Coconut oil has a reputation as a kitchen and beauty staple, but here’s a surprise: it also works wonders on stainless steel appliances. 🥥 If your fridge or oven is dull and covered in fingerprints, a dab of coconut oil can make it shine like new—without harsh chemicals.

How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances with Coconut Oil:

I love a shiny stainless steel appliance but, lately I realized that they can get pale and scratchy. Nope, if you are thinking well, why not just clean it with soap and water? Well, i wish it was that simple, when i tried that the grease and finger marks went but, after the appearance was dull. I needed to find a stainless steel cleaner that’s cost effective to maintain my stainless steel appliances then i bumped into this hack.

Why Coconut Oil Works

• Creates a protective coating that resists smudges.

• Enhances shine and smooths small scratches.

• Natural, non-toxic, and safe around food and kids.

Supplies You’ll Need

• Coconut oil (solid or liquid)

• Two microfiber cloths

• Warm, soapy water for pre-cleaning

Step 1: Pre-Clean the Appliance

Wipe the surface with warm, soapy water to remove grease or dirt. Dry completely.

Step 2: Apply Coconut Oil

• Put a pea-sized amount on a clean microfiber cloth.

• Rub gently into the stainless steel, following the grain.

Step 3: Buff with a Dry Cloth

Use a second dry clean cloth to buff until shiny. A thin coat will remain, protecting the surface.

Bonus Uses

Coconut oil also works for stainless steel sinks, faucets, and small appliances like toasters.

Bonus Tip: Don’t over use. A small amount goes a far way. Use this stainless steel cleaning method every two weeks to keep that fridge looking shiny new and just gorgeous.

Conclusion

Coconut oil isn’t just for cooking or skincare—it’s an all-natural stainless steel polish that leaves appliances looking spotless and shiny. It’s a cheap, safe, and eco-friendly way to maintain a gleaming kitchen.

For more odd ways to clean and maintain a pristine stainless steel appliance, Check out this article. How to Clean stainless steel appliances with FLOUR.

How to Clean and Maintain a Stainless Steel Sink:

2. Cut Grease with Dawn Dish Soap

How to Clean an Air Fryer – A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Think your air fryer doesn’t get dirty because it uses less oil? Think again. Even though air fryers are marketed as a healthier alternative to deep frying, grease, food crumbs, and odors can build up quickly. If not cleaned properly, this can affect the taste of your food, cause smoke while cooking, and even shorten the life of your machine.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to clean an air fryer, what products to use (and avoid), plus some handy tips for keeping it in top condition.

Why Cleaning Your Air Fryer Matters

Many people assume that because an air fryer uses little or no oil, it stays relatively clean. But here’s the truth:

• Grease still splatters from foods like chicken wings, sausages, or bacon.

• Food particles can get stuck in the basket or heating element.

• Leftover residue can produce smoke, bad odors, or even affect performance.

• Bacteria and mold may grow if moisture is left behind.

Regular cleaning ensures your air fryer remains safe, efficient, and long-lasting.

What You’ll Need to Clean an Air Fryer

Before you start, gather these essentials:

• Warm water

• Mild washing-up liquid (dish soap)

• A soft sponge or cloth

• A soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works well)

• Microfiber cloth or paper towels

• Non-abrasive scrub pad (for stubborn grease)

Important: Avoid metal utensils, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals — these can damage the non-stick coating.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean an Air Fryer

Step 1: Unplug and Cool

Always unplug your air fryer before cleaning and let it cool completely. This prevents burns and keeps you safe.

Step 2: Remove the Basket and Pan

Take out the basket, tray, and pan (depending on your model). These removable parts are usually dishwasher safe, but it’s best to hand wash them to extend their lifespan.

Step 3: Soak in Warm Soapy Water

Fill your sink or a large basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Place the basket and pan inside and let them soak for 10–15 minutes.

Tip: Soaking helps loosen grease and baked-on food.

Step 4: Scrub Gently

Use a soft sponge or brush to remove food particles. Pay special attention to mesh baskets, as food often gets stuck in the small holes. If needed, use a toothbrush to scrub corners and crevices.

Step 5: Wipe the Interior

Dip a damp cloth in warm soapy water and carefully wipe down the inside of the air fryer. Avoid getting water into the heating element. For stubborn grease, use a non-abrasive scrub pad.

Step 6: Clean the Heating Element

Turn the air fryer upside down (or check your model’s manual for guidance). Use a soft brush or damp cloth to wipe the heating element. If it’s greasy, a paste of baking soda and water can help lift residue.

Step 7: Dry Thoroughly

Dry all parts with a microfiber cloth or let them air dry completely before reassembling. Moisture left inside can cause mold or odors.

Step 8: Wipe the Exterior

Finally, use a damp cloth to wipe the outside of the machine. Polish with a dry cloth to keep it looking new.

How Often Should You Clean an Air Fryer?

• After every use: Wash the basket, pan, and tray.

• Weekly (or every few uses): Wipe down the interior and heating element.

• Monthly: Give your air fryer a full deep clean, including scrubbing any hidden grease build-up.

Tips for Stubborn Grease and Odors

• Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply to greasy areas, let sit for 15 minutes, then scrub gently.

• Vinegar Spray: Combine equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray inside the fryer, leave for 10 minutes, and wipe clean.

• Lemon Trick: Run the fryer with lemon slices inside for a few minutes to remove strong odors.

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning an Air Fryer

1. Using metal scouring pads – These can scratch and ruin the non-stick coating.

2. Skipping regular cleaning – Build-up becomes harder to remove the longer you leave it.

3. Putting the main unit in water – Only removable parts are washable. The main unit contains electrical components.

4. Not drying properly – Trapped moisture encourages mold and bacteria.

5. Using harsh chemicals – Bleach, oven cleaners, or alcohol-based sprays can damage your air fryer.

How to Maintain Your Air Fryer

• Line the basket with parchment paper or silicone mats to reduce mess.

• Avoid spraying too much oil, as it can splatter and cause smoke.

• Shake the basket halfway through cooking to prevent sticking.

• Check for build-up regularly so it doesn’t become overwhelming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I put my air fryer basket in the dishwasher?
Yes, most baskets are dishwasher safe. However, hand washing is gentler and can help them last longer.

2. Why does my air fryer still smell after cleaning?
Strong-smelling foods (like fish) can linger. Use a vinegar spray or lemon slice method to neutralize odors.

3. How do I clean burnt food off the basket?
Soak it in hot, soapy water with a spoonful of baking soda for 20–30 minutes before scrubbing.

4. Do I need special cleaning products?
No, mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft sponge are all you need. Baking soda and vinegar work well for tougher stains.

5. Can I use cooking spray inside my air fryer?
It’s better to avoid aerosol sprays — they can damage the non-stick coating. Use a spray bottle with regular oil instead.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your air fryer doesn’t have to be a chore. By giving it a quick wipe after each use and a deep clean once in a while, you’ll keep it working efficiently, smelling fresh, and producing the crispy, delicious results you love.

Remember: a clean air fryer is a happy air fryer — and it means healthier, tastier meals for you and your family.

A Refresh on Freshness: How Chilly, Swift Washes Extend Your Clothes’ Lifespan

Have you ever wondered why your once-vibrant tee fades, frays, or loses its shape after just a few washes? It might not be your detergent—it’s likely your wash cycle. A recent study by the University of Leeds, backed by Procter & Gamble, delivers a surprising solution: cold water and quick cycles are the real magic formula for preserving clothing quality.

how do wash settings affect the durability of a garment?

At the heart of the experiment was a simple question: how do wash settings affect the durability of a garment? Researchers tested activewear T‑shirts from brands like Gildan, Russell, and Hanes, using them as proxies for everyday garments. After ensuring machines were microfiber-free, each shirt underwent wash sessions where scientists meticulously collected the cycle’s wash water. By evaporating and weighing the residue, they measured how many microfibers were shed.

They also employed “receiver” fabric swatches to assess how much dye bleeded into other materials—an effective way to simulate fading and greying caused by laundering.

A Tale of Two Washes: Cold Express vs. 40 °C Cotton Short

The comparison involved two wash types:

• Cold Express (30 minutes) – a swift, chilly wash.

• Cotton Short at 40 °C (85 minutes) – a warmer, longer alternative.

The results were unequivocal: the warmer, longer wash caused significantly more color loss, dye transfer, and microfiber shedding. Cold, shorter cycles preserved both color and structural integrity—setting the bar for garment longevity.Popular Mechanics+1Popular Mechanics

Even after eight or sixteen wash cycles, fibers continued to shed in the warmer setting—suggesting that damage isn’t limited to the first wash, but escalates over time.Popular Mechanics+1

More Than Just Cleaner Clothes

Choosing the Cold Express cycle isn’t just wise for your wardrobe—it’s better for the planet, too. Less microfiber release means fewer synthetic particles entering waterways. Less heat and shorter run times consume less energy. And since less soap is needed for colder water, it’s gentler on the planet and your dryer’s power bill. Popular Mechanics

Tips for Extending Garment Life

1. Use the coldest, shortest cycle available. It’s gentler, longer-lasting, and eco-conscious.

2. Sort by color and fabric type. Especially when dealing with delicate or dark prints.

3. Don’t skip the screen filter. Microfiber catchers help trap loose fibers before they enter the water system.

4. Air-dry when you can. Heat from dryers also contributes to wear and shrinkage.

In short: If you’re looking to keep your clothes vibrant, resilient, and enduring—go cold, go quick. It’s a small tweak with big benefits—for your wardrobe and the environment.

Not all showers comes with a shower glass door but those that do has a con. This con is dried up soap scum. In this article i will share with you cleaning tips on how to clean soap scum off shower glass door so it remains spotless all the time. Let’s dive right in.

There are many types of shower glass door, so, whether yours is a walk-in shower or a cute shower stall, a foggy soap covered door is not a clean look in your bathroom. The bad news is there is no way of preventing the shower glass doors from becoming foggy after you take a shower or maybe there is..

1. How to Clean Glass Shower Door

Instructions:

First you’ll need warm water, cleaning cloth , white distilled vinegar and a small bucket. Fill the bucket with water and pour 1/2 cup vinegar in. Next, add a tups of Dawn dish soap and wash the glass door. Make sure to get the corners.

If you have a shower head with a hose this is awesome! Simply turn it on warm and rinse the door until the soap is gone. To finish, dry with a clean dry cloth to prevent water spots.

2. Here is An Easier Way to Clean Soap Scum off Glass Shower Door:

Combine water and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle and mist the door. Let it sit for 2 minutes then return and wipe with a damp cloth. NO SOAP THIS TIME.

As usual you can finish up with a touch of Windex glass cleaner but always make sure to clean away to soap scum before using the glass cleaner if you don’t do this it could leave the glass door even more messed up then before.

3. Do this When You Are Done Taking a Shower:

Keep a Cleaning cloth on the side of the shower or take one with you when taking a bath. When you are through taking a bath simply use the cloth to wipe the door. Doing this will only take a minute and will prevent soap spots and dried-up water marks on the glass door.

You can use this and cleaning cloth to wipe a way settled water to prevent mildew and stains on the grout. Yes, settle bath water is what turns into that nasty looking brown color on the grout especially in the corner, floor and between the tiles.

4. Cleaning the corners of the Shower

Use the same formula in the spray bottle to mist the corner floor and between the tile to keep away soap scum and stains YOU DON’T EVEN NEED TO SCRUB. Just do this every night before going to bed and your shower will remain free from soap scum and stains.

5. Preventing Soap Scum Build-Up on Shower Glass Door

If you are wondering if you can actually prevent soap scum build-up on glass shower door so too grout in the shower. The answer is yes, simply dry the door after each use or give it a quick wipe daily.

The End:

And there you have it “how to quickly clean soap scum off your shower glass door”. I even tossed a few extras tips in there. Now, you know how to clean and keep your shower glass door clean and also your shower free of stain and moreover smelling good.

Until next time happy cleaning!

You are in a rush, your home is a mess, how will you get this chaos of a home deep clean in 24 hours! Is it really practical to deep clean your home in a day? Yes, and these cleaning hacks from the experts will walk you through the process with a simple step by step guide to getting this done.

If you look at the facts, when you call in a  house cleaning company there is no way on earth they are going to take a week to deep clean your home. Normally within a few hours they are done. So, what are their secrets? here they are. Continue reading to end to find their secrets and to get your free printable checklist.

Does the Size of the Home Matter?

Yes, and no” For a large home to be deep cleaned in a day you will need to call in a friend who knows how to clean. For smaller homes , yes, it is possible for one person to tackle the task and have the same results as if 10 of you had cleaned. All you need to do is to follow the tips and instructions below and you’ll be all good.

1  Let in some air or natural light by opening the windows. If this is not possible go ahead an open the blinds or draw the curtains. Doing this will make the room brighter so you can see  what you are doing.

2. Have your cleaning tools ready…vacuum, broom with dust bin, duster for dusting, microfiber cleaning cloths, cleaning supplies, trash bags and a pair of gloves.

3. Before you begin cleaning pick up the large particles off the floor and the couches and toss them into a trash bag.

6. If you have a dishwasher now would be the best time to place the dishes in (if any)

4. Now, a clean home doesn’t have dirty laundry. So, yes, doing the laundry falls into deep cleaning your home. Example: Bed linen, drapes, curtains, shower curtain, towels etc. Get the washer running then move on to the next step. By the time you are through cleaning these will be ready to replace.

5. Next, is dusting…First start with the higher places like the ceiling. If you do the ceiling last the dust will fall back onto the lower surfaces you have already cleaned making your job way harder. The best thing to keep in mind is not to repeat what you’ve done before.

Here is a secret, to dust the ceiling you can use an expandable broom or  better yet use a ladder /strong chair.

Move on the the furniture and lighting fixture like bulbs and fans using the duster.

Extra Tip. Always dust before wiping with a damp cloth. If you don’t do this the moist cloth will cause the dust to stick to the wooden furniture and it won’t have that shiny look at the end of the day.

Afternoon Tasks (Get into the Details)

• Clean windows and mirrors using a streak-free solution.
• Vacuum or sweep all floors, including under furniture.
• Mop hard floors with a disinfectant cleaner.
• Deep clean the kitchen:
  • Scrub countertops and sink.
  • Clean inside and outside of appliances.
  • Wipe down cabinets and backsplash.
• Tackle the bathrooms:
  • Scrub toilets, tubs, and showers.
  • Wipe down sinks, counters, and mirrors.
  • Empty trash and replace liners.

Now, its in the afternoon and you have taken a meal break. Its time to clean the windows and doors. Be careful of the product you use to clean your glass windows and doors as these could leave streaks.

1. Windex glass cleaner is highly recommended for cleaning glass. However, avoid using it on wooden doors.  Use a lint-free paper towel to clean the window. I found that Sparkle cleans without leaving lint behind.

Extra Tips: If you are a DIY freak like me you may opt for rubbing alcohol and instead of using paper towel utilize those mailbox news paper your glass door and windows will look amazing!

For cleaning wood or even panel doors, Murphy’s oil soap is excellent, but, also dust these before cleaning with a liquid solution for best results.

2. Deep clean the Kitchen…Simply clear the countertops. By now all dishes should be in the dishwasher. If not, go ahead and wash them with your hands. If extra greasy, Dawn dish soap has just become your best pal with some warm water. Lastly, clean the stove and the floor then empty the trash bin.

Check in the fridge. Quickly remove all out dated food even the cooked ones that has been there for more then a week. Grad hold of a thick sheet of paper towel damp with warm water and distilled vinegar and wipe down the shelves. Do the same for the microwave oven.

Extra Tips: Dawn dish soap is powerful all-purpose cleaner which is good for cleaning grease off stove tops, cabinets, appliances and countertops. The perfect (grease terminator) Go light as it suds easily, but gets the job done fast.

Mist the trash bin…If the trash bin smells simply mist it with diluted household bleach or ‘Lysol disinfectant spray this should keep the odor down and kill any bacteria there may be. The best thing to do if time is available is to wash it.

3. Tackling the Bathroom... Before you begin, clear the countertop and mist the sink, toilet and shower. First, clean the sink, next the shower lastly the toilet.  You don’t need 4 different cleaners to clean your bathroom, All you need is one cleaner that cleans every thing EXCEPT FOR THE WOODEN CABINETS.

Clorox Bleach Foamer can be used to clean the sink, toilet and shower/ bathtub also= Dawn dish soap. To clean the countertop use a softer cleaner like Mr Clean Surface Cleaner  (NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CLEANING VARNISHED OR PAINTED WOOD)

Evening Tasks (Final Touches)

• Change and make the beds with fresh linens.
• Vacuum or clean upholstery (sofas, chairs, etc.).
• Refresh the air with candles or natural scents.
• Take out the trash and recycling.
• Do a final walk through for missed spots.

1. For the finale, replace the sheets, drapes and curtains if you had remove them

2.  Place new trash bags in all the bins

3. Vacuum the sofa getting in all the creases. A hand vacuum will work for this.

4. Vacuum the floor then clean with a damp mop. A solution of one cup white distilled vinegar into a gallon of warm water will work magic on any type of floor.

5. Deodorize: A clean home should smell good. Use your favorite air freshener to do so

6. Take a look around and see if you miss anything.

Next, brew a cup of herbal tea, grab a book turn on some relaxing music and relax in your most comfortable chair while you enjoy your spotless home.

BEST CLEANERS FOR DEEP CLEANING YOUR HOME IN A DAY:

1.  Distilled white vinegar…Cleans the fridge , toilet, bathroom and floors( dilute with warm water  for the floor)

2. Mr Clean Magic Erase…Remove stubborn dirt, grease and soap scum

3. Dawn Dish Soap…Cleans every thing etc shower, toilet, stove, fridge, sinks and mirrors

4. Murphy’s Oil Soap…Use on wooden cabinets, tables and countertops

5. Mr Clean Surface Cleaner Spray…Use on vinyl countertops, sinks, bathtubs and shower

OTHER CLEAN TOOL YOU’LL NEED:

1. Lint-Free Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

2. Sparkle Paper Towel

3. Duster

4. Empty Spray Bottle

5. Broom and Dust Bin

6. Bucket

7. Mop

8. Trash Bags

9. Sock for cleaning blinds

Tips for Cleaning Blinds:

To clean the blinds blades use the duster to remove excess dust. Next step, simply pull a thick sock over your fingers. Next, mist the sock with warm water mixed with vinegar then slowly slide your fingers from one end of the blind to the other.

FREE PRINTABLE DEEP CLEANING CHECKLIST

CONCLUSION:

A s you can see deep cleaning your home is not as hard as it seem. With this printable checklist and the instruction in this article you will be able to to deep clean your home in a day.

By for now, see next time! Snippets

The Ultimate Kitchen Cleaning Checklist: Your Guide to a Spotless Kitchen

Keeping your kitchen clean isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about maintaining hygiene in the heart of your home. Whether you’re prepping meals or hosting dinner parties, a sparkling kitchen can make all the difference. In this kitchen cleaning checklist, we’ll tackle the most frequently asked questions about cleaning this vital space, providing you with actionable tips to keep things tidy, fresh, and germ-free.

1. How do I clean kitchen countertops effectively?

Countertops are a hotspot for spills, crumbs, and germs. To clean them thoroughly:

• Remove any clutter and wipe the surface with a damp cloth.
• Use a mild dish soap or an all-purpose cleaner for daily cleaning.
• For tough stains or greasy spots, mix baking soda with water to form a paste and scrub gently.
• Always disinfect with a kitchen-safe antibacterial spray to keep bacteria at bay.

2. What’s the best way to clean a greasy stove top?

A greasy stove top can seem daunting, but it’s easy with this method:

• Sprinkle baking soda over the greasy areas.
• Add a few drops of dish soap and warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Scrub with a soft sponge or brush and wipe clean.
• For burner grates, soak them in soapy water before scrubbing off any residue.

3. How do I clean the inside of my oven without harsh chemicals?

Skip the store-bought cleaners with this natural approach:

• Remove racks and soak them in warm, soapy water.
• Mix baking soda and water into a thick paste and spread it inside the oven.
• Let it sit overnight, then scrub off the grime with a sponge or scraper.
• Rinse with a damp cloth and replace the racks.

4. What’s the easiest way to clean kitchen cabinets?

Cabinets collect dust, fingerprints, and grease over time. To clean them:

• Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth and a bit of dish soap.
• For stubborn grime, use a mix of vinegar and water.
• Dry cabinets immediately to prevent water damage, especially on wooden surfaces.

5. How do I clean a dirty sink and keep it smelling fresh?

Your kitchen sink deserves special attention since it handles everything from raw meat to dirty dishes:

• Sprinkle baking soda all over the sink.
• Scrub using a sponge and rinse thoroughly.
• Pour a cup of vinegar down the drain followed by hot water to deodorize.
• For stainless steel, finish with a bit of olive oil to restore shine.

6. What’s the best way to clean and organize the fridge?

Cleaning your fridge is crucial for food safety and freshness:

• Empty the fridge and discard expired items.
• Wipe down shelves and drawers with a solution of warm water and vinegar.
• Use baking soda on tough stains.
• Place an open box of baking soda inside to neutralize odors.

7. How do I clean kitchen floors properly?

Kitchen floors endure spills, crumbs, and heavy foot traffic. Here’s how to keep them spotless:

• Sweep or vacuum daily to remove debris.
• Mop weekly with warm water and a mild detergent.
• For sticky spots, use a mix of water and white vinegar.
• Always dry floors to prevent slips and water damage.

8. What’s the easiest way to keep the microwave clean?

Cleaning the microwave doesn’t have to be a hassle:

• Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and add lemon slices.
• Heat for 5 minutes to loosen food particles with steam.
• Wipe the interior with a damp cloth.
• For stubborn stains, use a bit of baking soda on a sponge.

9. How can I maintain a clutter-free kitchen daily?

A clutter-free kitchen feels cleaner and more functional:

• Develop a habit of putting items back in their designated spots.
• Keep countertops clear except for essentials.
• Do a quick 5-minute tidy-up each night to reset for the next day.
• Regularly declutter drawers and donate unused tools or appliances.

10. How do I clean kitchen appliances like the coffee maker or blender?

Small appliances need regular cleaning to function well:

• For a coffee maker, run a cycle with equal parts water and vinegar, then rinse with water.
• Disassemble your blender and wash parts in warm, soapy water.
• Wipe the exteriors with a damp cloth to remove smudges and spills.

Conclusion

With this kitchen cleaning checklist in hand, you’re ready to transform your cooking space into a shining sanctuary. Tackle your kitchen cleaning one step at a time, and remember to incorporate these tips into your routine for long-lasting results. A clean kitchen isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about creating a space where you love to cook and spend time with family.

Pro Tip: Bookmark this guide for quick reference during your cleaning days. If you’ve got your own favorite cleaning hacks, share them with your friends—they might thank you later!

You May Also Like This Article: GRANDMA’S SLICK KITCHEN DEEP CLEANING TIPS

How to Clean Pillows by Hand: A Simple Guide for Fresh, Fluffy Comfort

When was the last time you cleaned your pillows? Most of us overlook this crucial step in keeping our beds fresh and hygienic. Surprisingly, pillows can harbor sweat, oils, dust mites, and even bacteria over time. But don’t worry—cleaning them by hand is easier than you might think.

Here’s a surprising tip to get you started: Adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil during the rinse will leave your pillows not just clean but smelling divine—a little secret to elevate your bedtime comfort!

Ready to dive in? Let’s give your pillows a new lease of life with this step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Before anything, check the care label on your pillow. Most synthetic, down, or feather pillows  or cleaning a bamboo pillow can be hand washed, but memory foam pillows typically need spot cleaning. A quick glance will also tell you the dos and don’ts for your specific pillow type.

Step 2: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Warm water (not too hot to avoid damaging delicate fillings)
• Mild liquid detergent
• Baking soda (for stubborn odors)
• White vinegar (for natural deodorizing)
• Essential oils (optional, for that luxurious scent)
• A large tub or sink
• A gentle scrubbing brush or sponge

Step 3: Pre-Treat Stains

Got yellowed spots from sweat or makeup? Pre-treat these areas with a mix of baking soda and water. Gently rub the paste into the stains using a soft brush. Let it sit for 10 minutes before washing.

Step 4: Wash Your Pillow

• Fill your tub or sink with warm water and add a small amount of liquid detergent. Swish it around to create suds.
• Submerge the pillow fully, squeezing it gently to allow the soapy water to penetrate.
• Avoid wringing or twisting the pillow—this can damage its shape and filling.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Empty the soapy water and refill the tub with clean, warm water. Add a splash of white vinegar to help remove any detergent residue and neutralise odors. Rinse the pillow thoroughly, squeezing it gently until the water runs clear.

Hook tip in action: Add 3–4 drops of lavender or eucalyptus essential oil to the rinse water. Not only will it leave your pillow fresh, but it can also promote better sleep.

Step 6: Remove Excess Water

After rinsing, gently press the pillow between two clean towels to remove excess water. Never wring the pillow, as this can cause clumping or damage to the filling.

Step 7: Drying Your Pillow

Proper drying is key to preventing mildew:

• Lay the pillow flat on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area.
• Flip it regularly to ensure even drying.
• For feather or down pillows, give them a gentle fluff occasionally to maintain their shape.

Step 8: Revive the Fluff

Once dry, give your pillow a good shake and fluff it up. For extra fluffiness, pop it in the dryer on a no-heat cycle with a couple of clean tennis balls. This trick works wonders for feather and down pillows.

Step 9: Maintain Between Washes

To keep your pillows fresher for longer:

• Use pillow protectors to shield against sweat and spills.
• Air your pillows in the sun every couple of months. UV rays naturally kill bacteria and mites.
• Spot clean small stains immediately to prevent them from setting.

Step 10: Know When to Replace

Even with proper care, pillows don’t last forever. If yours is losing its shape, causing neck discomfort, or looking permanently yellowed, it might be time for a new one. A general rule? Replace your pillows every 1–2 years.

Cleaning Pillows with Hydrogen Peroxide

For pillows with stubborn stains, such as yellowing from sweat or drool, hydrogen peroxide can be a game-changer. This natural bleaching agent works wonders on organic stains without the harshness of traditional bleach.

To clean your pillow, mix a solution of one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts warm water. Dab the mixture onto the stained areas using a clean cloth or sponge, and let it sit for about 10–15 minutes. Afterward, rinse the pillow thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.

Be sure to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the fabric or filling. This method is particularly effective for white or light-colored pillows, restoring them to their original brightness.

Conclusion

Hand washing your pillows may seem like a chore, but it’s well worth the effort. Not only will you enjoy fresher, fluffier pillows, but you’ll also extend their life and ensure a healthier sleeping environment. So, roll up your sleeves and get started—your bed will thank you!

Remember, a clean pillow isn’t just about comfort; it’s about self-care. Now that you know how to clean pillows by hand, why not share this little-known essential oil hack with friends and family? Sweet dreams!

Related Article: How to Wash Pillows in a Top Loading Washing Machine