Memory foam pillows are incredibly comfortable and supportive and you’ll agree if you own one. Memory foam pillows are quite popular because of their ability to mold according to the shape of your head. They help prevent neck and back pain. In Indian households, where the climate can be humid and warm, it’s essential to take good care of these pillows to keep them clean and fresh.
Every night, you are spending hours with your face placed against the pillow, so over time the pillow tends to accumulate many irritants such as dust, mites and even dead skin cells. The memory foam pillows are usually hypoallergenic but they still hover around on the tip of the inner core and are also trapped under the casing. Regular cleaning and maintenance can solve such issues and will offer a pleasant spot to lay down your head for a good night’s rest. Here’s an easy guide on how to wash and maintain your memory foam bed pillows, without damaging their shape and firmness.
Check the Care Label
We Indians have this thing, in the name of cleanliness, we wash it with water. Keep in mind, not every pillow is the same so you cannot clean every pillow the same way. Before you start cleaning, always check the care label on your memory foam pillow. Thai labels provide important information about cleaning methods. If it says” spot clean only”, follow those instructions to prevent damage.
Remove the Pillowcase and Cover
Most of the dust, oil, and dead skins are accumulated over the pillowcase and cover, so it is important that you keep them clean. You can easily wash the pillow case in the washing machine. If your pillow has a special cover, read the label on it, if it says” machine washable” wash it in the washing machine, otherwise hand wash it or as mentioned on the label.
Spot Clean the Memory Foam
Avoid washing your memory foam pillow with water until or unless you want to deep clean it. If your pillow has a few stains, you can easily remove them without washing the complete pillow. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with water. Always use a mild soap as a harsh soap can damage the pillow.
Take a clean cloth and dip it into the cleaning solution you’ve prepared. Wring it out well and gently blow the stained area. Don’t just rub the pillow hard, some upwards strokes will work fine. Use another clean cloth to clean the stains and remove any soap residue left. Make sure the foam doesn’t get too wet.
Deep Clean (Only if Label Say So)
If you decide to wash your memory foam pillow, don’t put the memory foam bed pillow into the washing machine because the strong shakeup of machine washing can break or weaken the padding that is inside the pillow. Don’t use a dryer on a memory foam bed pillow to dry it.
The memory foam bed pillows can be effortlessly cleaned by just running down warm water over it until it gets clean. Separate the pillowcase from the foam then gently submerge the foam into a full sink of water.
If not, simply let the water run over the pillow and let the water run around every corner so that all the inner padding is flushed out completely. Rinse off the pillow with clean water. Continue the process until the water runs clear.
Dry the Memory Foam
Completely dry the pillow before using it again. You can air dry it by laying the pillow flat on a clean towel in a well ventilated area. If you can, place it in a shaded spot with a good airflow to help it dry faster. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can damage the foam and make it hard.
Don’t look for shortcuts to dry the pillow in a short time like using a hair dryer. Don’t use a hair dryer or direct heat sources to dry the pillow. These can damage the memory foam.
Deodorize the Pillow
In humid conditions, it is possible that your pillow will start smelling bad. Don’t worry, it is easy to freshen them up. All you need to do is sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the pillow. Let it sir for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the odors. Afterward, gently shake the baking soda or you can also vacuum the baking soda.
Use a Pillow Protector
A pillow protector can save you all this work as it can protect you from stains, dust, dirt and sweat. It can be easily washed in the washing machine.
Memory foam pillows are durable, but they do have a lifespan. If your pillow is losing its shape, becoming lumpy, or has persistent stains, it might be time to replace it.
Tips for Indian Households
If you live in a particularly humid area, consider using a dehumidifier or air conditioner to help keep the air dry. This can prevent mold and mildew growth on your pillows. Clean your pillow’s cover and protector regularly. This will help keep your memory foam pillow in good condition and reduce the need for frequent deep cleaning.
Conclusion
Your bed pillow is certainly the most used item at home. All of your life it supports your head during the night, from the heat of summer and late night spills and snacks. No doubt it deserves a good cleaning. You can follow these easy steps to clean your memory foam pillow and your pillow will continue to provide you with great support for a long time.