Feather pillows are prized for their natural softness, enveloping comfort, and longevity. Made from goose or duck feathers and down , they provide soft support that molds to the shape of your head and neck. But to preserve all their qualities, it's essential to take good care of them.
Many people hesitate to wash this type of pillow, fearing damage to the feathers or causing an unsightly clump inside. However, with the right care and regular maintenance, it is entirely possible to clean a feather pillow while maintaining its softness and fluffiness.
Can you wash a feather pillow?
The answer is yes . Contrary to popular belief, a feather pillow can be washed, provided that certain precautions are taken.
Feathers are natural materials that tolerate water and soap well, but they can lose their structure if they remain too wet or if they are not dried properly.
The important thing is to follow a method adapted to the filling, to choose a gentle detergent and to favor complete drying.
It is also necessary to check Care label: Some feather pillows can be machine washed, while others require hand cleaning or dry cleaning.
What are the different methods for cleaning a feather pillow?
The choice of method will depend mainly on your equipment, the time you have available and the condition of the pillow.
To the machine
If your feather pillow is machine washable, this is the most convenient solution.
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Preparation : Remove the pillowcase and protective cover. Gently shake the pillow to distribute the feathers.
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Program : Choose a delicate cycle at 30°C or 40°C maximum.
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Laundry : Use a mild liquid detergent, without fabric softener, to avoid weighing down the feathers.
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Anti-clump tip : Add two clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the drum to help break up feather clumps during washing.
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Rinse : Program a double rinse to remove all traces of detergent.
By hand
Hand washing is gentler and recommended for older or fragile pillows.
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Preparation : Fill a large basin or bathtub with lukewarm water and a little detergent for delicate laundry.
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Cleaning : Submerge the pillow and gently squeeze it to work the soapy water in. Avoid wringing it.
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Rinsing : Change the water several times until it runs clear.
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Wringing : Squeeze gently to remove excess water without damaging the feathers.
Dry cleaning
Some people prefer to have their feather pillow dry cleaned.
Dry cleaning can be a good option to avoid any moisture-related risks, especially if you don't have a high-performance dryer.
However, be sure to choose a dry cleaner that is used to handling natural materials.
What is the best washing method?
If the pillow is new, sturdy and machine-safe, machine washing remains the most effective method.
For older or more delicate pillows, hand washing is preferable.
Dry cleaning is ideal for high-end pillows or when you're short on time and equipment.
How often should you wash your feather pillow?
Even with a pillowcase and protective cover, a feather pillow accumulates dust, perspiration and allergens over time.
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General recommendation : approximately every 6 months.
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In case of allergies : every 3 to 4 months.
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Tip : Using a waterproof and breathable protective cover, like those offered by Carré Blanc, allows you to space out washes while protecting the filling.
What should I do if my feather pillow has turned yellow?
Yellowing is often caused by perspiration or humidity.
To revive whiteness:
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Prepare a basin of warm water with a little baking soda and white vinegar.
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Soak the pillow for 1 hour before a gentle wash.
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Dry it completely to avoid any residual odor.
Some stubborn stains may require a mild stain remover applied before washing.
How to properly dry your feather pillow?
Drying is the most important step to prevent bad odors and mold growth.
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Tumble Dryer : Use a delicate cycle at low temperature with two clean tennis balls. The cycle can last 2 to 3 hours.
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Air dry : If you don't have a dryer, leave the pillow flat in a dry, ventilated area, turning it over regularly. Avoid direct sunlight, which can damage the feathers.
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Check : Make sure the pillow is completely dry before putting it back in its cover.
How to maintain and keep your feather pillow for a long time?
A well-maintained feather pillow can last 5 to 10 years.
Here are some tips:
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Air it every morning to remove moisture.
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Protect it with a quality cover.
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Shake it regularly to distribute the feathers.
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Avoid folding or compressing it unnecessarily.
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Change it as soon as it loses too much volume or becomes uncomfortable.
Washing a feather pillow isn't as complicated as it seems. With the right care and thorough drying, you'll extend its lifespan while enjoying its unique comfort.
At Carré Blanc, we offer a range of quality pillows and protective covers, designed to provide you with a soft and restful sleep, while making them easy to care for.