How to Wash or Clean Pillows

Cleaning your pillows regularly keeps them free of allergens.

Pillows require cleaning at least twice a year to prevent the accumulation of dust mites and other allergens, which can cause allergy sufferers to sneeze. Dirt and dust can also build up inside pillows and act as abrasives that shorten their life, especially in the case of goose down. Whether your pillows are filled with foam, polyester or feathers, they must be cleaned regularly to keep them in the best possible shape.

Things You'll Need

• Mild laundry detergent
• Large basin
• Fan (optional)

Instructions

Down, Polyester and Feather Pillows

1. Wash pillows filled with down, polyester or feathers in the washing machine. Set the machine to the "Gentle" cycle, add as much mild laundry detergent as you normally use for a load, and place the pillows inside while the machine fills with warm water.

2. Rinse the pillows three times in the washing machine to make sure every trace of detergent has been removed. For the best results, reset the machine to the "Rinse" cycle two additional times after the first wash-and-rinse cycle has completed.

3. Move the pillows to the dryer after rinsing and set to low heat on the "Gentle" cycle. Down pillows can take up to six hours to dry this way, while polyester pillows typically take less time. Check the pillows every hour, and return them to the dryer if they are not completely dry.

Foam-Filled Pillows

1. Remove the covers from foam-filled pillows and wash them separately from the filling. Place them in the washing machine or wash by hand, depending on the care instructions. If no care instructions are available, wash the covers by hand to prevent damage.

2. Fill a large basin with warm, soapy water and submerge the foam pillow, without the cover. Squeeze the suds through the foam thoroughly with your hands. Continue squeezing for about two minutes, or until the pillow appears to be clean.

3. Transfer the pillow to a basin filled with cold water, or place it in the sink and run cold water over it, until all the soap residue has been removed. Blot with a dry towel to remove as much moisture as possible.

4. Place the pillow on a flat surface to air dry, which may take several days. Turn the pillow occasionally to promote even drying. Position a fan facing toward the pillow to expedite drying time, if desired. Place the cover back on the pillow after it dries completely.

Tips & Warnings

• The Penn State Cooperative Extension recommends fluffing pillows daily to help them maintain their resiliency.

• Wash no more than two or three pillows in the washing machine at once, depending on their size. If you overfill the machine, the pillows may not get completely clean.

• Pillows may also be hung outside to dry, if desired, although this may take longer than placing them in the dryer. If you dry them outside, turn and shake them periodically to distribute the filling evenly.

• Do not wash pillows with rips or tears in them, no matter how small, as this allows the filling to work itself out during agitation. Repair tears completely before placing pillows in the washing machine to prevent further damage.

• Do not place foam-filled pillows in the washing machine or dryer.

References

• Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension: Care of Pillows
• University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Bedding Care
• “2,001 Amazing Cleaning Secrets”; Jeff Bredenberg; 2004
• “Organic Housekeeping”; Ellen Sandbeck; 2006
• “The Queen of Clean's Complete Cleaning Guide”; Linda Cobb; 2002