Ever wondered why your pillows don’t feel as fresh as they used to, no matter how often you change the pillowcases? Over time, pillows collect sweat, oils, and dust mites, making regular cleaning essential for both comfort and health.
Luckily, most pillows can be easily revived in your washing machine. In this article, you’ll find simple instructions, helpful tips, and key advice to ensure your pillows come out clean, fluffy, and ready for a restful night’s sleep.
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The Complete Guide to Washing Pillows in the Washing Machine
Keeping your pillows fresh and clean isn’t just about comfort; it’s also about your health and the lifespan of your bedding. While many people are unsure about putting pillows in the washing machine, most pillows can actually be machine-washed safely and effectively. In this guide, you’ll learn how to wash your pillows in the washing machine the right way, protect their fluff, and keep your bed feeling like new.
Can You Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine?
For most synthetic, down, and feather pillows, the answer is a resounding yes! Washing pillows can remove dust mites, sweat, oils, and allergens that accumulate over time. However, some foam or specialty pillows need special care, as they may be damaged in the machine.
Knowing your pillow’s material is the first step:
- Machine-washable: Most down, feather, and synthetic fiber (polyester) pillows.
- Hand-wash only or surface-clean: Memory foam, latex, and some specialty pillows.
Before proceeding, always check the care label on your pillow for manufacturer instructions. If the label is missing, use these general tips based on pillow types.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine
1. Check the Labels and Inspect the Pillow
- Read the care tag for washing instructions.
- Look for rips, tears, or weak spots. Mend any holes before washing, so filling doesn’t escape.
2. Prepare the Washing Machine
- Use a front-loading washer or a top-loader without an agitator if possible. The central agitator in some models can damage pillows.
- Balance the load by washing two pillows at a time if your washer has space. This keeps the machine from becoming lopsided during spinning.
3. Choose the Right Detergent and Wash Cycle
- Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Too much soap makes pillows tough to rinse.
- Select a gentle, warm water cycle (hot water can damage delicate fabrics).
- For extra cleanliness, you can add an extra rinse cycle.
4. Washing Process
- Remove pillowcases and protectors.
- Place pillows in the washer.
- Add mild detergent.
- Set to gentle or delicate cycle with warm (not hot) water.
- Start the machine and let it run through the entire cycle.
5. Rinsing and Spinning
- Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is washed away.
- Choose a high-speed spin to remove as much water as possible, speeding up drying time.
6. Drying the Pillows
- Dry thoroughly: Damp pillows can develop mold and odors.
- Use a low heat or air-dry setting in a dryer. High heat may damage the filling or fabric.
- Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls: Tossing two to four of these in with your pillows helps them fluff up as they dry.
- Check and fluff pillows regularly during drying—stop every 15-20 minutes to pull them out, shake them, and break up clumps. Repeat until the pillow is completely dry.
7. Final Steps
- Once dry, check inside by squeezing the pillow; it should feel dry throughout.
- If not, return it to the dryer for additional time.
- Replace pillowcases and enjoy your fresh, clean pillow!
Special Care: Foam and Speciality Pillows
Memory foam, latex, or specialty pillows typically should not be placed in the washing machine:
- Spot clean stains with a mild detergent and a damp cloth.
- If needed, hand wash in a tub of lukewarm water with gentle soap, gently squeezing (not wringing) out excess water.
- Air dry flat, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Tips and Best Practices for Washing Pillows
- Wash pillows every 3–6 months to keep them in top shape and avoid allergen build-up.
- Always dry pillows thoroughly; moisture trapped inside can lead to mildew.
- Use mild, fragrance-free detergent to prevent irritation.
- Do not use fabric softener—it can coat pillow fibers and reduce their fluffiness.
- After washing, check for even filling. If clumps remain, knead or shake the pillow to redistribute the filling before drying again.
- For feather and down pillows, make sure they’re completely dry to avoid musty smells.
Benefits of Washing Your Pillows
- Better sleep quality: Clean pillows support healthy skin and breathing.
- Longer lifespan: Proper care prevents breakdown of filling and fabric.
- Allergen reduction: Routine washing helps eliminate dust mites, pet dander, and bacteria.
- Odor control: Washing removes sweat, oils, and general pillow odors.
Challenges and Common Issues
- Some pillows may lose shape or fluffiness if not washed or dried properly.
- Incomplete drying can cause mildew or lingering odors.
- Foam pillows are prone to damage in machines—always hand wash them.
- Overloading the washer or using too much detergent can reduce cleaning effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I wash my pillows?
Wash your bed pillows every three to six months. If you have allergies, pets, or sweat heavily at night, consider washing them more frequently for best results.
Can I wash all types of pillows in the washing machine?
No. Most fiberfill, polyester, down, and feather pillows are machine washable. However, memory foam, latex, or specially shaped pillows should usually be hand washed or spot cleaned. Always check your pillow’s care label first.
How do I know my pillow is completely dry?
Squeeze the pillow in several spots. If you feel any moisture or the filling clumps together, it needs more time in the dryer. Damp pillows can grow mold, so be sure they’re fully dry before using or storing them.
Is it safe to use bleach or fabric softener on my pillows?
It’s best to avoid bleach and fabric softener when washing pillows. Bleach can damage pillow fibers, especially natural ones, and fabric softener can leave residue that reduces fluff. Use a gentle detergent for the safest results.
What if my pillow has a lingering odor after washing?
A lingering smell may mean the pillow isn’t fully dry. Return it to the dryer, or air it in the sun for a few hours. Sunlight helps naturally deodorize and sanitize the pillow. If the odor persists, consider hand washing again with a bit of baking soda.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your pillows by washing them in the washing machine is easy once you know the right steps. Regularly washing your pillows ensures fresh, healthy, and comfortable sleep. Remember to always check the care label, use gentle cycles and detergents, and dry thoroughly. With this guide, you can enjoy clean, fluffy pillows night after night, making your bed the best place to unwind and rest.