How often should you wash your pillows? We asked an expert

We all know how great it feels to sink into a clean bed at night. One item that often gets overlooked in our cleaning routine is our pillows. So how often should you wash them?

In general, it’s best to wash your pillows every three to six months, according to Becky Rapinchuk of Clean Mama.

This routine helps get rid of all the nasty allergens like dust mites, sweat, and skin cells that tend to accumulate. Regular washing not only keeps your pillow clean, but also prolongs its lifespan, ensuring you always have a clean place to lay your head.

Signs It’s Time to Wash Your Pillows

There are also a few signs that it’s time for a deep cleaning:

• Visible stains: If you notice yellow or brown stains, these are sweat, body oils, and maybe a little drool. These stains not only look gross, but can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and allergens. When you see these stains, it’s time to wash your pillow.
• Odor:Pillows can trap odors from your body and the environment. If your pillow smells musty or is just plain unpleasant, it may have absorbed sweat. Washing it can make it smell fresh again.
• Loss of fluff: Your pillow should feel supportive and comfortable. Regular brushing and washing can restore its height.
• Time since last wash: If you can’t remember the last time you washed your pillows, it’s definitely time to do it. Try marking a bi-annual or quarterly washing schedule to keep track.

Regular washing not only keeps your pillow clean and hygienic, but also helps it last longer. This ensures you always have a comfortable and supportive pillow to rest on every night.

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When should you change your pillow?

Even with regular washing, pillows don’t last forever.

No matter how often you wash your pillows, they can still become a wicking spot for sweat and makeup. If your pillow doesn’t spring back to its original shape after folding it in half, or if you wake up feeling sore, it’s time for a new pillow.

Investing in a good quality pillow and replacing it regularly can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall health.

Tips for longer-lasting pillows

To get the most out of your pillows, here are some practical tips to keep them looking fresh and supportive for as long as possible:

• Use pillowcases: They act as a barrier between your pillow and things like dust, sweat, and spilled liquids, says Rapinchuk. They’re also usually machine washable, making it easier to keep your pillow clean. High-quality, hypoallergenic protectors are the best choice.
• Clean in place: If you spill something or notice a small stain, blot the stain with a mild detergent and a clean cloth. Avoid getting the pillow wet, as too much moisture can make it difficult to test without putting it in the dryer. Spot cleaning helps keep your pillow looking and smelling fresh between full loads of laundry.
• Follow care instructions: “​​To wash your pillow properly, you need to determine what type of pillow you’re sleeping on,” Rapinchuk says. She advises people to check the manufacturer’s washing instructions for their pillow. Proper care ensures effective cleaning and prevents damage.
• Dry thoroughly: After washing, make sure your pillow is completely dry to avoid mold. Use the low heat setting on your dryer and consider adding clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help flatten pillows as they dry. For pillows that cannot be machine-dried, drying them in a sunny, well-ventilated area is best.
• Rotate the pillow: If you use multiple pillows, rotate them regularly. This practice helps distribute wear and tear evenly, so no pillow is overly compressed or worn out too quickly. Rotation helps maintain shape and support longer.

By following these tips, you can prolong the life of your pillow and maintain a healthier sleeping environment. Regular care and attention ensures that your pillows continue to provide the comfort and support needed for a good night’s sleep.