How to Wash Pillows

Although they are typically covered by pillowcases, your pillows do need some cleaning every so often as they come into contact with dust, sweat and hair from your body and the surrounding environment. Cleaning your pillows periodically is essential to help maintain your pillows and prevent build-up, stains or smells. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to clean synthetic, down, feather and even memory foam pillows.

Woman loading a pillow into a Maytag® top loading washer

CAN YOU WASH PILLOWS IN THE WASHING MACHINE?

Most pillows are machine washable and can be washed much like a regular load of laundry. However, memory foam pillows may need to be hand washed to avoid damaging the filling. Always check the pillow's care label for specific instructions on how to wash your pillow.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR PILLOW?

Just like your bedding, you sleep on your pillows every night. This frequent use makes cleaning and maintenance necessary to keep your pillows in good condition. Washing your pillows occasionally is essential to help reduce dirt and oil that can build up over time.

CAN YOU PUT PILLOWS IN THE DRYER?

You can put machine-washable pillows in the dryer using a no-heat or air-dry cycle. Pillows that require hand washing should be air dried. Heated dry cycles can alter and possibly damage the filling of your pillows, so be sure to avoid applying heat to dry pillows after a wash cycle. Always remember to check the laundry care label of your pillows to ensure you’re following manufacturer instructions.

Woman loading a pillow into a Maytag® dryer

HOW TO WASH POLYESTER, DOWN & FEATHER PILLOWS

You can wash polyester, down and feather pillows when you use the right technique. Read on below to learn how to wash these types of pillows.

Tools

Dryer balls
Detergent

STEP 1: LOAD PILLOWS IN THE WASHER TWO AT A TIME

Remove any pillow cases or coverings. Try to wash at least two pillows at a time to make sure the load doesn't become off balance. If you’re only washing one pillow, toss in a few towels to help balance the wash load.

STEP 2: SELECT A GENTLE CYCLE AND EXTRA RINSE

A gentle or bulky cycle will ensure your pillow's structure and body remains intact. Check your machine’s cycle guide for model-specific instructions. Select the warmest water temperature recommended on the care tag for optimal cleaning. If your washer has an extra rinse option, select that as well to help wash out as much detergent as possible from these thick items.

STEP 3: MACHINE DRY PILLOWS ON A LOW- OR NO-HEAT CYCLE

Transfer pillows to the dryer right away. Add dryer balls if you have them to help fluff the pillows. Select the drying setting listed on your pillow’s laundry care tag to avoid damage to the filling. On select Maytag^® dryers, push the Extra Power button to extend time and tumbling.

STEP 4: CHECK THAT PILLOWS ARE COMPLETELY DRY

Pillows should be completely dry before coming out of the dryer. As with bedding and towels, any dampness left behind on your pillow may cause it to smell.