Care Tips for Goose Feather and Down Pillows

Did you know that according to bedding experts, goose feather and down pillows can last up to 20 years if you care for them properly? That is good news for people who like this kind of pillow. After all, they are more expensive than polyester pillows and are harder to maintain. Finding ways of making them last longer can translate to savings for the family. Follow these care tips if you own a goose feather and down pillow.

Pillow Protector

One of the best ways to extend the lifespan of your goose feather and down pillow is to use a pillow protector. You can buy quilted ones, waterproof ones or just plain ones. Their job is to provide an extra barrier between the pillowcase and the pillow to protect the latter from sweat, saliva, oils, liquids and other bodily fluids. It can also help protect against spills and staining. Pillow protectors are ideal because they are easier to clean and launder than your goose feather and down pillow. They are also cheaper to purchase. Goose feather and down pillows, as well as pillow protectors, are available from leading bedding brands in the UK.

Fluffing

Fluffing your goose feather and down pillow after every use will force air inside your pillow and help preserve the loft of the feathers and down. Fluffing your pillow will also help it retain its original shape and give it some bounce so that it is ready for use each night.

Sunning

Bring your pillow outside into the sunlight so that it gets disinfected naturally. According to scientists, strong direct sunlight can help fight minor dust mite infestations and kill dangerous microbes, bacteria and viruses. Experts say the UV rays of the sun can kill 90-99% of germs and bacteria in just a few minutes. For best results, expose your pillows to direct sunlight for at least 10 minutes on each side.

Machine Wash

Your goose feather and down pillow can be laundered in the washing machine but must only be done when badly needed. To preserve the feathers and down, you should use a washing machine that does not have an agitator. If you don’t have one, you can go to your local Laundromat and have it laundered using a high-capacity front-loading washer and dryer. Always remember to use only mild detergent and to add two additional rinse cycles. That helps ensure all the detergent has been washed away.

You need lots of patience when drying your goose feather and down pillow. Most goose feather and down pillows need at least eight hours of drying in low heat. To ensure that feathers and down retain their loft, fluff your pillow in between cycles. You also need to check if the pillow is 100% dry by feeling the pillow for clumps. If it is still clumpy, run another cycle. Goose feather and down pillows that are used when still damp tend to harbour mould and trigger allergic reactions or cause respiratory problems in sensitive people.