Using detergent along with a thorough hand wash will help maintain the fluffiness and freshness of your pillows.
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- Duration of Work: 20 minutes to 1 hour
- Overall Duration: 24 hours
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In the past, the stuffing used in bed pillows typically comprised natural materials like cotton, wool, or the soft down feathers from ducks or geese. However, modern sleepers frequently discover that pillows filled with various types of flexible rubber or polyurethane foam provide a superior sleeping experience. Foam pillows—including standard polyurethane, latex foam, memory foam, and gel-infused memory foam—tend to be less prone to accumulating dirt compared to those filled with natural materials like cotton, wool, or down. Nevertheless, over time, foam pillows will still gather skin and hair particles, dust mites, and potentially stains.
Once the coverings are taken off, foam pillows present unique cleaning challenges, as the solid foam material can be harmed by the agitation of washing machines and dryers. To clean solid foam pillows, it’s essential to use mild detergents and to wash them by hand. Additionally, ensuring that the pillows are completely dried after washing is crucial, as any leftover moisture can lead to the development of bacteria and unpleasant odors.
Here’s a reliable technique for hand-washing foam pillows in a safe and efficient manner.
Requirements
Devices / Instruments
- Spacious basin or bathtub
- Petite dish
- White fabrics
- Vacuum
Materials
- Highly effective mild detergent
- Dish soap
- Sodium bicarbonate
Instructions
A Guide to Cleaning Solid Foam Pillows
This technique is applicable to various kinds of solid-foam pillows, such as traditional polyurethane, latex foam, memory foam, and gel-infused memory foam.
Prepare a Cleaning Solution
For a thorough cleaning, a foam pillow needs to be washed by hand. Begin by filling a spacious sink or bathtub with lukewarm water, adding a small quantity of a mild detergent suitable for hand-washing delicate fabrics. Approximately 1 teaspoon of detergent for every gallon of water is recommended.
Clean the Pillow
Take the foam pillow out of its protective cover, which can be laundered separately with other items. Fully immerse the foam pillow in a mixture of detergent and water, and gently massage it for approximately 10 minutes to allow the cleaning solution to penetrate the foam.
Rinse
- Empty the soapy water and fill the sink with clean water.
- Gently massage the foam pillow to eliminate the bubbles.
- Empty the sink and fill it with fresh water multiple times until the suds are completely gone.
- Lightly press the foam to expel the water, but avoid twisting it, as this may damage the foam.
Remove moisture from the pillow.
Place the pillow on a flat, well-ventilated surface to dry, keeping it out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources. Avoid using a clothes dryer, as the intense heat may harm the pillow and lead to foam deterioration. To expedite the drying process, consider using a portable fan to enhance air circulation. Depending on the foam’s thickness, drying may take 24 hours or longer. Before putting the pillow back into its cover, ensure that the foam is free of any remaining moisture.
Tip
Air-drying the foam pillow outside on a warm, windy day can reduce the drying duration to only a few hours. However, it’s important to avoid exposing the pillow to direct sunlight.
Tips for Spot Cleaning and Revitalizing a Foam Pillow
If you’re short on time and can’t wash a foam pillow completely, you can use spot cleaning to tackle stains until you’re able to do a full wash.
Prepare a Cleaning Mixture
In a tiny bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 2 cups of warm water.
Address the Stains
Soak a fresh white cloth in the solution and softly dab the stain, working from the outer edges inward. Continuously shift to a clean section of the cloth as the stain lifts.
Wash and Dry the Foam
After the stain has been eliminated, take a clean white cloth and dampen it with plain water, then gently blot the area to eliminate any leftover soap. Let the pillow air dry thoroughly. If you need to expedite the drying, you can use a hairdryer on the cool setting to dry the cleaned section.
Revitalize a Pillow Using Baking Soda
To refresh your foam pillow, start by taking off the protective cover and placing it in the washing machine. Next, generously sprinkle baking soda all over the pillow, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let the baking soda sit for a minimum of one hour, then use the upholstery brush attachment on your vacuum to remove it. This process will help eliminate odors and get rid of dust mites and pet hair. Don’t forget to flip the pillow and repeat the process on the other side.
Frequency of Washing a Foam Pillow
By utilizing a pillow cover and frequently swapping out pillowcases, you should only need to deep clean your foam pillow once or twice annually, unless an unexpected spill or mishap occurs.
While the cleaning process of the pillow remains unchanged, the foam utilized in pillows is available in various types:
- Latex foam is produced from genuine latex sourced from rubber trees or, more commonly, from a synthetic alternative. This type of foam is both hypoallergenic and resistant to fungi. Generally, a latex foam pillow consists of a solid, durable block that features perforations to enhance airflow and minimize heat retention, although there are also options for shredded latex pillows.
- Flexible polyurethane foam is the primary type of resilient foam commonly found in cushions and pillows. This synthetic polymer is primarily produced from petroleum byproducts. Polyurethane pillows can be crafted from either a solid foam block or shredded foam. While they are affordable, their durability may be less than that of pillows made from alternative foam materials.
- Memory foam is a unique synthetic material developed in a NASA laboratory in 1966, composed of polyurethane and various chemicals. The advantage of a memory foam pillow lies in its ability to conform to the shape of the head, providing support and alleviating pressure points. This material can be utilized in both solid and shredded pillow designs.
Dealing with Stains on Foam Cushions
Many stains that penetrate a pillowcase and pillow cover into the foam pillow can be eliminated by gently blotting with a mixture of water and mild detergent. For tougher stains like blood or wine that are more deeply embedded, a 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution is often effective.
Warning
Avoid using bleach on a foam pillow.
Maintenance and Repair of Foam Pillows
To prolong the lifespan of a foam pillow, it’s beneficial to regularly utilize a protective pillow cover underneath the pillowcase. By swapping out pillowcases on a weekly basis and laundering the protective cover each month, you can help maintain the condition of the foam pillow for an extended period.
Foam pillows that are often folded or compressed may start to deteriorate over time. To prolong their lifespan, try to maintain a flat position while sleeping. Unfortunately, foam pillows cannot be repaired. If you notice any cracks or shredding due to prolonged use, it’s time to replace your pillow.
Storing Foam Cushions
When storing foam pillows for an extended time, it is advisable to take the foam out of its protective cover and keep them apart. While the foam is resistant to mildew and mold, the fabric covers may absorb moisture or attract insects. The covers can be neatly folded and placed in a dry area or a cedar chest, whereas the foam can be stored in sealed containers or plastic bags. It is usually recommended to avoid compressing foam pillows during storage.
Extra Advice for Cleaning Foam Pillows
- Always adhere to the cleaning instructions provided by the pillow manufacturer. Certain pillow labels may advise against any form of water washing, including hand washing, and doing so could void the warranty. If the manufacturer warns against the cleaning methods mentioned, focus on spot cleaning stains and regularly vacuuming the pillow.
- Regardless of whether your pillow is made of latex or memory foam, one of the most effective ways to keep it clean is to utilize a machine-washable protective pillow cover. Opt for a cover crafted from breathable natural materials such as cotton, bamboo, or linen, and be sure to use it alongside your standard pillowcase. It’s advisable to wash the cover at least once a month with hot water, and to do so more frequently during warmer months or if someone in your household is unwell.
- Make sure to vacuum your foam pillow thoroughly whenever you change your bed linens, ideally on a weekly basis. This practice will help eliminate dead skin cells, dust mites, and various allergens, ensuring your foam pillow remains clean and fresh.
Is it possible to wash a shredded foam pillow in a washing machine?
It might be possible—assuming the manufacturer does not advise against it. The reason solid foam pillows shouldn’t be washed in a machine is that the agitation can damage the foam. However, this concern does not apply to shredded foam. A shredded foam pillow can typically be washed in a machine on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. After washing, manually remove excess water, then place the pillow in the dryer on a low heat setting, adding a tennis ball in a sock to help fluff it as it dries. It may require multiple drying cycles to ensure the foam is completely dry.
What is the lifespan of a foam pillow?
Foam pillows generally have a longer lifespan compared to those filled with polyester. However, it’s advisable to replace them every 18 to 36 months, or sooner if you observe any cracking or a decline in their supportive qualities.
Is it necessary to sanitize my foam pillows?
Cleaning and drying the inner foam pillow, along with washing the pillowcases and protective covers, is usually adequate. Applying a non-bleach disinfectant spray to foam pillows is safe, but it’s important to let the spray dry completely before putting the foam back in its cover and using the pillow again.
