How to Care for Your Down Pillows

If you've invested in a hotel-quality pillow, you want to ensure it lasts. Here's how to keep your pillows clean and fluffy with the same care and attention that 5-star hotels use.

Down Pillow Maintenance Tips:

Follow these tips to keep your pillow in good condition between washes:

• Use a pillow protector: This extra layer prevents dust, oil, sweat from seeping into your pillow, and helps your pillow last longer.
• Wash pillowcases and protectors weekly, just like you would do with your linens.
• Never go to bed with wet hair as it could lead to mildew, especially if your pillow is made of down.
• Fluff your pillow often: Gently pull your pillow lengthwise and widthwise to add air into it and maintain its loft. You can do this daily as part of your bed-making routine.

How Often To Wash Pillows?

To keep them fresh and make them last longer, it’s important to wash them periodically. A good rule of thumb is to wash your pillows every six months. However, if you sweat a lot at night, consider washing them every three to four months.

How to Wash and Dry Down Pillows

The first step to washing any pillow is to check the label for specific care instructions, such as dry cleaning only.

For machine-washable down pillows, follow these steps:

1. Remove the pillowcase and protector (if using).
2. Spot clean any stains with a remover.
3. Put the pillow in the washing machine with cold water on the gentle cycle, using a mild detergent.
4. Balance the load by washing two pillows at once.
5. Avoid forcing them into small washers; instead, allow enough space to prevent misshaping or damage.

To dry down pillows, follow these steps:

1. Use a low-heat setting for synthetic fiber-filled pillows and a low- or no-heat setting for down or feather pillows.
2. Time dryer cycles for about one hour.
3. Check the pillow after each cycle. If it's still damp, return it to the dryer for another cycle. Synthetic pillows often dry within an hour to an hour and a half while down and feather pillows take several hours.
4. Alternatively, air-dry your pillows outside if the weather is sunny or inside in a room other than the bathroom or laundry room to avoid humidity.

How to Wash Down Alternative Pillows

Most down alternative pillows can be machine-washed by following the same steps as down pillows.

How to Wash Foam Pillows

Foam pillows cannot be machine-washed but must be hand-washed instead. Follow these steps:

1. Remove the pillowcase and protector.
2. Vacuum the pillow to remove dust and debris.
3. Fill a sink with warm water and mix in mild detergent.
4. Gently squeeze the pillow to help the water and detergent seep in.
5. Agitate the pillow for five to ten minutes.
6. Drain the sink, refill with clean water, and repeat the squeezing action to rinse out the detergent until there is no more suds.
7. Press out excess water and air dry the pillow.

The key to washing foam pillows effectively without damaging them is to focus on gently squeezing them. Do not dig your fingers into the pillow or use a wringing motion, as this will tear the foam.

Find Your Perfect Hotel-Quality Pillow

Purchasing a hotel-quality pillow is the first step toward better sleep. With proper washing and drying techniques, you can extend their lifespan and get countless nights of quality sleep. Bafode Home has a wide selection of hotel-quality pillows perfect for you.