How to Wash Pillows: Match the Method to the Filling

Read the filling label before washing a pillow. Some down and polyester pillows permit machine washing, while many foam pillows must never be submerged. Wash a removable cover separately according to its own instructions, and do not put any pillow back into a case until the filling is completely dry.

Separate the cover from the pillow core

A zipper can identify a removable cover, but it does not guarantee that either the cover or the filling is washable. Read the pillow’s model instructions and any separate cover label. A shredded-foam pillow can have instructions different from a solid-foam pillow, despite both being described as memory foam.

Inspect the shell for thin fabric, open seams and escaping fill. Keep damaged pillows out of the washer until repaired or replaced. If identifying information has disappeared, ask the maker or use professional guidance rather than assuming a gentle cycle will protect an unknown filling.

Choose the correct route for each filling

For a machine-washable down or synthetic pillow, follow the stated cycle, temperature and detergent guidance. Load in the arrangement your washer manual recommends for balance. Two pillows can help balance some machines, but do not add a second bulky item if that exceeds the machine’s limits.

For solid foam and other nonwashable cores, use the maker’s surface-cleaning instructions only. TEMPUR-Pedic specifically distinguishes washable covers from its nonwashable TEMPUR material. Buckwheat hulls and specialty natural fillings also need their own instructions; a removable fabric casing is not permission to soak everything inside.

Wash without trapping soap in the center

Remove cases and protectors first. If pretreating a mark is allowed, test a small hidden area and use a compatible product. Measure detergent carefully: dense filling can be difficult to rinse, and adding extra cleaner is not a substitute for choosing a suitable load size.

Check after the cycle for obvious residue and follow the manufacturer’s rinse guidance. Do not twist a waterlogged pillow to force moisture out. Support its weight when transferring it so wet seams are not carrying the entire load. Stop if the shell splits or filling begins escaping.

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Treat drying as the deciding step

Where tumble drying is permitted, use the specified setting and check periodically. Turn and gently redistribute fill as instructed so damp pockets do not remain in the center. A short drying cycle chosen for the fabric cover may be nowhere near enough for the pillow inside.

Let the pillow cool before checking the thickest areas by touch. A dry surface with a damp, heavy center is not finished. For a permitted air-drying method, allow airflow on both sides and turn it as needed. Do not return a pillow to service just because bedtime has arrived.

Recognize when washing will not fix the problem

A pillow with a torn interior, badly compacted filling or persistent musty odor may need replacement or a professional assessment. Washing cannot reliably restore worn-out support. Likewise, a fresh fragrance does not establish that retained moisture or contamination has been removed.

Use a washable protector and regularly clean the outer case according to their labels. Keep a photo of the pillow’s care label with its model information so that the next cleaning decision is easier. Store spare pillows only when completely dry, without forcing them into packaging that traps moisture.

Related practical guides

Laundry Symbols Explained: Read Washing and Drying Labels · Throw Pillow Sizes: Build a Comfortable Sofa Arrangement · Bed Sheets: Percale, Sateen, Linen and Fit

Sources and further reading

TEMPUR-Pedic: can I wash my pillow?

Sleep Number: cleaning bedding

Shopping links

Optional Amazon searches for relevant supplies. Compare the listed materials, dimensions and care instructions before buying. These are shopping searches, not products tested for this guide.

Zippered pillow protector

Pillowcase cotton