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In most cases, you can wash your bed pillows in the machine. Just make sure to check the care instructions on the label first. Olga Nikiforova/ShutterstockDespite spending hours every night with pillows, many people neglect to wash them regularly. (When was the last time you washed yours, really?) The issue is, we constantly shed all kinds of unpleasant things like bacteria, dead skin cells, and more. All of that ends up on — you guessed it — your pillow.
In fact, one study discovered that after two years of use, 30 percent of a pillow's weight is made up of dead skin, bacteria, and fecal matter from dust mites (not to mention the mites themselves). This is not only gross, but it can also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Additionally, many individuals experience skin breakouts or rashes due to their drool, sweat, and hair/body oils being absorbed into the pillow. Continued exposure to these accumulated substances can lead to significant irritation for sensitive skin!
If washing pillows isn't already part of your routine, now's the perfect time to start learning how to wash pillows. Thankfully, it's quite simple as long as you follow a few basic steps.
Steps for Washing Your Pillows
1. Inspect the Pillow's Care Labels
While some pillows are machine washable, others may require dry cleaning only. Before tossing them in the washing machine, be sure to check the care tags to confirm they are safe for home washing. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
2. Choose Hot Water
While some instructions suggest using cold or warm water, hot water is much more effective at eliminating germs, viruses, and bacteria. Be sure to select a setting that uses hot water when washing your pillows.
3. Select the Gentle Cycle
Pillows may not be as delicate as fine lingerie, but they still shouldn’t undergo excessive wear and tear. Choose the gentle or delicate cycle instead of the regular or heavy-duty settings.
4. Run an Extra Rinse Cycle
Pillow fillings have a tendency to trap detergent, so add an extra rinse cycle to ensure everything is thoroughly washed out. Speaking of detergent, don’t use too much; a small amount is more than enough.
5. Wash Two Pillows Simultaneously
Washing just one pillow could cause your machine to become unbalanced, so it’s better to wash two pillows at once to keep things running smoothly.
6. Dry Pillows Thoroughly
Place your pillows in the dryer on a low heat setting, along with a couple of tennis balls (or dryer balls) to help fluff them up. Before putting pillowcases back on, make sure your pillows are completely dry. If not, you might risk mildew or mold developing, which would ruin your cleaning efforts.
Cleaning Memory Foam Pillows
If you need to clean memory foam pillows, never put them in the washing machine. Instead, sprinkle some baking soda on the pillow to freshen it up. Let it sit for an hour before using a hand vacuum or an upholstery attachment to remove the baking soda, along with any dust, dandruff, or pet hair.
Next, dip a cloth into a mixture of warm water and mild detergent and gently blot the foam pillow to lift stains. Once the stains are gone, use a clean cloth with just water to wipe away any soap residue. Let the pillow air dry completely.
How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?
To keep your pillows fresh, wash them at least twice a year. Washing them more frequently can reduce their lifespan (though they should be cleaned after you recover from illnesses like the flu or COVID-19).
While some guides recommend washing down pillows, many experts advise against it, except in emergencies. This is because the natural oils in the feathers can be ruined by frequent washing. Additionally, it's crucial to ensure the pillow is thoroughly dried to prevent mold and mildew. Instead of washing a down pillow, consider using a pillow protector and wash that as needed.
