Tuesday, January 12, 2021

How to clean and maintain your mattress and pillows

 How to clean and maintain your mattress and pillows

Almost a third of our life is spent in bed. That's where we start and end the day, and it is natural to enjoy a soft and cozy bed. Unfortunately it is also common to wake up with itchy eyes and throat and a stuffy nose. If you suffer from allergies, surely you know very well what I say! Maintaining a proper mattress and pillow cleaning routine will help you sleep better… and breathe better .

- How to clean and maintain your mattress and pillows and Pillows Product

How to protect the mattress


The best way to protect a mattress and keep it clean for as long as possible is to use a protective cover that is easy to put on, take off and wash. If you suffer from allergies, check that the cover is waterproof and hypoallergenic. This type of cover closes with a zipper and fully protects the mattress, not just the top and sides. Wash the protective cover - following the brand's instructions - at least once a month.

How and how often the mattress should be cleaned


It is essential to clean the mattress periodically, despite using the protective cover, and regardless of whether the mattress is made of springs or more modern materials, such as foam or latex, to keep it clean and fresh. How often? Most experts recommend cleaning it at least twice a year, but if you suffer from severe allergies, asthma or other respiratory problems , my advice is to deep clean it at the end of each season (four times a year).

Start by removing all the textiles and pillows from the bed. Using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner, carefully vacuum every inch of the mattress. Pay special attention to the edges, indentations, and seams. The objective? Eliminate both dust and dust mites. These tiny and virtually invisible insects feed on the dead cells that shed from our skin, and the mattress is one of their favorite havens.

Remove stains


Next, examine your mattress to identify any possible stains. Remember that, as a general rule, the best way to treat stains (whether from food, drink or human or animal fluids) is to clean them immediately. If you detect the stain when it is already dry, make a paste by mixing a quarter cup of hydrogen peroxide with a tablespoon of salt and a couple of drops of liquid dish soap. Rub the paste on the stain (do it with an old toothbrush) and let it work. When the paste is completely dry, remove any residue with a cloth.

Eliminate odors


In the event that you notice bad smells emanating from the mattress, try this trick. Put distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle and spray lightly on the mattress. Be careful not to saturate or wet the mattress surface excessively. Don't worry about the smell because the vinegar scent evaporates quickly, but it's great for neutralizing other odors. See my column on how to eliminate bad odors .

Refresh with baking soda


When you check that the mattress is completely dry, sprinkle a cup of baking soda over its entire surface. Leave it on for an hour or two and carefully vacuum the mattress again to remove any dust residue. Once the mattress looks and feels dry, clean and fresh, put back the protector and the sheets and other bedding (ideally natural fibers).

Why turn and turn


Depending on the type of mattress you have, you will have to turn it over at least once a year (this is no longer necessary with the most modern models), so the wear will be homogeneous. In any case, I recommend rotating it three or four times a year (or follow the manufacturer's recommendations) in order not to reduce the quality of your rest.

How to protect pillows


As with the mattress, pillow covers are ideal if you suffer from allergies or if you simply want to extend the life of your pillows and keep them clean for longer. These covers keep dust mites at bay and act as a shield against excess moisture, helping to prevent mold growth. My favorites are the covers that fully wrap the pillow and close with a zip. Take advantage of putting them in the washing machine in warm water next to the mattress protective cover, once a month.

How to wash the pillows


Even with the protective cover and slipcover (wash the latter once a week along with the sheets), plan to wash your bed pillows a couple of times a year. Before washing them, carefully read the label with the manufacturer's instructions.

  • Pillows filled with cotton, synthetic fibers, down, or even feathers can normally be machine washed.
  • Wash two pillows at the same time to avoid unbalancing the washing machine and use a mild liquid detergent (not powder), warm water and the delicate cycle.
  • Tumble dry the pillows on low heat along with two or three new tennis balls, wrapped in clean white socks, to prevent the interiors from caking or the color of the balls from transferring to them.
  • Pillows filled with foam ( foam or memory foam ) cannot be machine washed. However, you can cool them by putting them in the dryer (without heat) for about 15 minutes.


I share a secret: once you feel that the pillows are not comfortable for you to sleep, use them as additional filling for the sofa cushions!

HOW TO WASH PILLOWS AT HOME?

 HOW TO WASH PILLOWS AT HOME?

If you begin to realize that your pillows, due to their daily use, turn yellow, accumulate dirt and even odors, you should follow our advice on how to wash pillows to keep them always clean. It will also be a good opportunity to eliminate mites and bacteria that accumulate with daily use and are so harmful for those with more allergies in the home.

- HOW TO WASH PILLOWS AT HOME and Pillows Product

Wash your pillows so they are like new

When we have to wash pillows, there are two basic parts to consider: the cover and the filling. The cover is very easy to wash: in the washing machine with Norit Daily for All Clothes. The filling part is perhaps the most laborious when it comes to washing.

We recommend washing your pillows at least three times a year. It is important to read the manufacturer's label beforehand and follow what it indicates to prevent them from deforming or losing any of their properties. Make sure, also, that they do not have any rips or unstitches, to prevent it from getting bigger or losing its filling during washing.

How to wash pillows in the washing machine
There are many types of materials that are used to make and make pillows; from a natural filling, through viscose, and synthetic. That is why if you want to know if you can wash the pillow in the washing machine, you must first see what type it is and what material it is made of, so as not to damage or deform it.

How to wash pillows and what types can we find

Following the washing instructions indicated by the manufacturer will guarantee a good result without damaging the fabrics and materials. We summarize the different methods depending on the type of pillow:

How to wash a feather pillow?

It is very common to find feather pillows in homes. These types of pillows can be washed comfortably in the washing machine. Do you know how to wash a feather pillow and that the wash is perfect?

  • It is advisable to introduce 3 or 4 tennis balls wrapped in socks . The movement of these inside the washing machine will help the feathers not to get caked during the wash.
  • Select a delicate program, dose 1 cap of Norit Maquina into the detergent drawer and always use cold water to wash.
  • To dry the feather pillows, it is preferable to do it in the open air, on a flat surface, from time to time, you have to remove the feathers from the pillow so that they are more dispersed and prevent them from compacting between them. It is also advisable to avoid drying them in the dryer.



How to wash a synthetic fill pillow

Synthetic filling is another type of material that pillows are made from. These are more rigid and provide a more stable position for the cervical area at rest.

  • They can be washed by hand or machine, of course, taking into account the type of soap, water temperature and program (in case of washing them in the washing machine) that should be used for this type of pillow.
  • If you do it by hand, remember to use a delicate detergent like Norit a Mano and in cold water.
  • If you choose to machine wash them, remember to do it at a low temperature (maximum 30ºC) and program a gentle cycle. Use Norit Machine to keep its shape and take care of the fibers.
  • They must be dried on a flat surface, so that they do not deform and shake them to ensure that the drying is complete.
  • Another option for drying is to use the dryer, always selecting a low temperature program.



How to wash latex pillows

Latex pillows are others that you can find in the market. Thanks to the material, it is firm and adapts completely to the body. But… How should the pillows be washed?

  • It is advisable to wash them by hand, in a container with cold water.
  • A soap for hand washing such as Norit Mano should also be used .
  • Once the pillow is submerged in the water, it must be washed but not rubbed so as not to damage or deteriorate the material.
  • Prolonged soaks are not recommended, but they must be rinsed with plenty of cold water to remove all traces of soap.
  • To dry them, they must be placed outdoors and in a horizontal position. It is preferable to place them in a place where there is shade and avoid exposing them to the sun.



How to wash memory foam pillows

We can also find memory foam pillows, which are made of memory foam material. This material is the latest technology, being sensitive to weight, temperature and other characteristics of the body in order to provide the necessary comfort at the time of rest and promote a deep sleep for those who use them.

If you have one of these pillows in your home, we recommend washing them very carefully by hand with Norit Mano , since it is easy for them to lose their properties with washing.

However, before proceeding with the wash, we recommend that you read the label carefully, since many manufacturers recommend not washing memory foam pillows or doing it in the dry cleaner.

How to wash yellowish pillowcases

As we have said, washing the covers is very simple. But sometimes, we find that we must wash yellowish pillowcases. Here the procedure to follow is different from the conventional one.

It is common that, as a result of the sweating that we give off when we are sleeping, the pillows turn yellow. Follow these simple steps to learn how to wash yellowed pillowcases to their original white :

  • Before you begin, check the pillowcases to make sure there are no stains, such as blood or makeup. If there are any, make sure you know how to remove blood stains and do it before putting the cover on to wash. Otherwise, you run the risk of it becoming more attached to the tissue.
  • Pillowcases are usually made of cotton, but there are also silk and other materials: check the washing label to see its composition and to know how to wash yellowish pillowcases.
  • Once you have made sure they are machine washable, put the pillows in the drum.
  • Open the box and add Norit Diario Toda la Ropa , which takes care of the fibers and brings light to the clothes.
  • Add Nuclear White Envelopes to restore white to pillowcases. If you wonder how much you should put to whiten yellowish clothes , the answer is depending on the degree of yellowing: if it is very light, we advise you to put an envelope; if it is more severe, four.
  • Select a long program at the maximum temperature that the garments allow
  • After the cycle, let them dry in the sun.


Therefore, washing the pillows cannot be understood as a standard process, since the material with which they are made is decisive for obtaining good results.

Tips for caring for the pillow

 Tips for caring for the pillow

Did you know that we spend a third of our lives sleeping? Yes! Yes! As you are reading it! Of course, what must be taken into account more is that the functions of sleep are very important for our body, and not only because human beings cannot live without sleep, but because sleep repairs our body every day, it allows us staying awake the next day regulates biorhythms and ensures a balance between internal and external biological demands. In fact, adequate sleep influences performance at work, studies, accidents, sick leave ...

- Tips for caring for the pillow and Pillows Product

Since in Spain we sleep less than in other countries (we wake up at the same time but go to bed later), at least it is important that the time we are resting we do it properly. Thus, it is essential to have a good mattress and, of course, a good pillow . Of course, beyond making the right choice, it is essential to take care of these two elements so that they remain in good condition for a long time. As we have already given you tips and tricks to keep the mattress as it was on the first day , today we want to give you the best  tips for caring for pillows . Would you like to join us?

The importance of the pillow

If you want to get a good night's sleep and not wake up with neck, back or shoulder pain, then you should buy the right pillow and take proper care of it. The most important thing is that this element allows you to keep your head, neck and spine aligned, that is, to have a proper posture of the spine so that the muscles relax and you can get a good rest and good breathing. Of course, you must bear in mind that there are different types of pillows and that you should choose them depending on your needs. So, for example, you should know that a memory foam pillow like the one you can see in the following image is recommended for people who sleep on their back or side.

Ventilate the pillow

What most experts recommend is to change the pillow , at most, every 5 years. Of course, this can only be done if you take care of it properly. Otherwise, you will have to change it more often as it will lose properties more quickly. Thus, the first thing we recommend is that you ventilate the room well before making the bed each day. Also, it's a good idea to air it out once a week.

To prevent it from deforming

Pillows become deformed over time and, although this is something that cannot be avoided, it is possible to make it happen later. To achieve this, it is important to turn it over from time to time. On the other hand, you should know that if the pillow is made of feathers or fiber (you can see an example of a fiber pillow in the following image), it is a good idea to shake it every night or every morning so that it returns to its shape and to gain volume.

Cleaning

Of course, to keep your pillow in good condition you will have to clean it often. In this sense, you should bear in mind that there are some pillows that can be washed directly, such as latex ones. In any case, we recommend that you take a look at the label on the pillow to check the washing instructions. Of course, if you cannot put it in the washing machine, it is essential that you wash the protective cover approximately every two months. Of course, the pillowcase will need to be washed more often. The best thing to do is to do it every week, next to the sheets. In addition, it is important to shake it vigorously every day to avoid the accumulation of dust.

Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow (2-Pack) - Luxury Plush Gel Pillow - Dust Mite Resistant & Hypoallergenic - Queen

 Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow (2-Pack) - Luxury Plush Gel Pillow - Dust Mite Resistant & Hypoallergenic - Queen

WASHING PILLOWS: TRICKS FOR A GOOD CLEANING


HOW TO WASH PILLOWS: TRICKS FOR A GOOD CLEANING

The  pillows  are, with a good mattress, essential parts for a quality sleep. Many times we think that a  protective cover is enough to keep them in good condition,  but the truth is that with the passage of time a  thorough cleaning  and, above all, disinfectant is necessary. Also, taking into account the material in question, pay attention to these instructions on how to wash the pillows and the tips for a good cleaning.



CAN I REALLY WASH MY PILLOW?

The answer to this question will have to be consulted, never better said, with the pillow. No, you do not have to wait 8 hours of restful sleep to decide to wash it, it is the pillow itself that has  a label in which the washing symbols appear  that inform about 3 possible options:

  • 1.  Machine wash the pillow . In this typology there are usually feather and synthetic pillows.
  • 2.  Wash the pillow by hand .
  • 3.  Do not wash the pillow with water  or do not wet under any circumstances.

If your  pillow  is among the first 2 possibilities, you will know that the day of its washing has arrived when you remove the cover and begin to see that it begins to yellow or light rounded edges appear. Although an optimal approximate date of 6 months is recommended in case the pillow is covered by a protective cover, a visual and olfactory inspection of the surface, the best proof that it is time to wash it.

If your pillow is in option 3, it is because you probably do not need it, since they belong to a type whose material already includes the possibility of maintenance without water and it is enough to wash its cover.

WHY WASH YOUR PILLOW

First of all for your health . Although it is convenient to cover it with a removable protective cover for washing, we would be surprised to know what it means, in terms of health, to rest your head on this support night after night. In doing so, we deposit remains of skin, hair and moisture from perspiration and saliva.

All these bodily remains are an army of enemies of hygiene. As much as we often wash the textiles that protect the bed, dust mites and dirt are penetrating the pillowcases, the protector and the sheet set at least, until they reach their core.

Not washing the pillows has always seemed "normal" but they can last us longer and we will  sleep in a safer and healthier way if we do not do so in a possible source of bacteria, viruses and even fungi , something very harmful for the development of allergies and respiratory and skin conditions. In addition, then there is the issue of stains if the pillow did not have a protective cover from the beginning or if you are one of those people who finds having breakfast in bed one of the best pleasures of the weekend.

HOW TO WASH THE FEATHER PILLOWS

Always taking a look at the manufacturer's instructions,  the feather pillows that can be washed in the washing machine  have to follow some steps so that their firmness and soft support is the same as always:

• If it has stains, you can rub the surface with a brush slightly dipped in bleach diluted in water, always without penetrating the core where the pens are housed.

• In the washing machine, it is  better to wash two pillows together  and insert between them two or three clean tennis balls or, if used, wrapped in plastic. In this way we will help not to weigh down the feathers. Choose a wool / delicate program no more than 40 degrees and do not spin if you have a tumble dryer. In case of centrifugation, do it at low revolutions and finish this process in the air by spreading the pillows in a horizontal position during a hot season to avoid the formation of fungi inside. Always use a detergent for delicate clothes.

•  Drying . Look at the information on the label about this procedure but the normal thing is that, if admitted by machine, the drying lasts at low temperature for at least 1 hour. However, the best system is to check that the feathers are not caked by moisture, so open the dryer every 15 minutes and shake the feathers to loosen them.

Before washing, check the pillows for feathers and sew the seams  through which they leak.

If the pillow can only be hand washed and air dried, do so in hot weather so that there is no moisture inside and shake the inside from time to time, just like in machine drying. In case of not admitting water, observe the label and consult a professional of the dry cleaner.

HOW TO WASH THE LATEX PILLOW

Latex can be washed but carefully . Almost certainly, the label is going to recommend cleaning it in a dry cleaning service or by hand, although not intensively. That is, soak it in water for a short time and wash it with a mild detergent without rubbing too much. Spread it out to dry in the shade and reduce the liquid by absorbing it with kitchen paper.

HOW TO WASH THE VISCOELASTIC PILLOW

These pillows  cannot be washed with water  as their material is immediately damaged, losing the ergonomic and support properties and, as often happens with latex, their materials are made with hypoallergenic components that prevent the appearance of bacteria and mites , so it is not necessary to wash it with water.

Remove the cover and vacuum them frequently and, if there are any stains, rub it gently with a product recommended by the manufacturer. In order not to get to this point, because  any hint of moisture does not help at all to its maintenance , ask yourself how often you remove the protective cover to wash it.

Taking care of your pillow is taking care of your health. On many occasions we forget its maintenance and cleaning but remember that every night you rest your head on it to have your best dreams. Now you can rescue her with these tips on how to wash pillows: tricks for a good cleaning.


Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow (2-Pack) - Luxury Plush Gel Pillow - Dust Mite Resistant & Hypoallergenic - Queen

Monday, January 11, 2021

How to clean a latex pillow

 How to clean a latex pillow

Latex pillows are a good option to take care of your neck muscles and bones when you sleep. This type of material has unique properties that allow the cervicals to maintain the proper position during rest and, as we want your cushion to last as long as possible, below we explain why they are a good choice and how to clean a pillow from latex.

- How to clean a latex pillow and Pillows Product

Latex pillows the best option

100% latex has many properties that make it a great choice. One of its characteristics is the low deformation with use . Pillows made of this material are firm, so the head does not sag and maintains a perfect position. This does not mean that they are uncomfortable, they adapt to the shape of the head and are very soft.

Latex pillow materials also have other benefits. They are hypoallergenic, prevent the presence of mites and other microscopic parasites that cause respiratory and skin problems. They hardly deform and are more durable than those made with other materials. In addition, they are breathable and favor a dry and cool head in summer. If it gets dirty, cleaning a latex pillow is a breeze.

Tips for cleaning a latex pillow

Cleaning a latex pillow goes beyond putting the cover that covers it in the washing machine. It is true that the material is hygienic in itself as it prevents the accumulation of dust and skin, which would be the perfect environment for the proliferation of mites. However, it can get dirty from liquid spills or other causes.

The washing machine does not do latex any good, even though the instructions allow machine washing. If you do, you will notice a noticeable loss of firmness. Therefore, the pillow must be cleaned by hand. The following products are required for this:

  • Bucket with warm water
  • Mild laundry soap
  • Baize
  • Towel
  • Pillow or personal perfume (optional)


Once you have the products ready, you can start cleaning. First add a few drops of soap to the water. Then, dip the cloth in the bucket with water and drain very well. Gently rub the dirty area or the entire pillow, depending on the type of cleaning you want to do. The movements must be circular to better distribute the mixture used to clean. You should not press too hard to avoid deformation or breakage of the material.

Once the stains have been removed, the moisture must be removed. To remove excess water, use a dry towel. Press lightly on the pillow so that the towel gets soaked. Then, put it to dry in a very well ventilated place, without humidity and without direct sun. Keep in mind that the sun's rays can damage the material.

When it is dry it can be slightly perfumed. To avoid respiratory problems and allergies, you must use one of the specific perfumes for pillows or bedding, always without abusing the quantity. If you want to use your perfume, it may be convenient to dilute it in water, to avoid concentrations of the odor.

What latex pillow to buy

As with all those items that can affect your health, it is convenient to purchase quality items. On our website we have the best pillows and with unbeatable prices.

You just have to select the size you need and you will receive it at your home in a very short time. You will give your body the best rest from day one and will enjoy all the health benefits that a latex pillow provides. Also, now that you know how to clean a latex pillow, you can buy that they are not only comfortable, but also very easy to keep in good condition.

How to choose your pillows?

 How to choose your pillows?

Q WE ARE: A being the pioneers had to invent a word ... We are the first  digital almohadería . We are specialists in pillows and we can help you improve your rest with a complete variety for all needs

- How to choose your pillows and Pillows Product

In addition to a mattress, a good pillow is the first guarantee of a good night's sleep. If you wake up with neck or shoulder pain, it may be time to change your pillow. Do you know how to choose the one that suits you best? We can help you.

TIPS:  What is the ideal pillow size:

The width of the pillow should always exceed that of your shoulders. Instead, its height or thickness varies depending on the posture of the sleeper.
• They sleep on their stomachs, and also for young children. A low pillow (10 cm) is adequate
• Sleep on your back. It should be lower than the shoulders, and of medium hardness. A medium pillow (12-13 cm) is ideal.
• Sleep on your side, to keep your head and neck well aligned with the axis of your spine. A medium-high (15 cm) pillow is ideal.

How to care for and preserve your pillow:

Once chosen, it is important that you take good care of your pillow, you will extend its useful life, which can extend up to about 5 years.
• Air the pillow regularly: open the windows before making the bed, and ventilate it well, in the air, once a week.  
• Turn it over often: this will prevent it from deforming.
• Buy a washable pillow: just wash it once or twice a year.
• Use a protective cover that, yes, you should wash every two months (the pillowcase, of course, every time you change the sheets).

Pillow fillings Which is the best?


Memory foam filled pillows


These types of pillows are made with a special foam that adapt very well to the anatomy because they copy the shape of the neck and head: memory foam pillows. Not everyone finds a memory foam comfortable, especially those who sleep on their sides tend to have more problems adjusting because they do not offer enough support to the neck. They are sometimes recommended for people with neck or back problems.

Do you know how to take care of your pillow?

 Do you know how to take care of your pillow?

At Vidal Home we know the importance of pillows for our rest, therefore we must maintain proper care of them. With good maintenance we can extend its life and keep it in good condition.

There are different types of pillows , each with different characteristics. It is important for your rest that you choose the one that best suits your tastes and posture at bedtime. But once you have chosen your ideal pillow, it is equally important that you know how to maintain it so that it does not lose its properties.

- Do you know how to take care of your pillow and Pillows Product

Here we give you a few very useful tips to take care of your pillow and keep it as the first day.

Tips to properly care for your pillow

  • Always use a pillowcase , preferably cotton. This way you can protect the pillow from stains, and you can wash the cover more frequently.
  • Shake and air the pillow every day . In this way you help redistribute the filling so that it does not lose its properties and firmness, and at the same time you avoid the accumulation of dust.
  • Try to wash the pillow very infrequently , only if it is strictly necessary. Washing can impair the preservation of the properties of the pillow filling.
  • If you decide to wash the pillow, do it with a small amount of detergent , and keep it mild and without bleaching agents . One trick to help keep your pillow filling from caking is to add two or three tennis balls to the washing machine. It is not recommended to dry clean the pillow as the fabric may be damaged.
  • When you are not using the pillow, store it in its cotton bag for better conservation.
  • To extend the life of the pillow and the time it takes to deform, we recommend turning it over from time to time .
  • Keep the pillow in a cool and dry place , avoiding places with humidity.
  • These tips will extend the life of your pillow, however, it must be borne in mind that due to daily use it is inevitable that it will end up losing its firmness and properties. Therefore, it is advisable to change the pillow approximately every 2 years .




At Vidal Home we have several types of pillows, with different properties, that can be perfectly adapted to your rest. You can see all the types by clicking here .

And so far today's post, we hope you liked it. If you have any questions or suggestions let us know in the comment box, until the next article!