How to Wash a Pillow: 4 Easy Steps to Revitalize Your Pillows

Ever hugged your pillow and wondered, “When was the last time I gave this thing a good wash?” Pillows don’t get cleaned nearly as often as they should. Over time, pillows can accumulate dust, sweat, and allergens, which can impact your sleep quality and overall health, and this is a good reason to wash your pillow.

But here’s the deal—regularly washing your pillow isn’t just about hygiene; it’s about comfort and getting the most out of that pillow you love so much. Whether you’re dealing with feathers, foam, or synthetic fluff, knowing how to wash a pillow properly can make a world of difference.

Let’s walk through the best ways to clean different types of pillows, so you can rest easy—literally.

How to Wash a Pillow in 4 Easy Steps

When it’s time to wash your pillows, it’s important to follow a few easy steps. This helps prevent damage and keeps your pillows at their best.

Step 1: Check the Label

Before anything, read the care label on your pillow. Each type of pillow will have its own specific washing instructions. This is your go-to for the dos and don’ts.

Step 2: Pre-treat Stains

If your pillow has any stains (like those pesky yellow ones), spot clean them first. I recommend using a mix of one tablespoon of detergent with two cups of water. Dab the solution onto the stain with a cloth, then let it sit for 10–15 minutes before putting it in the washer.

Step 3: Load the Pillow Into the Washer

For machine-washable pillows, start by placing one or two pillows in the washing machine to keep it balanced. If you have a front-loader, that’s the best option for washing pillows. However, if you’re using a top-loader, make sure to position the pillows vertically to avoid tangling. If your pillows need a bit of extra weight to help balance the load, consider washing them with a couple of towels. Just be sure to check your pillow’s care instructions first to see if it should be washed on its own.

When it comes to detergent, use about one tablespoon for a standard-sized pillow. Set your washer to a gentle or delicate cycle, and opt for an extra rinse to ensure no detergent is left behind.

Step 4: Dry Thoroughly

Set your dryer to low heat or an air dry setting, as high heat can break down pillow fibers. Add dryer balls or tennis balls to prevent clumping and help the pillows fluff up. Dry the pillows for 45-60 minutes. After the cycle ends, remove the pillows, fluff them by giving a good shake, and check for damp spots. If the pillows are still damp, put them back in for another 45-60 minutes. Once dry, lay the pillows flat in the sun for 1-2 hours to ensure they’re completely dry and fresh. For memory foam and latex pillows, air dry in a cool, shaded area—avoid using the dryer.

More Tips on How to Wash Different Types of Pillows

-How to Wash Down and Feather Pillows

Down and feather pillows are delicate but can be machine-washed. Here’s what I do:

Use cold water and a mild detergent.
Set your washer on a gentle cycle.
Make sure to dry them on low heat, using dryer balls or tennis balls to help fluff them back up. This prevents the feathers from clumping together. Drying might take a bit longer, but it’s important to dry thoroughly to avoid any mold or mildew buildup.

-How to Wash Synthetic or Polyester Pillows

These pillows are super easy to clean! They’re machine washable and dry quickly.

Use mild detergent—just enough to get the job done.
Wash on warm with a gentle cycle.
Dry them on low heat or air dry if you prefer. Throw in dryer balls for extra fluffing.

-How to Wash Memory Foam and Latex Pillows

Memory foam and latex pillows are a bit more sensitive, so you’ll need to take a different approach with them. These can’t be tossed into the washing machine like some other types. Here’s how to care for them:

Vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris.
For spot cleaning, use a cloth with mild detergent and water, gently wiping away any stains.
If you need a deeper clean, briefly soak the pillow in water with detergent, then gently squeeze it to avoid damaging the foam. Let it air dry completely, but keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent damage.

For a more detailed guide, check out my separate post, How to Wash Memory Foam Pillow: Quick Clean, Deep Clean, and Stain Removal Guide, which covers everything you need to know about keeping your memory foam pillows fresh and clean.

-How to Wash Buckwheat Pillows

Buckwheat pillows are unique because they’re filled with hulls, which can’t be washed like regular pillows. Here’s the best way to clean them:

Remove the buckwheat hulls from the pillow and set them aside in a dry container. Make sure not to get them wet since they can’t be washed.
Wash the pillowcase separately in the washing machine, using cold water and a mild detergent.
If the buckwheat hulls seem dirty or musty, you can spread them on a clean surface and air them in direct sunlight for 4–6 hours. The sunlight helps dry out moisture, refresh the hulls, and remove musty odors. Just be sure to rotate them occasionally for even drying.
Once everything is dry, refill the pillow with the hulls, and it’s ready to use again!

How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?

Here’s a good rule of thumb: wash your pillows every 3 to 6 months. If you suffer from allergies or night sweats, washing them more frequently can help keep dust mites and allergens at bay.

For everyday pillow care, using a pillow protector and fluffing them regularly will keep them in top shape between washes.

When Not to Wash a Pillow

While regular washing is essential for maintaining pillow hygiene, there are instances when washing isn’t advisable. Here are some signs that it might be time to buy a new pillow instead of trying to wash it:

Heavy Stains: If the pillow is heavily stained and won’t come clean.
Unpleasant Odor: If it has developed a persistent bad smell.
Loss of Shape: If the pillow has lost its shape or support.
Visible Lumps: If there are noticeable lumps or irregularities in the filling.
Age: If the pillow is older than 2 to 3 years, it’s generally time to replace it. Depending on the material and usage, pillows can lose their effectiveness and comfort after this period.

If you find yourself waking up with neck or back pain, it might be time to consider a new pillow that offers better support.

For more guidance on choosing the right pillow for your needs, check out my blog post on How to Choose a Pillow: 5 Important Criteria You Should Know.

FAQs About Washing Pillows

Here are some common questions people ask about washing pillows.

Most pillows can be machine-washed, but always check the care label first. Memory foam and latex pillows should not be machine-washed.

Yellow stains come from sweat and oils. To remove them, pre-treat the stains by mixing one tablespoon of detergent with two cups of water. Dab a cloth into the solution and gently blot the stain. Let the solution sit on the stain for about 15 minutes before washing the pillow as usual.

It’s best to wash pillows separately from your bedding to avoid overloading the washer. Wash two pillows at once to keep the load balanced.

Depending on the pillow type, drying can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours. Down and feather pillows typically take the longest, often requiring 2 to 3 drying cycles to ensure they’re completely dry. It’s crucial to check that they’re thoroughly dry to prevent mold growth.

Yes, most synthetic, down, and feather pillows can be safely dried in the dryer on a low-heat setting. These types of pillows typically handle the dryer well, and using dryer balls or clean tennis balls can help keep them fluffy by preventing clumping. Additionally, fiberfill pillows are also safe to dry in the dryer.

However, avoid drying memory foam, latex, or buckwheat pillows in the dryer, as the heat can damage their structure and reduce their effectiveness. Always check the care instructions for your specific pillow to ensure you’re following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Conclusion: How to Wash a Pillow

Taking care of your pillows is an essential part of creating a cozy and healthy sleep environment. By understanding how to wash your pillows correctly and knowing when to replace them, you can ensure a restful night’s sleep.

So, don’t wait for those stains or odors to become a problem—give your pillows the attention they deserve. With a little effort, you can enjoy the fresh, clean comfort of well-maintained pillows that support you night after night!

If you want to extend the life of your pillows, sometimes all they need is a little fluffing! For effective methods to fluff your pillows and keep them comfy, check out my post on How to Fluff a Pillow: 3 Effective Methods for a Comfy Night’s Sleep.