I always tear my entire bed apart at this time of the year and wash and clean everything. Here's some tips you can use to do it right.
PILLOWS:
Check the content and care labels. If pillows are filled with foam, they can be washed by hand in a large sink or bathtub using mild detergent and warm water. Be sure to rinse them through several rinses of cold water. Roll them in a large towel to remove all the water that you can and then air dry them, turning them frequently. Don’t try to put them in the dryer, heat can cause the foam to crumble.
If they're polyester, the pillows can be tossed into the washing machine. Wash two at a time to balance the load, and set machine on the gentle cycle and agitate only one to two minutes. Put them through a double rinse to make sure detergent is totally rinsed out and do not use fabric softener as it can cause an allergic reaction. To freshen the pillows your can add ¼ cup of white vinegar to the final rinse.
If they're polyester, the pillows can be tossed into the washing machine. Wash two at a time to balance the load, and set machine on the gentle cycle and agitate only one to two minutes. Put them through a double rinse to make sure detergent is totally rinsed out and do not use fabric softener as it can cause an allergic reaction. To freshen the pillows your can add ¼ cup of white vinegar to the final rinse.
Tumble dry on low, fluffing them often. Adding a couple of new tennis balls or a clean athletic shoe will fluff them up well and also help them dry faster.
This same washing method will work for down pillows too, however they will dry slower so be sure to fluff often and make sure they are completely dry before using.
Using a protective pillow cover that can be removed and easily laundered is a really good idea. Launder it at least monthly.
If you decide it is time for new pillows, recycle the old ones to the cat or dog for a soft bed.
This same washing method will work for down pillows too, however they will dry slower so be sure to fluff often and make sure they are completely dry before using.
Using a protective pillow cover that can be removed and easily laundered is a really good idea. Launder it at least monthly.
If you decide it is time for new pillows, recycle the old ones to the cat or dog for a soft bed.
BEDSPREADS AND COMFORTERS:
It is important to read all the care tags on bedspreads and comforters. Know when you buy it whether it is dry clean only or washable.
To stretch out the time between cleanings vacuum the bedspread with the duster brush frequently. This removes dust and dry skin and also helps prevent dust mites, which can cause allergic reactions, from building up.
Most bedspreads and comforters should be laundered (when appropriate) in a commercial size washer at the local Laundromat. Use only mild soap and cool water and stay away from fabric softeners with scents, which can cause allergic reactions. Wash on the gentle cycle and remove from the washer and place in the dryer immediately. Once in the dryer, dry on the recommended heat and fluff frequently or use tennis balls or an athletic shoe as you would for the pillows.
Remember that washable down comforters will require a long drying cycle and need to be completely dry to prevent mildew. For comforters, consider a zip on cover that can easily be removed and laundered and then put back on. Especially good for kids bedding.
If your bedspread says dry clean only, then that’s what you need to do.
Do not store seasonal bedding in the plastic dry cleaning bag as it can cause yellowing and hold in the odor of the cleaning solvent. An old king size pillow case makes a great cover for things
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