Pillows collect sweat, skin oils, dust mites and allergens night after night. Even with a clean pillowcase, the pillow underneath can become yellowed and stale over time. Washing your pillows a few times a year helps you sleep in a fresher, healthier bed — and can make a difference if you suffer from allergies.
How often should you wash pillows?
Wash pillowcases weekly and the pillows themselves every three to six months. A pillow protector between the pillow and pillowcase adds an extra layer of protection and can be washed with your sheets.
Always check the care label first
Different fillings need different care. The label will tell you whether a pillow can go in the washing machine, what temperature to use and whether it’s safe to tumble dry.
Polyester and synthetic pillows
- Wash two pillows at a time to keep the machine balanced.
- Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent and a warm, gentle cycle.
- Add an extra rinse to remove all detergent.
- Tumble dry on low with a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to stop the filling clumping, or dry flat in the sun, turning regularly.
Down and feather pillows
Most down and feather pillows can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent made for down. Rinse well and dry thoroughly on low heat — it can take a few cycles. Any trapped moisture can lead to mould and odours, so make sure the pillow is completely dry right through to the centre before using it again.
Memory foam and latex pillows
Foam pillows should not go in the washing machine, as the agitation can break them apart. Instead:
- Remove the cover and wash it separately if it is removable.
- Vacuum the pillow to remove dust.
- Spot clean marks with a cloth dipped in warm water and a little mild detergent.
- Air dry completely away from direct heat.
Freshen pillows between washes
On a sunny day, air your pillows outside for a few hours. Sunlight and fresh air help reduce moisture and odours. Fluffing pillows every morning also helps them keep their shape.
When to replace your pillow
Try folding your pillow in half. If it stays folded instead of springing back, it has lost its support. Most pillows need replacing every one to two years, depending on the type and how well they are looked after.
A fresher bedroom
Clean pillows go hand in hand with a clean bedroom: regular vacuuming, dusting and carpet cleaning all help reduce dust mites and allergens. If you’d like help keeping on top of it, our house cleaning and carpet cleaning services are available across Seven Hills, Blacktown, the Hills district and Parramatta.
