Extra bed pillows are a valuable investment in comfort, but they often become a storage headache. Simply tossing them into a corner of a closet can lead to a frustrating situation when you need one, only to find them limp, musty, or permanently wrinkled. Storing bed pillows correctly is about preserving their structure, loft, and hygiene, ensuring they are ready to provide optimal support and comfort whenever you need them.
Whether you are changing your bedding season, renovating a room, or simply trying to organize your linen closet, having a strategy is essential. The right storage method protects your pillows from the elements and extends their lifespan significantly. This guide provides a detailed look at how to store extra bed pillows properly, covering everything from preparation techniques to long-term solutions for maintaining their quality.
Preparing Pillows for Storage
The journey to well-preserved pillows begins well before they enter a storage container. Proper preparation is the most critical step to prevent damage and odors from setting in. Rushing this stage can trap moisture and lead to the growth of mold or mildew, which can ruin your bedding permanently.
Start by giving each pillow a thorough inspection. Look for any signs of stains or discoloration. If you find any, address them immediately with an appropriate stain remover suitable for the fabric. Next, you must wash the pillows if they are washable. Even if they look clean, body oils and environmental dust can accumulate over time. Follow the care label instructions precisely, using a mild detergent and ensuring they are rinsed thoroughly. The most crucial part of this process is ensuring the pillows are completely, 100% dry before storage. Any lingering moisture is the enemy of stored textiles.
Drying Your Pillows Thoroughly
Drying is the make-or-break step for pillow storage. Air drying often leaves moisture deep in the filling, creating a damp environment perfect for bacterial growth. The best method is to tumble dry them on a low heat setting. To expedite the process and maintain the filling's integrity, add a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the drum. These help to break up clumps and restore loft while pulling moisture out of the core. If you do not have dryer balls, washing a few dry towels alongside the pillows can also help absorb excess moisture and speed up the drying cycle.
Choosing the Right Storage Containers
Once your pillows are impeccably clean and bone dry, the next challenge is selecting the right vessel for their preservation. The goal is to protect them from dust, pests, and compression while maximizing your storage space.
For short-term storage, a high-quality storage bin with a tight-sealing lid is ideal. Look for containers made of plastic rather than cardboard, as cardboard can absorb moisture and attract insects. Vacuum storage bags are arguably the most efficient solution for long-term storage. By removing the air, these bags compress the pillows dramatically, allowing you to store multiple pillows in the space of one. Furthermore, they create an airtight barrier that protects against dust mites and humidity, which is crucial for maintaining the filling's resilience.
| Container Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Storage Bags | Long-term, space-saving | Airtight, protects from pests, saves space | Requires vacuum, permanent compression |
| Plastic Storage Bins | Short-term, accessible storage | Durable, reusable, easy to access | Bulky, less space-efficient |
| Linen Closet | Frequently used pillows | Immediately accessible, breathable | Prone to dust and pests |
Strategic Placement in the Closet
Where you place the pillows in your storage area is just as important as the containers themselves. A linen closet is a standard choice, but it requires careful consideration to avoid the pitfalls of that environment.
Closets are often prone to temperature fluctuations and can trap humidity, especially in bathrooms or basements. If you must use a closet, ensure it is climate-controlled and dry. Avoid placing pillows directly on the floor, where they are vulnerable to leaks or flooding. Instead, store them on a high shelf or in an elevated bin. This positioning keeps them away from dust accumulation on the floor and makes them easier to grab when changing your bedding. If possible, stand the pillows upright, similar to how they are stored in a store display, rather than stacking them flat. This prevents creases from forming on the fabric covers.
Maintaining Loft and Freshness
Even with the best storage methods, pillows can lose their loft and develop a stale smell over time if they remain inactive for too long. To ensure they remain in prime condition, it is beneficial to perform a little maintenance while they are stored.
Every few months, take the pillows out of their containers and give them a vigorous fluff. Rotate them end over end and side to side to help the filling redistribute evenly. If you notice any lingering odors, air them out on a sunny balcony or patio for a few hours. The ultraviolet rays from the sun are naturally disinfecting and help to rejuvenate the fibers. Just be sure to bring them back inside before sunset to avoid any unexpected moisture from dew.
Avoiding Common Storage Mistakes
To truly master how to store extra bed pillows, you must understand the common errors that lead to damage. Being aware of these pitfalls will save you the frustration of ruined bedding.
- Storing While Damp: This cannot be overstated. Never store a pillow that is even slightly damp. This is the fastest route to mold and irreversible odors.
- Using Perfumes or Sachets: While it might seem logical to add lavender sachets or spray perfume on the pillows to make them smell fresh, this can actually stain the fabric and break down the filling over time.
- Ignoring the Fabric: Natural fibers like down and wool need to breathe, while synthetic fibers are more resilient. Ensure your storage containers allow for some air circulation if you are not using vacuum bags.
Seasonal Rotation and Long-Term Care
If you are storing pillows for a season change, the process is relatively straightforward. Follow the cleaning and drying steps, vacuum seal them to save space, and store them in a cool, dark place. Rotate your pillows—bringing last season’s set to the front of the closet—so you use the oldest ones first.
For long-term storage in an attic or basement, the stakes are higher. These environments are vulnerable to extreme temperatures and pests. Ensure the pillows are sealed in vacuum bags and placed inside a sturdy plastic bin with a tight-fitting lid. Consider adding silica gel packets to the bin to absorb any residual moisture. By treating your pillows with this level of care during storage, you ensure they remain a comfortable and hygienic part of your bedroom for years to come.
