Ever wonder how to keep your body pillow fresh and clean? Whether you’re a homeowner, a sleep enthusiast, or a busy parent, maintaining the cleanliness of your body pillow is essential for a good night’s sleep. In this guide, you’ll learn how to wash a body pillow in the washer, ensuring it stays cozy and germ-free.
And if you’re looking to upgrade your sleep setup, be sure to check out our list of the 10 Best Memory Foam Pillows—perfect for those who value comfort, support, and long-lasting quality.
How to Wash A Body Pillow In The Washer? (Short Answer)
First, remove any pillowcases or covers. Place the body pillow in the washer, ensuring it fits without overcrowding. Add a gentle detergent and select a delicate cycle with cool water. Once washed, run an extra rinse cycle to remove all soap. Finally, dry the pillow on low heat or air dry it thoroughly.
Why Clean Your Body Pillow?
Health Benefits
Over time, body pillows can accumulate dust mites, bacteria, and allergens. Regular cleaning helps eliminate these and promotes a healthier sleeping environment.
Longevity of the Pillow
Washing your body pillow extends its life. Proper care prevents material breakdown and keeps it in good shape for years.
Improved Sleep Quality
A clean pillow is more comfortable. Knowing your pillow is free of dirt and germs can improve your sleep quality significantly.
Choosing the Right Detergent
Gentle Formulas
Opt for mild detergents. Harsh chemicals can damage the pillow fabric and filling, reducing its lifespan.
Hypoallergenic Options
If you have sensitive skin, choose hypoallergenic detergents. This ensures that no irritants are left behind after washing.
Avoiding Fabric Softener
Fabric softeners can coat the pillow filling and reduce fluffiness. Skip the softener to keep your pillow in top shape.
Prepping the Pillow for Washing
Read the Care Label
Always check the care label on your body pillow for specific washing instructions. It provides valuable information regarding temperature settings and any special care needed.
Spot Cleaning Stains
Before tossing the pillow in the washer, spot-clean any visible stains. Use a mild stain remover and gently dab the area until the stain is gone.
Securing the Pillow
Place the pillow in a large mesh laundry bag. This will keep it intact and prevent it from being damaged during the wash cycle.
Setting Up the Washer
Washing Machine Capacity
Ensure your washer has enough capacity. Overloading can prevent the pillow from getting thoroughly cleaned.
Water Temperature
Use warm water for washing. It effectively cleans without causing damage to the pillow’s materials.
Wash Cycle Settings
Choose a gentle or delicate cycle. This minimizes agitation and protects the pillow from wear and tear.
Adding the Detergent
Measuring Correctly
Follow the detergent’s instructions for the correct amount. Too much detergent can leave residue, while too little may not clean effectively.
Distributing Evenly
Pour the detergent evenly into the washer. This ensures it spreads throughout the wash cycle, giving your pillow a thorough clean.
Extra Rinse Cycle
Consider adding an extra rinse cycle. This helps remove any remaining detergent, leaving your pillow clean and fresh.
The Washing Process
Balancing the Load
Balance the load by adding a few towels. This prevents the washer from becoming unbalanced, ensuring a smooth wash cycle.
Monitoring the Wash
Keep an eye on the washing process. If the washer appears off-balance, pause and adjust the load as necessary.
Mid-cycle Adjustments
Halfway through the cycle, pause the washer and turn the pillow over. This ensures even cleaning on both sides.
Drying the Body Pillow
Using a Dryer
Place the pillow in the dryer with a few clean tennis balls. The balls help fluff the pillow as it dries, maintaining its shape.
Dryer Settings
Use a low heat setting. High heat can damage the pillow filling and cover, reducing its fluffiness and comfort.
Air Dry Option
If you prefer, air-dry the pillow. Lay it flat on a clean surface in a well-ventilated area, flipping it occasionally until scorched.
Fluffing the Pillow
Manual Fluffing
After drying, manually fluff the pillow. Gently knead and shake it to restore its original shape and loft.
Using Dryer Balls
They should have done most of the fluffing if you used dryer balls. However, a little extra fluffing by hand can enhance the pillow’s comfort.
Restoring Shape
Ensure the pillow is completely dry before using it. Any remaining moisture can lead to mold or mildew growth.
Frequency of Washing
Regular Maintenance
Wash your body pillow every 3-6 months. Regular washing keeps it clean and prolongs its lifespan.
Seasonal Cleaning
Consider washing your pillow at the start of each season. This helps maintain a fresh sleeping environment year-round.
Spot Cleaning Between Washes
Between full washes, spot clean as needed. This keeps your pillow looking and feeling fresh without needing constant washing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overloading the washer
Avoid stuffing too many items in the washer. An overloaded washer can’t be cleaned effectively and may damage your pillow.
Using Hot Water
Hot water can shrink or damage the pillow. Stick to warm or cold water to preserve its integrity.
Skipping the Spin Cycle
Don’t skip the spin cycle. It removes excess water, making the drying process faster and more effective.
Storing Your Body Pillow
Clean and Dry Storage
Store your pillow in a cool, dry place. Ensure it is scorched before storing to prevent mold growth.
Use a Pillowcase
Always use a pillowcase. It provides an extra layer of protection against dirt and stains.
Avoid Compression
Don’t compress or fold the pillow tightly. This can damage the filling and alter its shape.
Eco-friendly Tips
Energy-efficient Wash
Use an energy-efficient washer if possible. It saves water and electricity while cleaning your pillow effectively.
Eco-friendly Detergents
Choose biodegradable detergents. They are better for the environment and gentle on your pillow.
Air Drying
Opt for air drying when weather permits. It’s eco-friendly and gentle on your pillow.
Engaging the Family
Involve Kids
Make washing day a family activity. Teach kids the importance of cleanliness and how to care for their bedding.
Sharing Responsibilities
Share washing responsibilities among family members. It makes the task easier and promotes teamwork.
Learning Opportunity
Use washing as a learning opportunity. Explain the steps and benefits of proper pillow care to everyone involved.
Conclusion:
Keeping your body pillow clean is essential for a healthy and comfortable sleep environment. Following these steps, you can easily wash your body pillow in the washer and enjoy its benefits for years. Regular maintenance extends the life of your pillow and enhances your overall sleep quality. Ready to improve your sleep? Start with a clean body pillow today!
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FAQs
Can I wash any body pillow in the washer?
Most body pillows can be washed in the washer, but checking the care label first is essential. Some materials, like memory foam, may require special handling and should not be machine-washed.
What kind of detergent should I use for washing my body pillow?
Use a mild, gentle detergent when washing your body pillow. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners as they can degrade the pillow’s materials and reduce lifespan.
How often should I wash my body pillow?
It is recommended to wash your body pillow every 3-6 months. Regular washing keeps the pillow clean and helps maintain its shape and comfort.
Can I dry my body pillow in the dryer?
Yes, you can dry your body pillow in the dryer. Use a low heat setting and add a few clean tennis balls to help fluff the pillow as it dries. This will help it maintain its shape and softness.
What should I do if my body pillow gets lumpy after washing?
If your body pillow becomes lumpy after washing, manually fluff it by kneading and shaking it. You can also use dryer balls in the dryer on a low heat setting to help redistribute the filling evenly.