Can You Wash A Polyester Pillow?

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Can you wash a polyester pillow? As a daily user of polyester pillows, you may wonder how to clean them properly. Polyester-filled pillows are popular due to their affordability, hypoallergenic properties, and ease of care. However, keeping them clean is important to prevent the buildup of dust mites and mildew.

This article will discuss how to wash and care for polyester pillows. We will cover the steps to wash and dry your pillows in a washing machine, how to treat stains, and how to fluff them to keep them in top condition. 

By following these tips, you can maintain the quality and longevity of your polyester pillows. Let’s get into it!

Key Takeaways

  • Polyester-filled pillows are affordable, hypoallergenic, and easy to care for.
  • Wash polyester pillows in a washing machine with regular detergent and dry them on medium heat with wool balls to keep them fluffy.
  • It’s important to keep your polyester pillows clean to prevent the buildup of dust mites and mildew.

Can You Wash a Polyester Pillow?

Do you have a polyester pillow that needs to be washed? The good news is that polyester pillows can be washed, but taking special care and attention is important.

Before washing your polyester pillow, there are a few factors that you should consider. The pillow’s size, shape, filling, and fabric can affect how it should be washed. Check the care label on your pillow to determine the appropriate washing method.

When washing your polyester pillow, there are some risks to be aware of. The filling can clump together, causing the pillow to lose shape and support. Additionally, the pillow may shrink or become misshapen if washed improperly.

To avoid these risks, washing your polyester pillow gently with a mild detergent is recommended. Use cold or warm water, and avoid using bleach or fabric softeners. 

Drying the pillow thoroughly in a low-heat setting is also important. Add wool or tennis balls to the dryer to help fluff the filling.

The bottom line is that washing a polyester pillow is possible but requires special care and attention. Be sure to consider the pillow’s size, shape, filling, and fabric before washing, and follow the recommended washing and drying methods to avoid clumping, shrinking, or losing shape.

Related: Can you wash a memory foam pillow?

How to Wash Polyester Pillows in a Washing Machine

Polyester Pillows are easy to care for
Polyester Pillows are easy to care for.

Polyester pillows are a great option for those who want a hypoallergenic pillow and easy to care for. [1] They are also affordable and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. But can you wash a polyester pillow in a washing machine? The answer is yes, you can! Here are some steps to follow:

  • Check the care label: Before washing your polyester pillows, check the care label to make sure they are machine washable. If the label says “hand-wash only,” you should not put them in the washing machine.
  • Remove the pillowcase and any other coverings: Take off the pillowcase and any other coverings before washing the pillows. This will help prevent any damage to the fabric or filling.
  • Use mild detergent and cold or warm water: Use a gentle detergent and cold or warm water to wash the pillows. Avoid using hot water as it can damage the fabric and filling.
  • Wash two pillows at a time to balance the load: Wash two pillows at a time to balance the load in the washing machine. This will help prevent the pillows from getting tangled or damaged during the wash cycle.
  • Use a gentle or delicate cycle and low spin speed: Use a gentle or delicate cycle and low spin speed to wash the pillows. This will help prevent any damage to the fabric or filling.
  • Rinse well to remove any soap residue: Rinse the pillows well to remove any soap residue. This will help prevent any skin irritation or allergic reactions.
  • Dry on low heat or air dry: Dry the pillows on low heat or air dry. Avoid using high heat as it can damage the fabric and filling. Add a few tennis balls or wool dryer balls to help fluff up the pillows.

How to Dry Polyester Pillows in the Dryer

So, you’ve washed your polyester pillows and now need to dry them. Can you put them in the dryer? Yes, you can! Here’s how to do it:

  • Check the care label: Before tossing your pillows in the dryer, check the care label. Some pillows may not be suitable for the dryer, so following the instructions is important.
  • Use low or medium heat setting and gentle or fluff cycle: When drying your polyester pillows, it’s best to use a low or medium heat setting and a gentle or fluff cycle. This will help prevent any damage to the pillows and keep them fluffy.
  • Add dryer balls or tennis balls: To prevent clumping and fluffing up the pillows, add dryer balls or tennis balls to the dryer. These will help to distribute the filling evenly and keep the pillows fluffy.
  • Check the pillows frequently: It’s important to check them frequently in the dryer. This will help prevent over-drying or scorching the pillows. Remove them from the dryer when they are completely dry.
  • Avoid over-drying or scorching the pillows: Over-drying or scorching them can damage the filling and cause the pillows to lose shape. Remove them from the dryer as soon as they are dry.

How To Treat Stains on Polyester-Filled Pillows

Use The appropriate stain remover to clean it
Use The appropriate stain remover to clean it.

Polyester pillows are comfortable and easy to maintain but also prone to stains. Whether it’s sweat, food, or makeup, stains can be tough to remove from pillows. Fortunately, there are ways to treat stains on polyester-filled pillows.

Identify the Type of Stain and Use the Appropriate Stain Remover

Before you start treating the stain, you need to identify what type of stain it is. Different stains require different treatments. For example, blood stains require hydrogen peroxide, while oil stains require dish soap.

Once you have identified the type of stain, use the appropriate stain remover. Many different stain removers are available, including commercial products and DIY solutions. Choose the one that works best for the stain you’re dealing with.

See the best stain removers for your pillow on Amazon.

Pre-Treat the Stain Before Washing

Before washing the pillow, pre-treat the stain by applying the remover and letting it sit for a few minutes. This will help loosen the stain and make it easier to remove.

Blot or Dab the Stain Gently with a Clean Cloth or Paper Towel

Once you have applied the stain remover, blot or dab the stain gently with a clean cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the stain as it may spread or damage the fabric.

Rinse Well with Cold Water and Repeat if Necessary

After you have treated the stain, rinse the pillow well with cold water. Make sure to remove all the soap and stain remover. If the stain is still visible, repeat it until it is completely gone.

Examples of How to Treat Stains on Polyester-Filled Pillows

  • Blood stains: Apply hydrogen peroxide to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before blotting it with a clean cloth.
  • Oil stains: Apply dish soap to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before blotting it with a clean cloth.
  • Coffee stains: Apply vinegar to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before blotting it with a clean cloth.

Following these steps, you can effectively treat stains on your polyester-filled pillows and keep them clean and fresh.

How to Fluff Your Polyester Pillows

Fluffing your polyester pillows is essential to maintain their shape and loft after washing or drying. It also redistributes the filling evenly and prevents clumping or flattening, which improves their comfort and support for your head and neck.

Here are some tips on how to fluff your polyester pillows:

  • Shake or toss them by hand. Gently fluff your pillows by shaking or tossing them by hand. This helps to redistribute the filling and restore its shape.
  • Use a pillow fluffer tool. You can also use a pillow fluffer tool to fluff your pillows. This tool helps to separate the filling and restore the pillow’s shape.
  • Place them in the dryer with dryer balls or tennis balls. Another way to fluff your pillows is to put them in the dryer with dryer balls or tennis balls for a few minutes on low heat or air fluff cycle. The balls help to separate the filling and restore the pillow’s shape.
  • Fluff them regularly between washes. To keep your polyester pillows fresh and fluffy, fluff them regularly between washes. This will help to prevent clumping and flattening.

How Often to Wash Polyester-Filled Bed Pillows

How often should you wash your polyester-filled bed pillows? It depends on several factors, such as how often you use them, how much you sweat, whether you have allergies, pets, children, etc. But, as a general rule, you should wash them every three to six months to keep them clean and fresh.

If you use your pillows every day, you may need to wash them more frequently, especially if you sweat a lot, eat in bed, or have pets sleep in your bed with you. 

These factors can contribute to the buildup of dirt, dead skin cells, saliva, and other substances that can attract dust mites, cause odors, and promote mildew growth.

Most polyester pillows are safe to clean in a washer and dryer, but some may require special care or professional cleaning. If they are washable, use a mild detergent and a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the filling or the fabric.

You can also use pillow protectors and pillowcases to keep your pillows clean and extend their lifespan. Pillow protectors are removable covers that cover your pillows and provide extra protection against allergens, dust mites, and stains. 

Pillowcases are also important as they can absorb sweat and oils from your skin and hair, preventing them from seeping into the pillow.

In addition to washing and protecting your pillows, you should properly store and care for them. Store them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. 

Avoid folding, compressing, or stacking them as it may damage their shape and filling. Finally, replace them when they become lumpy, flat, stained, or smelly to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Frequently Asked Question

Can you wash polyester pillows with bleach?

No, it would be best not to wash polyester pillows with bleach, as it may damage the fabric and the filling. Bleach harms polyester pillows because it can weaken the fibers, cause discoloration, or create holes. Instead of bleach, you can use mild detergent, vinegar, baking soda, or other natural stain removers to clean your polyester pillows.

Can you wash polyester pillows with other items?

It would be best not to wash polyester pillows in hot water as it may shrink or melt the fabric and filling. Hot water is bad for polyester pillows because it can cause the material to lose its elasticity, softness, and shape. You should use cold or warm water to wash your polyester pillows.

Can you wash polyester pillows in hot water?

No, it would be best not to dry polyester pillows in the sun as it may fade or weaken the fabric and the filling. Sun exposure harms polyester pillows because it can cause the material to become brittle, yellow, or crack. It would be best if you dried your polyester pillows in the dryer on low or medium heat or air dry them indoors on a drying rack.

Can you dry polyester pillows in the sun?

It would be best not to iron polyester pillows as they may scorch or melt the fabric and filling. Ironing is unnecessary and risky for polyester pillows because it can cause the material to burn, stick, or lose its texture. You can fluff, steam, or smooth your polyester pillows by hand to remove wrinkles or creases.

Can you iron polyester pillows?

You can wash polyester pillows with other items, but you should be careful about your choice. Washing your polyester pillows with similar items in color, size, and fabric type would be best to avoid bleeding, tangling, or damage. Use mesh bags to protect your polyester pillows from snagging or tearing.

Joe - Founder of AskAboutAll.com

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