TL;DR
To wash your pillows correctly, first check the care tag. For machine-washable types like down, feather, and fiberfill, use a front-load or top-load machine without a central agitator. Always wash two pillows together to keep the machine balanced. Use a small amount of gentle, liquid detergent on a delicate cycle with warm water. Add an extra rinse cycle to remove all soap residue. Dry the pillows on low heat with wool dryer balls or clean tennis balls to break up clumps and ensure they are completely dry to prevent mold.
Your pillow is more than just a place to rest your head; it’s a nightly companion that absorbs a surprising amount of sweat, body oils, skin cells, and saliva. Over time, this environment can become a hotspot for dust mites and bacteria, with studies showing that the average pillow can contain millions of fungal spores. This buildup not only leads to yellow stains and unpleasant odors but can also trigger allergies, acne, and other skin irritations, potentially disrupting the quality of your sleep.
Understanding how to clean your pillows is essential for maintaining a healthy sleep environment. However, the process isn’t one-size-fits-all. The material inside your pillow, whether it’s fluffy down, supportive memory foam, or common polyester fiberfill, dictates the entire cleaning method. Washing a memory foam pillow like a down one can destroy it, while improper drying can leave any pillow lumpy and damp. Following the right steps for your specific pillow type ensures it remains clean, supportive, and comfortable for years to come.
Before You Begin: The Essential Pre-Wash Checklist
Before a single drop of water touches your pillow, a few preparatory steps can mean the difference between a refreshed pillow and a laundry room disaster. Taking a moment to check the care instructions and inspect the pillow’s condition is the most important part of the process. This initial assessment ensures you use the correct method and avoid damaging the pillow or your washing machine.
Decoding the Care Tag: Your Pillow’s Instruction Manual
The small fabric tag sewn into the seam of your pillow is your most reliable guide. Manufacturers provide specific instructions based on the materials used. Learning to read these symbols is simple and will give you clear directions.
- Machine Wash Symbol: A tub with water indicates it’s safe for the washing machine. The number inside the tub suggests the maximum water temperature in Celsius. Dots can also indicate temperature: one dot for cold, two for warm, and three for hot.
- Hand Wash Symbol: A tub with a hand in it means you should wash the pillow by hand, not in a machine. This is common for delicate materials like memory foam or latex.
- Do Not Wash Symbol: A tub with an “X” through it means the pillow should not be submerged in water. These pillows are typically spot-clean only.
- Tumble Dry Symbol: A square with a circle inside means it’s safe for the dryer. Dots inside the circle indicate the heat setting: one for low, two for medium, and three for high. An “X” through this symbol means you must air-dry it.
If the tag is missing or faded, the safest approach is to treat the pillow as delicate. Use the hand-washing method or a gentle machine cycle with cold water, and always opt for low-heat or air drying.
Inspecting for Damage
A pillow with a weak seam or a small tear can easily burst open during the vigorous spin cycle of a washing machine. This would not only ruin the pillow but also leave you with a machine full of soggy filling that can clog the drain and damage the motor.
Before washing, carefully examine the entire pillow, paying close attention to the seams and corners. If you find any rips or areas where the stitching is coming loose, take a few minutes to repair them with a needle and thread. A simple running stitch is usually enough to secure the seam and prevent a laundry catastrophe.
Spot Treatment for Stubborn Stains
For noticeable stains, such as yellowing from sweat or a makeup smudge, pre-treating them before the main wash will yield much better results. Attacking the stain directly helps break it down so the wash cycle can lift it away completely.
You can use a commercial stain remover, but a simple homemade solution often works just as well. Create a paste using equal parts baking soda and water, or use a dab of a gentle, enzyme-based cleaner. Apply the treatment directly to the stain, gently rubbing it into the fabric with a soft brush or cloth. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes before you proceed with washing. This extra step helps dissolve the oils and proteins that cause discoloration.
Machine Washing Down, Feather, and Fiberfill Pillows
Down, feather, and synthetic fiberfill (polyester) pillows are the most common types and are generally durable enough for a machine wash. However, using the correct technique is vital to ensure they come out clean, fluffy, and evenly filled. The wrong machine or settings can cause the filling to clump permanently or damage the delicate structure of down and feathers.
Preparing the Washing Machine
The type of washing machine you use matters. A front-loading machine is the best option because it tumbles the pillows gently. A top-loading machine without a central agitator (the tall spindle in the middle) is also a good choice. Traditional top-loaders with agitators can be too rough, aggressively twisting and compressing the pillows, which can lead to damage and clumping.
Balance is another critical factor. Always wash two pillows at a time to keep the drum balanced during the spin cycle. An unbalanced load can cause the machine to shake violently and may even trigger it to stop mid-cycle. If you only have one pillow to wash, add a couple of light-colored towels to the load to even things out.
Choosing the Right Detergent and Settings
When it comes to detergent, less is more. Pillow fillings are highly absorbent and can easily trap soap residue, which can lead to skin irritation and attract more dirt over time. Use only a small amount (about one or two teaspoons) of a gentle, low-sudsing liquid detergent. Powdered detergents can fail to dissolve completely, leaving a chalky residue inside the pillow.
Select the gentle or delicate cycle on your machine. This setting uses a slower spin speed and less agitation, which is kinder to the pillow’s filling. Use warm water, as it is effective at cleaning and killing germs without being as harsh as hot water. Hot water can sometimes damage delicate down clusters or cause certain synthetic fibers to break down.
The Crucial Extra Rinse Cycle
One of the most overlooked yet essential steps is running an extra rinse cycle. Because pillows are so thick and absorbent, a standard rinse cycle often isn’t enough to flush out all the detergent. Trapped soap not only makes the pillow feel stiff but can also become a food source for dust mites.
Most modern washing machines have an “Extra Rinse” option. If yours doesn’t, you can simply run a second rinse-and-spin cycle after the main wash is complete. This ensures that all the soap is gone, leaving your pillow fresh, clean, and free of potential irritants. Squeeze a corner of the pillow after the final spin; if you see suds, it needs another rinse.
The Art of Drying Pillows Without Lumps
Properly drying your pillows is just as important as washing them. A damp pillow is a perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can create musty odors and pose health risks. The goal is to get the pillow completely dry, both inside and out, while restoring its original fluffiness and avoiding clumps. This requires patience and a few simple tools.
Squeezing, Not Wringing
Once the wash cycle is finished, your pillows will be heavy with water. Your first instinct might be to wring them out, but this is a mistake. Wringing and twisting can damage the delicate fibers of the filling, whether it’s down, feathers, or polyester, leading to permanent lumps and flat spots.
Instead, gently squeeze the excess water out. You can do this by pressing the pillow against the side of the washing machine drum or by placing it flat between two clean, dry towels and pressing down firmly. This removes a significant amount of moisture without damaging the internal structure, which will help speed up the drying time.
Using the Dryer Effectively
For down, feather, and synthetic pillows, a machine dryer is the most effective method. The key is to use a low heat setting. High heat can melt synthetic fibers and make down or feathers brittle and damaged, a condition often called “scorching.”
To prevent the filling from clumping together into dense balls, you need to introduce some agitation into the dryer. The most popular trick is to add two or three wool dryer balls or clean tennis balls (placing each tennis ball inside a clean sock helps prevent any color or fuzz from transferring). As the dryer tumbles, the balls will bounce around, continuously breaking up the filling and helping it dry evenly while fluffing it up. You will need to stop the dryer every 30 minutes to manually fluff the pillows, breaking up any clumps by hand before restarting the cycle.
The “Completely Dry” Test
A pillow can feel dry on the outside while still being damp in the center. It is absolutely critical to ensure it is 100% dry before putting it back on your bed. To check, take the pillow out of the dryer and feel it all over. Squeeze different sections firmly to check for any cool spots or dense, damp clumps. Another good test is to smell it; a clean, dry pillow should have no odor, while a damp one might have a faint, musty scent.
If you have any doubt, run it for another dry cycle on low heat or let it air-dry in a sunny, well-ventilated spot for a few hours. The UV rays from the sun also act as a natural sanitizer, helping to kill any lingering bacteria.
How to Wash Pillows That Can’t Go in the Machine: Memory Foam and Latex
Memory foam and latex pillows offer excellent support, but their delicate structure cannot handle the agitation of a washing machine. Putting a foam pillow in a washer or dryer will cause it to tear, crumble, and lose its shape, effectively destroying it. For these types of pillows, a more hands-on approach is required.
Why Machine Washing is a No-Go
The core of a memory foam or latex pillow is a solid block or shredded pieces of foam. This material is dense yet fragile. The spinning and tumbling of a washing machine can easily rip solid foam apart. Even if it survives the wash, the high heat of a dryer will cause the foam to break down and disintegrate, rendering it useless. The waterlogged foam also becomes incredibly heavy, which can damage your machine. For these reasons, hand-cleaning is the only safe and effective method.
The Hand-Washing and Spot-Cleaning Method
For routine cleaning or minor spills, spot-cleaning is usually sufficient. If a deeper clean is needed, you can hand-wash the pillow, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions first, as some foam pillows should never be fully submerged.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Remove and Wash the Cover: Unzip and remove the pillow’s protective cover or case. Most covers are machine washable; wash it according to its care tag.
- Vacuum the Pillow: Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to go over the entire surface of the pillow. This removes dust, hair, pet dander, and other surface debris.
- Spot-Clean Stains: Mix a small amount of gentle laundry detergent with a bowl of lukewarm water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution, wring it out so it’s damp but not dripping, and gently blot the stained area. Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent it from spreading.
- Rinse the Spot: Dampen a separate clean cloth with plain water and blot the area again to “rinse” out the soap.
- For a Deeper Clean (if permissible): Fill a bathtub or large sink with lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle detergent. Fully submerge the pillow and gently squeeze it to allow the soapy water to work through the foam. Avoid aggressive scrubbing or twisting. Drain the soapy water and refill with clean water to rinse, squeezing the pillow until the water runs clear.
Air Drying Foam Pillows
Properly drying a foam pillow is a slow process that requires patience. Never put it in a dryer. After washing, gently squeeze out as much water as possible without wringing it.
Lay the pillow flat on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated room. To speed up the process, you can place a fan nearby to improve air circulation. Flip the pillow every few hours to ensure all sides dry evenly. Depending on the humidity and thickness of the pillow, it can take up to 24 hours to dry completely. Do not use the pillow until it is thoroughly dry, as any remaining moisture can lead to mold growth within the foam.
Tackling Yellow Stains and Odors
Over time, it’s common for pillows to develop yellow stains, which are primarily caused by the accumulation of sweat and body oils. While regular washing helps, sometimes these stubborn stains and associated odors require a more targeted approach to restore your pillows to a brighter, fresher state.
Understanding the Cause of Yellowing
The human body naturally produces oils and sweat, even during sleep. These substances, along with saliva, seep through your pillowcase and into the pillow itself. As they break down, they cause the fabric and filling to take on a yellow hue. This is a completely normal process, but it’s also a sign that it’s time for a deep clean. Allowing this buildup to remain can degrade the pillow’s materials and create an environment where bacteria can thrive.
A Natural Whitening Solution
Instead of reaching for harsh chlorine bleach, which can damage delicate pillow fillings like down and feathers, you can use a powerful yet gentle whitening solution made from common household ingredients. This can be used as a pre-soak for very stained pillows or added directly to the wash cycle.
Whitening Recipe and Method:
- Ingredients: 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide, ½ cup of distilled white vinegar, and your regular gentle laundry detergent.
- For a Pre-Soak: Fill a tub or top-loading machine with hot water. Add the ingredients and stir to combine. Submerge your pillows and let them soak for at least an hour before running the wash cycle.
- For the Wash Cycle: Add the hydrogen peroxide and vinegar to the drum of your washing machine along with the detergent at the start of the wash cycle.
Hydrogen peroxide acts as a mild, oxygen-based bleach that safely lifts stains from fabrics. White vinegar is a natural deodorizer that helps break down the body oils causing the discoloration.
Deodorizing with Baking Soda and Sunlight
For pillows that cannot be washed, like some memory foam or buckwheat pillows, you can still effectively remove odors. Baking soda is a fantastic natural deodorizer that absorbs smells without the need for water.
Simply sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the entire surface of the pillow and let it sit for several hours, or even overnight. The longer it sits, the more odors it will absorb. Afterward, use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to thoroughly remove all the baking soda.
Another powerful, all-natural tool is sunlight. Place the pillow outdoors in a sunny spot for a few hours. The ultraviolet rays from the sun are highly effective at killing odor-causing bacteria and can also help to naturally bleach out some of the yellowing. Schedule your maid services and experience the pristine difference for home
Pillow Maintenance: How Often to Wash and When to Replace
Washing your pillows is only part of the equation for a healthy sleep setup. A consistent maintenance schedule and knowing when a pillow has reached the end of its life are just as important. Regular care extends a pillow’s lifespan, while timely replacement ensures you continue to get the comfort and support you need.
The General Washing Schedule
To keep allergens, oils, and bacteria at bay, you should aim to wash your pillows regularly. The general recommendation is to wash them every three to six months. If you suffer from allergies, live in a warm climate, or tend to sweat a lot at night, you may want to wash them more frequently, perhaps once per season.
Using a zippered pillow protector is one of the best ways to maintain your pillow’s cleanliness between washes. This protective barrier sits between the pillow and your pillowcase, blocking the majority of sweat, oils, and allergens from reaching the pillow itself. You can wash the protector much more often, usually every few weeks along with your sheets.
Signs It’s Time for a New Pillow
Even with perfect care, every pillow eventually wears out. An old, unsupportive pillow can lead to neck pain, headaches, and poor sleep. Here are a few simple ways to tell if it’s time for a replacement:
- The Fold Test: This works well for down, feather, and fiberfill pillows. Fold the pillow in half and squeeze out the air. Let it go. A pillow with good support will spring back to its original shape. If it stays folded, the filling has lost its resilience and it’s time for a new one.
- Persistent Lumps: If you can feel permanent lumps or flat spots in the filling that don’t fluff out after washing and drying, the pillow can no longer provide even support.
- Stubborn Stains and Odors: If deep-set stains or a musty smell remain even after a thorough washing, it’s a sign that the buildup inside is too significant to remove.
- Waking Up with Pain: If you consistently wake up with a stiff neck or shoulder pain, your pillow may no longer be providing the proper alignment for your head and spine.
The Lifespan of Different Pillow Types
The material of your pillow largely determines how long it will last. Here are some general guidelines for pillow replacement:
- Polyester/Fiberfill: These are the least expensive but also the least durable, typically lasting 1 to 2 years.
- Down and Feather: With proper care, these high-quality pillows can last for 3 or more years.
- Memory Foam and Latex: These are very durable and often last between 2 and 4 years before they start to lose their supportive qualities.
Conclusion
Properly cleaning your pillows is a straightforward task that pays significant dividends for your health and sleep quality. The key is to identify your pillow’s material, follow the instructions on its care tag, and use the appropriate method, whether it’s a gentle machine wash or a careful hand-cleaning. Mastering the drying process is equally vital to prevent lumpy, moldy results and ensure your pillow returns to its fluffy, supportive state. A regular cleaning schedule keeps allergens and bacteria in check, while knowing when to replace a worn-out pillow ensures your neck and spine get the support they need.
By incorporating these practices into your regular cleaning routine, you transform your bed into a healthier, more comfortable sanctuary. To make this effort last even longer, consider investing in high-quality zippered pillow protectors. They act as a crucial first line of defense, absorbing most of the daily wear and tear and making future cleanings quicker and more effective. A clean pillow is a cornerstone of good sleep hygiene, helping you wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day. Contact us and Get a Free Quote Today