A Boppy pillow is a popular nursing pillow that provides support and comfort for both mom and baby during breastfeeding. It is also commonly used as a support pillow during pregnancy and as a tummy time aid for infants. As with any pillow, a Boppy pillow needs to be washed regularly to maintain hygiene and prolong its lifespan. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of washing a Boppy pillow, including tips and tricks to ensure it comes out clean and fresh every time.
Why Wash Your Boppy Pillow?
Before we dive into the steps of washing a Boppy pillow, let’s first discuss why it’s necessary to do so. Like all pillows, a Boppy pillow can accumulate dirt, sweat, and bacteria over time, which can cause unpleasant odors, stains, and even health issues. Washing your Boppy pillow regularly can help to remove these unwanted particles and keep your pillow fresh and clean. Additionally, washing your Boppy pillow can help to preserve its shape and support, ensuring that it provides optimal comfort and functionality for both you and your baby.
How Often Should You Wash Your Boppy Pillow?
The frequency with which you should wash your Boppy pillow depends on how often you use it and how dirty it gets. As a general rule, it’s recommended that you wash your Boppy pillow every two to three weeks if you use it daily. However, if your pillow gets visibly dirty or stained before this time, you should wash it immediately. Additionally, if you or your baby have a cold or other illness, you should wash your Boppy pillow more frequently to prevent the spread of germs.
What You Will Need
Before you begin washing your Boppy pillow, make sure you have the following items:
- Mild detergent
- Washing machine
- Dryer or drying rack
- Optional: stain remover
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing a Boppy Pillow
Now that you have everything you need, let’s get started on washing your Boppy pillow:
- Remove the cover: Start by removing the cover from your Boppy pillow. Most Boppy pillow covers are machine washable, so check the care label to confirm. If the cover is not machine washable, spot clean it with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Pre-treat stains: If your Boppy pillow has any visible stains or discoloration, pre-treat them with a stain remover before washing. Follow the instructions on the stain remover label, and allow it to sit on the stain for at least 5 minutes before washing.
- Wash the cover: Place the cover in the washing machine with a mild detergent. Use cold or warm water, but avoid hot water as it can damage the fabric. Use a gentle cycle, and avoid washing the cover with other items to prevent snagging or damage.
- Dry the cover: Once the washing cycle is complete, remove the cover from the machine and either place it in the dryer on a low or medium heat setting or hang it on a drying rack. Avoid using high heat, as it can damage the fabric and cause shrinkage.
- Wash the pillow: While the cover is being washed, you can wash the Boppy pillow itself. To do so, place the pillow in the washing machine without the cover. Use a mild detergent, and a gentle cycle with cold or warm water. Again, avoid using hot water or washing the pillow with other items.
- Dry the pillow: Once the washing cycle is complete, remove the pillow from the machine and either place it in the dryer on a low or medium heat setting, or hang it on a drying rack. You can also fluff the pillow by hand to help it regain its shape.
- Reassemble the pillow: Once the cover and pillow are both dry, you can reassemble your Boppy pillow by placing the pillow back into the cover. Make sure the pillow is positioned correctly and securely inside the cover.
Tips for Washing Your Boppy Pillow
Here are some additional tips to help you wash your Boppy pillow effectively:
- Always check the care label on your Boppy pillow and cover before washing to ensure you are following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners when washing your Boppy pillow, as they can damage the fabric and reduce the pillow’s lifespan.
- If you don’t have access to a washing machine or prefer to hand wash your pillow, use a bathtub or large basin filled with cold or warm water and a mild detergent. Soak the pillow for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and hang to dry.
- If you use your Boppy pillow for tummy time or as a support pillow during pregnancy, consider purchasing an extra cover to rotate between washes.
Conclusion
Washing your Boppy pillow is an important part of maintaining its hygiene, freshness, and functionality. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can wash your Boppy pillow quickly and easily, ensuring that it provides optimal support and comfort for both you and your baby. Remember to wash your Boppy pillow regularly, and to check the care label before washing to ensure you are following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you wash a Boppy pillow in the washing machine?
Yes, you can wash a Boppy pillow in the washing machine. However, make sure to remove the cover before washing, and wash the pillow on a gentle cycle with mild detergent and cold or warm water.
Can you put a Boppy pillow in the dryer?
Yes, you can put a Boppy pillow in the dryer on a low or medium heat setting. However, avoid using high heat, as it can damage the fabric and cause shrinkage. You can also hang the pillow on a drying rack to air dry.
How often should you wash a Boppy pillow?
It’s recommended that you wash your Boppy pillow every two to three weeks if you use it daily. However, if your pillow gets visibly dirty or stained before this time, you should wash it immediately. Additionally, if you or your baby have a cold or other illness, you should wash your Boppy pillow more frequently to prevent the spread of germs.