You love your Coop pillow for its perfect support and comfort, but keeping it clean is key to its longevity. Learning how to wash Coop pillow is a simple process that will refresh your sleep accessory and help it last for years. This guide will walk you through the safest methods, whether you’re dealing with everyday dust or a more serious spill. With the right care, your pillow can stay as good as new.
Washing your pillow isn’t just about cleanliness; it’s about maintaining the quality of the materials. Coop pillows are known for their adjustable shredded memory foam, which requires a specific approach. Don’t worry, though—it’s easier than you might think. We’ll cover everything from reading the care label to the final drying fluff. Let’s get started with the basics you need to know before you begin.
How To Wash Coop Pillow
Before you toss your pillow in the washer, there’s some essential prep work. Taking these steps ensures the washing process goes smoothly and protects the pillow’s internal materials. Rushing this part can lead to clumping or damage, so it’s worth the extra few minutes.
Check the Care Label First
Always start by checking the manufacturer’s care label. Coop generally recommends machine washing their pillows, but it’s crucial to confirm this for your specific model. The label will provide the official temperature settings and any warnings. If the label is missing or faded, the standard guidelines in this article are a safe bet.
Gather Your Supplies
Having everything ready makes the process seamless. You’ll need:
- A mild, liquid detergent (avoid bleach or fabric softener)
- An extra rinse cycle or vinegar for residue removal
- A front-loading or HE washing machine (top-loaders with agitators can be rough)
- A dryer with a low heat setting and dryer balls or clean tennis balls
Prep the Pillow for Washing
Remove the pillow from its outer cover. The Coop pillow itself has an inner casing that holds the foam; this is what you’ll be washing. Check for any tears or open seams and mend them with a needle and thread before washing to prevent filling from escaping. It’s also a good idea to give the pillow a quick shake to evenly distribute the foam.
Addressing Stains Spot Treatment
If you have any noticeable stains, pre-treat them. Apply a small amount of your mild detergent directly to the stain and gently rub the fabric together. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing. Do not use harsh stain removers, as they can break down the foam and fabrics over time.
The Machine Washing Process
Now you’re ready for the main wash. Following these steps carefully is the best way to clean your pillow without causing damage.
- Place the pillow in your washing machine. It’s best to wash two pillows together to balance the load, or add a couple of towels for balance.
- Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Too much soap is a common mistake—it leads to residue that’s hard to rinse out.
- Set the machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water (check your care label for the recommended temperature).
- Select an extra rinse cycle if your machine has the option. This ensures all soap is thoroughly removed.
The Hand-Washing Alternative
If you prefer or if your machine isn’t suitable, hand-washing is effective. Fill a bathtub or large basin with cool water and a tiny bit of detergent. Submerge the pillow and gently press and knead it to work the soap through. Drain the soapy water, refill with clean water, and repeat rinsing until the water runs completely clear. This method requires more effort but offers maximum control.
Drying Your Coop Pillow Thoroughly
This is the most critical step. Inadequate drying can lead to mildew and clumped foam. Patience is essential here.
- After the cycle ends, remove the pillow immediately. Gently press out excess water—never wring or twist the pillow, as this can damage the inner casing and foam.
- Place the pillow in the dryer with two or three dryer balls or clean tennis balls. The balls will help break up the foam clumps as it dries.
- Set the dryer to the lowest heat setting possible. High heat can damage the memory foam and elastic in the fabric.
- Dry the pillow in multiple cycles. Expect this to take 2-4 hours. Pause the dryer every 30-45 minutes to manually break up any clumps you feel and redistribute the foam.
- The pillow is completely dry only when there is no hint of dampness in the very center. When in doubt, let it dry longer.
The Air-Dry Option
For absolute minimal heat, you can air-dry your pillow. After pressing out water, lay it flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Flip and rotate it every few hours. This method can take 24-48 hours, so ensure you have the time and space. A fan pointed at the pillow can significantly speed up the process.
Post-Wash Fluffing and Maintenance
Once your pillow is fully dry, it’s time for the final touch. Give it a vigorous shake and knead it with your hands to restore its loft and even out the filling. This mimics the factory process and brings the pillow back to life. If some clumps remain, don’t hesitate to manually pull them apart.
To keep your pillow fresh between washes, use a removable and washable pillow protector underneath your regular pillowcase. This barrier protects against sweat, oils, and dust mites. It’s much easier to wash a protector weekly than the entire pillow.
What Not to Do When Washing Your Pillow
Avoiding these mistakes will save your pillow from premature wear.
- Do not use bleach or fabric softener. They degrade the foam and fabrics.
- Do not put the pillow in a top-loading washer with a central agitator if possible; it can be too rough.
- Do not skip the extra rinse cycle. Soap residue attracts dirt faster.
- Do not use high heat in the dryer. It can melt or degrade the memory foam.
- Do not store the pillow while it’s even slightly damp.
Washing the Coop Pillow Cover
Your pillow likely came with a removable outer cover. This should be washed more frequently—about every two weeks. Zip it off and wash it separately from the pillow on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Tumble dry on low heat. Washing the cover regularly is the easiest way to maintain a fresh sleeping surface without having to wash the entire pillow as often.
When to Replace Your Coop Pillow
Even with perfect care, pillows don’t last forever. If your pillow no longer regains its fluff after washing, if the foam has broken down into dust, or if it has an persistent odor you can’t remove, it’s probably time for a new one. With proper washing every 4-6 months, a Coop pillow should provide excellent support for several years.
FAQ: Your Coop Pillow Washing Questions
Can I put my Coop pillow in the washing machine?
Yes, most Coop pillows are machine washable. Always use a gentle cycle with cold or warm water and a mild detergent. It’s best to use a front-loading or HE machine without an aggressive central agitator.
How often should you wash a Coop pillow?
You should plan to wash the entire pillow every 4 to 6 months. The removable outer cover should be washed every two weeks to manage oils and dust. This routine keeps your sleep environment clean and extends the pillow’s life.
Can you dry a Coop pillow?
You can and should dry your Coop pillow thoroughly. Use a dryer on the lowest heat setting possible and include dryer balls to break up clumps. Be prepared for it to take several hours, and ensure the center is completely dry before use.
Why did my pillow clump after washing?
Clumping is normal for shredded foam pillows. It happens when the damp foam pieces stick together. The key is to break up these clumps manually every 30 minutes during the drying process and to use dryer balls. Once fully dry, a good shaking and kneading will restore it.
Is it safe to use vinegar when washing?
Yes, adding half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle can help remove detergent residue and neutralize odors. It’s a natural fabric softener alternative, but it won’t harm the foam. Just make sure you still rinse thoroughly.
What if my pillow smells musty after washing?
A musty smell usually means moisture is trapped inside. The pillow was not dried completely. You need to re-dry it immediately on low heat with dryer balls until every bit is dry. For persistent smells, a sprinkle of baking soda on the dry pillow before a final short dryer cycle can help.
Taking care of your Coop pillow is straightforward once you know the steps. Regular cleaning not only maintains hygiene but also preserves the supportive qualities of the foam. By following this guide, you can ensure many nights of comfortable, clean sleep. Remember, the effort you put into caring for your pillow directly impacts how well it cares for you.