Can I Wash Pillows in Washer A Complete Guide to Clean Pillows

Yes, you can wash most pillows in a washing machine, but the process depends on the fill type. Always check your care label first. Use warm water, a gentle cycle, and mild detergent for best results. Proper drying is essential to prevent mold and clumping.

Key Takeaways

• Check the care label first: Not all pillows are machine-washable. Down, feather, polyester, and memory foam each have different washing requirements.
• Use the right settings: Always select a gentle or delicate cycle with warm or hot water depending on the fabric and fill type.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Stick to mild detergent. Bleach and fabric softeners can damage pillow fibers and reduce their lifespan.
• Dry thoroughly: Damp pillows breed mold and bacteria. Use low heat in the dryer with tennis balls to fluff and break up clumps.
• Wash two at a time: Balancing the load helps your washer spin properly and cleans both pillows more evenly.
• Frequency matters: Wash your pillows every 3 to 6 months to keep dust mites, sweat, and allergens under control.
• Hand washing is an option: For delicate fills like memory foam, hand washing in a bathtub is often the safest method.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Can I wash all types of pillows in the washing machine?

Not all pillows are machine-washable. Polyester, down, and feather pillows generally handle machine washing well. Memory foam and latex pillows should not go in the washer as the agitation can damage their structure.

What water temperature should I use to wash pillows?

Warm water works for most pillows. If you want to kill dust mites or deal with heavy soiling, hot water is more effective. Always check the care label for specific temperature recommendations.

How many pillows should I wash at once?

Wash two pillows at a time to balance the load. This ensures proper water circulation and prevents your washing machine from becoming unbalanced during the spin cycle.

Can I use bleach when washing pillows?

Avoid using bleach as it can weaken fabric fibers and damage the pillow fill. Stick to a mild liquid detergent for the best results without causing unnecessary wear.

How long does it take to dry pillows in the dryer?

It typically takes one to three hours to dry pillows in the dryer on low heat. Adding tennis balls helps break up clumps and speeds up the drying process. Make sure they are completely dry before using them again.

Can I Wash Pillows in Washer? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Let’s be honest. When was the last time you washed your pillow? If you had to think about it, it’s probably been too long. Our pillows collect dead skin cells, sweat, oil, and dust mites every single night. Over time, that buildup can cause allergies, skin irritation, and unpleasant odors. The good news? In most cases, you can toss your pillows right into the washing machine and give them a fresh start.

But before you throw everything into the washer, there are a few important things to consider. Not all pillows are created equal. The fill material, fabric type, and construction all play a role in determining whether machine washing is safe. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about washing pillows in a washer, from preparation to drying, so you can sleep cleaner and healthier tonight.

Which Types of Pillows Can You Wash in a Washing Machine?

The first step is identifying what kind of pillow you have. The care label is your best friend here. If it’s been cut off, don’t worry. We’ll help you figure it out based on the fill type.

Polyester and Down-Alternative Pillows

These are the easiest to wash. Polyester fill pillows are durable and hold up well in a standard washing machine. You can use warm water and a gentle cycle without any issues. They dry relatively quickly too, making them the most low-maintenance option for machine washing.

Down and Feather Pillows

Yes, you can wash down and feather pillows in the washer, but you need to be a bit more careful. Use a gentle cycle with warm water. The key is making sure they dry completely, as damp clumps of down or feather can develop a musty smell or even mold. If you’re dealing with delicate feather pillows, you might want to check out our guide on how to wash feather pillows for more detailed instructions.

Memory Foam Pillows

Here’s where things get tricky. Most memory foam pillows should NOT go in the washing machine. The agitation can break down the foam structure and ruin the pillow. However, if your memory foam pillow has a removable cover, you can wash that separately. For the foam core, spot cleaning or hand washing is the way to go. Learn more in our article about how to wash pillows by hand.

Latex Pillows

Latex pillows are similar to memory foam. They generally don’t do well in a washing machine. The agitation can cause the latex to break apart. Stick to spot cleaning or hand washing for these pillows.

How to Prepare Your Pillows for the Washing Machine

Proper preparation makes a big difference in how well your pillows come out of the wash. Follow these simple steps before you start the cycle.

• Remove pillow protectors and cases: Take off all covers and shams. Wash these separately according to their own care instructions.
• Spot treat stains: If you have visible stains, apply a small amount of mild detergent or a stain remover directly to the area. Gently rub it in with a soft brush or cloth.
• Check for damage: Look for any rips or loose seams. Washing a damaged pillow can cause the fill to spill out inside your machine, creating a huge mess.
• Pre-treat odors: For pillows that smell musty, sprinkle some baking soda on them and let it sit for 30 minutes before washing. Our guide on how to wash pillows with baking soda has great tips for deodorizing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Pillows in a Washer

Now that your pillows are prepped, it’s time to wash them. Here’s the process broken down into simple steps.

Step 1: Load Two Pillows at a Time

Always wash two pillows together. This balances the load and allows the water and detergent to circulate properly. A single pillow can cause an unbalanced spin cycle, which puts extra stress on your washing machine.

Step 2: Choose the Right Detergent and Water Temperature

Use a mild, liquid detergent. Powder detergent can leave residue inside the pillow fill. For most pillows, warm water works best. If your pillow is heavily soiled or you want to kill dust mites, hot water is more effective. Just make sure the fabric can handle it.

Step 3: Select the Gentle Cycle

The gentle or delicate cycle is your safest bet. It provides enough agitation to clean without being too rough on the pillow’s construction. If your washer has a specific “bulky” or “bedding” cycle, that works well too.

Step 4: Run an Extra Rinse Cycle

This is a pro tip that many people skip. Pillows absorb a lot of water and detergent. Running an extra rinse cycle ensures all the soap gets washed out. Leftover detergent can cause skin irritation and make your pillows feel stiff.

How to Dry Pillows After Washing

Drying is arguably the most important part of the process. A damp pillow is a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Never put a pillow back on your bed until it’s 100% dry.

Using a Dryer

Most pillows can go in the dryer on a low heat setting. Toss in a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls. They’ll bounce around and break up any clumps in the fill, helping your pillows regain their fluffy shape. This can take anywhere from one to three hours depending on the pillow size and fill type. For more details, check out our article on how long to dry pillows in the dryer.

Air Drying

If you don’t have a dryer or prefer to air dry, lay the pillows flat on a clean surface in a well-ventilated area. Flip them every few hours to ensure even drying. Direct sunlight can help kill bacteria and freshen them up, but prolonged sun exposure can damage some fabrics.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Pillows

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are the most common ones to watch out for.

• Using too much detergent: More soap doesn’t mean cleaner pillows. Excess detergent leaves residue that attracts dirt and causes odors.
• Washing on a heavy-duty cycle: Aggressive cycles can tear pillow seams and damage the internal structure.
• Skipping the extra rinse: As mentioned earlier, leftover soap is a common cause of stiff, uncomfortable pillows.
• Not drying completely: Even slightly damp pillows can develop mold within 24 to 48 hours.
• Washing too frequently: While clean pillows are important, overwashing can wear them out faster. Every 3 to 6 months is the sweet spot.

How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?

Most experts recommend washing your pillows every three to six months. However, if you suffer from allergies, asthma, or night sweats, you might want to wash them more frequently. Using a pillow protector can extend the time between washes by creating a barrier against moisture and allergens.

Don’t forget that pillows don’t last forever. Even with regular washing, most pillows should be replaced every one to two years. If your pillow doesn’t spring back after folding it in half, it’s time for a new one. Looking for a replacement? Browse our list of the best pillows to find the perfect one for your sleep style.

Conclusion

So, can I wash pillows in washer? Absolutely. With the right preparation, settings, and drying techniques, machine washing is one of the easiest ways to keep your pillows fresh, clean, and free of allergens. Just remember to check the care label, use a gentle cycle, and dry them thoroughly. Your nose, your skin, and your sleep quality will thank you. Make pillow washing a regular part of your home maintenance routine, and you’ll enjoy a healthier sleeping environment every single night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash pillows in a top-loading washer?

Yes, top-loading washers are actually ideal for washing pillows. The agitator helps move the pillows through the water effectively. Just make sure to balance the load with two pillows for the best results.

How do I keep my pillows from clumping after washing?

To prevent clumping, use the gentle cycle and add clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer. These help separate the fill and restore fluffiness as the pillows dry. Learn more tips in our guide on how to wash pillows without clumping.

Is it safe to wash pillows with other laundry?

It’s best to wash pillows by themselves or with other bedding items. Mixing them with heavy clothing like jeans can cause uneven washing and potentially damage the pillows. Keeping a balanced load is key.

Can I wash pillows without a removable cover?

Yes, you can wash pillows without a removable cover. Just make sure to check the care label and use a gentle cycle. For more detailed instructions, read our guide on how to wash pillows without removable cover.

What should I do if my pillow still smells after washing?

If your pillow retains an odor after washing, it likely wasn’t dried completely or detergent residue remains. Try washing again with less detergent and running an extra rinse cycle. Sprinkling baking soda before washing can also help neutralize stubborn smells.

Can I put pillows in the dryer on high heat?

It’s generally not recommended to use high heat as it can damage pillow fabrics and melt synthetic fills. Low or medium heat is safer. For more information, check out our article on can you put pillows in the dryer on high heat.