How To Deep Clean Pillows In Tub

Deep Clean Pillows in Tub: Your Ultimate Guide

Do you remember when your pillows felt fluffy and smelled fresh? Over time, pillows absorb sweat, oils, dead skin cells, and dust mites. This buildup can make them look flat and feel less hygienic. Nobody wants to rest their head on a dirty pillow.

Learning how to deep clean pillows in tub can bring them back to life. This method is gentle and effective for many pillow types. It helps remove stains and odors, giving you a cleaner sleep surface. In this article, I will show you exactly how to deep clean your pillows using your bathtub. We will cover preparation, the cleaning process, and proper drying methods.

Takeaway:

Assess Pillow Type: Check care tags before cleaning. Feather, down, and synthetic pillows usually wash well in a tub. Memory foam pillows typically do not.
Gather Supplies: Collect detergent, baking soda, and a clean tub.
Submerge and Soak: Fully immerse pillows in warm water with cleaning agents.
Rinse Thoroughly: Squeeze out all soapy water completely.
Dry Properly: Ensure pillows are fully dry to prevent mildew. Use a dryer with dryer balls or air dry completely.

To deep clean pillows in your tub, first fill a clean bathtub with warm water and a small amount of laundry detergent. Submerge one or two pillows, squeezing them to release air and absorb the soapy water. Let them soak, then gently agitate and rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Finally, press out excess water before drying.

Why Deep Clean Pillows in the Tub?

Have you considered why tub cleaning might be better for your pillows than a washing machine? The bathtub method offers a gentle, controlled wash. It prevents potential damage that a machine’s agitator can cause. Many washing machines can be too harsh for delicate pillow fillings. This leads to lumps or uneven stuffing.

Cleaning pillows by hand in the tub gives you full control. You can see the dirt and grime leave the pillow. This visual feedback ensures a thorough clean. It is especially good for larger pillows that might not fit well in a standard washing machine. I find this method less stressful for both me and my pillows. It ensures a deeper clean and helps your pillows last longer. If you want to explore more methods for keeping your sleep area fresh, you can learn about how to deep clean pillows in general. You can also discover more about how to clean your pillows in various ways.

Gentle Cleaning: Hand washing protects pillow fibers from harsh machine agitation. This reduces wear and tear. It helps maintain the pillow’s shape and integrity.
Full Control: You can target specific dirty spots. You also ensure all soap rinses out. This prevents detergent residue buildup.
Accommodates Large Pillows: Bathtubs offer enough space for large or multiple pillows. This makes cleaning big bedding items easier.
Cost-Effective: You do not need special equipment. Common household cleaning supplies are all you need. This makes it an affordable cleaning option.
Better for Certain Materials: Some pillow materials fare better with a gentle hand wash. This keeps them from clumping. It maintains their fluffiness over time.

Essential Supplies for Tub Pillow Cleaning

Gathering your supplies before starting makes the process smooth. You likely already have most items at home. A few simple things can make a big difference in how well your pillows get clean. I always make sure my tub is spotless first. A dirty tub will not help clean your pillows.

You will need a mild laundry detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage pillow materials. Baking soda is a great addition for odor removal and brightening. A scrub brush or sponge is useful for pre-treating stains on the pillow surface. Having everything ready saves time and frustration.

Clean Bathtub: Ensure your tub is free of soap scum or dirt. A dirty tub will transfer grime to your clean pillows. Give it a quick rinse and wipe down if needed.
Mild Laundry Detergent: Choose a gentle liquid detergent. Avoid powder detergents, as they can leave residue. Look for detergents free of dyes and perfumes for sensitive skin.
Baking Soda: This is excellent for deodorizing pillows. It helps break down oils and lifts stains. You can sprinkle it directly onto wet pillows.
White Vinegar (Optional): A small amount can act as a natural fabric softener. It also helps with odor removal. Do not mix it directly with bleach.
Soft Scrub Brush or Sponge: Useful for gently scrubbing any noticeable stains. Avoid harsh bristles that could damage the pillow fabric.
Large Towels: You will need several clean, absorbent towels. These help squeeze out excess water after washing. They also protect your floor from drips.
Dryer Balls (Optional): These help fluff pillows in the dryer. They also speed up drying time. Tennis balls covered in socks work as well.

Pre-Cleaning Checks: Pillow Type and Care Tags

Before you even think about putting your pillows in the tub, always check the care tag. This little tag holds important information about how to clean your pillow safely. Ignoring it can ruin your favorite pillow. Some pillows, especially certain memory foam types, cannot be submerged in water. This is a critical step to avoid damage.

Different pillow fillings require different care. Down or feather pillows are often safe for tub washing. Synthetic fiberfill pillows also typically do well. Memory foam or solid foam pillows usually cannot be wet through. Water can break down their structure. Knowing your pillow’s material is the first step to successful deep cleaning. For more specific advice on different types, you might want to read about how to clean down pillows or how to clean foam pillows. If you have memory foam, check out how to clean memory foam pillows for safer methods.

Types of Pillows Safe for Tub Washing:

Down and Feather Pillows: These natural fillings compress well. They also dry efficiently if given enough time. Use a gentle detergent.
Synthetic Fill Pillows (Polyester, Fiberfill): These are durable and respond well to washing. They are less likely to clump than natural fills. They are usually budget-friendly to replace if something goes wrong.

Types of Pillows Not Recommended for Tub Washing:

Memory Foam Pillows: Water can degrade the foam structure. It makes it crumble or lose its supportive properties. Spot cleaning or airing out is usually the best approach for these.
Solid Foam Pillows (Latex, Polyurethane): Similar to memory foam, these can absorb too much water. This makes them extremely heavy and difficult to dry. They may develop mildew or disintegrate.
Buckwheat and Other Natural Fillings: These often have specific dry cleaning instructions. Water can ruin the natural materials. Always check the tag first.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Deep Clean Pillows in Your Tub

Ready to get your pillows sparkling clean? This method is straightforward and effective. I like to work with one or two pillows at a time. This ensures each pillow gets a thorough wash. It also prevents the tub from becoming too crowded.

Follow these steps carefully to achieve the best results. This process brings freshness back to your pillows. You will notice a big difference in their feel and smell. For a visual aid or slightly different approaches, you can also look at how to clean pillows in bathtub. If you have many different types of bedding, general tips on how to clean bed pillows might be useful too.

Fill the Tub: Start by filling your clean bathtub with warm water. Do not use hot water, as it can damage some pillow materials. The water level should be enough to submerge your pillows.
Add Detergent and Baking Soda: Pour a small amount of mild liquid laundry detergent into the water. About 1/4 cup is usually enough for two pillows. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda for extra deodorizing power. Swirl the water to mix the cleaning agents. You can learn more about using baking soda for cleaning pillows at how to clean pillows with baking soda.
Submerge Pillows: Place one or two pillows into the soapy water. Press down on them to release air bubbles. Make sure they are fully submerged and saturated with water. This might take some effort as pillows are buoyant.
Soak and Agitate: Let the pillows soak for at least 30 minutes. For heavily soiled pillows, you can soak them for up to an hour. During this time, periodically agitate the pillows. Gently squeeze and knead them to help release dirt and oils. You will see the water start to change color as dirt comes out.
Drain Dirty Water: Once soaking is complete, drain the dirty water from the tub. You will be amazed at how discolored the water can be.
Rinse Thoroughly: Refill the tub with clean, warm water. Press down on the pillows to release the soapy water. Drain the tub and repeat this rinsing process several times. Keep rinsing until the water squeezed from the pillows runs completely clear. This step is critical to prevent mold or mildew.
Squeeze Out Excess Water: Press down firmly on each pillow to squeeze out as much water as possible. You can roll them up like a sleeping bag. Press against the side of the tub to force water out. Do this gently but firmly.
Prepare for Drying: Lay the damp pillows on several clean, dry towels. Roll the towels and pillows together. Press down to absorb more moisture. Repeat with fresh dry towels if needed. The goal is to remove as much water as possible before machine drying or air drying.

Effective Drying Methods for Tub-Washed Pillows

Proper drying is just as important as the washing itself. If your pillows remain damp, they can grow mildew. This leads to unpleasant odors and can even affect your health. The key is thorough drying, which might take some time. Do not rush this step.

I always aim to get my pillows as dry as possible before putting them in the dryer. This reduces drying time and saves energy. Using dryer balls is a simple trick that works wonders. They help fluff the pillows and ensure even drying.

Machine Drying with Dryer Balls:

Load Dryer: Place one or two pillows in a large capacity dryer. Overloading the dryer can prevent proper air circulation. This leads to uneven drying.
Add Dryer Balls: Toss in two to three clean dryer balls. Tennis balls covered in clean socks work well too. These balls help to fluff the pillows. They also break up any clumps in the filling. This ensures the pillow dries evenly.
Low Heat Setting: Set your dryer to a low heat or air fluff setting. High heat can damage some synthetic fibers or scorch natural fills. Dry for regular cycles, checking periodically.
Check for Dampness: Remove pillows every 30-45 minutes. Fluff them by hand and check for any damp spots. Pay close attention to the center of the pillow. Continue drying until the pillow is completely dry. This can take several hours, depending on pillow size and fill.
Repeat Drying if Needed: It is common for pillows to need multiple drying cycles. Do not store or use a pillow that feels even slightly damp.

Air Drying (If Machine Drying is Not Possible):

Choose a Sunny, Well-Ventilated Area: Lay pillows flat on a clean, dry surface outdoors or in a sunny room. A clothesline can work too, but ensure the pillow is well-supported.
Rotate and Flip: Turn and fluff the pillows frequently. This promotes even airflow and prevents mildew. Do this every few hours.
Patience is Key: Air drying can take 24-48 hours, or even longer in humid conditions. Ensure they are bone dry before placing them back on your bed. You can place them near a fan to speed up the process.

Troubleshooting Common Tub Cleaning Issues

Sometimes, things do not go exactly as planned when deep cleaning pillows. You might encounter stubborn stains or persistent odors. Do not worry; there are solutions for these common problems. I have faced these issues myself and found ways to fix them. A little extra attention can save your pillows.

Dealing with these challenges immediately can prevent bigger problems later. For example, ensuring full drying is crucial to avoid mildew. Taking the time to address stains before washing also helps. This section offers quick fixes for common cleaning hiccups.

Stubborn Stains:
- Pre-treat: For yellowing or old stains, mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply this directly to the stain before washing. Let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, gently scrub with a soft brush before submerging.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: For tough discoloration, dilute 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide with 1 cup of water. Dab onto stains, let sit for 15-30 minutes, then wash as usual. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
Lingering Odors:
- Vinegar Rinse: Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar to the rinse water. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer. It helps remove musty smells. Do not worry; the vinegar smell dissipates as the pillow dries.
- Extra Baking Soda: Before the final rinse, sprinkle more baking soda directly onto the wet pillow. Let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing again.
Pillow Clumping After Wash:
- Fluffing in Dryer: Use dryer balls (or tennis balls in socks) during machine drying. These break up clumps as the pillow tumbles.
- Manual Fluffing: After drying, vigorously fluff the pillow by hand. Punch and pat it all over to redistribute the filling evenly.
Pillow Still Feels Damp:
- Extend Drying Time: This is the most common issue. Your pillow is not dry enough. Continue drying in the machine on low heat.
- Air Circulation: Ensure good airflow around the pillow during drying. Use a fan if air drying.
- Squeeze More Water: Before drying, press out even more water. Rolling the pillow tightly in several clean towels helps immensely.

Maintaining Pillow Freshness Between Deep Cleans

Deep cleaning your pillows is a great step. But maintaining their freshness between washes is just as important. Small, regular actions can keep your pillows cleaner for longer. This reduces the need for frequent deep cleaning. I make these habits part of my daily routine.

Think of it as preventive care for your pillows. These simple tips can extend the life of your pillows. They also ensure you always have a clean and comfortable place to rest your head. Regular care saves time and effort in the long run.

Use Pillow Protectors: Invest in good quality pillow protectors. These zip-up covers create a barrier between your pillow and sweat, oils, and allergens. Wash pillow protectors weekly along with your bedding.
Wash Pillowcases Regularly: Change and wash your pillowcases at least once a week. This removes surface dirt, oils, and dead skin cells. Clean pillowcases mean less direct grime reaches your actual pillow.
Fluff Pillows Daily: A quick fluff each morning helps air out your pillows. It also redistributes the filling. This prevents lumps and helps maintain their shape.
Air Out Pillows: On a sunny day, hang your pillows outdoors for a few hours. Sunlight is a natural sanitizer and helps kill dust mites. It also removes mild odors. Do not leave them out if humidity is high or if there’s a risk of rain.
Spot Clean Small Stains: Address small spills or stains immediately. Use a damp cloth with a mild detergent. Blot the area rather than rubbing. This prevents the stain from setting in.
Vacuum Your Mattress: Vacuuming your mattress regularly can also help keep your pillows cleaner. It reduces the amount of dust and allergens in your sleep environment. This prevents them from migrating to your pillows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can all pillows be deep cleaned in a tub?

No, not all pillows can be deep cleaned in a tub. Always check the care tag first. Down, feather, and synthetic fiberfill pillows are generally safe for tub washing. Memory foam and solid foam pillows usually cannot be submerged in water. Water can damage their internal structure.

How often should I deep clean my pillows?

You should aim to deep clean your pillows every 6-12 months. This frequency depends on how much you sweat and if you have allergies. Regular washing of pillowcases and using pillow protectors can extend the time between deep cleans. Pay attention to how your pillow looks and smells.

What detergents are safe for pillows?

Use a mild, liquid laundry detergent for cleaning pillows. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or powdered detergents. Powders can leave a residue in the pillow’s filling. Look for detergents that are free of dyes and perfumes, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

How do I prevent mildew after cleaning?

Preventing mildew is about ensuring complete dryness. Squeeze out as much water as possible before drying. Use a dryer on a low heat setting with dryer balls. Air dry in a well-ventilated, sunny area, turning and fluffing often. Do not use or store the pillow until it is bone dry to the touch.

Can I deep clean memory foam pillows in the tub?

No, you should not deep clean memory foam pillows in the tub. Memory foam absorbs water easily, becomes very heavy, and is extremely difficult to dry. This can lead to mold and mildew growth inside the foam. It can also cause the foam to disintegrate. Spot cleaning or vacuuming is the recommended method for memory foam.

How long does it take for pillows to dry?

Drying time for pillows varies widely. In a machine dryer on low heat with dryer balls, it can take 2-4 hours or more. This depends on the pillow’s size and fill material. If air drying, it can take 24-48 hours, or even longer in humid conditions. Always ensure the pillow is completely dry before using it again.

Conclusion

Deep cleaning your pillows in the tub can truly transform your sleep experience. It removes accumulated dirt, oils, and allergens. This method offers a gentle yet effective way to restore freshness. You gain greater control over the washing process, ensuring a thorough clean. It brings your pillows back to a state of comfort and hygiene.

I hope this guide helps you feel more confident about tackling this chore. Remember to check your pillow’s care tag first. Take your time with the soaking and rinsing steps. Most importantly, ensure your pillows are completely dry before you use them again. A clean pillow provides a foundation for better sleep and overall well-being. Start enjoying the benefits of a truly fresh bed tonight.