Feather bed pillows can provide wonderful comfort and support for your head and neck while sleeping. However, like all bedding, feather pillows require proper care and cleaning to keep them fresh and extend their lifespan. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to clean and care for feather bed pillows.
Why Choose Feather Pillows
Feather pillows have remained popular over the years due to their soft, fluffy texture that can be molded to cradle your head comfortably. Here are some key benefits of feather bed pillows:
- Soft and Fluffy – Feather filling provides a soft and airy feel that adjusts to the contours of your head and neck. This helps align your spine and prevents pain or stiffness.
- Moldable Support – The loose fill of feather pillows lets you scrunch and mold them to your desired loft and shape. This allows customization of support and comfort.
- Breathability – The fluffy feather fill promotes airflow inside the pillow. This keeps the surface cool while allowing moisture to dissipate.
- Hypoallergenic Options – Many feather pillows are now made with hypoallergenic materials. This reduces allergens for sensitized users.
- Luxurious Feel – Feather pillows provide a plush, luxurious feel and look that adds comfort and style to the bed.
Caring for Feather Pillows
Proper maintenance is key to keeping feather pillows clean, fresh, and durable over time. Here are some tips for caring for feather bed pillows:
1. Use Pillow Protectors
Use cotton, hypoallergenic pillow protectors or covers over your feather pillows. This creates a barrier against moisture, body oils, and allergens from permeating the feathers. It also prevents stains. Change pillowcases at least once a week.
2. Handle Gently
Avoid pushing, punching, scrunching or fluffing the feather pillow vigorously as it can damage the quills and casings. Gently reshape or fluff the pillow with light pats to restore loft and shape.
3. Air and Fluff Often
Fluff and gently shake feather pillows daily to redistribute the fill and allow air circulation. Allow pillows to air out before remaking the bed. Proper fluffing extends the life of the feathers.
4. Use a Pillow Press
Use a pillow press or pillow pump once a week to press out air and restore the pillow’s shape and height. This helps realign and redistribute feathers.
5. Sunlight Exposure
Occasionally sun feather pillows for 1-2 hours to allow moisture to evaporate fully. Direct sunlight also has disinfectant effects.
6. Avoid Moisture
Keep feather pillows away from damp areas. Allow wet pillows to completely air dry before use or storage to prevent mold and mildew.
7. Proper Sleep Support
Use appropriate pillow height to keep your head and neck aligned with your mattress during sleep. Avoid flattening feathers completely.
8. Do Not Wash Frequently
Only wash feather pillows 2-3 times a year, when noticeably soiled. Frequent washing strips away natural feather oils.
9. Quality Storage
Store feather pillows in breathable cotton pillowcases in a dry place. Do not compress or bend to allow feathers to remain lofty.
How to Wash Feather Pillows
Feather pillows require very specific washing methods to get them clean while retaining their loft and extending their lifespan. Here is a step-by-step guide on machine washing feather pillows:
Choose the Right Time
- Wash feather pillows only 2-3 times a year or when visibly soiled. Frequent washing damages delicate feathers.
Inspect Before Washing
- Check for holes, tears or leaks in the pillow casing. Repair any damage first before washing.
Use a Large Capacity Machine
- Washing 1-2 king size pillows in a large capacity front or top loading machine allows plenty of space for the feathers to circulate freely.
Wash Separately
- Wash feather pillows in a load separate from other items to prevent damage to feathers.
Use a Mild Detergent
- Choose a mild, hypoallergenic liquid detergent. Powder detergents can clump inside feather pillows.
Set Water Temperature to Cold
- Always wash feather pillows in cold water only to retain their loft and prevent feather damage. Hot water can strip pillows of their natural oils.
Use the Gentle Cycle
- Set the washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with slow agitation to prevent friction damage to feathers.
Additional Rinse Cycle
- Run pillows through an additional rinse cycle to remove all traces of detergent residue which can degrade feathers.
Low-Heat Drying
- Tumble dry feather pillows on a low heat setting or air fluff cycle to prevent overdrying. Excess heat can damage quills.
Remove Promptly
- Remove pillows promptly from the dryer and allow to finish air drying to prevent over-drying and clumping of feathers.
Re-Fluff Pillows
- Once fully dried, vigorously fluff pillows by hand to separate and realign feathers before putting pillowcases back on.
By following these tips carefully, you can keep feather pillows clean and refreshed while extending their comfort and support. Avoid very frequent washing which can degrade the feathers. With proper care, quality feather pillows can last 2-5 years or longer.
Troubleshooting Feather Pillow Problems
Even with the best care, feather pillows can develop some common problems over time. Here are some useful tips for troubleshooting various feather pillow issues:
Problem: Pillow becomes lumpy or misshapen
Solution: Frequently fluff and redistribute feathers. Use a pillow press to realign fill. Replace if severely misshapen.
Problem: Pillow becomes flat and loses loft
Solution: Fluff and redistribute feathers daily. Wash pillows to remove built up oils. Replace if excessively flattened.
Problem: Feather quills start protruding through the pillow
Solution: Hand wash and air dry pillow, then use quilting needle and thread to close small holes. Avoid vigorous fluffing.
Problem: Pillow emits foul odor
Solution: Wash pillows and allow to completely air dry. Use baking soda or activated charcoal inside pillows to absorb odors.
Problem: Pillow becomes stiff and crunchy
Solution: Wash and fully dry pillow. Soak overnight in fabric softener diluted with water to soften feathers.
Problem: Feathers clump together inside pillow
Solution: Never overfill the washing machine. Wash 1-2 pillows at a time. Fully air dry pillows after washing.
Problem: Mold or mildew spots appear on pillows
Solution: Discard pillow if mold growth is heavy. For light mold, wash with bleach, completely dry pillows before use.
Problem: Feathers poke through the pillow casing
Solution: Hand wash pillow. Sew closed small holes in casing. Large holes may require pillow replacement.
Be sure to fluff and redistribute feathers daily between washes. Follow the care and washing instructions properly to get the most life span out of good quality feather pillows.
When to Replace Old Feather Pillows
While feather pillows can be cared for to extend their life span, at some point, they will need to be replaced for best comfort and support. Here are some signs it’s time to retire old feather pillows:
- Pillows have become excessively flattened, misshapen and unable to regain loft.
- You notice rips, tears, or holes in the pillow casing despite repairs.
- Feathers are poking through casing and the pillow cannot maintain shape.
- Pillow feels overly limp or extremely stiff and crunchy.
- Strong, unpleasant odors from the pillow don’t diminish with washing.
- You see substantial mold/mildew growth on the pillow surface.
- Pillows cause allergic reactions or discomfort overnight.
- The pillow is over 5 years old, with declining performance.
- Fill power has degraded and pillow provides little support.
The lifespan of any pillow depends on the original quality and how well you maintain it. With proper care, airing, washing and storage, a good feather pillow can potentially last 2-5 years or a bit longer. Replace old pillows for a fresh, comfortable night’s sleep.
Disposing of Old Feather Pillows
When it’s time to discard very old feather bed pillows, do not simply place them in the garbage can. Here are eco-friendly ways to dispose of feather pillows:
- Pillow Recycling – An increasing number of pillow manufacturers offer recycling programs to ship them old pillows. The components are responsibly recycled.
- Donate – Local shelters, charities and organizations may accept donated pillows still in usable shape for those in need.
- Textile Recycling – Check for textile recycling options in your area that accept bedding for sustainable recycling.
- Trash Pickup – Some waste management services offer special pickups for bedding and linens for appropriate disposal. Schedule this ahead.
- Repurposing – Very old feather pillow inserts can be upcycled into dog beds or craft projects before final disposal.
- Curbside Pickup – In some areas, used bedding and textile waste can be left in approved bags for curbside textile recycling pickup.
Check the manufacturer’s website first if they have a return program for their products. Responsibly disposing of used pillows keeps them out of landfills and provides materials for recycling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Feather Pillows
Here are some common questions about cleaning and caring for feather pillows:
How often should you wash feather pillows?
- Wash feather pillows 2-3 times per year or when visibly dirty. Frequent washing can damage delicate feathers.
Can feather pillows be machine washed?
- Yes, feather pillows can be machine washed on a gentle/delicate cycle using cold water and mild detergent. Take care not to overcrowd the machine.
How do you dry clean a feather pillow?
- Feather pillows should not be dry cleaned since the chemicals used in the process can damage the feathers. It is better to wash them in a machine using proper methods.
Why do my feather pillows go flat?
- Feather pillows lose loft from normal compression during sleep. Fluff pillows daily and use a pillow press weekly to realign feathers and restore height.
How can I make lumpy feather pillows fluffy again?
- Lumps can be smoothed out by massaging and redistributing feathers. Use a clean tennis ball to roll out lumps, or a pillow press to puff it up again.
What is the best way to store feather pillows?
- Store feather pillows in breathable cotton cases in a dry area. Do not compress or overly bend pillows when storing to keep feathers lofty.
How do I get musty smell out of feather pillows?
- Wash pillows in cold water with baking soda or detergent. Make sure pillows are completely dry before use. Leave outside in sunlight occasionally to freshen.
How long do feather pillows last?
- With proper care and maintenance, high quality feather pillows can last anywhere from 2-5 years or a bit longer before needing replacement.
Conclusion
Feather pillows provide outstanding comfort for sleeping when cared for properly. Follow these tips on gentle washing, air drying, fluffing and storage to keep feathers fresh and pillows in optimal condition. Take steps to troubleshoot any problems that develop over time. And know when it’s time to retire overly flattened or damaged pillows. With some basic care and maintenance, feather bed pillows can provide many years of peaceful rest.
How to Clean and Care for Feather Pillows: A Complete Guide
Feather pillows provide luxurious softness and cushioning for a comfortable night’s sleep. However, like all bedding, feather pillows require proper cleaning and care to keep them fresh. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to clean feather pillows and extend their lifespan with the right maintenance.
Benefits of Feather Pillows
Before delving into care and cleaning, let’s first look at why feather pillows make an excellent choice for many sleepers:
- Moldable comfort – The loose fill of feather pillows enables you to scrunch and fluff them to your desired shape and height. This allows customization of comfort and support.
- Lightweight feel – Feather filling provides pillows with a light, airy loft that feels less dense than foam or other materials. This increases cushioning comfort.
- Breathability – The fluffy, breathable nature of feather pillows allows greater airflow. This keeps your sleeping surface cooler.
- Hypoallergenic options – Many feather pillows now contain allergen-resistant fabrics and fill to accommodate those with sensitivities.
- Luxurious hotel feel – Feather pillows mimic the plush comfort of 5-star hotel bedding for an indulgent night’s sleep.
Caring for Your Feather Pillows
Caring properly for feather pillows is the key to keeping them fresh and extending their lifespan. Here are tips for maintaining feather pillows:
Use Pillow Protectors
Encase feather pillows in cotton, hypoallergenic protectors or covers. This creates a barrier against body oils, moisture, and allergens from permeating the delicate feathers. It also prevents stains while allowing airflow.
Gently Reshape and Fluff
Avoid punching or fluffing feather pillows too vigorously. Instead, gently pat and reshape to redistribute feathers and restore loft when flattened.
Allow Airing Out
Allow feather pillows to air out before remaking the bed, and occasionally set them outside in sunlight to air out and disinfect.
Proper Support Height
Use enough loft to keep your head aligned with your mattress. Improper pillow height can misalign the spine.
Quality Storage
Store feather pillows flat or lightly rolled in breathable cotton cases in low humidity. Avoid compression during storage.
Wash infrequently
Only wash feather pillows 2-3 times per year to retain natural oils in feathers. Spot clean when possible.
Step-by-Step: Machine Washing Feather Pillows
Over time, feather pillows will need deeper cleaning to keep them fresh and hygienic. Here is a step-by-step guide to machine wash feather pillows:
Inspect Before Washing
Check the pillow casing for leaks, holes or damage. Mend these prior to washing to prevent feathers escaping.
Use a Front-Loading Machine
Wash one or two king-size pillows in a large capacity front-load washer without an agitator. Top-loaders can be used if a gentle cycle is available.
Wash Separately
Wash feather pillows separately from other laundry. Use a mild, hypoallergenic liquid detergent.
Cold Water Only
Set the machine to the coldest water temperature and a gentle or delicate cycle. Hot water can damage feathers.
Extra Rinse Cycle
Run an additional rinse cycle with cold water to remove all traces of detergent residue.
Low Heat Drying
Tumble dry pillows on low heat or an air fluff setting. Excessive heat can damage feather quills.
Air Dry Thoroughly
Remove immediately from the dryer and allow pillows to completely finish air drying to prevent over-drying.
Re-fluff Before Use
Vigorously fluff and reshape pillows after washing and drying to realign feathers before putting cases back on.
Avoid washing feather pillows more often than every 3-6 months. Frequent washing strips away natural oils that protect feathers.
Troubleshooting Feather Pillow Problems
With regular care, most feather pillow problems can be prevented. But if issues arise, here are some troubleshooting tips:
Symptom: Foul, musty odor
Solution: Wash pillows and allow to fully air dry. Use baking soda or charcoal inserts to absorb odors between washes.
Symptom: Lumps or misshapen areas
Solution: Frequently redistribute and fluff feathers. Use a clean tennis ball to roll out lumps.
Symptom: Lost loft, feels flat
Solution: Dry clean or machine wash pillows. In between, use a pillow press to redistribute flattened feathers.
Symptom: Feather quills protruding through fabric
Solution: Hand wash pillow and air dry. Use a quilting needle and thread to close small holes in the casing.
Symptom: Clumping of feathers
Solution: Ensure pillows are dried thoroughly between washes. Use liquid fabric softener in the wash to prevent clumping.
By following these care tips, you can keep feather pillows in optimal condition for nightly comfort and support.
When Is It Time to Replace Feather Pillows?
Feather pillows gradually lose their support and cushioning capacity over years of use. Here are some signs it may be time to replace them:
- The pillow becomes misshapen and unable to be re-fluffed into shape.
- You notice small rips, tears or holes despite mending efforts.
- Feathers are poking through the casing constantly.
- The pillow feels overly flat, limp, or stiff.
- Unpleasant odors persist after repeated washing.
- You see considerable mildew or mold spots.
- The pillow is 5+ years old with declining performance.
- The fill power is greatly diminished.
Depending on original quality and your care, most feather pillows should be replaced every 5 years or so for