How to Clean Pillows in the Washing Machine & By Hand

It’s hard to know when and how to clean pillows. This simple guide explains how to wash pillows by hand and in the washing machine, keeping their shape and feel.

Pillow cases can be tossed in the washer without a second thought, but understanding how to clean pillows themselves is harder. How often should you clean them? How do you wash pillows without ruining their filling, shape or feel? Here’s a simple guide on how and when to wash your pillows.

How Often Should You Clean Your Pillows?

Some claim that you should clean your pillows around four times a year. Others say washing them only twice a year is sufficient. Ultimately, how often you wash your pillows depends on how often you use them, if they’re dirty or stained, and how much time you have. A good rule of thumb is to wash them at least twice a year.

Over time dead skin cells, oils, and sweat make their way down into the interior of pillows and attract dust mites. Often these mites can cause an allergic reaction unknown to the sleeper until after waking.

How to Clean Pillows in the Washing Machine & Dryer

Not every pillow can be cleaned in the washing machine, so always check the material and care tag. The following types generally do not need to be washed by hand:

Washing Cotton Pillows:

1. Cotton pillows can be washed in the washing machine without concern over damaging the insides, however, always use the gentle cycle.
2. Heat can be low to moderate and we recommend using a detergent that has a high rating on EWG.
3. Cotton can be dried on a higher heat setting. They should feel completely dry before use.

Washing Down & Feather Pillows:

1. Pillows made from down/feathers can be washed in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Use cool water and mild detergent.
2. Dry them on low heat, as a higher temperature can damage the interior.

Washing Polyester Pillows:

1. Pillows with a polyester interior can also be washed in the machine using the gentle cycle.
2. Use warm water on the pillows and use a very small amount (around 1 tablespoon) of mild detergent.
3. These pillows can be dried in the dryer on medium heat. Ensure that they are entirely dry before use.

How to Clean Pillows By Hand

Some materials will be damaged inside the washing machine, and it is therefore important to only wash the casing in the washer rather than the entire pillow.

Foam & Latex Pillows:

Follow these steps if your pillow is made of latex, a single foam piece or smaller or shredded pieces:

1. Remove the latex or foam from the casing and wash the case as normal.
2. The pillow filling should be set aside in a shallow tray or bowl, outside if possible, and fluffed to remove dust. You can also use your vacuum attachment to remove dust.

If these pillows have stains, they should be spot cleaned only. Here’s how:

1. Take a damp cloth and a small amount of natural detergent (about 1 teaspoon) and clean the stain by rubbing the spot in a circular motion.
2. Rinse the cloth entirely, and dab the soap residue with the cloth on the stain until it has dissipated.

Knowing how to clean latex and foam pillows is important: they must be air-dried, as dryer heat can damage their integrity.

Drying Pillows Sustainably

Once you understand how to clean pillows properly, it’s time to think about drying them. Dryers have a high environmental impact. They use more electricity than any other household appliance — except for the fridge and the washer. They raise your electricity bill and will eventually cost you extra money.

To minimize your carbon footprint while still killing dust mites, try air drying your pillows and pillowcases indoors or outdoors on a clothesline. Drying your laundry naturally has many benefits. Air drying your clothes in the sun whitens and disinfects them naturally.

An indoor drying rack is another way to dry your pillows and pillowcases if the weather is bad or you are concerned about outdoor allergens.

For heavier pillow inserts that won’t fit on a rack neatly, lay them on a shallow tray and rotate them every few hours until they are dry.

Read on:

• How to Clean Shoelaces (White and Other Colors)
• All-Natural Homemade Fabric Softener
• 4 Ways to Get Rid of Mites: Quick & Easy

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Tags: DIY Green Living Guide