How to Wash Your Pillows Like a Pro (Say Goodbye to Nasties)
ByKelleigh BeckettUpdated on
Most of us have read by now that our pillows are filled with dust mites and fungus and probably a whole host of other things we don’t like to think about when we crawl into bed at night. Some researches even suggest that a third of your pillow’s weight is from bugs, dust mites, and skin cells.
And while I don’t think that this news is something most of us should spend our time worrying about, it is a good reminder to wash our pillows! Here’s how:
1. Load two pillows at a time in a washing machine, ensuring that they are positioned so that the load stays balanced.
2. Do a hot wash using your regular detergent with a few drops of tea tree oil (to kill germs and bugs) and half a cup of baking soda (to remove smells and perspiration stains).
3. If you have a laundry line, wash the pillows on a sunny day and hang them to dry (use lots of clothes pins!). If the pillows have some discoloration due to head sweat it’ll almost completely disappear while drying in the sun!
Alternatively, you can dry them in a dryer on the hot setting (Maybe with a few drops of lavender on your dryer balls so that the pillows have a nice relaxing scent?).
Either way, make sure to get them dry so that they don’t get mildewy!
Thanks so much for visiting The Complete Guide to Imperfect Homemaking.
Kelleigh Beckett
Homemaker and Parenting Expert
I'm Kelleigh Beckett, your Homemaking and Baby Gear Expert. With 15 years of experience, I've combined formal education from the International Institute of Home Management with hands-on wisdom from raising six kids. Certified since 2012 and a NAPO member, I specialize in optimizing home organization and making cleaning a joyful experience. But that's not all—I'm also your go-to for all things baby gear. From detailed product reviews to rigorous testing, I've got you covered. Join me as I simplify complex homemaking challenges with practical, easy-to-follow advice. Together, we'll create a home that's both beautifully organized and brimming with love.