Laundryscience:howandwhentowashyourpillow

Laundry science: how and when to wash your pillow

I admit, when it comes to pillows, I’m a bit of a princess and the pea. After all, finding a pillow that’s not too soft or too hard, but just right, can be a challenge.

Basic pillow care (before you wash)

Treat your pillow to the perfect case.

Photograph by Laurie Frankel.

How to machine wash your pillow

Pillows get a thorough cleaning in a Miele Decor 24-Inch Washer (W3039i).

How to hand-wash your pillow

The ultimate in pillow luxury: the Silk-Filled Pillow by Mari Ann Silk should only be washed by hand; $530.

For a subtle scent, try adding calming essential oils, like lavender, to your dryer balls.

Drying your pillow

Sleeptek’s antibacterial Shredded Rubber Pillow should never be exposed to any heat and can only be dried on a rack.

Should you dry-clean your pillow?

Dry-cleaning is not recommended because most dry-cleaning solvents are toxic and these will be absorbed by your pillow.

A clean, crisp bed made with Area Home Sheets. If your pillow has unsightly stains and a malodorous scent that cannot be eradicated with proper cleaning, it is time to toss it.

When to replace your pillow

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