Your pillow is one of the most used items at home. It cradles your head all through the year in all seasons. Everyone has their own personal choice of pillows. While some prefer soft pillows, others prefer their pillow to be solid and sturdy.
Memory foam pillows are popular because they offer great support and comfort. However, keeping them clean is important to make sure they stay fresh and last a long time. If you’re wondering how to wash a memory foam pillow, you’ve come to the right place. You cannot put your memory foam pillow into the washing machine, but still, there are many ways to wash it.
Now, you might find yourself in a situation that your pillow is not performing as it was intended to do, it may also be completely ruined and you might have to purchase a new one. Since these pillows can be relatively expensive, you may have to learn how to clean it properly without damaging it in the process so that you don’t have to take the trouble of extra expenses. In this blog, we’ll learn ways to wash a memory foam pillow without damaging its loft or shape.
How to Wash a Memory Foam Pillow?
Check the Label
The first step is to check the care label on the pillow. Every pillow has an instruction label attached to it telling you what all needs to be done to clean the pillow and what all must be avoided. Every pillow is different and the label will tell you if you can machine wash the pillow you are using or if it needs special care.
Spot Clean Stains
A stain on your favorite pillow can be a complete nightmare but don’t worry, you need not to wash the pillow completely to remove the stain. Here’s how to spot clean:
Make a solution by mixing mild detergent and water in a small bowl.
Use a clean cloth, sock it into the solution and dab the stain area with soapy water. Keep in the mind to not completely sock the pillow but just gently moisten the area.
Don’t rub the cloth on the stain, this way the stain can get worse. Try to gently move the cloth upwards (upward movements) to remove the stain.
Take another clean cloth, damp it in plain water and remove any extra soapy residue left on the pillow.
Complete air dry the pillow before using it again.
Washing the Pillow (If the Label Allows)
If the label allows you to wash the pillow, you can hand wash the pillow following these steps:
Fill up a bathtub or bucket (large enough for the pillow to fit in) with lukewarm water and add some gentle detergent. Also, add a drop of lavender oil, this will leave the pillow smelling fresh.
Once the detergent is completely dissolved in the water, remove the protective cover from the pillow. Gently submerge the pillow under the bucket/bathtub. Squeeze the form for the cleaning solution to penetrate through it.
Drain out the soapy water and fill the bathtub/bucket again with clean water. Continue this for several times, until all the dirt or soap is removed from the pillow and the water runs clear (no wringing).
Now, gently squeeze the pillow to take out excess water. You needn’t rigorously squeeze or twist the foam.
Now, leave the pillow to air dry. It is most preferably to keep in direct sunlight. If not available, you can leave it under a ceiling fan. Don’t place it in the dryer as the high heat can damage the foam.
If you want, sprinkle with a few drops of lavender oil for a better smell.
Note: Allow the pillows to dry totally on one side then flip it over, and ensure it is also dry completely on the other side. This process may take some time, so give the pillows the opportunity to dry completely so that when it is done, it will be worth waiting for.
Keep It Fresh
It is always wise to often change your pillowcase. But you need not clean your pillow as often as your pillowcase. In case your loved one or you have been sick recently, it is good to deep clean the memory foam pillow. Otherwise, it is suitable to wash it every two months.
While your bed sheet and pillowcase goes through the washing machine, sprinkle some baking soda over the Contour memory foam pillow then leave the pillow in the sun for an hour or two. The baking soda and sunlight can revitalize the pillow, take in the smells and leave it smelling fresh.
Conclusion
Washing a memory foam pillow requires a bit of care to avoid damaging the foam. Always check the care label, spot clean when possible, and hand wash if necessary. By following these steps, you can keep your memory foam pillow clean and comfortable for a good night’s sleep.