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How to Care for & Clean a Feather Pillow

Your pillow is one of the most important parts of your bedding. A good pillow keeps your head comfortable and your back and neck healthy. While pillows can be filled with synthetic or natural fillings, one of the most popular kinds is the feather pillow. These are filled with the feathers or down of domestic poultry such as geese, ducks and chickens. Caring for feathers pillows is very similar to caring for any kind of pillow, but there are some special ways you can ensure that your feather pillows stay fluffy and comfortable.

Things You'll Need

  • Pillow protector
  • Mild detergent
  • Towels
  • Clean tennis balls
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Instructions

  1. Care and Storage

    • 1

      Use a pillow protector for daily use. These are zippered pillow covers that go under your regular pillowcase. They keep the pillows clean and also help cut down on allergies.

    • 2

      Put your feather pillow in the dryer on low heat with a couple of clean tennis balls for 10 minutes every couple of weeks. This will keep your pillow fluffy and fresh and prevent any humidity from building up and causing mold.

    • 3

      Store your pillows in a bag made of fabric or other breathable material. An airtight bag such as a plastic trash bag encourages mold.

    Cleaning

    • 4

      Examine your pillow for any rips or holes. These must be repaired before washing. Put your pillow in the washer, using mild detergent and warm water. Use a gentle wash cycle on your machine.

    • 5

      Run the rinse cycle two or three extra times after the regular cycle has completed. You can also rinse them by hand several times. Press or squeeze them as dry as possible.

    • 6

      Put your pillows in the dryer on medium heat. Add one or two towels to absorb extra moisture. Dry the pillows for at least two hours. Some pillows may require up to six hours to dry completely.

    • 7

      Fluff your pillows and replace them in clean pillow protectors.