The Trick to Fluffing Up Flat Pillows Without Buying New Ones
A flat pillow can ruin a good night’s sleep, leaving you with neck pain and discomfort. Instead of tossing it out and buying a new one, you can easily revive your pillow with a few simple tricks. Whether your pillow has lost its shape due to daily use or improper storage, these methods will help bring back its fluff and support.
Give It a Good Shake and Massage
One of the easiest ways to fluff up a pillow is to give it a thorough shake and massage. Hold your pillow by the corners and shake it vigorously to redistribute the filling. If your pillow still feels flat, use your hands to massage and knead the stuffing, breaking up any clumps that have formed over time. This technique works especially well for fiberfill and down pillows, as it helps loosen compressed material and restore volume.
For an extra boost, grab both ends of the pillow and repeatedly press them together before pulling them apart. This motion helps air circulate through the filling, making it softer and more supportive again. Doing this regularly can keep your pillow from going completely flat over time.
Toss It in the Dryer with Tennis Balls
A quick and effective way to bring a pillow back to life is to place it in the dryer with a couple of clean tennis balls. The tennis balls act as agitators, bouncing around inside the dryer to break up lumps and redistribute the filling evenly. Set the dryer to a low heat or air-fluff cycle and let it run for 15–20 minutes.
If you don’t have tennis balls, rolled-up socks or dryer balls can work just as well. This trick is especially useful for down and synthetic pillows that tend to clump over time. Not only does this method fluff up your pillow, but it also helps remove any trapped moisture that might be making it feel dense or heavy.
Let It Air Out in the Sun
Sunlight is a natural way to refresh and fluff up a pillow, especially if it feels damp or musty. Take your pillow outside on a dry, sunny day and lay it flat on a clean surface. The heat from the sun helps evaporate any moisture trapped inside, while the fresh air encourages the fibers to expand.
For the best results, flip the pillow every hour to ensure both sides get equal exposure. If you want to enhance the fluffing effect, occasionally fluff the pillow with your hands as it airs out. This method works particularly well for foam and fiberfill pillows, helping to restore their bounce and freshness.
Try the Roll-and-Squeeze Method
If your pillow is feeling stiff and flat, try rolling and squeezing it like a sleeping bag. Start by rolling the pillow tightly from one end to the other, applying gentle pressure as you go. Then, unroll it and fold it in half, pressing down firmly to distribute the filling.
This technique helps break up compressed areas and allows trapped air to re-enter the pillow, making it feel softer and more supportive. If your pillow is extra stubborn, repeat this process a few times until it regains its shape.
Steam It for Instant Lift
Steam can work wonders in reviving a flattened pillow by loosening up compacted fibers and adding back some volume. If you have a garment steamer, hold it a few inches away from the pillow and pass it over the surface in slow, even strokes. The heat from the steam will help plump up the filling and refresh the fabric at the same time.
If you don’t have a steamer, try hanging your pillow in the bathroom while taking a hot shower. The steam from the shower will have a similar effect, gently expanding the fibers and restoring the pillow’s loft. Just be sure to let it dry completely before using it to prevent moisture buildup.
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A flat pillow doesn’t mean it’s time for a replacement. With these simple tricks, you can restore its fluff and comfort without spending a dime. Whether you shake it, toss it in the dryer, or use steam, taking a few minutes to revive your pillow can make all the difference in getting a good night’s sleep.
Charlie Golsley
