How to Wash Pillow the Right Way: A Complete Guide for 2025

Jan 5, 2025

By Raia Home

Pillows are an essential part of your sleep environment, yet they often get overlooked when it comes to cleaning. Over time, they accumulate sweat, oils, dead skin cells, and allergens, which can affect their hygiene, comfort, and lifespan. Washing your pillows regularly ensures better sleep hygiene and helps maintain their structure and loft.

This guide will take you through step-by-step instructions, tailored care techniques for various pillow types, and tips on avoiding common mistakes to ensure your pillows stay fresh, clean, and comfortable.

Why Wash Your Pillow Regularly?

1. Eliminating Allergens and Dust Mites

Pillows are a breeding ground for dust mites, which can trigger allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. Regular cleaning removes these allergens, providing a healthier sleep environment.

2. Removing Odors

Sweat, body oils, and environmental factors can cause pillows to develop unpleasant smells over time. Washing restores freshness and eliminates lingering odors.

3. Prolonging Pillow Lifespan

Proper cleaning helps pillows maintain their shape and functionality, preventing clumping or sagging that can compromise comfort.

How to Wash Pillows Based on Material

Different pillow types require specific care methods to ensure their quality and performance remain intact.

Memory Foam Pillows

Memory foam is delicate and shouldn’t be submerged in water, as it can lose its structure.

Cleaning Method:

Spot clean stains using a cloth dipped in a mixture of mild detergent and water.
Vacuum the pillow using a handheld or upholstery vacuum to remove dust.
Air out the pillow in a well-ventilated area to refresh it.

Special Tip: Use a removable, machine-washable pillow cover to reduce the need for frequent deep cleaning.

2. Polyester Pillows

Polyester pillows are durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for machine washing.

Cleaning Method:

Wash two pillows together to balance the load in the washing machine.
Use warm water, a gentle detergent, and the delicate cycle.
Run an extra rinse cycle to remove detergent residues.

Drying Tips:

Tumble dry on low heat.
Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to fluff the pillows.

Recommended Product: Keep your cleaning routine simple with the Microfibre Pillow – Medium, designed for easy maintenance.

3. Feather and Down Pillows

Feather and down pillows require careful handling to avoid damaging the delicate filling.

Cleaning Method:

Use a front-loading washer or a high-capacity top-loading washer to prevent clumping.
Wash in cold or warm water with a mild detergent on a delicate cycle.
Run multiple rinse cycles to ensure all soap is removed.

Drying Tips:

Tumble dry on low heat with dryer balls or tennis balls wrapped in socks to prevent the feathers from clumping.
Check periodically and fluff the pillow manually during drying.

Pro Tip: For luxury feather pillows like the 90% Goose Down & Feather Pillow – Extra Soft, follow manufacturer care labels for best results.

4. Throw Pillows

Throw pillows vary in material and construction, so their cleaning methods differ:

Removable Covers: Machine wash the cover on a gentle cycle with cold water.
Non-Removable Covers: Spot clean with a fabric cleaner or mild detergent.
Drying Tips:

Air-dry removable covers to prevent shrinking.
For non-removable pillows, place them in a well-ventilated area to dry thoroughly.

How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?

The frequency of washing depends on how often the pillows are used and the user’s needs:

Pillow Type	Frequency
Sleeping Pillows	Every 3–6 months
Allergy-Prone Users	Every 1–2 months
Throw Pillows	Every 2–3 months
Pillows with Pets	Every 1–2 months

Pro Tip: Use washable pillow protectors and clean them every 1–2 weeks to minimize dirt and allergens on the pillow itself.

Step-by-Step Guide: Washing Pillows in a Washing Machine

1. Preparation

Remove pillow protectors or covers.
Check for stains and spot-clean using a baking soda paste or mild stain remover.

2. Balance the Load

Wash two pillows at a time to prevent the washer drum from becoming unbalanced.

3. Add Detergent

Use a small amount of mild detergent to avoid leaving residue that can attract dirt.

4. Select the Right Settings

Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water, depending on the pillow material.

5. Spin and Rinse

Run an extra rinse and spin cycle to remove all detergent and water.

How to Dry Pillows Safely

1. Using a Dryer

Settings: Always use a low-heat or no-heat setting to avoid damaging the filling.
Dryer Balls: Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to fluff the pillows and break up clumps.
Duration: Check pillows periodically and remove them once they’re completely dry.

2. Air-Drying

Lay pillows flat in a sunny, well-ventilated area.
Flip them periodically to ensure even drying.

Pro Tip: Feather and down pillows should be thoroughly dried to prevent mold or mildew.

Removing Stains and Odors from Pillows

1. Spot Cleaning Stains

Create a paste using baking soda and water.
Apply to the stained area and let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping clean.

2. Odor Removal Solutions

Sprinkle baking soda over the pillow and let it sit for an hour, then vacuum off.
Spray a mixture of water and white vinegar lightly on the pillow to neutralize odors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Pillows

Overloading the Washer

Prevents proper cleaning and can damage the washer drum.
Solution: Wash two pillows at a time for balance.

Using Too Much Detergent

Can leave residue, making the pillow stiff.
Solution: Use only a small amount of detergent.

Skipping Drying Steps

Incomplete drying can lead to mold or mildew.
Solution: Ensure pillows are thoroughly dried before use.

Ignoring Care Labels

Each pillow has specific care needs.
Solution: Follow manufacturer instructions closely.

FAQs About Washing Pillows

1. Can memory foam pillows get wet?

No, memory foam pillows should not be submerged in water. Spot-cleaning is the safest method.

2. How do I prevent mold in pillows?

Ensure the pillows are completely dry before placing them back on your bed.

3. Should I wash my pillows before first use?

Yes, washing removes factory odors and residues, ensuring a fresh start.

4. Is it safe to use bleach on pillows?

Bleach is not recommended as it can weaken fibers and cause discoloration.

Conclusion

Washing your pillows properly at home is a simple but crucial step to maintaining sleep hygiene and extending their lifespan. By following the tailored care techniques outlined here, you can keep your pillows fresh, supportive, and allergen-free.

Ready to upgrade your bedding? Explore Raia Home’s premium pillow collection, including the 90% Goose Down & Feather Pillow – Extra Soft and Microfibre Pillow – Medium, for unmatched comfort and easy care.