He is running out of time and decides to wash his pillows at the laundromat before his guests arrive.
Has this ever happened to you?
Don’t worry you can wash your pillows and you can find washing machines at your nearby laundromat.
Although it can be a bit of a hassle you can absolutely wash pillows at the laundromat.
Here’s what you need to know before you start:
1.
Choose the Right Washer
The first step is to choose the right washer for your pillows.
Generally speaking it’s best to use a top-loading washer with an agitator as opposed to a front-loading washer.
This is because the agitator helps to work the detergent deeper into the fabric and can help to remove any dirt and bacteria.
Additionally the top-loading washer will provide a more gentle wash which is important since pillows can easily become misshapen if they’re washed too rigorously.
2.
Use the Right Detergent and Additives
When it comes to washing your pillows you want to be sure to use the right kind of detergent.
Avoid any detergents that contain bleach as this can damage the fabric.
Additionally you may want to consider using a fabric softener to help keep your pillows feeling soft.
If you’re washing down pillows be sure to use a detergent that’s specifically designed for down.
3.
Set the Appropriate Temperature
When you’re washing your pillows at the laundromat you want to be sure to set the appropriate temperature for the fabric.
If the pillows are made of a synthetic fabric such as polyester you’ll want to use a warm water setting.
However if the pillows are made of a natural material such as cotton you’ll want to use a cold water setting.
4.
Allow Enough Time
When it comes to washing your pillows at the laundromat you want to make sure to allow enough time for the cycle to finish completely.
This is because your pillows may take longer to wash than other items.
Depending on the size of the washer you should plan to spend at least an hour or two at the laundromat.
5.
Dry Properly
Once your pillows have finished washing you want to be sure to dry them properly.
If possible it’s best to dry your pillows in a dryer on the low heat setting.
This will help to avoid damaging the fabric.
However if a dryer isn’t available you can also hang your pillows outside to air dry.
By following these steps you can easily wash your pillows at the laundromat.
Although it may take a bit of extra effort it’s well worth it for the cleanliness and longevity of your pillows.
The Best Practices for Washing Pillows at the Laundromat
When washing pillows at the laundromat there are a few best practices you should keep in mind.
First and foremost always check the care labels on your pillows.
Chances are the manufacturer has specific instructions for how to best care for the pillow.
If they recommend machine washing then you’re good to go.
If not it’s best to keep the pillow out of your laundromat visit.
The next step is to use the right temperature setting.
For most pillows cold water is the way to go.
Hot water can cause pillows to shrink fade and become lumpy.
Finally be sure to select the right cycle.
Pillows need to be given a gentle cycle so they don’t become worn out while spinning in the machine.
Potential Risks of Washing Pillows at the Laundromat
It’s important to note that there are some potential risks associated with washing pillows at the laundromat.
First some laundromats may not have the large capacity machines needed for washing pillows.
If the machines are too small the pillows won’t be able to move around freely which can cause them to become lumpy and misshapen.
Second if you’re not careful you could end up with a moldy or mildewy pillow.
This can happen if the pillow isn’t completely dried after the cycle is complete.
Finally if you don’t follow the instructions on the care label you could end up damaging the pillow.
Tips for Washing Pillows at the Laundromat
If you decide to go ahead and wash your pillows at the laundromat here are a few tips to make the process as smooth and safe as possible.
First it’s always a good idea to use a laundry bag so the pillows don’t get tangled up in the other clothes during the cycle.
Second be sure to use the correct detergent.
Regular detergent can be too harsh and cause the pillows to become discolored or stiff.
Finally make sure to use the right amount of detergent.
Too much detergent can leave a residue on your pillows that can be difficult to remove.
Conclusion
Washing pillows at the laundromat can be a great way to save time and money but it’s important to understand the potential risks and follow the necessary steps to ensure your pillows stay safe and in good condition.
Always check the care labels on your pillows and use the right temperature and cycle settings.