How to Fluff a Pillow | Soak&Sleep

How to Fluff a Pillow

A plump, well-fluffed pillow can make all the difference to a good night's sleep. Over time, pillows can become flat and lose their shape, but with the right techniques, you can restore their fullness and comfort. Here’s how to fluff, or plump, different types of pillow fillings, from down to microfibre.

Down and feather pillows are naturally soft and responsive, but they can settle over time. To fluff and plump them:

  • Shake and squeeze: Hold the pillow by its corners and give it a good shake. Then, press and squeeze the pillow from both sides to redistribute the filling.
  • Massage the filling: Gently knead the pillow with your hands to break up clumped feathers or down.
  • Air it out: Place the pillow outside in the fresh air for a few hours. This helps restore its loft and remove any moisture trapped inside.

Fluffing a Microfibre or Hollowfibre Pillow

Microfibre and other synthetic pillows are designed to mimic the feel of down but may flatten over time. To refresh them:

  • Give it a good shake: Hold the pillow at opposite ends and shake it vigorously to redistribute the fibres.
  • Tumble dry with tennis balls: Place the pillow in a dryer with a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls. Use a low heat setting to help break up clumps and restore the fluffiness.
  • Manually plump: Press and knead the pillow to evenly spread the filling.

Fluffing a Wool Pillow

Wool pillows offer excellent temperature regulation and natural breathability, but they can become compressed over time. To restore their height:

  • Massage and shake: Gently massage the wool filling and shake the pillow to redistribute the fibres.
  • Air it out: Wool benefits from fresh air. Place the pillow outside on a dry day to help it regain its natural bounce.
  • Hand-plump regularly: Unlike synthetic options, wool pillows shouldn’t be put in the dryer. Instead, hand-fluff them daily to maintain their shape.

Final Tips

Plump your pillows daily to maintain their shape, and wash them every few months for freshness. Before you fluff, check the care labels for your pillow, as some pillows are low-maintenance and don’t require plumping, such as memory foam pillows. With proper care, your pillows will stay plump and comfortable for longer, giving you the perfect support for a restful night’s sleep.