Pillows are everyone’s companions at night, there to comfort and support us through sleep. But with time, they start accumulating sweat, dust, oils, and even allergens, becoming less hygienic and maybe affecting the quality of your sleep. If you’ve ever thought, “Can pillows be washed? How should I wash them?” this is the place!

This guide will walk you through all you need to know about how to keep your pillows fresh, clean, and long-lasting.

Why Should You Clean Your Pillows

Your pillow may look clean on the outside, but inside, it could be a different story. Regular cleaning helps to:

• Keep good hygiene and minimize allergens.
• Extend the life of your pillows and avoid them breaking down prematurely.
• Fresh up your sleep every time by keeping the pillows fresh and odor-free to sleep cleaner. Prevent mold and mildew from building up underneath a resting surface when it gets damp, creating sour smells. It reduces acne and skin irritation when bacteria and oils set up with time and move onto your skin while sleeping.
• Keep your bedroom fresh by removing the trapped odors that build up over months of use.
• Limit your exposure to dust mites, which can cause allergies, asthma symptoms, and other respiratory problems.

Do You Wash New Pillows?

Yes, it is a good idea to wash new pillows! As fresh as they may look, new pillows may carry factory residue, dust, and even chemicals used in their manufacturing process. A quick wash removes unwanted particles and makes your pillow fluffier and more comfortable for immediate use. Even when you don’t wash them right on the spot, giving them a good shake and airing them out before using will get rid of any lingering odors of packaging.

How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?

Experts say you should wash your pillows every 3 to 6 months to keep them clean and free of allergens. However, if you have allergies, night sweats, or pets that sleep with you, consider washing them more frequently–about every 1 to 2 months. Using pillow protectors can extend the time between washes by adding an extra layer of defense against dirt and moisture.

Washing pillowcases–can also help cut down on buildup and keep your pillows in better shape between deep cleans.

Different Ways to Clean Your Pillows

Now that we know why and how often to wash pillows, let’s get into the how. The cleaning method depends on the type of pillow you have.

Can You Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine?

Most pillows, including down, feather, and synthetic fiber pillows, can be safely washed in a washing machine. Here's how:

1. Check the care label: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging your pillows.
2. Use a gentle detergent: Avoid harsh chemicals that can break down pillow fibers or leave behind residues that may irritate the skin.
3. Balance the load: Washing two pillows together balances the machine and prevents too much movement.
4. Gentle Cycle: Choose a warm or cold water setting to protect the material and integrity of the pillow.
5. Double Rinse: Run an extra rinse to ensure no soap is left inside.
6. Don’t Use Fabric Softeners: The reason is that they cover the fibers, which reduces breathability and negatively affects the ability of the pillow to provide comfort and support.

How to Hand-Wash Pillows

The pillows that are not designed for the washer, such as memory foam and some latex pillows, will require hand-washing. This process requires a little more effort but helps to maintain the structure and support of the pillow. Follow these steps:

1. Fill the tub or sink with lukewarm water, including a small amount of mild detergent.
2. Place the pillow into the water and squeeze in a gentle manner to allow the soap to penetrate and lift out dirt and oils.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until there’s no soap remaining, ensuring all detergent has been removed.
4. Gently press out excess water without twisting or wringing the pillow, which will damage its shape.
5. Lay flat to dry, flipping occasionally to dry evenly and to avoid moisture buildup.

How Should You Dry Pillows?

Drying pillows the right way is as important as washing them to avoid mold, mildew, and other bad odors. Of course, a damp pillow will surely be a breeding ground for bacteria, so it must be thoroughly dried before use.

Can You Put Pillows in the Dryer?

Yes, most pillows can go in the dryer! Here are some tips:

• Use a low-heat setting: High heat can damage some fillings and cause synthetic fibers to break down over time.
• Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls: This helps fluff the pillows and prevents clumping, ensuring even drying.
• Check for dampness: Ensure that no part of the pillow remains damp to avoid overgrowth of mold upon its reintroduction.
• Take more cycles as may be required: Some of those thicker pillows take their time and might need close observation for those prolonged periods.

How to Dry Memory Foam and Latex Pillows

Memory foam and latex pillows really can only safely air dry because heat in a dryer can degrade these types of material. Here’s how to:

• Gently squeeze out excess water: Don’t twist or wring, as this may cause the foam to tear or distort.
• Lay flat on a breathable surface: Place the pillow on either a clean, dry towel or a mesh drying rack to provide airflow around the pillow to avoid mold.
• Flip occasionally: If necessary, flip every few hours to ensure even drying and that there’s no lock-up of moisture inside the pillow.
• Use a fan or open window: As the circulation of air increases, so does the speed of the drying, and it will prevent odors from forming.
• Let it dry completely: Memory foam and latex pillows may take up to 24 hours to dry through and through, so be patient and check for damp spots before using them again.

Now That the Pillows Are Fresh, It’s Time for the Rest!

Of course, keeping your pillows fresh is not all there is to keeping your home clean and healthy. When your bedding and mattress require deep cleaning or need a complete overall, please let our professional cleaners assist. Whether it’s cleaning, removing dust and allergens, or giving sparkle to homes, we have your back. Book with us today!