How to Properly Care for and Clean Your Pillow

Your pillow works hard every night, absorbing sweat, oils, dead skin cells, and dust. Proper cleaning and maintenance not only extends your pillow's lifespan but also creates a healthier sleep environment. This guide covers everything you need to know about caring for different pillow types.

Why Regular Pillow Cleaning Matters

Over time, pillows accumulate more than you might expect. Research suggests that a two-year-old pillow can have up to 10% of its weight attributed to dust mites and their droppings. Beyond the "ick factor," this buildup can trigger allergies, worsen asthma symptoms, and create an unhygienic sleeping surface.

Regular cleaning removes these contaminants, maintains pillow loft and support, eliminates odours, and helps you get the full lifespan from your investment. Different pillow materials require different cleaning approaches, so understanding your pillow type is essential.

Cleaning Memory Foam Pillows

Memory foam requires special care—it should never be put in a washing machine or submerged in water, as this can damage the foam's cellular structure and create mould problems.

Routine Maintenance

• Remove and wash the cover (if removable) according to its care label
• Vacuum the pillow surface using an upholstery attachment to remove dust and debris
• Air out the pillow in a well-ventilated area or indirect sunlight monthly
• Rotate and flip the pillow regularly for even wear

Spot Cleaning Stains

For stains or spills on memory foam:

1. Mix a small amount of mild liquid detergent with water
2. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and wring out excess moisture
3. Gently blot (don't rub) the stained area
4. Use a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue
5. Blot with a dry towel to absorb moisture
6. Allow to air dry completely before using—this may take 24 hours or more

Cleaning Down and Feather Pillows

Good news: most down and feather pillows can be machine washed. However, they require careful handling to maintain their loft and prevent clumping.

Machine Washing Instructions

1. Check the care label first—some down pillows are dry clean only
2. Use a front-loading or large-capacity top-loader (agitator-free preferred)
3. Wash two pillows at once to balance the load
4. Use warm water and a gentle cycle
5. Add a small amount of mild detergent—too much creates residue
6. Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all soap is removed

Drying Down Pillows

Proper drying is crucial for down pillows:

• Tumble dry on low heat—high heat can damage feathers
• Add clean tennis balls or dryer balls to break up clumps and restore fluff
• The drying process may take 2-3 hours or more
• Ensure the pillow is completely dry before use—damp feathers can mildew
• Periodically remove and fluff the pillow during the drying cycle

Cleaning Bamboo Pillows

Bamboo pillows typically have a bamboo-blend cover with a memory foam or shredded foam interior. The cleaning approach depends on your pillow's construction.

For Pillows with Removable Covers

• Remove the bamboo cover and wash it according to the care label—usually machine washable on gentle cycle with cold water
• Avoid high heat drying, which can shrink bamboo fabric—tumble dry low or air dry
• Clean the foam interior using the memory foam spot-cleaning method above

For Pillows with Shredded Foam Fill

Some bamboo pillows with shredded memory foam can be fully machine washed. Check your specific pillow's care instructions. If machine washable:

• Use cold water and gentle cycle
• Use minimal mild detergent
• Tumble dry on low with dryer balls
• Expect extended drying time—shredded foam takes longer to dry completely

Cleaning Polyester and Synthetic Pillows

Polyester-filled pillows are generally the easiest to clean and can usually withstand regular machine washing.

Washing Instructions

1. Wash two pillows together for balanced loading
2. Use warm water and a gentle cycle
3. Add a small amount of mild detergent
4. Run an extra rinse cycle
5. Tumble dry on low to medium heat with dryer balls
6. Fluff and check for dampness periodically

Cleaning Latex Pillows

Like memory foam, latex pillows should not be machine washed or soaked. The cleaning approach is similar to memory foam:

• Spot clean stains with mild detergent and water
• Vacuum regularly with an upholstery attachment
• Air out in indirect sunlight (direct sun can degrade latex)
• Wash removable covers according to care instructions

Daily and Weekly Pillow Care

Beyond periodic deep cleaning, simple daily habits keep your pillow fresher longer:

Daily Habits

• Fluff your pillow each morning to redistribute fill and maintain loft
• Air out your bedding by pulling back covers for 20-30 minutes before making the bed
• Use a pillow protector under your pillowcase as a barrier against moisture and allergens

Weekly Tasks

• Wash pillowcases in hot water to kill dust mites and bacteria
• Air out pillows near an open window when weather permits
• Check for any stains or issues that need attention

Signs Your Pillow Needs Replacing, Not Cleaning

Sometimes cleaning isn't enough. Consider replacing your pillow if:

• It doesn't spring back when folded in half (except for memory foam)
• Lumps or flat spots don't improve after washing
• Persistent odours remain after thorough cleaning
• You wake up with neck pain or stiffness
• Visible staining has penetrated through to the pillow interior
• The pillow is over two years old (for polyester) or 3-5 years (for memory foam and down)

Pillow Storage Tips

If storing pillows seasonally or for guests:

• Clean thoroughly before storage
• Ensure pillows are completely dry
• Store in breathable cotton bags—not plastic, which traps moisture
• Keep in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight
• Add moisture absorbers to the storage area if humidity is a concern

With proper care, your pillow will provide comfortable, hygienic support for years. The small investment of time in regular maintenance pays off in better sleep and extended pillow life.