Most people keep pillows on beds, sofas, and even armchairs, so they get dirty quickly. That means you have to wash them regularly
. You may wonder, if you wash your pillow today, how long would it take to dry? Maybe this depends on the materials or the type of your pillow.
Let’s answer some of these questions.
Drying a pillow using a dryer will take one hour, and if left in the air to dry, it will take several hours. You must ensure your pillow is dry to avoid attracting bacteria and molds.
It’s a fact that drying your pillows will take quite some time, and the primary determinant of how long it will take entirely depends on the pillow’s material. Let’s discuss more how to clean your pillows and get significant results.
How To Dry a Pillow
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There are two different methods you can use to dry your pillow.
- Using a dryer or,
- Air drying
Using a Dryer
To dry your pillow using a dryer, consider these steps:
- Put dryer balls with your pillows (you can also use one or two tennis balls) in the dryer.
- Turn your dryer to medium or low heat.
- Let the towel dry for one hour. You can check if it is dry after the pillow is cool. If you notice it is damp, put it back for at least another hour.
- Avoid drying on auto settings. That is because the sensors stop once the outside of the pillow is dry. So you will notice the inside is not yet dry.
Here are different types of pillows and how to dry them.
Memory Foam Pillows
These are highly absorbent, so when drying, use as low heat as possible. Dry one pillow at a time because pillows expand. Dry the pillow into circles because that will help you check for extra moisture.
To ensure it is dry, you can squeeze and see whether it has absorbed moisture. But if you can, it is advisable to air dry memory foam pillows.
Synthetic Pillows
To dry synthetic pillows, use medium heat. On these pillows, avoid setting your dryer to an automatic sensor. Since it dries the outside, it leaves the pillow damp. Ensure, after an hour, you squeeze your pillow to detect any dampness.
If it is wet, take it back for some more time to dry.
Feather or Natural Fibers Pillows
It is hard to dry these pillows under a dryer. If you choose a dryer, set it to no heat. Note that it will take some time because you are not using heat.
You can set your dryer for one hour just like other pillows and keep checking. If you notice the pillows are not dry, add some more time. Probably another one hour will do.
Air Drying
You can dry your pillow in the air without worrying about the equipment. However, there is no specific time since the pillows can take time to dry. The best way to do this is by drying them under the sun.
That will ensure the pillows dry fast and evenly. Hang them on the cloth line and let them sit there for some time. Keep checking to avoid drying some sides and leaving others.
How Often Should You Wash and Dry Your Pillows?
Washing and drying will depend on how you sleep on your pillows. If you sleep while your hair is damp, then you need to wash and dry more often.
But it is right to wash and dry at least twice a year. However, you can wash and change your pillowcase every week to discourage bacterial growth and keep your pillow clean.
Use the Right Methods to Wash Your Pillows.
The drying process of your pillow will depend on the method you use while washing. You can hand wash or machine wash your pillows.
How to Hand Wash Your Pillow
Before you hand wash your pillow, read the manufacturer’s instructions. There are some pillows that you must wash only by using a washing machine.
The procedure:
- Use warm water and some amount of detergent.
- Put your pillow in the water and wash it by the kneading method.
- Once you are through, rinse thoroughly using cool water.
- Squeeze the water using the rolling process.
- From there, you can choose to dry using a dryer or air dry.
How to Wash Your Pillow Using a Washing Machine
The good thing about using a washing machine is that you can use a machine to wash most pillows.
As long as you stick to the rules, your pillows will remain in good condition. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you can wash the pillow using a washing machine.
Procedure:
- Wash your pillows without other items. If you put some other things in it, you will distort their shape.
- Experts recommend you wash two pillows because there is even distribution, and that balances the machine. Further, the pillows will be lump-free, speeding up the process of drying your pillow.
- An agitator damages the shape of your pillow. If your machine has one, you can place your pillow vertically in the drum. Then set the washing machine on the hand wash cycle.
- Use warm water with a mild detergent.
- Avoid bleaching your pillows. We bleach to kill the dust mites, but you can use a protective cover to do that. Alternatively, you can wash with borax.
- Avoid using a fabric softener because it coats the feathers.
Your Pillow Is Damp. What Are the Dangers?
A damp pillow will encourage the growth of bacteria known as mildew. Mildew is an allergen and can cause health problems. Avoid sleeping on your pillow when your hair is wet to discourage dampness.
The warmth that comes from the head while the hair is wet encourages the breeding of bacteria. If you sweat a lot, too, you can clean your pillow frequently. Anytime you notice your pillow is damp, make sure you dry it properly before using it.
Does Drying the Pillow Using a Dryer Kill Dust Mites?
Yes, it can. If you dry your pillow under a dryer, it kills dust mites and other allergens. To achieve excellent results, put your pillow for around twenty minutes under high heat.
Remember to use the dryer balls or tennis balls in socks. That will keep your pillow fluffy. Note, if your pillow materials are natural fibers, that is not the best method.
Is It Advisable to Put a Soaking Wet Pillow in a Dryer?
Not really. Before putting your pillow in the dryer, you can spin it to remove excess water. If you are washing using a machine, drain the water through a spin cycle. Once the pillow is not dripping, then you can put it in the dryer.
This procedure will speed up the drying process. The recommended method of drying up pillows is at least putting two in a dryer, which will help them maintain their fluffiness.
When Should You Replace Your Pillow?
If you clean and realize the stains are permanent, you can replace your pillow. Still, if you notice it has some pungent stench even after cleaning, then change it.
To check whether your pillow’s lifespan is over, fold it in half. If the springs bounce back, then your pillow is in good shape.
