Buzz
When did you last clean your actual pillows, not just the cases or protectors? Think about those pillows with noticeable yellow stains.
We’ve previously covered cleaning traditional pillows and the recommended frequency (at least twice a year), but what’s the process for memory foam pillows?
Unlike regular pillows, memory foam pillows can’t be tossed into a washing machine. The intense motion of washers and dryers can damage the foam, as noted by cleaning expert Jolie Kerr. Fortunately, there are alternative methods to clean them effectively. Here’s what you need to know.
Effective Methods for Cleaning Memory Foam Pillows
There are several approaches to cleaning memory foam pillows, depending on your specific needs and goals.
Start by vacuuming the pillows
The initial step in cleaning memory foam pillows is vacuuming, preferably with an upholstery attachment. This removes dead skin flakes, dust, and allergens trapped in the foam. According to the Bedpillows.com team, vacuuming should be done weekly, ideally when you change your sheets.
If your pillow has developed an odor—likely from sweat and other nightly secretions—Kerr recommends sprinkling baking soda on it, letting it sit for an hour, and then vacuuming it with the upholstery attachment. This deodorizing process can be done as needed or every one to three months.
While vacuuming is essential, it doesn’t truly clean the pillow—that step comes next.
Eliminate the stains
If your pillows are free of stains, you can skip this step. For stained pillows, use a clean white or off-white cloth and an all-purpose stain remover. Apply a small amount of the stain remover to the cloth (not directly on the pillow) and gently dab the stain instead of rubbing. Continue blotting until the stain disappears, reapplying stain remover as needed.
Afterward, rinse the cloth thoroughly and dab the stained area with water to remove any residue. If you decide to stop at this stage, Kerr emphasizes allowing the pillow to dry completely before replacing the pillowcase.
Proceed to wash the pillow
Once you’ve finished the previous steps, it’s time to deep clean your memory foam pillow. Follow these instructions:
Fill a bathtub or large container with lukewarm water and add no more than one tablespoon of mild detergent. (Note: Using more detergent won’t make the pillow cleaner—it will only require more rinsing.)
Submerge the pillow, ensuring it’s fully saturated, and gently massage it.
Lift the pillow out, squeeze out the soapy water, and repeat the submersion and massaging process two more times.
Drain the tub and squeeze out any remaining soapy water from the pillow.
Refill the tub with clean water and repeat the dunking, massaging, and squeezing steps until the water is clear and the pillow is thoroughly rinsed.
Drain the tub once more and press the pillow flat to remove excess water.
Place the pillow on a clean, dry towel and cover it with another towel. Press down to absorb more moisture.
Let the pillow air dry, preferably in direct sunlight or under a ceiling fan if outdoors isn’t an option. Ensure it’s completely dry before using a pillowcase.
How frequently should you clean a memory foam pillow?
Kerr explains that memory foam pillows are less prone to dust and allergens compared to traditional pillows, so they require less frequent washing. She suggests cleaning them every six to twelve months.
