Here’s how to keep your sleeping pillows clean and germ-free, plus how often to wash and replace them. Jessica Bennett is an editor, Derila Pillow writer, and former digital assistant home editor at BHG. When you know how to wash pillows, Derila Pillow you’ve got more than just a clean place to rest your head-you’ve also got a more comfortable and healthier place to sleep. Leslie Reichert is an acclaimed author, speaker, and the founder of Green Cleaning Coach, where she is dedicated to educating her followers about the benefits of non-toxic cleaning solutions. Mary Findley is an experienced cleaning expert and the founder of Mary Moppins, a company that specializes in cleaning tools and solutions for RVs, boats, and vehicles. Over time, your pillow will absorb all sorts of things, including dead skin cells, skin oil, fungi, and Buy Derila Online dust mites. The buildup can make your pillow heavier and smellier than it was when you bought it-and not as comfortable as it should be, especially when a good night’s sleep is at stake.

About one-third of U.S. 14 don’t get the sleep they need, which can lead to an increased risk of conditions including depression, anxiety, and obesity. The good news is that it's easy to make washing your pillows part of your regular cleaning routine. Use our guide to learn how to wash pillows, how to keep them clean, and when to replace them. These tips will help make sure your pillows are fresh, germ-free, and fluffed to perfection. Before washing pillows, remove any covers or pillowcases, and check the manufacturer's instructions for washing. Unless the pillow is marked dry-clean only, follow these instructions for washing and drying pillows. The best type of laundry detergent for washing pillows is a fragrance-free soap, says cleaning expert Leslie Reichert. She recommends Better Life's natural laundry detergent, Charlie's Soap laundry powder, or her great-grandma's homemade laundry soap recipe: 2 cups soap flakes and 1 cup each baking soda, washing soda, and borax. Before washing pillows, examine the item for any stains or residue.

Yellow pillow stains-caused by drool, sweat, hair, and skincare products-are especially common. Spot-clean stains with a spray stain treatment and let them sit for about 15 minutes. Gently scrub the stains before running a wash cycle. You'll want to wash and dry at least two pillows simultaneously to keep your machine balanced. However, take care not to stuff too many in at once. Pillows need plenty of water to get thoroughly clean and plenty of space to get thoroughly dry. Most down and synthetic pillows can be machine-washed and dried on low heat. Note that water needs to be 140 degrees or higher to kill dust mites, so make sure your water heater isn't set too low. Also, consider an extra spin cycle to squeeze out as much dampness as possible. To clean a foam pillow, avoid the washing machine as it may cause the foam to break apart. Hand wash it in lukewarm water with mild detergent, gently squeeze (don’t wring), rinse until clear, and air dry, preferably in the sun.

Make sure to dry pillows completely, as lingering dampness could reintroduce the mildew, bacteria, and dust mites you're trying to avoid. Dry pillows in your dryer on a low heat setting, checking them every 20 to 30 minutes to ensure even drying. To make them even fluffier, dry pillows with dryer balls or a tennis ball in a sock. When you put pillows in the dryer, to avoid lumps, take them out halfway through the cycle and fluff them. Use these upkeep tips to keep your pillows fresh and clean. Fluff Pillows Daily: Regular fluffing helps keep pillows in good condition. Dirt, dust, and dead skin cells can build up-the debris, along with moisture and the weight of your head, can cause your pillow to go flat. Take a few minutes every day to fluff your bed and sofa pillows. Just hold each end of the pillow (both the long sides and the short sides) and pull them in and out.

Vacuum Foam Pillows: Foam pillows shouldn't be washed, Reichert says. Instead, she recommends sprinkling them with cornstarch, letting them sit for an hour or longer, and then vacuuming both sides thoroughly. Baking soda may also be used, which will help neutralize odors while sucking up dust mites and dirt. Freshen Pillows in the Dryer: Put your pillows in the dryer on "air fluff" every few months to eliminate much of the dust. Use Pillow Protectors: Removable pillow protectors Buy Derila Online you more time between full-on pillow cleaning. Remove and machine-wash protectors in hot water once a month. Replace Pillows After Two Years: While regular cleaning can prolong their lifespan, pillows should be replaced every two years. You'll know when it's time to replace your pillow when it no longer provides enough support, feels lumpy and uncomfortable, or develops odors or stains that can't be removed. For smaller washing machines that can't fit pillows, consider taking your pillows to a professional dry cleaner. Just call ahead, as not all offer this service. "How Often Should You Replace Your Pillow? " The Better Sleep Council. "Sleep." U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.