A neck pillow is a great investment for anyone who wants to get a good night’s sleep. It’s designed to provide support to your neck and head, which can help reduce pain and stiffness. However, over time, your neck pillow can accumulate dirt, sweat, and other debris, which can make it less effective and even cause health issues. That’s why it’s important to know how to wash a neck pillow properly. In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to clean your neck pillow without damaging it.
1. Check the Care Label
Before you start washing your neck pillow, you should check the care label. It will tell you what materials the pillow is made of and what washing instructions you should follow. Some neck pillows can be machine washed, while others need to be hand washed or dry cleaned. If the care label is missing or illegible, you can usually find washing instructions online.
2. Remove the Cover
Most neck pillows come with a removable cover that can be washed separately. If your neck pillow has a cover, remove it and wash it according to the care label instructions. If the cover is not removable, skip to the next step.
3. Spot Clean Stains
If your neck pillow has any stains, it’s a good idea to spot clean them before washing the whole pillow. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to gently clean the stained area. Make sure to rinse the area thoroughly with water and let it dry completely before washing the whole pillow.
4. Pre-Treat the Pillow
Before washing the whole pillow, it’s a good idea to pre-treat it to help remove any dirt or sweat. You can do this by spraying the pillow with a fabric stain remover or a mixture of water and vinegar. Let the pre-treatment sit for a few minutes before washing the pillow.
5. Wash the Pillow
Now it’s time to wash the whole pillow. If your neck pillow is machine washable, use a gentle cycle and cold water. Add a mild detergent and a few towels to help balance the load. If your neck pillow is not machine washable, you can hand wash it in a sink or bathtub using a mild detergent and cold water.
6. Rinse the Pillow Thoroughly
After washing the pillow, make sure to rinse it thoroughly to remove all the soap. This is important because leftover soap can cause skin irritation or allergies. Rinse the pillow several times until the water runs clear.
7. Dry the Pillow
Once you’ve rinsed the pillow, it’s time to dry it. You can either dry it in a dryer on a low heat setting or air dry it. If you’re using a dryer, add a few clean towels to help absorb moisture and prevent clumping. If you’re air drying the pillow, place it in a well-ventilated area and fluff it occasionally to help it dry evenly.
8. Fluff the Pillow
After the pillow is completely dry, fluff it up to restore its shape and loft. You can do this by kneading the pillow or using a soft-bristled brush to gently brush it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I wash my neck pillow?
You should wash your neck pillow at least once a month to remove dirt, sweat, and other debris. If you have allergies or respiratory issues, you may need to wash it more often.
Can I wash my neck pillow in a washing machine?
It depends on the care label instructions. If your neck pillow is machine washable, you can wash it in a washing machine on a gentle cycle and cold water. If it’s not machine washable, you’ll need to hand wash it or have it dry cleaned.
What should I do if my neck pillow is lumpy or misshapen after washing?
If your neck pillow is lumpy or misshapen after washing, try fluffing it up with your hands or using a soft-bristled brush to gently brush it. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the pillow.
Can I put my neck pillow in the dryer?
If your neck pillow is machine washable, you can put it in the dryer on a low heat setting. Add a few clean towels to help absorb moisture and prevent clumping.
Can I wash my neck pillow with bleach?
No, you should never wash your neck pillow with bleach. Bleach can damage the pillow’s filling and cause discoloration.