Can You Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine?
Most people wash their sheets regularly, but pillows are often overlooked.
Over time, pillows collect:
- Sweat
- Body oils
- Dead skin cells
- Dust mites
- Allergens
- Odors
This leads many homeowners to ask:
Can You Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine?
In many cases, the answer is yes.
Many synthetic and down pillows can be safely washed in a washing machine, provided the manufacturer's care instructions allow it. However, some specialty pillows require different cleaning methods and may be damaged by machine washing.
Before throwing any pillow into the washer, it's important to understand what type of pillow you have and how to clean it properly.
Check the Care Label First
Before washing any pillow, always check the care label.
The care label will tell you:
- Whether machine washing is allowed
- Recommended water temperature
- Drying instructions
- Special cleaning requirements
If you're unsure how to interpret care instructions, our guide on How to Read Laundry Symbols and Care Labels can help you understand common laundry symbols and avoid accidental damage.
Which Pillows Can Be Washed in the Washing Machine?
Polyester Fiberfill Pillows
Most polyester pillows can be machine washed safely.
These are often the easiest pillows to clean and maintain.
Down and Feather Pillows
Many down pillows can also be machine washed.
Use:
- Mild detergent
- Cold or warm water
- Gentle cycle
Proper drying is especially important to prevent clumping.
Down Alternative Pillows
Most down alternative pillows are machine washable and respond well to regular cleaning.
Memory Foam Pillows
Memory foam pillows generally should not be fully submerged in water.
Machine washing can damage the foam structure and shorten the pillow's lifespan.
Instead:
- Spot clean
- Vacuum regularly
- Follow manufacturer instructions
Latex Pillows
Latex pillows are typically not machine washable.
These should generally be spot cleaned only.
How Often Should You Wash Pillows?
Most experts recommend washing pillows every 3–6 months.
You may need more frequent cleaning if:
- You sweat heavily
- You suffer from allergies
- Pets sleep on your bed
- You recently recovered from an illness
Regular cleaning helps reduce allergens and keeps bedding fresher overall.
How to Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine
Step 1: Wash Two Pillows at a Time
Washing two pillows helps balance the machine during the spin cycle.
Step 2: Use a Small Amount of Detergent
One common mistake is using too much detergent.
Excess detergent can become trapped inside pillow filling and create residue.
Our guide on How Much Laundry Detergent Should You Use? explains why most people use significantly more detergent than necessary.
Step 3: Select a Gentle Cycle
Use:
- Warm water
- Gentle cycle
- Extra rinse if available
This helps remove dirt and detergent buildup.
Step 4: Dry Thoroughly
Pillows must be completely dry before use.
Any retained moisture can lead to:
- Odors
- Mildew
- Mold growth
Low heat is generally recommended for most machine-washable pillows.
Why Do Pillows Start Smelling?
Many people search for pillow cleaning after noticing unpleasant odors.
Common causes include:
- Sweat buildup
- Moisture retention
- Body oils
- Detergent residue
If your laundry often smells clean initially but develops odors later, our article on Why Your Laundry Still Smells After Washing explains several common causes and solutions.
Signs It's Time to Replace a Pillow
Cleaning helps extend a pillow's lifespan, but eventually replacement becomes necessary.
Consider replacing a pillow if:
- It remains flat after fluffing
- Filling is uneven or lumpy
- Odors persist after washing
- The pillow no longer provides support
Most pillows should be replaced every 1–2 years depending on use and material.
Can You Wash Decorative Throw Pillows?
It depends.
Some decorative pillows have removable covers that can be machine washed.
Others contain materials that require spot cleaning only.
Always check care labels before cleaning.
Pillows Are Part of a Larger Bedding Care Routine
Keeping pillows clean is only one part of maintaining a healthy sleeping environment.
For complete bedding care, you may also find these articles helpful:
Together, these resources can help extend the life of your bedding and clothing while improving cleanliness throughout your home.
Need Help Cleaning Pillows and Bedding?
While many pillows can be washed at home, bulky bedding items often require more space and specialized equipment than a standard residential washer can provide.
At Get Fresh Start Laundry, we professionally clean:
- Pillows
- Comforters
- Blankets
- Bedding
- Everyday laundry
Our Wash and Fold Laundry Service and Residential Laundry Pickup and Delivery Service make it easy to keep your entire household laundry routine under control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can all pillows be washed in the washing machine?
No. Memory foam and many latex pillows should not be machine washed. Always check the care label first.
How often should pillows be washed?
Most pillows should be washed every 3–6 months.
What temperature should I use to wash pillows?
Warm water is generally recommended for most machine-washable pillows unless the care label states otherwise.
Why do pillows smell after washing?
Incomplete drying is often the cause. Pillows must be fully dried to prevent mildew and odors.
Is it worth professionally cleaning pillows?
Professional cleaning can help extend pillow life and ensure thorough cleaning, particularly for specialty or oversized bedding items.
Join The Discussion!