Do you wake up with a sore neck or a heavy head? It may be time to give your pillow some love... over time, pillows flatten and lose their ability to optimally support your head and neck... which can lead to sleep and pain issues.
This article explores how to fluff a pillow and regain comfort and support. Plus, we have tips for how to keep your pillows fluffy for multiple good nights’ sleep.
Hand Fluffing a Pillow
Fluffing your pillow by hand is the simplest way to get rid of flat pillows. However, not all pillows will respond positively to hand fluffing. The hand fluffing technique works on clumping pillow materials, including:
- Down
- Down alternative
- Shredded memory foam
- Microbeads
- Kapok
Hand fluffing pillows can be done in two different ways: the accordion method and the massage method.
Accordion Method
Follow these instructions to hand-fluff your pillow using the accordion technique:
- Grab the pillow at either end with your hands.
- Squeeze those ends together, then pull them apart repeatedly like an accordion.
- Rotate and repeat until clumps are broken apart and filling is even throughout the pillow for proper support.
Massage Method
Follow these instructions to fluff the pillow using the massage technique:
- Lightly massage with your hands in a circular motion.
- Rotate and continue the motion on all sides of the pillow to loosen any clumps and redistribute filling.
How to Fluff a Pillow in the Dryer?
- Deeper clean: The heat will kill dust mites and allergens that may be lingering in the pillow.
- More effective fluffing: This is particularly helpful for pillows with heavily clumped filling, since the tumbling action helps break clumps down better.
- Freshening effect: The dryer will also help to remove any lingering smells in the pillow.
- Time-saving: Especially helpful if you're fluffing multiple pillows at once.
It's necessary to acknowledge that not all types of pillow materials will benefit from and/or withstand dryer treatment. Some materials could experience damage from dryer heat, so it is essential to follow the directions on the care label.
Generally, down, down alternative, and some synthetic fibers typically do well in a dryer. There are two primary ways for fluffing pillows in a dryer: the original method and the tennis ball method.
Classic Method
You can easily fluff your pillows in the dryer with the classic method by following these steps:
- Put the pillow inside the dryer. If fluffing two pillows, place them on opposite sides of the drum.
- Let the dryer run on the lowest heat setting for 20 to 30 minutes. This will allow the pillow to rebound, fluffing the filling and driving out any possible dust mites.
Tennis Ball Method
To fluff your pillow using the tennis ball method, follow the steps below:
- Place the pillow inside the dryer along with two to three clean tennis balls or dryer balls. The tennis balls or dryer balls you use will bounce around in the dryer, agitating the contents of the pillow and ensuring even fluffing.
- Dry at a low heat for 20 to 30 minutes.
3 Benefits of a Plump Pillow
Properly fluffed pillows offer more than just a soft place for your head; they also have unexpected benefits. From a more restful night of sleep to health benefits, and even benefits for your mood, fluffy pillows can have a great impact on your well-being.
Here are some of the benefits of keeping your pillows fluffy and supportive:
- Enhanced sleeping comfort: A flat pillow does not provide neck support, which may contribute to neck pain, headaches, or simply trouble sleeping at all.
Fluffing the pillow simply returns it to a full state and can ensure that the pillow is keeping your neck aligned, as well as keeping you in a pleasant sleeping position. - Extended pillow circulation: Pillows tend to flatten over time as the fill material naturally compresses. Fluffing sections of the pillow helps to redistribute the fill and can prevent the material from clumping together. This also extends the overall life of the pillow.
- Hygiene: Over time, dust mites and other allergens can accumulate in pillows. Fluffing pillows, as mentioned earlier, helps provide air circulation as you loosen the material. This potentially limits the accumulation of these perturbants.
Indications That You Should Fluff Your Pillow
Whenever your pillow is flat or lumpy, it can cause havoc on your quality of sleep, which can lead to discomfort and soreness. Here are a few signs to look for to know when to fluff your pillow:
- Morning pain: If you wake up with stiff necks, headaches, or general soreness in the shoulders, it may be an indication that your pillow is not giving you enough support.
Fluffing may help redistribute the filling, allowing your pillow to cradle your head and neck again. - Lack of Recovery: Push down hard on your pillow. If it takes an extraordinarily long time to allow the filling to regain its shape, it likely indicates that the filling has clumped and has lost its loft.
After a good fluffing, the fluffed pillow should again be back to its appropriate firmness. - Shallow dip: When lying down, if your head sinks into the mattress, your pillow is certainly not providing adequate support. Attempting to fluff may help redistribute the filling so that it creates a more supportive loft during use.
- Uneven feel: If your pillow is lumpy or uneven, it is likely evidence that the filling has bunched together. Fluffing will break up the lumps in the filling to provide a more even sleeping surface.
- Noticeably flat: Over time, pillows will appear noticeably flat no matter how you try to fluff them. If your pillow simply looks flat, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Despite using the best fluffing techniques and taking preventative measures, eventually, pillows will meet their end. General recommendations are to replace pillows every 1-2 years, but this varies by quality and materials.
If you notice excessive sagging, lumps, or unevenness, it may be time to replace your pillow.
Ways to Avoid a Flat Pillow
There is a time for all pillows (even the best ones) when they lose most of their loft. Losing loft means you will likely be uncomfortable sleeping at night and may experience stiffness and soreness.
This section will help you stay a step ahead of your pillows' loft loss and maximize pillow fluffiness and support. Whether it is daily fluffing or proper care, you will learn how to beat the dreaded flat pillow and enjoy a heavenly sleep.
Fluff Regularly
The secret to keeping your pillow adequately fluffy is simple: you need to fluff it regularly. Pillows eventually compress naturally under the weight of your head, and this weight causes the filling to clump together and lose its loft over time.
Each night your pillow flattens, the result is a less supportive sleeping experience. Taking just a minute or two each morning to fluff your pillow can make a huge difference.
These extra few seconds help to redistribute the filling, break up any clumps, and make your pillow fluffy and supportive again.
Consider a Pillow Protector
A pillow protector is a thin layer of fabric that is placed underneath your pillowcase and serves as an extra layer of separation between your head and the pillow.
For one, a pillow protector protects the filling from dust mites, sweat, and bodily oils, and other things that can deteriorate the materials over time and lead to a pillow that is flat and unsupportive.
Trapping these elements in a protector will preserve the life and fluff of your pillow. In addition, pillow protectors are usually washable and can be easily kept clean and hygienic.
If you'd like a pillow to last longer, be fluffy, and provide the best support for your head and neck night after night, consider buying a pillow protector.
Cleansing Your Pillows
It may sound strange to keep your pillows clean regularly to avoid flat pillows, but washing can actually help pillows stay fresh in moderation. Dust mites, dead skin cells, and even sweat can accumulate over time, creating a heavy filling and flat feeling.
The key is to wash pillows according to the care tag, which usually is warm water on a gentle cycle. The washing and drying process will remove allergens as well as deodorize the pillow filler.
On the other hand, washing too frequently can break down the stuffing and hinder the longevity of your pillow.
Aim for washing your pillows every two to three months, but don’t forget to read the washing instructions beforehand to get a clean pillow without ruining the materials.
Air Them Out
Regularly airing out your pillows can be a simple yet effective way to combat flatness and promote longer-lasting fluffiness. Sun exposure can help kill dust mites and freshen the fabric, while fresh air helps remove moisture buildup that can contribute to flattening.
Once a month, give your pillows a breath of life by hanging them outdoors for a few hours on a dry, sunny day. Just be sure to bring them back in before the sun gets too strong, as UV rays can damage some pillow materials.
Store Them Properly
Proper storage can significantly impact the longevity and fluffiness of your pillows. Avoid damp basements or attics, as moisture can cause mildew and accelerate flattening. Instead, opt for cool, dry areas with good air circulation, like a closet shelf or a ventilated storage container. Store your pillows upright when not in use to prevent them from getting crushed or losing their shape.
Invest in Quality Pillows
Investing in a high-quality pillow made with premium materials can significantly extend its lifespan and reduce the likelihood of flattening. These pillows often use fillings like down or shredded memory foam that are naturally more resilient and resistant to clumping.
High-quality pillows typically have a denser construction, providing better support and holding their shape for longer. While the initial cost might be higher, a well-made pillow can be a worthwhile investment, saving you money in the long run by needing to replace it less frequently.
Consider Adjustable Pillows
For those who crave long-lasting comfort and personalized support, adjustable pillows offer a unique solution. Unlike traditional pillows with fixed filling, adjustable pillows allow you to customize the amount of filling inside. This means you can add more filling if your pillow starts to feel flat, restoring its loft and support to your preferred level.
Get the Support You Need From Your Pillow
Now that you know how to keep your pillows perfectly fluffy and supportive, check out the pillows we offer here at Eli and Elm. Our cooling side sleeper pillow is made with premium sourced materials and filling that can be adjusted based on your desired height and support, and our pregnancy body pillow’s ergonomic design will help you feel more comfortable and rested during pregnancy.
