I had no idea

When you buy a brand-new pillow, you might see a small piece of fabric tucked neatly inside a plastic bag. At first glance, this little square of material might just seem like a leftover from the making process or maybe even a mistake in the packaging. However, this tiny fabric piece actually has a very specific and helpful purpose that can assist you in keeping your pillow in good shape and making it last longer. In this article, we will explore the interesting reason behind this fabric square and explain how it can be a useful tool for taking care of your pillow.

Understanding Why the Fabric Square is Included

The small fabric square that comes with your pillow is actually a sample of the exact material that was used to make the pillowcase or the outer cover of the pillow. Its main job is to give you a chance to try out different cleaning products and methods on a small, hidden piece of fabric before you use them on the entire pillow. This is especially important for pillows that are made from delicate or special kinds of fabric that might react in unexpected ways to certain soaps or cleaning methods. As the text mentions, its primary purpose is “to allow you to test cleaning products and methods on a small, inconspicuous piece of fabric before applying them to the entire pillow.”

How to Properly Use the Fabric Square for Testing

To get the most out of this fabric square, start by picking the cleaning product or method that you are thinking about using on your pillow. Take the fabric square and put a small amount of the product on it. Then, let it sit for the amount of time that is recommended for the cleaning product. After that, rinse or wipe the fabric square in the same way that you would clean the pillow itself. Now, carefully look at the fabric square to see if there are any changes in its color, how it feels, or if it seems weaker. If the fabric square looks the same and is not damaged, then it is likely safe for you to use that product on your pillow.

Why Testing Cleaning Products is So Important

Testing cleaning products on the fabric square is really important because it can stop you from accidentally damaging your pillow. As the text points out, “testing cleaning products on the fabric square is crucial because it prevents potential damage to your pillow.” Some cleaning products have chemicals in them that can cause the color of the fabric to fade, make the fabric shrink, or even make the fibers of the fabric weak. By doing a test on the fabric square first, you can avoid these problems and make sure that your pillow stays in great condition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Test Square

One common mistake that people make is not using the test square at all, which, as the text warns, “can lead to irreversible damage to your pillow.” Another mistake is not following the instructions for the cleaning product or method, for example, using too much soap or using too much heat. It’s always best to follow the guidelines that the maker of the cleaning product provides and use the fabric square as a first step to prevent any accidents.

What to Do If the Test Square Shows Signs of Damage

If you test a cleaning product on the fabric square and you see that the square has been damaged, then you should definitely not use that cleaning product on your pillow. Instead, you should think about using other cleaning methods or products that are made specifically for delicate fabrics. The text advises, “If the fabric square shows signs of damage after testing, do not use the cleaning product on your pillow.” You could also try contacting the company that made the pillow to ask for their advice on the best and safest ways to clean it.

Helpful Tips for Taking Care of Your Pillowcases

To keep your pillowcases in good condition, make sure to wash them regularly according to the care instructions that came with them. It’s a good idea to use mild soaps and avoid strong chemicals or bleach. When drying them, either let them air dry or use a low heat setting in your dryer to prevent them from shrinking. Additionally, you might want to consider using pillow protectors, which can help shield your pillows from spills and stains and help them last longer. As the text suggests, “consider using pillow protectors to shield your pillows from spills and stains, extending their lifespan.”

Conclusion: Making Your Pillowcases Last

The small fabric square that comes with your new pillow might seem unimportant, but it actually plays a very important role in helping you keep your pillow in good shape for a long time. By using it to test cleaning products before you use them on the whole pillow, you can prevent damage and make sure that your pillowcases stay in excellent condition. With the right care and attention, your pillows can continue to provide you with comfort and support for many years to come.