We spend a significant portion of our lives sleeping, but how often do we consider the cleanliness of the very surface we rest our heads on? A recent study by Silentnight revealed that 41% of people sleep on unwashed pillows every night, which can lead to unpleasant consequences like breakouts, allergy flare-ups, and respiratory irritation.
Enter Mary Futher, affectionately known as Madame Sweat, a hygiene expert who’s on a mission to educate people about proper pillow care. In a video that has garnered over 7,000 likes, she posed the question: “Why aren’t you washing these? Why aren’t you putting them in the washing machine?” Madame Sweat, with her signature no-nonsense approach, declared herself the “hygiene queen” and emphasized the crucial importance of regular pillow washing.
She explained that pillows harbor sweat, dust mites, and bacteria, making washing them “almost as important as washing your clothes.” While acknowledging the use of antimicrobial pillow protectors, she stressed that even with them, pillows should be washed every three months.
The frequency of washing depends on the type of pillow. Madame Sweat advised viewers to consult the care instructions for specific materials. The video sparked a lively debate among viewers, with some confessing to never washing their pillows. Others shared their cleaning tips, including sun-drying, which they claimed kills bacteria and removes stains. However, one viewer questioned the practicality of washing pillows, expressing concern about them becoming clumpy.
The importance of choosing high-quality pillows was also highlighted. While they may cost more upfront, they often resist dust better and last longer. Latex, buckwheat, and memory foam pillows typically need replacement every three to four years. Synthetic pillows, on the other hand, are less expensive and easier to clean, but they have a shorter lifespan. Polyester pillows, for example, might need replacement every six months to two years.
Madame Sweat’s video serves as a timely reminder to prioritize pillow hygiene and consider the long-term benefits of investing in high-quality pillows. By following her simple advice, you can ensure a cleaner, healthier sleep environment and potentially avoid unpleasant side effects of a dirty pillow.
