Can You Wash a Pillow in the Washer

Yes, you can wash most pillows in the washer, but the method depends entirely on the fill material. Always check your care label first, use a gentle cycle with warm water, and make sure your pillow is completely dry before using it again. Washing your pillows regularly removes sweat, allergens, and dead skin cells, giving you a cleaner and healthier sleep surface.

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Key Takeaways

• Check the care label first: Every pillow has washing instructions on its tag. Always read it before tossing your pillow in the washing machine.
• Down and feather pillows: These can usually be washed in a front-loading washer on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
• Memory foam caution: Never submerge a solid memory foam pillow in water. Spot clean it instead to avoid breaking down the foam structure.
• Polyester and microfiber pillows: These are the easiest to wash. They handle standard machine washing without any issues.
• Drying is critical: A damp pillow can grow mold and mildew. Always dry thoroughly using low heat and dryer balls to restore fluffiness.
• Wash pillows every 3-6 months: Regular washing prevents the buildup of dust mites, bacteria, and body oils that accumulate over time.
• Use a pillow protector: A good pillow protector reduces how often you need to wash the pillow itself and extends its lifespan significantly.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

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

No, not all pillows can go in the washer. Polyester, down, feather, and cotton pillows are generally machine washable. However, solid memory foam and latex foam pillows should never be submerged in water. Always check the care label on your pillow before washing.

How long does it take to dry a pillow in the dryer?

Most pillows take two to three hours to dry completely in a dryer on low heat. Down and feather pillows may take up to four hours. It’s important to use dryer balls to break up clumps and ensure the pillow is fully dry before using it again.

Can I use bleach when washing my pillows?

It’s best to avoid bleach when washing pillows. Bleach can weaken fabric fibers and damage certain fill materials. Instead, use baking soda and white vinegar as natural cleaning and deodorizing agents that are gentler on your pillows.

What happens if I use a top-loading washer for pillows?

A top-loading washer with a central agitator can be rough on pillows and may damage the fill material or tear the outer fabric. If you must use a top-loader, select the gentlest cycle and consider placing pillows in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection.

How do I know if my pillow is completely dry?

Press firmly on the pillow and check for any cool or damp spots in the center. If it feels even slightly moist, continue drying. You can also smell the pillow. Any musty or damp smell means it needs more time in the dryer.

Introduction: Can You Really Wash a Pillow in the Washer?

Let’s be honest. When was the last time you washed your pillow? If you’re like most people, the answer is probably “a long time ago” or maybe even “never.” We wash our sheets and pillowcases religiously, but the pillow itself often gets completely overlooked. The truth is, your pillow absorbs sweat, oil, dead skin cells, and allergens night after night. Over time, that buildup can affect your sleep quality, your skin, and even your health.

So, can you wash a pillow in the washer? The short answer is yes for most pillow types. But there are important exceptions and techniques you need to know. Throwing a pillow into the washing machine the wrong way can ruin it completely. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about washing pillows safely and effectively, step by step.

Before we dive into the details, it helps to understand that not all pillows are created equal. The material inside your pillow determines exactly how you should clean it. Let’s break it down by type so you can find the right approach for your specific pillows.

How to Identify Your Pillow Type Before Washing

Read the Care Label

The very first thing you should do is flip your pillow over and find the care label. This small tag holds all the information you need. It will tell you the fill material, whether the pillow is machine washable, and any special instructions you should follow. If the label says “dry clean only,” respect that instruction. Not all pillows belong in your washing machine.

Common Pillow Fill Materials

Understanding what your pillow is made of is essential. Here are the most common types you’ll find in households today:

• Polyester fill: The most common and budget-friendly option. These pillows are almost always machine washable and very forgiving.
• Down and feather: Luxurious and soft, these pillows can be washed but require extra care and a gentle cycle.
• Memory foam: These pillows should never be submerged in water. Spot cleaning is the only safe method.
• Latex foam: Similar to memory foam, latex should not go in the washing machine. Spot clean only.
• Buckwheat hulls: The hulls need to be removed and the outer shell washed separately. The hulls themselves cannot get wet.
• Cotton fill: Natural cotton pillows can handle machine washing but may shrink slightly.

If you’re still unsure what type of pillow you have, check out our detailed guide on what is a pillow made of for a complete breakdown of every material type.

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

Preparing Your Pillows for the Wash

Before you load your pillows into the machine, take a few minutes to prepare them properly. Start by removing any pillow protectors or pillowcases. If your pillow has stains, pre-treat them with a small amount of mild detergent or a stain remover. Gently dab the stained area rather than rubbing it, which can push the stain deeper into the fabric.

Next, check for any tears or holes in the pillow cover. Washing a damaged pillow can result in fill material everywhere inside your machine. If you find a small tear, stitch it up or use a fabric-safe tape as a temporary fix before washing.

Choosing the Right Washer Settings

Not all washing machines are ideal for pillows. A front-loading washer is the best choice because it doesn’t have a central agitator that can damage your pillow. If you only have a top-loading machine with an agitator, consider taking your pillows to a laundromat with front-loading machines instead.

Use the gentle or delicate cycle with warm water. Hot water can damage certain fill materials and cause shrinkage. Add a mild, liquid detergent. Avoid powder detergents as they may not dissolve completely and can leave residue inside your pillow. Skip the fabric softener too. It can coat the fibers and reduce the pillow’s breathability.

Pro tip: Always wash two pillows together. This helps balance the load and ensures the machine spins properly. A single pillow can throw off the balance and cause excessive vibration or even damage to your machine.

Detergent Tips for Clean Pillows

Use about half the amount of detergent you would normally use for a full load of laundry. Too much detergent is hard to rinse out completely and can leave your pillows feeling stiff or sticky. A mild, fragrance-free detergent is ideal, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

If you want to boost the cleaning power naturally, add half a cup of baking soda along with your detergent. It helps neutralize odors and brighten the fabric. During the rinse cycle, you can add half a cup of white vinegar as a natural fabric softener and disinfectant. Don’t worry. The vinegar smell disappears completely once the pillows are dry.

How to Dry Pillows Properly After Washing

Using a Dryer for Best Results

Drying your pillows thoroughly is arguably the most important step. A damp pillow is a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause serious health issues. The good news is that you can absolutely use a dryer for most pillow types.

Set your dryer to low heat or air dry mode. High heat can damage synthetic fills and cause shrinkage. Toss in two or three clean dryer balls or tennis balls. These bounce around inside the dryer and help break up clumps of fill material, restoring your pillow’s fluffiness as it dries.

Drying time varies depending on the pillow type and size, but expect it to take at least two to three hours for a standard pillow. Down and feather pillows take the longest, sometimes up to four hours. Be patient and don’t try to use a pillow that’s even slightly damp inside.

For a detailed breakdown on drying times and techniques, check out our guide on how long to dry pillows in the dryer. And if you’re curious about using heat specifically, we also have a helpful article on can you put pillows in the dryer on high heat.

Air Drying as an Alternative

If you don’t have a dryer or prefer not to use one, air drying works too. Lay your pillows flat on a clean, dry surface in a well-ventilated area. Flip them every hour or so to promote even drying. Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV rays can break down fabric fibers over time. Air drying typically takes 24 to 48 hours depending on humidity levels.

Pillows You Should Never Put in the Washing Machine

Solid Memory Foam Pillows

Solid memory foam pillows should never go in the washing machine. Water breaks down the foam’s cellular structure, causing it to crumble and lose its supportive properties. Instead, spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, then let it air dry completely. Using a pillow protector is the best way to keep memory foam pillows clean without washing them.

Latex Foam Pillows

Latex foam is similar to memory foam in that it degrades when submerged in water. The agitation and soaking can cause the latex to break apart. Stick to spot cleaning and always use a protective cover.

Buckwheat Pillows

Buckwheat hulls absorb water and can swell or mold if washed. Remove the hulls from the outer shell before washing the shell separately. Store the hulls in a dry container while the shell dries, then refill once everything is completely dry.

Pillows with Electrical Components

Some modern pillows come with built-in speakers, cooling gel packs, or electronic components. These should obviously never go in water. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning methods.

How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?

Every three to six months is the general recommendation for washing pillows. 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 significantly. A quality protector acts as a barrier against moisture, oils, and allergens, keeping the actual pillow much cleaner for longer.

Think of it this way. You spend roughly a third of your life with your face pressed against your pillow. A dirty pillow can contribute to acne breakouts, allergic reactions, and respiratory issues. Keeping your pillows clean is one of the simplest things you can do to improve your sleep environment.

If you’re looking for more tips on maintaining a healthy sleep setup, our article on the benefits of using a pillow for better sleep covers how the right pillow and proper hygiene work together for optimal rest.

Tips to Keep Your Pillows Fresh Between Washes

Use a Pillow Protector

This cannot be stressed enough. A zippered pillow protector fits over your pillow underneath your pillowcase. It’s the single best investment you can make for pillow longevity and hygiene. Protectors are easy to remove and wash with your regular laundry, and they prevent most contaminants from reaching the pillow itself.

Aerate Your Pillows Daily

Every morning when you make your bed, give your pillows a few good punches and let them sit open to the air for a few minutes before putting them back. This allows moisture from the night to evaporate and keeps them feeling fresh longer.

Sunlight Exposure

On a sunny day, set your pillows outside for a couple of hours. Natural sunlight is a powerful disinfectant and helps eliminate odors. Just don’t leave them out for too long, as prolonged UV exposure can weaken fabric fibers.

Baking Soda Trick

Sprinkle baking soda on your pillows, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum it off. This absorbs odors and oils, giving your pillows a quick refresh between washes. It’s a simple trick that makes a noticeable difference.

Conclusion: Keep Your Pillows Clean and Your Sleep Healthy

So, can you wash a pillow in the washer? Absolutely. For most pillow types, machine washing is not only safe but highly recommended for maintaining a clean and healthy sleep environment. The key is knowing your pillow type, following the right washing and drying procedures, and doing it regularly enough to prevent buildup.

Take five minutes today to check the care labels on your pillows. If they’re machine washable, there’s no reason to wait. Your skin, your allergies, and your sleep quality will thank you. And remember, a good pillow protector is your best friend in keeping pillows fresh and extending their life for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can washing a pillow ruin it?

Washing a pillow incorrectly can definitely damage it. Using hot water, harsh detergents, or a rough cycle can cause fill materials to clump, break down, or shift unevenly. Always use a gentle cycle with warm water and mild detergent. Following the care label instructions is the best way to avoid ruining your pillow.

Should I wash new pillows before using them?

It’s a good idea to wash new pillows before their first use. Manufacturing processes can leave chemical residues, dust, or odors on pillows. A quick wash removes these and gives you a fresher sleeping surface from day one.

Can I wash pillows with other laundry items?

It’s best to wash pillows separately or with similar items like blankets and comforters. Mixing pillows with heavy items like jeans or towels can cause uneven washing and potential damage. Washing two pillows together helps balance the load for better cleaning results.

How do I fluff a pillow after washing it?

The best way to fluff a pillow after washing is to use dryer balls or clean tennis balls in the dryer. These help break up clumps and redistribute the fill material evenly. Once dry, give the pillow several firm punches and stretches by hand to restore its shape and loft.

Can I wash a pillow without a removable cover?

Yes, you can wash a pillow without a removable cover. Just make sure to pre-treat any stains and use a gentle cycle. Washing without a cover means the pillow fabric is directly exposed to water and agitation, so extra care with settings and detergent amount is important.

What is the best detergent for washing pillows?

A mild, liquid detergent is best for washing pillows. Avoid powder detergents that may not dissolve fully, and skip fabric softener which can coat pillow fibers. Fragrance-free options are ideal for people with sensitive skin or allergies. About half the normal amount is sufficient for a pillow wash.