August 15, 2024 4 min read
Finding the right travel pillow can change the game for your trips, turning the Sleeper Hold into as much of a travel essential as your passport. But let's face it, after a few journeys it will pick up some dirt, dust, and the usual travel grime. Keeping it clean is crucial for that fresh, comfy feel whenever you hit the skies (or the road).
The Sleeper Hold is designed for comfort and convenience however with regular use elements such as sweat, skin oils, hair products, and even the occasional snack crumb will can accumulate. Keeping your Sleeper Hold clean is essential for several reasons:
Hygiene: A clean pillow reduces the risk of skin irritations and allergies caused by dirt and bacteria.
Comfort: Clean fabric feels softer and more comfortable against your skin.
Durability: Regular cleaning can help extend the life of your travel pillow by maintaining the integrity of the materials.
The frequency of cleaning your Sleeper Hold depends on how often you use it. If you’re a frequent traveler, consider cleaning it after every few trips or once a month. For occasional travelers once every few trips is just fine.
First things first—gently take apart your Sleeper Hold travel pillow. This means separating the hooks from the mask and removing the pillow cover. Think of it like prepping for a puzzle; every piece needs to be laid out before you start so nothing gets lost!
Steps to Disassemble:
Remove Hooks: Carefully detach the hooks from the mask. This will prevent any damage to both the hooks and the mask.
Remove Pillow Cover: Unzip the pillow cover and remove the inner pillow. Be gentle to avoid tearing the fabric.
By disassembling your pillow, you can ensure each component gets the proper cleaning it needs.
To hand wash your mask and pillowcase, fill a bowl with cold water and a mild detergent. Gently submerge the items, giving them a light scrub to ensure they're clean. Afterward, rinse thoroughly with cold water, and gently squeeze out any excess water.
Steps for Washing:
Prepare for Washing: Take your mask and pillow cover and prepare to wash them in cold water.
Create a Gentle Detergent Solution: Fill a basin or sink with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap. Mix gently to create a soapy solution.
Hand Wash: Submerge the mask and pillow cover in the soapy water. Gently wash the items, ensuring you don't scrub too hard to maintain the fabric's integrity.
Rinse Thoroughly: Once cleaned, rinse both the mask and pillow cover under cold running water until all the soap is removed.
Press Out Water: Press out excess water gently without wringing or twisting to avoid damaging the fabric.
Why a Gentle Cycle and Mild Detergent?
Using a gentle cycle and mild detergent is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your Sleeper Hold travel pillow. Harsh cycles and strong detergents can break down the fibers, reducing the pillow's lifespan and comfort. Additionally, a mild detergent can help avoid irritation for those with sensitive skin.
Once the wash cycle is done, it's time for a natural dry. Skip the dryer to preserve the mask’s shape and softness. Instead, hang it along with the pillow cover to dry.
Steps for Drying:
Hang to Dry: Find a clean, dry area to hang your mask and pillow cover. Avoid direct sunlight as it can cause fading.
Shape Retention: Gently reshape the mask and pillow cover while they are still damp to maintain their original form.
Patience: Allow ample time for air drying. Depending on the humidity and temperature, this could take a few hours.
Why Skip the Dryer?
Dryers can be harsh on delicate fabrics, causing shrinkage and loss of shape. Air drying, on the other hand, helps maintain the softness and structure of your Sleeper Hold travel pillow.
Now that everything's fresh and dry, let's put it back together. Here's a pro tip: go ahead and attach the right hooks now, based on whether you're flying or road-tripping next. It's a little shortcut that'll save you some time later on. Remember - plastic hooks for the road, metal for the sky.
Steps to Reassemble:
Attach Hooks: Reattach the hooks to the mask. Make sure to use plastic hooks for road trips and metal hooks for flights.
Insert Pillow: Place the inner pillow back into the cover. Zip it up securely.
Pro Tips for Maintaining Your Sleeper Hold
Travel Pouch: Store your travel pillow in its pouch when not in use. This keeps it clean and protected.
Spot Cleaning: For minor stains or spills, use a damp cloth with mild soap or a fabric refresher spray to spot-clean the affected area. This can help extend the time between full washes.
Keeping your travel pillow clean goes beyond hygiene and comfort. It also:
Enhances Sleep Quality: A clean pillow can improve your sleep quality during travel by providing a fresh and pleasant surface to rest on.
Reduces Allergens: Regular cleaning helps remove allergens such as dust mites and pet dander, making it safer for individuals with allergies.
Prolong Pillow Life: Proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your travel pillow, giving you more value for your investment.
Maintaining the cleanliness and integrity of your Sleeper Hold travel pillow is essential for a comfortable and hygienic travel experience. With these easy steps and tips, you can keep your travel pillow in top-notch condition, ready for any adventure that comes your way.
So, whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional road tripper, a clean Sleeper Hold travel pillow can make all the difference. Enjoy the fresh, cozy feel and sleep well on your journeys. Safe travels!
And there you have it! Four easy steps to keep your Sleeper Hold in tip-top condition, ensuring it's always ready for your next adventure with that just-washed, cozy feel. Happy travels!