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Last Updated April 21, 2025
We all love that feeling of sinking into a soft, fluffy pillow after a long day. But when was the last time you actually washed your pillows? While we’re often diligent about washing pillow protectors, the pillows themselves tend to be forgotten. If you’re wondering, "Can you wash pillows?" the answer is usually yes! And doing so can make a significant difference in your sleep hygiene and overall health.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about washing pillows, starting from why it matters to how to do it properly.
Key Takeaways:
Pillows may seem harmless, but they can secretly accumulate a surprising amount of dirt and allergens. Every night, as you sleep, your skin sheds cells, and your hair releases oils — all of which can work their way through your pillowcase and into the pillow itself. And let’s not forget the occasional drool or accidental spill, which only adds to the mess.
This buildup can also trigger allergies or worsen conditions like asthma and eczema. Dust mites, in particular, thrive in the warm, humid environment of pillows. Breathing in the allergens they leave behind can make getting a good night’s sleep difficult.
One study examined pillows for fungal contamination and found that the typical used pillow, especially synthetic and feather pillows, can host numerous species of fungi, with Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) being particularly common. This is concerning, given how much time we spend sleeping with our heads resting on pillows, placing our airways in direct proximity to these contaminants.
Washing your pillows regularly helps to eliminate these allergens, ensuring cleaner air as you sleep. It also makes your pillows feel better, giving you a more comfortable and relaxing rest.
Plus, clean pillows last longer. Regular washing prevents stains from setting, keeps musty odors away, and maintains the pillow’s shape and fluffiness. Taking the time to wash your pillows is a small effort that leads to a healthier, more enjoyable sleep.
Well, most pillows can be washed, but the method will vary depending on the material. Here’s a breakdown of common pillow types and how to handle them:
Down and feather bed pillows are usually machine washable. Their natural fill makes them incredibly comfy, but they require a gentle touch when cleaning. Use a mild detergent and set your machine to a gentle cycle. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can coat the feathers and reduce fluffiness.
Memory foam and latex pillows are not machine washable. Water can break down the structure of these pillows, causing them to lose their shape. Instead, spot clean using a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Be sure not to oversaturate the material.
Polyester and synthetic pillows are the easiest to clean. They are designed to withstand regular machine washing.
Buckwheat pillows are a bit different from the other types. The hulls inside are not washable, so you’ll need to empty the hulls before cleaning the pillow cover. Spread the buckwheat hulls out in the sun occasionally to freshen them up.
Cotton pillows are a popular choice, often filled with natural or synthetic cotton fibers. Many cotton pillows are machine washable, but always check the care label to confirm.
Now that you know which pillows can be washed, follow these washing instructions for a successful clean:
Step 1: Check the Care Label
Always read the care label on your pillow before washing it. Doing this will indicate if your pillow is machine washable and provide specific instructions.
Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
Inspect your pillows for stains. Apply a mild stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water to any noticeable spots. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before washing. This helps lift stains and eliminate odors.
Step 3: Load the Washing Machine
Wash two pillows at a time to keep the machine balanced during the spin cycle. If you have a front-loading washer or a top loader without an agitator, that’s ideal. Agitators can be rough on pillows and may cause damage.
Step 4: Select the Right Settings
Use a mild liquid detergent—powder detergents may leave residue. Select a delicate cycle with warm water to clean effectively while protecting the pillow's structure. Add an extra rinse cycle to ensure no detergent remains in the pillow, which can cause irritation.
Step 5: Drying the Pillows
After washing, transfer your pillows to the dryer. Tumble dry on low heat setting. High heat can damage the filling, especially in down and feather pillows. Add a couple of dryer balls or clean tennis balls to fluff the pillows as they dry. These help prevent clumping and maintain their shape. Stop the dryer occasionally to fluff and reposition the pillows, ensuring even drying.
Make sure the pillows are completely dry before using them to prevent mold and mildew. This may take 1-2 hours, depending on the material.
If your pillows still have a slight odor after drying, run them through a second drying cycle with dryer balls for additional fluffing and freshness.
As we said before, not all pillows can be machine-washed. Memory foam, latex, and some specialty pillows are best cleaned by hand. Water can damage their internal structure, but spot cleaning and surface washing will do the trick.
Step 1: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
Fill a large basin with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can break down materials like foam. Add a small amount of mild detergent — about a tablespoon per gallon of water. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
Step 2: Spot Clean Stains
If there are any visible stains, gently apply a mixture of detergent and water with a soft cloth. For stubborn stains, use a baking soda paste (made with water) and scrub lightly in circular motions.
Step 3: Clean the Pillow
If spot cleaning isn’t enough, fully submerge the pillow in the water. Gently press and squeeze the pillow to allow the soapy water to penetrate the material. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can damage delicate materials.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean water. Press the pillow repeatedly to remove the soap. You may need to rinse several times until the water runs clear.
Step 5: Remove Excess Water
Gently squeeze the pillow to remove as much water as possible. Lay a clean, dry towel on a flat surface and place the pillow on top. Roll it up to help absorb extra moisture.
Step 6: Air Dry the Pillow
Place the pillow on a flat surface in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Flip it every few hours to ensure even drying. For faster drying, position a fan nearby to circulate air. Foam pillows may take 24 hours or more to dry completely, so be patient.
If your pillow has a removable cover, wash the cover separately according to its care instructions.
If washing your pillow hasn’t been on your radar until now, no worries! It’s easy to overlook, especially with all the other laundry tasks on your plate. But giving your pillows a good wash every 3 to 6 months can freshen things up and help you sleep better. Plus, a clean pillow just feels nicer, doesn’t it?
Yes, most pillows are machine washable, especially down, feather, and synthetic pillows. Always check the care label for specific instructions. Memory foam and latex pillows should not be machine washed, but they can be spot-cleaned instead.
To prevent damage, use a gentle cycle with mild detergent and warm water. Wash two pillows at once to maintain balance in the machine. Avoid high-speed spins and ensure thorough drying to prevent mold and mildew.
Washing pillows removes dirt, oil, sweat, and allergens, providing a healthier sleep environment. Clean pillows also last longer and maintain their comfort better.
Yes, most pillows can go in the dryer. Tumble dry on low heat and add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to fluff the pillows.
It's generally recommended to wash your pillows every 3 to 6 months. Don’t forget to clean your pillowcases more frequently (ideally once a week) to keep your sleeping environment fresh.
For most pillows, lukewarm water is ideal, as it effectively removes dirt while being gentle on the fabric. However, always check the care label for specific instructions. Some synthetic or delicate pillows may require cold water to prevent damage.
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Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
