How to Clean Pillows

Medical experts recommend cleaning your pillows every 3-6 months (or 2-4 times a year) - provided you are also using a pillowcase to keep the pillows away from direct contact with your hair and skin at night.

As for wholly replacing your pillows, the average pillow has a lifespan of 2-3 years before losing its structure and support, according to The Sleep Foundation. This, however, can be extended with:

• a pillowcase or covering
• regular cleaning
• free of allergens, dirt, or spillages
• general lifelong care
• buying a high-quality pillow

Although 2-3 years is the general lifespan of a pillow, the following signs can be a sign that your pillow is irreversibly damaged and needs replacing as soon as possible - something that can come earlier with improper care.

• lumpy or uneven texture
• refuses to become clean after several washes 
• flat pillow which is far less plump than before
• stains and odours
• increased allergy symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, or runny nose
• pains in head, shoulders, or neck, while awake

If any of the following symptoms apply to you and your pillow, you may need to clean your pillow soon, or more frequently than every six months.

• itching, blocked or runny nose during bedtime
• direct contact with hair or pet fur
• new spillages, stains, or discolouration
• rough texture

Always check the label for washing and care instructions before beginning to clean your pillows. Pillows made of specific materials, especially delicate ones such as wool, will likely require special care and a cooler wash compared to others.

• check instructions for specific temperature for washing your pillows.
• otherwise, a machine wash temperature of 40°C or 104°F is advised - slightly higher if trying to remove a stubborn stain.
• wash on gentle cycle mode to protect insides.
• tumble or air dry, leave to hang in a warm, dry place.

• refer to care instructions on label before starting.
• pre-treat any stubborn stains with soap, white vinegar, or baking soda for 10-30 minutes before main wash.
• fill a bathtub or appropriately large basin with warm water. make sure it is large enough to submerge the entire pillow.
• mix in a pinch of mild detergent into water.
• submerge pillows in water for 15-20 minutes.
• drain water and refill tub with clean water to remove detergent.
• drain water again and gently squeeze remaining water. Do not twist or wring the pillow or you will risk losing or damaging its intended shape.
• leave pillows to air dry in warm, dry place, placing towel underneath pillows to prevent water leakage.