Give that Pillow a Wash!

Most of us never pay attention to our pillows, as long as they are comfortable, right? Well, keeping them clean is just as important!
The older the pillow, the more dust mites it may contain, resulting in asthma and allergies.

Here are some simple steps from experts, compiled by Lori Bongiorno, to keep them healthy:

"Wash pillows regularly
- Robin Wilson, an eco-friendly lifestyle expert, recommends washing pillows at least every three months. She makes a good point: "Would you wear your pajamas for three months without washing them?"
- Most pillows are machine washable, but check the labels before tossing them into your machine.
- Pillows can go in the dryer on a low setting.

Add an extra layer of protection
- Encase each pillow in a zippered allergy proof cover, and place a pillowcase on top of it. Wash pillow covers and pillowcases with other bedding in hot water once a week. Cold water will not kill dust mites.

Replace old pillows
- Wilson suggests replacing your pillows every three years. Washing your pillow will help, but it's still a good idea to start fresh every three years.
- If you have asthma or allergies, buy hypoallergenic pillows, which are typically foam. Otherwise, feather pillows are fine, but make sure they're machine-washable so you don't have to get them professionally cleaned.

Source: Environmental journalist Lori Bongiorno shares green-living tips and product reviews with Yahoo! Green's users.