ADVERTISEMENT
#### Step 3: Pre-Clean with Baking Soda (Optional)
If your pillows are particularly smelly or dirty, start by sprinkling a thin layer of **baking soda** on both sides of the pillow. Let it sit for about **15-30 minutes**. The baking soda will help to lift dirt, odors, and moisture from the pillow. Afterward, use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to gently vacuum the baking soda off the pillow.
#### Step 4: Wash the Pillows
If your pillows are machine washable (check the care label!), you can now proceed with washing them. Follow these simple steps:
1. **Add Mild Detergent**: Add a small amount of **mild detergent** (preferably a gentle, hypoallergenic one) to the washing machine. Avoid using too much detergent, as it can leave residue behind on the pillow.
2. **Use Warm Water**: Wash your pillows on a gentle cycle with **warm water** (check the care label for temperature recommendations).
3. **Add Vinegar for Extra Freshness** (Optional): To help eliminate bacteria and neutralize odors, you can add **white vinegar** during the rinse cycle. Simply pour about **1 cup of white vinegar** into the fabric softener compartment of the washing machine. This helps break down any soap residue and freshens up the pillows.
4. **Wash Two Pillows at Once**: If you have two pillows, wash them at the same time. This helps to balance the load in the washing machine, preventing the machine from becoming unbalanced and ensuring both pillows are washed evenly.
#### Step 5: Dry Your Pillows
After washing, it’s time to dry your pillows. Here’s how to do it properly:
1. **Machine Drying**: Place your pillows in the **dryer** on a low heat or air-fluff setting. Add a couple of **dry towels** to the load to help fluff the pillows and speed up the drying process. Be sure to check on the pillows every 15-20 minutes to ensure they’re drying evenly.
2. **Fluff During Drying**: As the pillows dry, stop the dryer periodically to fluff them by hand. This will help redistribute the filling and prevent clumping.
3. **Ensure Complete Drying**: It’s crucial that pillows are completely dry before putting them back on the bed. If they’re not fully dried, mold or mildew can develop inside the filling, so let them dry for **at least 1-2 hours**. If your pillows still feel damp, run them through another drying cycle.
4. **Air Drying**: If you prefer not to use a dryer, you can air-dry your pillows. Place them in a well-ventilated area or hang them outside on a sunny day. Be sure to flip and fluff them regularly for even drying.
Step 6: Add a Fresh Scent (Optional)
For that extra fresh, clean smell, you can add a few drops of your favorite **essential oil** to the dryer sheet or fabric softener ball. Lavender, eucalyptus, or lemon essential oils are popular choices because they’re soothing and have natural antibacterial properties. Alternatively, you can also spray a light mist of a linen spray or a DIY essential oil spray onto your pillows after they’ve dried for a fresh scent.
For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends
