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Step 3: Prepare the Washing Machine
- Set your washing machine to a hot water setting for the best stain and germ removal.
- Add a normal amount of liquid laundry detergent along with 1/2 cup of baking soda to deodorize and whiten.
- Pour 1 cup of white vinegar into the fabric softener dispenser or during the rinse cycle to help break down any lingering odors and whiten the pillows.
Step 4: Place Pillows in the Washer
- For balance, wash two pillows at a time (if they fit in your washer). This helps keep the machine balanced and provides a more thorough clean.
- Select a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the pillow’s filling.
Step 5: Add Essential Oil (Optional)
For a fresh, sweet scent, add a few drops of essential oil (such as lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint) to the rinse cycle or fabric softener compartment. This will infuse a light fragrance into the pillows.
Step 6: Rinse and Spin
- After the first cycle, you can run an additional rinse cycle to ensure all detergent and vinegar are rinsed out thoroughly.
- Use a high-speed spin cycle to remove as much water as possible, helping them dry faster.
Step 7: Dry the Pillows
- Dry on Low Heat: Place the pillows in the dryer on a low heat setting to prevent damage to the filling.
- Use Dryer Balls or Clean Tennis Balls: Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls wrapped in socks. These will fluff up the pillows, helping them retain their shape and preventing clumping.
- Dry Completely: Make sure the pillows are fully dry to prevent mold or mildew from forming inside. This may take several cycles, especially for thick pillows.
Step 8: Freshen and Maintain
After cleaning, you can keep your pillows smelling fresh by:
- Air-drying them outside in sunlight from time to time, as sunlight helps eliminate odors naturally.
- Spraying lightly with a fabric refresher or sprinkling with baking soda between washes.
Final Tips
- Wash every 3-6 months: Washing pillows a few times a year keeps them looking and smelling fresh.
- Use pillow protectors: A pillow protector helps keep dust, sweat, and stains from penetrating the pillow.
- Fluff pillows regularly: Fluff your pillows daily to keep them in shape and to prevent moisture buildup.
Following these steps will help your pillows stay bright, fresh, and sweet-smelling for a long time!