How to Wash Pillows: The Essential Guide for Every Home
Keep your sleep environment cleaner and healthier with easy-care routines that last.
It’s easy to forget about your pillows when cleaning the rest of your bedding, but did you know that pillows collect not just dust and dirt, but also body oils, sweat, and even dust mites? Regularly cleaning your pillows not only ensures a fresher bed but also extends their lifespan and keeps allergens at bay. This in-depth guide explains everything you need to know about washing, drying, and caring for your pillows, whether they’re filled with down, feathers, memory foam, or polyester.
Why You Should Wash Your Pillows
Pillows are critical to sleep comfort but often overlooked during routine cleaning. Over time, they become a magnet for body oils, sweat, dead skin cells, and allergens. These can lead to flattened fill, unpleasant odors, and potential health risks for allergy sufferers. Cleaning your pillows regularly helps:
- Remove allergens such as dust mites and pet dander.
- Eliminate unpleasant odors from sweat and oils.
- Restore pillow loft for better support and comfort.
- Extend the pillow’s usable life, reducing waste.
Expert Tip: Mike Roberts, CEO of WaveMAX Laundry, recommends washing pillows at least twice a year.
How to Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine
Many pillows, especially down, feather, and polyester-fill, can be safely machine washed. However, always read the care label first; the instructions there take precedence. Here’s a step-by-step process to get your pillows as fresh as your clean sheets:
1. Check the Pillow Label
Always refer to the care label before washing. Generally, polyester, down, and feather pillows are machine-washable, while memory foam and latex are not. Machine-washing the wrong type may damage the pillow or the washer.
2. Is Your Machine Big Enough?
Ensure your washing machine is large enough for the pillows. Standard machines fit smaller pillows, but queen or king pillows need more space to tumble. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cleaning or trapped moisture. If in doubt, use the extra-large washers at a laundromat.
3. Prep the Pillows
- Remove any pillowcases, shams, or protectors. These can be washed separately.
- Pre-treat visible stains with a gentle stain remover or diluted detergent, then let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Washing Settings and Detergent
- Place two pillows in the machine to keep it balanced during the spin cycle.
- Use a gentle cycle to prevent the fill from breaking down.
- Choose cold or warm water. Hot water can damage delicate materials and fillings.
- Use less detergent: No more than 1/4 capful for two pillows. Too much detergent can leave residue.
- Avoid fabric softeners, as they can coat the filling with a film that attracts dirt.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
- Select a second or “deep rinse” cycle to ensure all detergent is removed.
- If your machine doesn’t have this setting, manually start an additional rinse and spin cycle.
6. After Washing: Extra Spin Cycle
After the initial washing, check if the pillows are still heavy with water. If so, run another spin cycle. Pillows should be damp—not dripping—before drying.
How to Dry Pillows for Fluffiness and Freshness
Proper drying is crucial. Damp pillows can develop mold or mildew, so be patient and thorough. Here’s how to do it:
- Low Heat Setting: Tumble dry pillows on the lowest heat possible to prevent the filling from scorching or clumping.
- Add Dryer Balls or Clean Tennis Balls: Place 2-3 dryer or tennis balls in the dryer to help distribute the fill and restore fluffiness.
- Dryer Sheets: Optional, but a dryer sheet can help reduce static (especially with synthetic pillows).
- Frequent Fluffing: Pause the drying cycle every 30 minutes to fluff and reposition pillows for even drying.
- Check Thoroughness: Always confirm pillows are completely dry—especially in the center. Damp spots hidden in the filling can lead to mildew and odor.
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Special Care for Non-Machine Washable Pillows
Not all pillows are alike. If your pillows are made of memory foam, latex, or another specialized material, they may require special care.
How to Clean Memory Foam and Latex Pillows
- Never soak or machine-wash these pillows—moisture can damage their structure.
- Vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris.
- Spot clean stains:
- Mix mild detergent with water and use a cloth to gently blot stained areas.
- Wipe with a clean, damp towel to remove soap residue.
- Allow to fully air dry before use.
- For deeper cleaning: Submerge the pillow briefly (if care label allows), gently massage, rinse thoroughly, and air dry. Never twist or wring foam pillows.
Freshen Up Tip: Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the foam pillow, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum for an easy refresh between deeper cleans.
Washing Down and Feather Pillows: Special Considerations
Feather and down pillows are prized for their support—but they also require careful handling. Here’s how to care for them:
- Remove pillowcases and any protective covers first.
- Machine wash on gentle with minimal detergent—no more than a quarter of your usual amount.
- Never use fabric softener, which can trap moisture in the feathers.
- Down and feather pillows may take longer to dry. Always use low heat and check that no clumps remain damp inside.
If you prefer hand washing:
- Fill a tub with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
- Gently agitate the pillow—avoid rough twisting or wringing.
- Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear, pressing out excess water gently.
- Lay flat or hang to air dry in a well-ventilated spot, checking periodically for dryness in the center.
How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?
There’s no universal rule, but most cleaning experts recommend washing bed pillows at least twice a year. If you have allergies, pets, or tend to sweat at night, consider washing every three to four months. Protective pillow covers, laundered monthly, can reduce the buildup of dirt and extend the time between deep cleans.
Eco-Friendly Pillow Cleaning Tips
- Opt for plant-based or biodegradable laundry detergents.
- Spot clean with vinegar and baking soda to reduce chemical use.
- Always fill the washer and dryer efficiently to conserve water and energy.
- Repurpose old, clean pillows by upcycling them as pet beds or insulation for moving boxes.
Quick Reference Table: Pillow Washing Methods
| Pillow Type | Machine Washable? | Washing Method | Drying Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyester | Yes | Gentle cycle, cold/warm water | Low heat, dryer balls |
| Down/Feather | Yes | Gentle cycle, minimal detergent | Low heat, ensure thoroughly dry |
| Memory Foam | No | Spot clean, baking soda/vacuum | Air dry away from sunlight |
| Latex | No | Spot clean, mild soap | Air dry flat |
Tips for Making Pillows Last Longer
- Use pillow protectors and launder them monthly.
- Fluff pillows daily to redistribute fill and prevent lumping.
- Rotate or flip pillows every few months to maintain even wear.
- Replace pillows every 1-2 years, or if they no longer spring back after folding in half.
How to Repurpose Old Pillows
If your pillow has lost its shape and support, don’t send it straight to the landfill. Consider these creative reuses:
- Pet Beds: Stuff old pillow filling into a pet bed cover.
- Draft stoppers: Use stuffing in a sewn tube to block drafts under doors.
- Packing Materials: Use for cushioning fragile items during moves.
- Outdoor Kneeling Pads: Wrap and bind old pillows for the garden or garage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I wash my bed pillows?
Twice a year is ideal for most people, but allergy sufferers or those who sweat a lot at night may want to wash them quarterly.
Can I wash all pillows in the machine?
No. Polyester, down, and feather pillows are usually machine-washable. Memory foam and latex pillows should never be machine-washed; spot clean them instead.
Is it safe to dry pillows in the dryer?
Yes, as long as you use low heat and check that pillows are thoroughly dry inside and out. Adding dryer balls helps restore fluffiness.
What if my pillow smells after washing?
If a pillow has an odor after laundering, it may not be completely dry. Run it through another drying cycle or air-dry in fresh air until the smell dissipates.
Should I use bleach or harsh chemicals?
It’s best to avoid bleach unless the care label specifies it’s safe. Bleach can break down pillow materials and shorten lifespan.
How do I restore pillow fluff?
Dry pillows with dryer balls or clean tennis balls, and fluff by hand daily to keep them springy and supportive.
Final Thoughts
Washing your pillows may require a little time and care, but the rewards—cleaner sleep, better health, and longer-lasting bedding—make it worthwhile. Refer back to this guide each time cleaning day comes around to keep your bed as fresh as possible!
References
- https://www.homesandgardens.com/solved/how-to-wash-dry-care-for-pillows
- https://www.countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a34453429/how-to-wash-pillows/
- https://www.countryliving.com/uk/homes-interiors/interiors/a46359285/daily-cleaning-habits/
- https://thegardenerscottage.blogspot.com/2016/03/styling-tricks-of-country-living-photo.html
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