Washing Pillows

When cleaning mattresses and bedding, always check the manufacturer's care label first. In the case of pilows, chances are it can be thrown in the washing machine. Place two or three pillows in the machine, making sure to distribute evenly around the agitator. Use a gentle cycle and a mild detergent. To dry, place in the dryer along with a clean pair of sneakers to keep them from bunching up. To give them a fresh scent, use a couple of fabric softener sheets.

Closet Dampness Removal

A damp closet may highlight a more underlying problem and may be something you'll need to have looked into by a professional. In most cases it signals poor ventilation. Try using a dehumidifier to dry out the closet. If you don't already have one installed, employ the use of a lightbult to add a little heat to the situation. (Keep well away from clothes, however.) Chalk, silica gel, and activated alumina can all be placed in a container and put on a closet shelf to absorb the moisture. None of these will harm clothes. To remove musty smells, hang a dryer sheet in the back of your closet or lay one on a shelf.

Fresh Smelling Guest Beds

Guest beds that are not often used can end up smelling musty. If you like to keep your guest beds made up, keep the sheets smelling fresh by placing a fabric softener sheet under the blanket or bedspread until the bed is needed. When you do your periodic mattress cleaning, exchange the old sheet for a fresh one.

Washing Down Comforter

When it's time for cleaning mattresses and bedding, always remember to check manufacturer's care labels first. In many cases, the label on a comforter will recommend dry cleaning. If this is the case, don't throw the comforter into the washing machine. If your comforter can be washed in the machine, use a gentle cycle, a mild detergent and distribute the comforter evenly around the agitator. Dry the comforter in the dryer using a clean pair of sneakers and a couple of dryer sheets to keep it smelling fresh.