Can you wash feather and down pillows? Yes! And, here’s how
Washing down and feather pillows is easy. In fact, it reinvigorates them to be as fluffy as when they were new, unlike synthetic pillows. Down and feather pillows fit in any size washing machine and they come out of the wash beautifully. It’s one of the benefits of the incredible natural materials we use to fill our down and feather pillows. These natural fills are special not only for the support and softness that we love, but also for their easy maintenance.
Just think about the alternative. It can be a gamble to wash synthetic pillows. They often come out lumpy and the whole pillow is ruined. Many are afraid to wash their pillows for this good reason and end up sleeping on a dirty pillow for years before they give up and buy a new one, usually throwing the synthetic pillow in the garbage. But, you can clean your duck or goose down and feather pillows over and over with no worry. Not only is keeping your pillows clean good for you, but you can also extend the life of them by washing them regularly. The key to washing your pillows is getting them fully rinsed and dried because of their thickness and density.
Why do pillows turn yellow?
It is mostly sweat that causes pillows to turn yellow. And yes, everyone’s pillow turns yellow to some extent. Our heads sweat at night; how much usually depends on how warm of a sleeper you are. As well, certain medical conditions, pregnancy and menopause are common contributors to night sweating. Additionally, our heads have natural body oils that also get transferred to our pillows. And, of course, there is drooling. Not that any of us drool at night but it could be a cause for the neighbor’s pillow to turn yellow, right? Of course, pillow protectors can help prevent discoloration altogether if you're proactive.
WASHING A DOWN OR FEATHER PILLOW
Quantity – Always wash two pillows at a time to keep your washer balanced on the spin cycle
Water Temperature – Hot, warm or cold; your choice - be aware that some shrinkage of the fabric can occur with warm or hot water
Spin Speed – Use the fastest speed to take as much moisture out as possible
Rinse – Add an extra rinse cycle to make sure all the soap is gone
Soap – Gentle soap without additives
Optional:
Whitening – Use non-chlorine bleach
Fabric Softener – Not recommended because it can coat the down and feathers and reduce its fluff
