Can You Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine? A Practical Guide
Learn how to safely wash pillows in your washing machine, including care for different fills, ideal cycles, drying tips, and common mistakes to avoid. Practical guidance for homeowners and renters.
Yes. Most pillows can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, but always check the care label. Wash one or two pillows per load with towels to balance, use a mesh bag if available, and dry thoroughly on low heat with dryer balls.
Can you wash pillows in the washing machine?
According to Best Washing Machine, in most homes you can machine wash many pillow types, though memory foam or latex pillows usually require spot cleaning or hand washing. The care label on each pillow is the final authority, so always start there. If the label says machine washable, use a gentle cycle, cool water, and a mild detergent. For best results, pair each pillow with towels to balance the load and consider placing pillows inside a mesh bag to minimize agitation. After washing, gently press out excess water (do not wring) and prepare for thorough drying. A clean pillow not only feels fresher, but can also reduce nighttime allergies. The goal is to preserve loft and comfort while avoiding damage to the pillow or your machine. With proper care, many pillows can be refreshed without a trip to the store.
Pillows by fill: what can and can't go in the washer
Different pillow fillings respond differently to machine washing. Synthetic fiberfill pillows, down and feather pillows, and some shredded foam designs are commonly machine washable on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Memory foam pillows and solid latex pillows are generally not machine washable because the foam can break down, clump, or lose shape. Always read the care label; if it lists water temperature, cycle type, and drying instructions, follow those exactly. If the label is missing, err on the side of caution: wash only one pillow and test a small amount of detergent on a hidden seam first. Even washable pillows benefit from a fabric cover and a removable, washable case. In addition, some green or allergen-friendly pillows have recommended washing intervals; following those can help extend their life and maintain allergen resistance.
Pre-wash prep: protect the pillow and the machine
Before washing, prepare both pillow and machine. Remove pillow protectors and zippered covers; wash those separately if recommended. Fasten zippers and remove any loose buttons or embroidery that could snag. Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent in a measured amount; using too much soap leaves residue that can irritate the skin and reduce loft. Place the pillow in a mesh laundry bag if you have one; this reduces agitation and helps preserve shape. Add a couple of towels to balance the load, especially if washing a single pillow. Run a quick empty rinse cycle on the drum first to flush out any debris. If your washer has a delicate or hand-wash cycle, choose it for down and feather pillows to minimize damage.
Detergent choices and washing settings
Choose a mild, liquid detergent with no added scents or color boosters. Powder detergents can leave residue in pillows, which is harder to rinse out. Set the machine to a gentle cycle with cold or warm water depending on the label. For robust pillows or larger sizes, you may run a second rinse to remove all soap residues. Avoid chlorine bleach, as it can break down natural fibers and discolor pillow fabric. If you have adherence to a specific care label, follow it; otherwise, keep the load light and balanced. After washing, gently shake the pillow to restore shape before drying; this reduces clumping in the dryer.
Balancing the load and loading technique
Washing one pillow at a time can create an unbalanced load, which makes the washer vibrate or throw a code. Add one or two similar pillows to keep the drum balanced, or throw in a couple of towels to stabilize the balance. When loading, ensure the pillow has space to move; overcrowding can prevent thorough cleaning and rinse. If your machine has an adjustable spin speed, choose a lower setting to minimize fabric wear. For uneven pillows (like some down or shredded fill), distribute the filling by gently kneading the pillow after washing to re-fluff.
Drying: safe methods to restore loft
Drying is the second half of pillow care; improper drying can lead to musty odors or mildew. If the pillow is labeled dryer-safe, tumble dry on low heat with a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to break up clumps and promote even drying. Check every 30 minutes and flip the pillow to maximize air flow. It can take 1-3 hours depending on pillow type and dryer efficiency. If you cannot fully dry the pillow in a dryer, air-dry it on a clean rack in a sunny, breezy area, turning occasionally until completely dry. Never leave a damp pillow in a closed space; moisture invites mold and odors.
Common issues and practical fixes
Detergent buildup on pillows can leave a stiff feel or itching. If you notice soap residue after the cycle, run an extra rinse or two. A musty odor often means insufficient drying; ensure the pillow is completely dry before storage. Lumps or uneven loft after washing indicate uneven fill; knead the pillow to redistribute fill and use dryer balls during drying. If a cover is damaged or stained beyond repair, replace it rather than rewashing the core. When in doubt, consult the care label or manufacturer's guidelines for any fill-specific cautions. Best Washing Machine notes that a careful approach reduces wear and extends pillow life.
Special cases: memory foam, latex, and shredded foam
Memory foam and solid latex pillows typically should not be machine washed because soaking can degrade the foam structure. For these, spot clean with a mild detergent solution and a soft cloth, then air-dry thoroughly. Shredded foam pillows are tricky in machines; if the label allows, you may wash the outer cover only, leaving the foam core clean and dry. When you replace an old memory foam pillow, consider foam-safe washing products or a new pillow with the same size and support. For mixed-fill pillows, follow the most restrictive care instruction to protect both core and cover.
How often should you wash pillows and how to maintain them
General guidelines suggest washing pillows every 3-6 months for everyday use; people with allergies or asthma might prefer more frequent cleaning. Between washes, use pillow protectors and wash the covers weekly to reduce oil buildup and dust. If you use a feather pillow, ensure the loft remains even through regular fluffing. Best Washing Machine analysis shows that consistent care reduces odor and prolongs pillow life. Rotating between pillows keeps wear even and helps maintain comfort over time.
Quick maintenance tips and final checklist
Tips: always check care labels; use mesh bags; balance loads; use mild detergent; air-out and dry thoroughly.
Tools & Materials
- Pillow(s) to wash(One or two pillows per load for balance)
- Mild liquid detergent(Unscented preferred; avoid bleach)
- Mesh laundry bag (optional)(Helps protect delicate pillow cores)
- Dryer balls or clean tennis balls(To prevent clumping during drying)
- Towels for balancing(Add 1-2 towels to balance the load)
- Removable pillow covers(Wash separately if advised by care label)
Steps
Estimated time: 60-90 minutes
- 1
Remove covers and inspect
Take off pillowcases and any protectors; check care labels and for damage. If you see tears, mend or skip washing that pillow.
Tip: Always read the label first. - 2
Balance the load
Load one pillow with towels or a second pillow to balance the drum and reduce vibration.
Tip: Balanced loads improve cleaning and protect the washer. - 3
Add detergent
Add a small amount of mild, liquid detergent; avoid excess to prevent residue.
Tip: Liquid detergent rinses more completely on cool water. - 4
Select the cycle
Choose a gentle or delicates cycle with cold or warm water depending on the label.
Tip: Warm water can help grime, but is tougher on fills. - 5
Rinse and balance
Run an extra rinse to remove all soap; this prevents stiffness and skin irritation.
Tip: Soap residue can irritate skin if not rinsed. - 6
Move to dryer
Transfer pillows to the dryer with dryer balls to promote even drying and loft.
Tip: Use low heat to protect fill. - 7
Check dryness
Check every 30 minutes; add 10-15 minutes as needed until completely dry.
Tip: Damp pillows can harbor mold. - 8
Fluff and finish
Fluff the pillow to redistribute fill and restore loft; reinsert covers if needed.
Tip: Fluffing helps restore shape. - 9
Air-dry if needed
If any moisture remains, finish drying with air drying in a sunny area.
Tip: Never store a damp pillow. - 10
Clean up
Wipe the drum and door seal; run an empty cycle to keep the washer fresh.
Tip: Regular maintenance prevents odor buildup.
FAQ
Can you wash all types of pillows in the washing machine?
Most cushions with synthetic fiberfill or down can be machine washed on a gentle cycle, but memory foam and latex pillows should not be machine washed. Always check the care label for specific instructions.
Most pillows can be washed, but memory foam and latex pillows usually can't.
What temperature is best for washing pillows?
Use cold or warm water on a gentle cycle. Cold water protects fills, while warm water helps remove oils if the label allows it.
Cold or warm water on a gentle cycle works for most pillows.
How many pillows should I wash at once?
Aim for one or two pillows per load to keep the drum balanced and ensure thorough cleaning.
One or two pillows per load keeps the balance right.
How long does drying take?
Drying times vary by pillow type and dryer; typically 1-3 hours on low heat with occasional redistribution.
Drying can take 1 to 3 hours on low heat.
Can I wash pillow covers separately?
Yes. Pillow covers often have separate care instructions; wash covers separately according to their label.
Yes—wash covers separately if labeled.
How often should I wash pillows?
For regular use, wash every 3-6 months; more often if you have allergies or heavy sweating.
Every 3-6 months is typical.
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The Essentials
- Check care labels before washing.
- Balance loads to protect the machine.
- Use gentle cycles and mild detergent.
- Dry thoroughly to prevent mold.
- Follow fill-specific care guidelines.
