How to Launder Down Pillows

Down feathers come from young geese or ducks.

Down pillows can add softness to your nightly routine. Traditionally made with goose down, these pillows are lighter, yet warmer, than traditional polyester or foam pillows. Down pillows also need special care when cleaning or you could end up destroying the pillow, causing needless replacement and a lot of wasted money. Caring for your pillows is not difficult, but it must be done every six months to a year to truly keep them in good shape.

Things You'll Need

• Gentle laundry detergent like Woolite
• 2 tennis balls
• 2 white socks

Instructions

1. Place two down pillows into the washing machine. Set one pillow on each side of the washing machine to balance the machine.

2. Add the detergent and turn the washing machine onto the gentle cycle. Do not allow the machine to agitate for more than two minutes. Remove the pillows as soon as the rinse cycle is done.

3. Place a tennis ball into each sock. Place the socks into the dryer along with the pillows. Turn the dryer on low and allow them to tumble dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Down pillows give off a pungent smell when wet. This is normal and will disappear when the pillows dry.

• The pillows could take up to three hours to dry on low.

• Check the seams of the pillow before washing them to make sure feathers are not coming out.

• Do not allow the pillows to agitate for more than a minute or two or you could harm the pillows and cause them to be misshapen.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Heloise Hints: Washing Bad Pillows
• Plumeria Bay: Down Comforter and Pillow Care