Hand washing pillows is a gentle method that extends the life of the item, especially for those with delicate casings or large sizes that do not fit well in a washing machine. This technique cleans pillows that have accumulated body oils, sweat, and dust mites, which cause discoloration and affect hygiene. Avoiding harsh agitation preserves the structural integrity of the filling, maintaining the pillow’s comfort and shape.
Checking Pillow Type and Gathering Supplies
Before beginning the washing process, it is important to check the care label attached to the pillow, as this provides the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning instructions. Most pillows filled with down, feathers, or synthetic poly-fill are generally safe for hand washing. However, pillows made from solid materials like memory foam or buckwheat hulls should not be submerged in water, as this can damage the material’s structure and lead to mold growth.
Once the pillow type is confirmed as washable, gather the necessary supplies. A large basin, bathtub, or utility sink is needed to fully submerge the pillow. Use a small amount of mild, low-sudsing laundry detergent, as excessive suds are difficult to rinse out of the dense filling. Several clean, absorbent bath towels will also be needed for the initial drying phase.
Step-by-Step Hand Washing Technique
Begin by filling the basin or tub with enough lukewarm water to completely cover the pillow. Lukewarm water prevents potential shrinkage or damage to the fibers. Add a small amount of the mild detergent and mix gently to create a light, soapy solution.
Carefully submerge the pillow, ensuring it is saturated and all air bubbles have been pressed out. Allow the pillow to soak for 15 to 30 minutes, giving the detergent time to break down accumulated oils and dirt.
After soaking, gently knead the pillow with your hands to work the soapy water through the internal filling. Use a soft, pressing motion rather than aggressive scrubbing or twisting, which can cause the filling to clump or damage the casing. The goal is to move the water through the fibers to release the trapped debris and body soil.
Once the pillow appears clean, drain the dirty, soapy water. Refill the tub with clean, cool water and submerge the pillow again, gently pressing it to release the sudsy water. Repeat this rinsing process until the water runs completely clear, confirming that all detergent residue has been removed from the core. Residual soap can attract dirt and cause mildew.
Thorough Drying and Restoring Loft
After the final rinse, remove as much excess water as possible before air drying. Lift the pillow and gently press down on it to squeeze out the bulk of the moisture, taking care not to wring or twist. Wringing can permanently distort the shape and damage the internal structure of the filling.
To accelerate drying, employ the “towel burrito” method. Lay a large, dry towel flat, place the damp pillow on one end, and roll the towel and pillow together tightly. Apply firm pressure to the rolled towel; this allows the absorbent material to wick away substantial moisture from the pillow’s core.
Unroll the pillow and place it in a well-ventilated area to air dry, positioned flat or propped up to allow maximum airflow. Avoid placing the pillow in direct sunlight or near high heat sources, as this can damage the fibers. The drying process is lengthy, often taking several hours or even a full day, depending on humidity.
To prevent the internal filling from clumping and restore the pillow’s shape, periodically fluff and turn the pillow every few hours during drying. This action redistributes the fibers, ensuring the core dries evenly and completely, which prevents the development of mold or mildew. The pillow is fully dry only when it feels light and fluffy, with no damp spots remaining.