowcases and protectors catch most of this debris, ensuring a less frequent need for washing, your pillow will eventually require a thorough clean to maintain its condition.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Pillow Protectors
Our pillows often end up harboring unwelcome guests over time. A pillow protector is an excellent strategy for keeping your pillow fresh without frequent washes. While the advantages of using a pillow protector typically outweigh the negatives, it's worth noting that adding an extra layer with the protector, in addition to a pillowcase, might slightly affect your pillow's softness.
For many, this trade-off is worth the extra cleanliness a protector offers. However, if you're someone who prefers your pillow to be particularly plush, you might find the protector hampers the feel you're after.
Wondering if a pillow protector is the right choice for you? The good news is that it's a minimal investment to experiment and see. Pillow comfort is highly subjective, and the best way to know if it works for you is simply to try it out.
FAQ: Caring for Your Pillows
Q: What’s the issue with detergent?
A: Feathers are marvels of nature, designed to fulfill various roles, including repelling water to protect the down clusters that insulate birds in cold weather. This is thanks to a slight coating of natural oils on the feathers, which helps to keep birds dry.
However, frequently washing your feather pillow with detergent can strip away these beneficial oils. Over time, this leads to feathers becoming brittle and more prone to breaking during use. Broken feathers can be sharp, increasing the likelihood of getting poked while you sleep.
Therefore, it's advisable to avoid washing your feather pillow with detergent unless absolutely necessary. In cases where a wash is unavoidable, opt for water only, sans detergent. Detergents, by design, dissolve oils, which can harm the protective layer on your pillow's feathers, leading to damage and a loss of fluffiness.
Q: How often should I replace my feather pillow?
A: You should consider replacing your feather pillow when it no longer offers the necessary support to ensure a comfortable sleep. If you find yourself waking up with neck pain or discomfort, it's a sign that your pillow is no longer fulfilling its purpose of providing adequate support.
Q:How long should my feather pillow last?
A: If you avoid unnecessary washing, a feather pillow can last between 7 to 10 years, although individual experiences may differ. For those who tend to scrunch or fold their pillows, longevity may be reduced. Folding and scrunching break the quills into sharp fragments, increasing the likelihood of being poked by the pillow.