Introduction
When was the last time you gave your pillows a deep clean? If you can’t remember, you’re not alone! Learning how to clean your pillows the right way is an often-overlooked step for a fresher, healthier bedroom. Your pillows collect sweat, oils, dust mites, and allergens over time, which can lead to poor sleep and even breakouts. This complete guide will show you exactly how to wash, dry, and care for your pillows to keep them fluffy, supportive, and fresh night after night.
Why Cleaning Your Pillows Matters in the Bedroom
Your pillows do more than support your head — they affect your comfort, skin health, and indoor air quality. Even with pillowcases, dust, skin cells, and sweat seep into the fill over time. Washing your pillows regularly removes allergens, prevents odors, and keeps them feeling like new. Plus, clean pillows can extend the life of your pillow investment and create a fresher, healthier sleeping environment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Your Pillows the Right Way
1. Check the Care Label First
Before you toss anything in the washer, always read the pillow’s care label. Different pillow types require different cleaning methods. Most synthetic and down pillows are machine washable, but memory foam and latex pillows usually aren’t and need spot cleaning instead.
2. Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need:
- Mild liquid detergent
- A couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls
- A large capacity washer and dryer (or laundromat machines for big pillows)
- Gentle stain remover, if needed
3. Pre-Treat Any Stains
If your pillow has visible stains, treat them first. Use a gentle stain remover or a mix of water and mild detergent. Dab the stain with a cloth — don’t rub, as this can push it deeper into the fill.
4. Wash Two at a Time
When machine-washing pillows, always wash two at a time (if they fit) to balance the load. This helps prevent your washer from becoming unbalanced and protects the pillows from getting misshapen.
5. Use a Gentle Cycle with Warm Water
Place pillows in the washer vertically (not bunched up) and add a small amount of mild liquid detergent — powder can leave residue. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water to get rid of oils and bacteria without damaging the fill.
6. Do an Extra Rinse
Run a second rinse cycle to make sure all soap is removed. Leftover detergent can clump the fill or irritate your skin.
7. Dry Thoroughly and Fluff
Dry your pillows on a low heat setting with a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls in the dryer. This helps break up clumps and keeps your pillows fluffy. Stop the cycle every 30 minutes to fluff the pillows by hand and make sure they’re drying evenly.
8. Spot Clean Foam or Latex Pillows
Memory foam and latex pillows shouldn’t go in the washer — they absorb too much water and can break down. Instead, vacuum the surface with an upholstery attachment to remove dust. Spot clean stains with a cloth dipped in soapy water. Gently blot, then air dry completely before putting the pillow back on your bed.
9. Air Out Regularly
Between deep cleans, air out your pillows monthly. Place them outside in indirect sunlight for a few hours — this helps kill bacteria and freshens the fill naturally.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Using hot water for every pillow.
Solution: Hot water can shrink or damage some pillow fills. Always check the care label and use warm or cool water as directed.
Mistake 2: Not drying completely.
Solution: Damp pillows can grow mold or mildew. Dry thoroughly on low heat, fluffing often.
Mistake 3: Using too much detergent.
Solution: Excess soap can build up inside pillows and make them feel heavy. Use only a small amount of mild liquid detergent.
Mistake 4: Ignoring the care label.
Solution: Every pillow is different — some may be spot clean only, and putting them in the washer can ruin them.
Mistake 5: Not replacing old pillows.
Solution: Even with great cleaning, most pillows should be replaced every 1–2 years. If your pillow stays flat, lumpy, or causes neck pain, it’s time for a new one.
Extra Tips & Bedroom Hacks
• Use Pillow Protectors: A zippered pillow protector under your pillowcase blocks sweat and dust mites, keeping your pillows cleaner for longer.
• Fluff Daily: Give your pillows a quick fluff each morning to help them maintain their shape and prevent clumping.
• Try Baking Soda: Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda on your pillow once a month, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum it off to absorb odors.
👉 Want to make your entire bed feel fresh? Read our guide on how to make your bed more comfortable for more bedding care and styling tips.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to clean your pillows the right way — from checking care labels and choosing the right wash cycle to drying thoroughly and keeping foam pillows fresh. A few extra steps every few months can extend your pillows’ life, improve your sleep, and keep your bedroom feeling like a clean, healthy retreat.
✨ Bookmark this guide to keep your pillows fluffy, fresh, and perfectly clean all year round!