Here’s What You Should Know About Washing Pillows and Linens
Washing pillows and linens regularly is an important part of maintaining cleanliness, hygiene, and extending their lifespan. Bedding, including pillows and linens, can accumulate sweat, dead skin cells, body oils, and other bodily fluids over time. This creates an environment that is conducive to the growth of bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens.
Regularly washing these items helps remove these contaminants, reducing the risk of infections, allergies, and other health issues. Here is our definitive guide on how to properly wash pillowcases and linens.
- Pillows
- Check the care label: Before washing your pillows, always read and follow the instructions on the care label attached to the pillow. Different pillow types may require specific cleaning methods.
- Machine washable pillows: Many synthetic-filled and down-filled pillows can be machine washed. Use a mild detergent and set the machine to a gentle or delicate cycle.
- Foam pillows: Foam pillows should not be machine washed. Instead, spot-clean them with a mild detergent or consider using a pillow protector to keep them clean.
- Memory foam pillows: Memory foam pillows can be difficult to clean. Check the care instructions; some may be machine washable, while others require spot cleaning.
- Drying pillows: Dry your pillows thoroughly to prevent mildew or odors. Tumble dry them on a low heat setting, or air dry them in a well-ventilated area. Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to the dryer to fluff the pillows.
- Pillow protectors: Using pillow protectors is a great way to keep your pillows clean. They act as a barrier against stains, dirt, and dust mites. Pillow protectors should be washed regularly along with your pillowcases.
- Linens
- Sheets and pillowcases: Most sheets and pillowcases can be machine washed. Use a regular or gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Follow the care instructions for specific temperature settings and drying recommendations.
- Bedspreads and duvet covers: Check the care label for specific washing instructions. Some bedspreads and duvet covers can be machine washed, while others may require dry cleaning.
- Towels: Wash towels separately from other linens. Use warm water and a detergent specifically designed for towels. Avoid using fabric softeners as they can reduce the absorbency of towels over time. Tumble dry on a medium heat setting or hang them to dry.
- Tablecloths and napkins: Most tablecloths and napkins can be machine washed. Pre-treat stains before washing and follow the care instructions for temperature settings. Iron or press them while they're still slightly damp for best results.
- General Tips
- Pre-treat stains: If your pillows or linens have stains, you may need to pretreat them before throwing them into the machine. Use a stain remover or apply a mixture of water and mild detergent directly to the stain. Let it sit for a while before washing.
- Separate colors: Sort your linens by color to prevent color bleeding. Wash whites separately from colored items to avoid discoloration.
- Avoid overloading: Don't overload your washing machine, as it can prevent proper cleaning and rinsing. Follow the machine's capacity guidelines.
- Use proper detergent: Use a mild, hypoallergenic detergent that is suitable for your pillows and linens. Harsh detergents can damage the fabric or cause irritation.
- Dry thoroughly: Ensure your pillows and linens are completely dry before storing them to prevent mildew or odors. If using a dryer, check the care instructions for recommended heat settings.
Call a Professional
It is generally recommended to wash pillowcases, sheets, and other linens every one to two weeks. While it may sound doable to many, tending to your laundry optimally with a busy schedule can be often challenging. Fortunately, you can pass your cleaning chores to a professional team who knows what they are doing. If you are looking for an experienced cleaning team to keep your home, office, or commercial property neat and clean, Signature Maids can help. Call us today!
