Do you frequently wake up with a runny nose, itchy eyes or a scratchy throat? Your pillows may be the culprit. Washing them regularly is an often-overlooked task that can make a big difference in creating a healthier and more comfortable sleep environment.
Why should you wash your pillows?
Dust mites, bed bugs, bacteria and various other allergens can lurk unseen in your pillows, causing several health issues like asthma, allergies and skin conditions. Sweat and oils from your body also seep into the pillow, causing unpleasant odors and discoloration. Unlike bed sheets and pillowcases which are frequently cleaned, pillows can go months and sometimes even years without a good wash.
Neglecting to wash your pillows can lead to a less hygienic sleeping space and even impact your sleep quality. A regular cleaning routine keeps your pillows fresh, prolongs their lifespan and creates a healthier environment for restful sleep.
Check the care label
Before washing your pillows, always check the manufacturer’s care label. This will provide important information about the best washing methods and whether your pillow is machine washable, spot clean only or requires dry cleaning. Most pillows fall into one of these three categories:
- Synthetic or down alternatives: Usually machine washable.
- Feather or down pillows: Often machine washable but require extra care.
- Memory foam pillows: Not machine washable but can be spot-cleaned or hand-washed.
Machine washing your pillows
Machine washing is an easy way to keep your pillows clean and fresh. It’s a quick process that effectively removes sweat, oils and allergens that accumulate over time. With a little care, you can wash your pillows without compromising their shape or support. Follow these steps to ensure great results every time.
Prep your pillows for washing
Remove the pillowcases and protectors before washing. Check the pillows for any damage like holes or tears. Washing a damaged pillow can lead to filling getting out and causing a mess.
Pretreat visible stains or spots
Before washing, check for any visible stains or spots. Pretreat these areas by applying a small amount of hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes before placing the pillow in the washing machine. This simple step can help effectively remove stubborn stains during the wash.
Load evenly
Place two pillows in the washer to balance the load. If you’re washing only one pillow, add a couple of towels on the other side of the washer for balance. This will prevent the bulky load from damaging the machine or the pillow.
Select the right cycle
Use a gentle cycle with warm water to prevent the pillow filling from clumping. Add a small amount of natural detergent and a half cup of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser. Avoid harsh detergents that could damage the pillow filling.
Rinse thoroughly and dry completely
Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all soap is thoroughly removed from the inside of the pillow. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water and transfer the pillows to the dryer. Dry on a low-heat setting. Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help fluff the pillows and keep their shape. Ensure the pillows are fully dry to prevent mold or mildew.
Air dry
If the weather and climate allow, consider air drying your pillows outdoors. Sunlight and fresh air not only speed up the drying process but also help remove lingering odors and lighten stains naturally.
“I wash my pillows about once a month in the washing machine and dry them in the tumble dryer. Use a sanitizing setting for the washer and a bulky/bedding setting for the dryer, if you have them. Once they are dry, I lay them out to cool in a sunny spot. Make sure your pillows are completely dry before putting them back in the pillowcases.”
— Renee N Gardner, Renee Nicole’s Kitchen
Handwashing your pillows
For pillows that require extra care, handwashing is a gentle and effective solution to remove dirt and odors without damaging the filling or fabric. If your pillows aren’t machine washable, here’s how to handwash them.
Soak in the bathtub
Fill the bathtub or large basin with warm water. Add a small amount of natural detergent and a half cup of white vinegar. Submerge the pillows and gently squeeze them to work the detergent through the fabric and filling. Avoid twisting or wringing the pillows. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly and air-dry
Drain the soapy water and refill with clean water to rinse. Repeat until no soap remains. After rinsing, gently press out excess water and lay the pillows flat to dry in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Flip the pillows occasionally to ensure even drying.
How often should you wash your pillows?
Experts recommend washing your pillows every three to six months not only to maintain hygiene but also to ensure they remain fluffy and supportive. For those with allergies or sensitive skin, consider washing more frequently.
“Washing pillows might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s one of those little things that makes a big difference! I try to wash mine every three to six months — any longer, and I start questioning my life choices — and my pillow’s cleanliness. Most pillows can go right in the washing machine, but always check the label first because memory foam or specialty pillows often need a gentler touch.”
— Bitty L, Eighty Recipes
Maintaining your pillows between washes
Invest in zippered pillow protectors to keep your pillows cleaner for longer and to create a barrier against dust, sweat and allergens. Wash these protectors regularly along with your pillowcases. Give your pillows a good fluff each morning to redistribute the filling and prevent lumps. This also helps release moisture trapped overnight. Once a week, air your pillows outdoors or near a window to keep them fresh and prevent odors from setting in.
When to replace your pillows
Even with regular cleaning, pillows have a limited lifespan. Replace them every one to two years, or sooner if they lose their shape, become lumpy or no longer provide proper support.
One last thing
With these simple steps, you can maintain fresh, clean pillows that contribute to better sleep and a healthier bedroom. Regular care not only helps reduce allergens but also extends the life of your pillows, making your efforts worthwhile. Take the time to clean your pillows today and enjoy a more comfortable, restful night’s sleep.
Tamara Tsaturyan is the owner and writer of Thriving In Parenting. It’s a website focused on providing simple tips for busy parents — easy and healthy recipes, home decor and organization ideas and all things parenting.