Gross reasons why your pillows need pampering
Many of us are particular about our pillows, but have you thought much about what else you are putting your head down on every night?
Posted — UpdatedMany of us are particular about our pillows, but have you thought much about what else you are putting your head down on every night?
When was the last you cleaned your pillow? Warning: this is about to get pretty gross!
“Over time a lot of gross stuff builds up in your pillow. We’re talking about sweat, body oil, dirt, saliva, even dust mites and mold,” said Haniya Rae with Consumer Reports.
So what should we do?
First, Consumer Reports experts say to fluff your pillow every day to get rid of dust and restore its shape.
Every month, hang them outside for a few hours.
If you can’t do that, run them through the dryer on the no-heat cycle.
Consumer Reports says many pillows can be tossed in the washer, just double check the care label.
“The agitators in traditional top-loader machines can be a little bit rough on pillows. Front-loading machines are a bit gentler. So you just want to leave it in there on the gentle cycle for just a few minutes or the shortest setting possible,” said Rae.
If your machine is big enough, wash two pillows together to help balance the load.
Consumer Reports says it’s important to get pillows completely dry or you risk lying down with mildew.
Toss in two fresh tennis balls or dryer balls to keep the filling from clumping.
Finally, use a pillow cover and wash it weekly with the rest of your bedding.
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