Linens should be washed weekly, but very few people clean the pillows. They gather over time, dust and sweat that lead to development of germs and mites responsible for respiratory problems, allergies and skin problems. Pillows and quilts are those which contain and collect the more dust than other things in your bedroom. Did you know that 10% of the weight of a two years old pillow is represented by the dust, mites and their droppings, collected over time? Even if these things cannot be seen with the naked eye does not mean they do not exist and it doesn’t cause health problems.

For this reason it is recommended once every 3-4 months to wash all the pillows in the house on washing machine. Here are the steps you need to follow to thoroughly wash pillows.

1. Check label’s cushion.
If pillows are purchased commercially most likely they have a label showing you what to do, how to be washed and dried and at what temperature. Follow the instructions, exactly. In addition, if ecological cleaning is recommended, you have to go to a specialized cleaning and take them back after 24 hours or less.

2. Cleaning cushions made of artificial fabrics.
If pillows are not made of feather goose or another natural element, you just have to wash them in washing machine using a soft washing cycle (possibly with whirlpool). Opt for liquid detergent. Normal detergent (the powder) will not dissolve properly the dirt and will remain dry inside the cushion.
Meanwhile, if you really want to add fabric softener, you only have to add a small amount, at the same time when you add the detergent. In this way the pillows will be soft, fluffy and fragrant.  Also make sure you well rinse the pillow so they stay free of toxic substances.
For a more intense and fresh fragrance there is another option: the essential oils. They not only freshens the fabrics, but they also disinfect it. Opt for essential oil of peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, citrus, etc. Take care not to add a too large a quantity as they can smell too strong and cause insomnia.

3. Cleaning microfiber cushions.

If you have microfiber cushions, it needs to be washed in the washing machine, with a very mild detergent. If you do not have such a product replace it with your shower gel. It will clean the fabric just as it needs, without destroying and leaving it soaked in it. Another option is to mix a small amount of shower gel with a tablespoon of baking soda and half a cup of white vinegar. This mixture will remove any odor, stains and destroy all bacteria.

Dry the pillows in the sun or in a very well ventilated room. Make sure they are completely dry before you use or storage them. Otherwise it will be prone to mildew.

http://cleaninghacks.net/how-to-wash-and-clean-the-pillows