How to Wash a Memory Foam Pillow

Memory foam is very comfortable, but it tends to be rather impractical to wash if it becomes soiled or wet. Unlike regular foam, you cannot simply throw it in the washer and allow it to air dry. Because of the make up of memory foam, it will not dry out in the center if saturated before it begins to house mold and bacteria. It is possible to clean your memory foam pillow, but it is a little different from conventional washing methods.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Vacuum with upholstery attachment
• Fabric cleaner
• 2 Spray bottles
• Clean, dry towels
• Hair dryer or fan

1. Use the upholstery attachment to gently vacuum the entire pillow to suction up microscopic and loose debris.

2. Mix 2 parts of water with 1 part fabric cleaner in a spray bottle. Shake well to thoroughly mix. Lightly spray the entire pillow, but be careful not to saturate it. Allow the mixture to sit on the pillow for a half hour.

3. With a clean towel, gently blot the pillow to get as much excess water off as possible.

4. Fill the second spray bottle with water. Lightly spray the pillow down again to help remove any cleaning residue. Blot gently with a clean, dry towel. Repeat this process twice or until you feel confident that no cleaner remains.

5. With the aid of a second person, wring the pillow out as much as possible to remove any remaining water.

6. Put your hair dryer on the lowest, coolest setting (or a fan). Direct the air at the pillow. If you have no cool setting on your hair dryer, be careful not to get the heat close enough to damage or melt the foam.

7. Do not use the pillow until you are sure that it is completely dry.

Tips & Warnings

• To save time and guard against future spills or accidents, invest in one of the many waterproof memory foam pillow protector options available in stores or online.