I recently washed some bed pillows. After letting them dry, I bagged them in vacuum storage bags (why, I don't know.. compulsive maybe? 🤣

A few days later I found they'd molded terrribly, so tossed them!

Washing and drying feather pillows is a process that requires a bit of care to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and dried without damaging the feathers. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Washing Feather Pillows:

Check the Pillow: Ensure there are no holes or tears in the pillow fabric. If there are, repair them before washing to prevent feathers from escaping.

Read Care Labels: Check the care label on the pillow for specific washing instructions. If there are specific recommendations, follow them.

Pre-treat Stains: If your pillows have any stains, spot clean them with a mild detergent or stain remover before washing.

Use a Mild Detergent: Use a gentle detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics. Avoid using fabric softeners as they can leave residues on the feathers.

Load the Washing Machine: Wash two pillows at a time to balance the load. This helps ensure thorough cleaning.

Select a Gentle Cycle: Use a gentle cycle with cool water to prevent damage to the feathers. Agitating too much or using hot water may cause the feathers to break.

Rinse Thoroughly: Run an extra rinse cycle to make sure all the detergent is removed.

Drying Feather Pillows:

Fluff the Pillows: Before drying, fluff the pillows to redistribute the feathers evenly.

Tennis Balls or Dryer Balls: Place a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls in the dryer with the pillows. This helps to prevent the feathers from clumping together.

Low Heat: Use a low heat setting in the dryer. High heat can damage the feathers, and it's essential to allow enough time for the pillows to dry thoroughly.

Check for Moisture: Stop the dryer periodically and check for any remaining moisture. Feather pillows can take a while to dry completely.

Dryer Sheets: You can add a couple of dryer sheets for a fresh scent, but make sure they don't contain too many chemicals.

Fluff Again: Once the pillows are dry, take them out and fluff them again to restore their shape.

Additional Tips:

Sun-Drying: If possible, air-dry the pillows in the sun. Sunlight has natural antibacterial properties and can help freshen up the feathers.

Professional Cleaning: If you're unsure or uncomfortable washing feather pillows yourself, consider taking them to a professional cleaner.

Remember to follow the care instructions provided by the pillow manufacturer, as some pillows may have specific requirements. Regularly washing and fluffing your feather pillows can help maintain their loft and extend their lifespan

goose down comforter in hot water. Dry them in the dryer on hot. Comforter takes quite awhile to dry but comes out fluffy and like new. Been doing this for years. Don’t know about the foam pillows.

I was trying to donate new still in plastic pillows and was told no thanks

...if a human charity will not.

towels anything that can be used as bedding

Because I have several of those that need going. Good condition, modern and likely polyester layer inside.

Guess I'd better check that, too.

Want to use as little soap as you feel you can, too much can muck it up and you can’t get it all out. . Soak them in the hottest water , plan of squeezing them out by hand several times. Soak and re soak a couple of times. You won’t believe how dirty they can get.
Rinse twice cooler water then get them wrung out enough to transfer to washer.
I then run a rinse only load with high spin. Transfer to dryer.
Tumble dry on low heat. Especially make sure that the feather pillows get REALLY dry.
A real bonus is the last step is finish off in bright sunshine for a couple of hours. Fluff and turn several times. Delicious pillows. Makes all the difference.