How to Wash Pillows at Home?

  • Riya Yadav
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How to Wash Pillows at Home?
How to Wash Pillows at Home?

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We spend nearly a third of our lives sleeping, and yet, pillows are often one of the most neglected items when it comes to regular cleaning. Over time, pillows absorb sweat, oils, dead skin cells, and dust mites, all of which can affect your health and sleep quality. The good news? You can easily wash most types of pillows at home and bring them back to their fluffy, fresh-smelling glory.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to wash different types of pillows, including care tips and drying instructions. Whether you use feather, memory foam, or synthetic pillows, we’ve got you covered.

Why You Should Wash Your Pillows?

Before diving into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Here are a few reasons to clean your pillows regularly:

  • Hygiene: Sweat, oil, and bacteria build up over time.

     

  • Allergy Control: Dust mites and allergens can trigger sneezing, congestion, and skin irritation.

     

  • Longevity: Regular cleaning can extend the life of your pillows.

     

  • Better Sleep: A clean, fresh pillow promotes more restful sleep.

     

Experts recommend washing your pillows at least every 3 to 6 months, while pillowcases should be washed weekly. However, you you don’t have much time to invest in laundry then, you must try Tumbledry service which offer best laundry and dry cleaning services in India across 500+ cities.

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Step 1: Identify Your Pillow Type

Identify Your Pillow Type
Identify Your Pillow Type

Before tossing your pillow in the wash, check the tag or manufacturer’s instructions. The type of pillow you have determines the cleaning method.

Before selecting the wash type, it is necessary to check the care label which includes 

Common Types of Pillows:

  1. Down or Feather Pillows: Filled with duck or goose feathers; usually machine washable.

  2. Synthetic/Polyester Pillows: Affordable and easy to clean; also machine washable.

  3. Memory Foam or Latex Pillows: Cannot be machine washed; require spot-cleaning or hand washing.

  4. Buckwheat Pillows: Contain buckwheat hulls; not washable — only the pillowcase can be cleaned.

Step 2: Check for Damage or Wear

Before washing, inspect the pillow for any tears, weak seams, or clumping. If your pillow has lost its shape or support, it may be time to replace it rather than wash it. Also, check for stains and for tough stains it is better to seek help from best laundry service near you for effective stain removal.

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Step 3: How to Wash Different Types of Pillows

How to Wash Different Types of Pillows
How to Wash Different Types of Pillows?

Machine-Washable Pillows (Down, Feather, and Synthetic)

What You’ll Need:

  • Mild detergent (no bleach)

  • 2 pillows (to balance the washer)

  • Tennis balls or dryer balls

  • Optional: white vinegar or baking soda for extra freshness

Instructions:

  1. Remove the pillowcase or cover.

  2. Place two pillows in the washer (this helps keep the machine balanced).

  3. Use a gentle or delicate cycle with warm water.

  4. Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid fabric softeners — they can coat the pillow and reduce fluffiness.

  5. For extra deodorizing power, add half a cup of baking soda or white vinegar to the rinse cycle.

  6. Run an extra rinse cycle to remove all soap residue.

  7. Proceed to drying (covered below).

How to Clean Memory Foam Pillows

Memory foam pillows are sensitive to agitation and moisture. Machine washing can damage the material.

Steps:

  1. Remove the pillow cover and wash it separately.

  2. Vacuum the pillow surface to remove dust and debris.

  3. For spot cleaning, mix a few drops of mild detergent with water and blot the stained area with a clean cloth.

  4. Avoid soaking. Once clean, air dry completely before use.

Alternatively, some shredded memory foam pillows come with washable inner liners and check your product’s tag.

Step 4: Drying Your Pillows

Machine-Washable Pillows:

  1. Place the pillows in the dryer with dryer balls or clean tennis balls wrapped in socks. This fluffs the filling and helps prevent clumping.

  2. Use a low heat setting or air-dry setting.

  3. Pause the dryer occasionally and fluff the pillows by hand.

  4. Make sure the pillows are completely dry — damp pillows can develop mildew.

Memory Foam Pillows:

  • Lay flat on a dry towel in a well-ventilated area.

  • Flip occasionally until completely dry (this may take 24-48 hours).

  • Avoid direct sunlight and heat, which can degrade the foam.

Step 5: Freshen and Maintain Between Washes

Here are a few easy tips to keep your pillows fresh between washes:

    • Air them out weekly by placing them in the sun for a few hours.

    • Sprinkle baking soda on the surface, let it sit for 30 minutes, and vacuum it off.

    • Use pillow protectors in addition to pillowcases — they add an extra barrier against sweat and dust.

    • Fluff pillows daily to prevent flattening and ensure even distribution of filling.

When to Replace Your Pillows?

Even with regular washing, pillows don’t last forever. Here’s how to know when it’s time for a new one:

  • Pillow doesn’t spring back when folded in half.

  • Persistent lumps or flat spots.

  • Waking up with neck pain or allergies.

  • Musty smell that doesn’t go away after washing.

Lifespan estimates:

    • Synthetic: 1–2 years

    • Feather/Down: 2–3 years

    • Memory Foam: 2–3 years

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Conclusion

Washing your pillows may seem like a hassle, but with the right technique, it’s a simple task that can greatly improve your sleep quality and health. Make it a part of your seasonal cleaning routine, and your pillows will stay fresh, supportive, and ready to cradle you into dreamland.

By following the right washing methods based on your pillow type and drying them thoroughly, you’ll extend their lifespan and keep allergens at bay. Sweet dreams start with clean pillows!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author. They do not necessarily purport to reflect the values or views of Tumbledry.

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