How to Wash Down Pillows

Use a mild detergent when washing your down pillows.

Down pillows are the fluffiest pillows that provide the ultimate comfort. But as with all pillows, they eventually need to be cleaned, even if you use a pillow cover. Down pillows can be washed right in the washing machine. It just takes a little bit of extra care.

Things You'll Need

• Gentle detergent
• Clean tennis balls

Instructions

1. Take off the protective pillow cover with a zipper if it has one. Inspect the pillow to make sure it does not have any rips or tears. If so, repair them before washing the pillows.

2. Place two pillows in the washer. This will help balance the load. Wash them in cold water on the gentle cycle using a small amount of mild detergent or down wash.

3. Remove the pillows and very gently squeeze any excess water out of them, if needed. The wet feathers will smell stronger than usual. This is normal and will go away when dry.

4. Place the pillows and a couple of clean tennis balls in the dryer. Dry on the lowest temperature setting. It will take two or three cycles before your pillow is dry. After each cycle is completed, take the pillow out and fluff it up with your hands, breaking up any clumps of down.

Tips & Warnings

• Down comforters can be washed in a similar fashion. Just use a large or commercial washing machine and dryer.

• Do not dry clean down.

• Some throw pillows or decorative pillows are down filled or feather and down filled. Follow the specific care instructions found on these types of pillows rather than the directions here for bed pillows.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Washing Feather Pillows
• Plumeria Bay: Down Comforter and Pillow Care