Washing a feather pillow requires gentle handling to keep it in top condition. The general process involves removing the case, checking the pillow for any rips or tears, then washing it in a large capacity washer with mild detergent on a delicate cycle. Use cool water and opt for an extra rinse cycle to ensure all soap is removed. After washing, it’s essential to dry the pillow thoroughly—ideally using a low heat setting on your dryer along with dryer balls or tennis balls to help fluff up the feathers.
Care Before Washing
Before you contemplate washing your feather pillow, it’s important to consider whether it’s the right choice for maintenance. Although feather pillows do benefit from being cleaned, frequent washes are not recommended. It’s advisable to wash them no more than twice a year to maintain their fluffiness and longevity.
One pivotal step prior to washing is inspecting the pillow for damage. Check thoroughly for any holes or seams that may have come undone as sending a damaged pillow through a wash cycle could result in feathers escaping and causing a mess in your machine or damaging it.
Pre-Treatment of Stains
Identifying Stains
If the pillow has any spots or stains, it’s best to pre-treat these areas before the wash. Gently apply a mild stain remover to the affected areas and carefully work it into the fabric. Be sure not to be too forceful as this could damage the feathers inside.
Ensuring the Pillow is Dry
Never wash a damp pillow. Make sure the pillow hasn’t been used recently and is completely dry. Moisture can cause clumping and lead to mildew growth if not dried thoroughly post-wash.
Choosing the Right Washing Machine
A large capacity front-loading washing machine is most suitable for washing feather pillows. The machine should have enough space for the pillow to move and not be compressed during the wash cycle. Top-loading machines with an agitator can damage the pillow, so if this is the only type available, washer-dryer laundromat machines might be a better alternative.
Setting the Washer Correctly
Set the washer to a delicate cycle with cool water. Using hot water could shrink the pillow casing, and harsh wash cycles can damage the feathers. Add a small amount of a gentle detergent—preferably one that is designed for delicate fabrics or specifically for down and feather products.
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Rinsing Thoroughly
It’s crucial to rinse the pillow thoroughly to remove all traces of detergent. Residual soap can break down the natural oils in the feathers and cause them to lose their loft. An extra rinse cycle can be very beneficial in ensuring cleanliness without leaving any detergent behind.
Drying the Feather Pillow
Drying a feather pillow can take quite a bit of time but it is important to maintain low heat to prevent damage. Place the pillow in the dryer on a low heat setting.
Using Dryer Balls or Tennis Balls
Adding dryer balls or clean tennis balls to the dryer can help to re-fluff the feathers and prevent clumping. Ensure that the balls are clean to avoid transferring any unwanted colors or scents onto your pillow.
Assessing Dryness
Periodically check the pillow throughout the drying cycle. It’s important to ensure it’s completely dry to avoid mildew growth. Feather pillows could take several hours to dry fully. If the pillow is still damp after one cycle, keep drying it in additional cycles until it’s completely dry.
If possible, on a sunny, breezy day, hang the pillow outside for a little while after the dryer cycle to ensure the fresh, dry air completes the drying process and to help freshen it up.
Storage and Maintenance of Feather Pillows
If you’re going to store the pillow for any length of time after washing, choose a breathable cotton storage bag. Never store feather pillows in a plastic bag, as this can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
Regular maintenance such as fluffing your pillow daily and protecting it with a pillow protector can keep it cleaner for longer. These covers protect against dirt, oil, and moisture, which can seep into the pillow, harbouring bacteria and reducing the life span of the feathers.
Understanding the Limitations of Home Washing
Keep in mind that while many feather pillows are indeed washable, some may be dry clean only—always check the care label before attempting to wash. If you have any doubts or if the pillow is particularly valuable or sentimental, consider professional cleaning.
Additional Tips and Advice
Here are a few extra considerations:
– Before the wash, you can also put the pillow in the dryer on a no-heat cycle for 10 minutes to dust it off.
– Balance the load in your washer. If you’re washing one pillow, add some towels to balance the load, which can reduce wear and tear on your washing machine.
– After washing and drying, give your pillows a good shake to redistribute the feathers.
– Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can coat the feathers and reduce their fluff.
Finishing Thoughts
Washing your feather pillow can be a simple process when done correctly. By handling your feather pillow with care, using the right techniques and machines for washing and drying, and maintaining them in between washes, you can keep your feather pillows clean, fluffy, and comfortable for a good night’s sleep. Remember, thoroughness in drying is just as crucial as the washing process itself to ensure longevity and hygiene.
