How do you dry down an alternative pillow?

You can effectively dry down alternative or polyester pillows either by air-drying them on a clothesline or by using a dryer on a low heat setting.

Drying down alternative pillows properly is crucial to maintain their loft and prevent mildew. Based on best practices, including information provided on 29-Aug-2024, there are two primary methods to consider for polyester or down alternative pillows.

Methods for Drying Down Alternative Pillows

Down alternative and polyester pillows are designed to be relatively easy to care for. Ensuring they are thoroughly dried after washing is essential to prevent moisture buildup and maintain their plushness.

Here's a breakdown of the recommended drying methods:

1. Air Drying

Air drying is a gentle and effective way to dry your down alternative pillow, especially if you prefer to avoid machine heat or have ample outdoor space.

• Clothesline Method:
  • Placement: Hang your freshly washed pillow on a clothesline.
  • Environment: Choose a sunny, well-ventilated area. Sunlight can help sanitize the pillow naturally, and good air circulation will speed up the drying process.
  • Even Drying: Periodically rotate or flip the pillow to ensure all sides receive adequate airflow and dry evenly.
  • Patience: This method may take several hours, or even a full day, depending on the humidity and temperature. Ensure the pillow is completely dry before returning it to your bed.

2. Machine Drying

Using a dryer is a convenient and often faster method for drying down alternative pillows, provided you use the correct settings.

• Low Heat Setting:
  • Temperature: Place your pillow in the dryer and select a low heat setting. High heat can damage the synthetic fibers of down alternative or polyester pillows, potentially causing clumping, melting, or loss of loft.
  • Drying Aids (Optional but Recommended): To help fluff the pillow and ensure even drying, you can add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer drum. These will gently agitate the pillow, preventing the filling from clumping.
  • Cycles: Run multiple short drying cycles rather than one long one. This allows you to check the pillow's dryness periodically and re-fluff it as needed.
  • Complete Dryness: Even if the surface feels dry, the inside might still retain moisture. Squeeze and feel the pillow to ensure there are no damp spots. If it still feels heavy or damp, continue drying.

Key Considerations for Drying

Always ensure your down alternative pillow is completely dry before putting it back on your bed or covering it with a pillowcase. Any remaining moisture can lead to the growth of mold or mildew, which can cause unpleasant odors and health issues.