If you want to know how to clean bed rest pillow properly, there are four considerations beforehand. This article will discuss what to do with the preparation, cleaning, washing, and frequency to ensure that your pillows are clean without damaging them. Much like cleaning a backrest pillow, bed rest pillows require some cleaning tips unique to them compared to other pillows.
We often overlook our bed rest pillows, but it’s essential to keep them clean and hygienic. But because of their unique form, you can’t just place them in the washer and forget about them. Always keep these four considerations in mind before handling your bed rest pillow.
Cleaning A Bed Rest Pillow Properly
Preparation
Remember that even with bed rest pillows, you’ll find a variety of materials. Therefore, cleaning each product will be different based on the care instructions. Some practices and cleaning materials can damage your bed rest pillow or deform it.
You want to avoid using harsh detergents and bleach on your bed rest pillow and consistently follow your cleaner’s directions in how to use it. Most backrest pillows are also safe to clean in warm water. Still, the emphasis is necessary on knowing your water quality as it may have components that are not suitable for your pillow’s materials.
More so, you want only to use a dryer if the manufacturer recommends it.
Cleaning
The process itself of cleaning and washing your bed rest pillow is relatively straightforward. For example, some bed rest pillows don’t recommend frequent washing. However, you can always do spot cleaning to avoid neglecting hygiene.
If your pillow gets dirty or you spilled something on it, clean it immediately to prevent it from seeping through. Use the appropriate fabric stain remover or a warm damp cloth and gently scrub the affected areas for a quick clean-up. On the contrary, use a sponge and mild detergent to disinfect your bed rest pillow if you notice mold and mildew.
Washing
Bed rest pillows don’t usually fit in the washing machine, so you must hand wash them with a damp cloth or sponge, gentle cleanser, and water. Wash your bed rest pillow per section to ensure that you are removing all the dirt thoroughly. After you are satisfied with the washing, you must rinse the pillow thoroughly before air-drying it or putting it in the dryer if it’s recommended.
The emphasis is necessary on ensuring that you have rinsed and dry your bed rest pillow thoroughly because damp pillows will encourage fungal growth. This is why it’s also essential to check your detergent’s label to dilute it properly. More so, remember that not all bed rest pillows are meant for the dryer, so find an area where you can air dry it safely.
Frequency
The final consideration to know how to clean bed rest pillow properly is the frequency of cleaning. It’s essential to keep our pillows clean as it may harbor harmful pathogens, allergens, and dirt over time. Dead skin cells, oils, and various particles will accumulate on your bed rest pillow, primarily if you use it frequently.
Noticeable color change or smell are not enough indicators that it’s time to wash your bed rest pillow. Instead, it would be best if you cleaned it regularly, even without washing it itself. You can do a simple wipe or vacuum and then wash your bed rest pillow every 3 to 6 months depending on use. You can also add a cover for your bed rest pillow that’s easy to remove and replace more frequently.
How To Clean Different Types Of Pillow Fills
You must know the specific type of fill your pillow uses to understand how to clean it properly. For example, the most common type of stuffing for bed rest pillows is either foam or polyester fiberfill because they would be firm enough for support. Both these materials are not advisable for washing because it can damage them.
Therefore, you must remove the fill first and then wash the cover separately. On the one hand, some bed rest pillows use down as stuffing. In this case, it’s best to sanitize the down with ultraviolet light, remove it from the pillow, and wash the pillow separately.
Overall, you must always check your bed rest pillow’s label before cleaning it to avoid damaging the materials.
Conclusion
Whether we read in bed every night or need to sleep upright occasionally, keeping our bed rest pillows hygienic is non-negotiable. You must know how to clean bed rest pillow properly by considering four factors. Start by checking the label and recommendations for your pillow to prevent damaging it with cleaners, washers, or dryers.
Then, consider doing a spot cleaning immediately when necessary to prevent staining and build-up of pathogens and dirt. The washing itself doesn’t have to be frequent, and you can check if you must hand wash or use a machine for your bed rest pillow. You can clean your pillow as often as necessary, but washing can be anywhere from 3 to 6 months.
Knowing these four considerations should ensure your bed rest pillow’s cleanliness but still prevent it from getting damaged or deformed. Remember that every pillow is different in terms of materials, and the frequency of cleaning each one will vary depending on use.