How to wash your pillow - hygienically

09 August 2023 | byoms ApS

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• Home textiles
• Home accessories

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Your pillow is essential to your night's sleep, but it can also become clammy and uncomfortable - Especially in the summer heat. It can become damp and attract mould and house dust mites. To avoid these problems, washing it regularly, preferably 2-4 times a year, is essential. In this guide, we will share tips on how to clean your pillow most hygienically.

Unfortunately, if your pillow is made of memory foam, it cannot be washed. Therefore, spray extra often with Freshen Up to ensure the good living bacteria have "taken over" in your pillow.

Why should you wash your pillow?

When you sweat at night, you give off moisture to your bedding, and your pillow absorbs this moisture and dirt. After some time, the pillow can become a mixture of dust, grease, creams, wax, dead skin cells and other unpleasantness, resulting in an unpleasant smell and even mould. This is particularly relevant in hot periods such as summer. That's why it's a good idea to wash your pillow occasionally.

How often should you wash the pillow?

Many recommend washing the pillow twice a year, but the need varies depending on how much you sweat and your sensitivity to odours and hygiene. It is a good idea to look at your pillow occasionally and assess whether it seems disgusting or damp.

How do you wash a pillow?

The way you wash your pillow depends on the filling. There are three pillows: pillows with natural fillings such as down and feathers, pillows with synthetic filling and foam pillows/memory foam.

Pillows with down/feathers:

Read the washing instructions on the pillow.
Inspect the pad for holes or feathers that can escape under the sink. If in doubt, you can wash the pillow in a pillow case with a tightly closed zipper.
Feel free to wash two pillows simultaneously to stabilize the wash.
Treat any blood stains by soaking them in cold water.
Wash at 60 degrees if the pillow can withstand it. Use Byom's Wool & Silk completely without enzymes, which gently but effectively washes the pillow without degrading down and feathers.


How to dry a pillow with down/feathers:

If possible, use a dryer with a maximum temperature of 60 degrees. Drying at too high a temperature can remove the down's natural fat layer and reduce the pillow's airiness.
Place 2 tennis balls, dryer balls or similar in the dryer to prevent down/feathers from gathering in clumps.
Shake the pillow every 15-20 minutes in the dryer to distribute the filling evenly and ensure complete drying.
When the pillow is completely dry, you can hang it out to ensure it is completely dry, giving the pillow a fresh feeling before use.


Pillows with synthetic filling:

Pillows with synthetic filling can be washed and dried like pillows with natural filling using the same Wool & Silk detergent.


How to extend the life of your pillow:

Shake the pillow thoroughly every morning to maintain its shape and airiness.
Ensure the side of the pillow where your head rests is up and free of bedspreads or comforters.
Hang the pillow outside once a week and shake it to freshen it up. If necessary, leave it hanging in a covered place overnight.
Use two pillowcases for better protection and wash them regularly instead of the pillow.
Place a towel over the pillow, especially when it's hot or if you sweat a lot.
Spray it every or every other day with Freshen Up.
Consider using our Sleep Mist, which i.a. contains tea tree and lavender essential oils to fight house dust mites and probiotics to reduce harmful bacteria and allergens between washes.


Conclusion:

Keeping your pillow clean is essential to maintaining a good night's sleep and avoiding mould and dust mites. By following the correct washing and drying instructions, you can keep your pillow in good condition for a long time. Remember to assess your needs and wash the pillow regularly for the best sleep quality and health.