Can You Wash Pillows in Washing Machine

Can You Put Pillows in the Washing Machine?

Yes — most pillows can be machine washed, and they should be washed every 3–6 months. Pillows accumulate sweat, dead skin cells, dust mites, and bacteria even with a pillowcase on. Regular washing keeps them hygienic and extends their lifespan.

Which Pillows Are Machine Washable?

• Down and feather pillows: Yes — gentle cycle, warm water
• Synthetic fiberfill pillows: Yes — most durable for machine washing
• Bamboo or cotton shell pillows: Usually yes — check the label
• Memory foam pillows: No — agitation breaks down the foam structure; spot clean only
• Latex pillows: No — hand wash only in cool water

How to Machine Wash Pillows

1. Wash two pillows at a time — this balances the load and prevents the machine from becoming unbalanced
2. Use a front-loading machine if possible — top-loaders with agitators can damage pillow seams
3. Select gentle cycle with warm water
4. Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent — less than a normal load
5. Run an extra rinse cycle — detergent residue in pillow fill causes clumping and odor
6. Tumble dry on low with wool dryer balls — the balls break up clumps and restore loft
7. Run multiple drying cycles — pillows take much longer to dry than regular laundry; check for damp spots before storing

How to Tell If a Pillow Is Fully Dry

Press firmly in several areas of the pillow — if you feel any cool or damp spots, it needs more drying time. A damp pillow stored in a pillowcase will develop mildew quickly.

Tips to Reduce How Often You Wash Pillows

Use a zippered pillow protector under your pillowcase. It creates a barrier against sweat and dust mites, keeping the pillow itself clean longer. Wash the protector monthly instead of the pillow.

Recommended Products

• Wool Dryer Balls — restore pillow loft and prevent clumping during drying
• AllerEase Pillow Protectors — protect pillows from sweat and dust mites between washes