There’s nothing more rewarding than getting to rest your head on your pillow at the end of a long day. Yet, one thing that you might often overlook when it comes to housekeeping in the bedroom is making sure they are kept fresh and clean. 

Just like our bedsheets need to be cleaned regularly - so do our pillows. That is why it is always beneficial to give them a good freshen now and again. Not just so that they look good on your bed but, so they can promote a healthier you. 

In this post, we are going to show you how to clean pillows and other alternative ways that you can prolong these bedding essentials. 

 

Washing And Cleaning Pillows: Why It’s Important For Your Health

 

Let’s get down to the real pillow talk. Since you lay your head on them every night, you should make sure that they are as germ-free as possible. And, no we’re not just talking about the pillowcase here.

Caring for your pillows is just as important as looking after your bedsheets or down duvet. Pillow covers are commonly made of cotton or other materials that are easily permeable. This means that some pretty undesirable and icky things can make themselves at home in your bedding. 

Without regular washing, bacteria and particles from dust mites, spores and even dead skill cells can start to accumulate inside bed pillows. Not to mention all the oils that come from our hair and body or the salvia that’s left after a particularly good sleep. Frequent exposure to these contaminants can cause bed-related allergies and illnesses to flare up. It has even been found that the build-up of particles will double the weight of your pillow over time.  

Most pillow manufacturers recommend that you wash pillows at least twice a year or every six months, depending on the material it is filled with. If you’re not sure whether your pillow is filled with feathers or is a down alternative made of bamboo, make sure to check the care label before washing. 

 

How To Clean Pillows For A Fresher, Healthier You

Starting to get an unpleasant smell when you go to sleep at night? This is a sure sign that it’s time to give your pillows some TLC. Follow our easy how to clean your pillows step-by-step guide below and freshen these bedding items in minutes. 

 

1) Air It Out 

 

Fluffing daily is always recommended as it helps to both restore pillow shape and get rid of any dust from the night before. If you can, either hang them on a clothesline or put in the dryer on a low-heat cycle at least once a month. This can help to keep them fresh in between washes. 

 

2) Put Them In A Gentle Wash

 

Being gentle is key when it comes to washing pillows. The good news is that most kinds of bed pillows can be cleaned in a washing machine unless otherwise stated on the care label. 

If you notice small wet stains on your pillow cover or the pillow itself, spot clean these immediately with a stain remover treatment before popping into the washing machine. If your washing machine allows it, wash both pillows at the same time. This helps to balance the load and means that both the water and detergent circulates better, giving your pillow the wash it deserves. 

 

3) Keep Pillow Fill In Mind 

 

Depending on what your pillow is stuffed with, you may need to wash your pillows differently. Use these handy directions when washing for specific types of pillow fill. 

Canadian Down or Feather - Wash with a small amount of mild detergent on a warm and delicate wash cycle. Make sure to massage the detergent solution into the pillow fully to make sure the down or feathers are fully wet and to avoid a sticky residue being left behind. 

Polyester - This pillow fill should be washed on a gentle cycle with warm water and approximately 1 tablespoon of laundry detergent. 

Bamboo or Memory Foam - Memory foam pillows or those made with bamboo cover have been growing in popularity for some time now. Make sure to wash the cover and stuffing separately. A bamboo cover should be washed on a delicate cycle in cold water with a small amount of detergent. Memory foam pillows should be washed in a bathtub rather than a washing machine. Fill your tub with room temperature water and a small amount of detergent. Completely submerge the pillow and using gentle pressure to squeeze the material. This will make sure the soapy solution penetrates the memory foam fully. Follow this by rinsing the pillow under cold to warm water, if your pillow is thoroughly clean then the water will run clear. 

 

4) Dry Fully

 

If you want to prevent mildew, then you will need to make sure your pillows are dried fully before using them again. To do this, put them in your dryer with tennis balls or dryer balls and spin on a moderate heat. If you have down or feather pillows, it is recommended to dry them the no-heat way - air drying. This will take longer but will protect the integrity of your pillow filling. 

 

Using Pillow Protectors: They Aren’t Just Practical 

 

When it comes to protecting your sleeping pillow, you should always use more than just a pillowcase. Pillow protectors are designed to extend the life of this bedding essential by combating against general wear and tear such as stains, bed bugs and moisture. They use fabric technology and advanced features which keep your health and comfort in mind. 

 

Benefits Of Using A Pillow Protector

 

• Reduces general wear and tear that pillowcases can’t compete with.
• Acts as a waterproof guard against stains, sweat, drool and other accidents.
• Many pillow protectors are manufactured using allergen-free material providing a comfortable sleeping environment.
• Protect the integrity of the pillow fill by keeping the pillow intact and clean. 

 

What Are The Different Types Of Pillow Protectors?

 

 

Pillow protectors come in various materials, similar to the different types of pillow fill we mentioned above. Each pillow protector variation offers you a different health benefit and level of comfort. 

 

• Carbon Pillow Protectors - Westex’s carbon pillow protectors offer anti-stress benefits. Carbon infused fibres have the ability to counteract any stress in the body as a result of static electricity. When our bodies are stressed, it inhibits melatonin which is an essential hormone needed for achieving great quality sleep. By using a carbon pillow protector, you will be able to neutralize static electricity and promote relaxation. Therefore, helping you to achieve a calm and peaceful night of sleep. 
• Bamboo Pillow Protectors - Our collection of bamboo pillow protectors not only extend the life of your bedding but also offer hypoallergenic benefits. This eco-friendly and sustainable material is naturally antibacterial (helping you to keep your pillows odour free) and allergen-free.
• Cotton Pillow Protectors - Lastly, Westex’s 100% cotton pillow protectors act as the perfect barrier to dust mites and bacteria. Not only does it provide a luxuriously soft place to rest your head but it is also perfect for those that suffer from bed-related allergies. 

 

Fresh And Fluffy Pillows: Rest Your Head Peacefully With Westex 

As Westex is a family-run company, our top priority is keeping our family and customers happy, healthy and safe with our bedding products. That’s why all of our Westex pillow protectors also come with matching mattress protectors so that you can have the safest and freshest sleep possible. 

Cleaning your pillows may be the last thing on your mind but don’t ignore it. By practising the cleaning methods listed above along with investing in quality products that are aimed at keeping your pillows as fresh as the day you got them, you can guarantee that you’ll enjoy many nights of good and healthy sleep to come.

 

Partner with a Canadian Bedding Manufacturer

We proudly partner with retail stores across North America and globally to provide their customers with high-quality bedding essentials. If your store is looking to stock Down or Down-Alternative pillows, get in touch with our team today and we'll happy to answer all of your questions.