How to Clean a Memory Foam Pillow: Spot Clean and Deodorize Safely

Memory foam pillows cannot be machine washed — water saturates the foam and takes days to dry, often causing mildew before it dries completely. But that doesn't mean they can't be cleaned. This guide covers how to keep a memory foam pillow fresh, clean, and odor-free using safe, low-moisture methods.

What You'll Need

• Nutricost Baking Soda (2 lbs) — the safest and most effective deodorizer for memory foam
• Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Stain & Odor Eliminator — for organic stains and persistent odors
• Febreze Fabric Refresher Spray (23.6 fl oz) — for quick surface freshening
• AllerEase Pillow Protectors, Standard/Queen (Set of 2) — essential protection that keeps the foam clean between cleanings
• Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths (24-pack)
• Mild dish soap
• Cold water

What NOT to Do with a Memory Foam Pillow

• ❌ Never machine wash — the agitation and water saturation destroy the foam structure
• ❌ Never put in the dryer — heat damages memory foam permanently
• ❌ Never submerge in water
• ❌ Never wring or twist
• ❌ Never use a steam cleaner — too much moisture
• ❌ Never use bleach or harsh chemicals

Method 1: Baking Soda Deodorizing (Monthly)

This is the most important regular maintenance for memory foam pillows.

1. Remove the pillowcase and pillow protector
2. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the entire pillow surface
3. Let sit for 2–4 hours — overnight gives the best results for strong odors
4. Vacuum thoroughly with the upholstery attachment
5. Flip and repeat on the other side

This neutralizes sweat odors and absorbs moisture without any liquid.

Method 2: Spot Cleaning Stains

For visible stains, always apply cleaner to a cloth first — never directly to the foam.

For General Stains

1. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with cold water
2. Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution — wring out thoroughly so it's barely damp
3. Blot the stain gently from the outside in — never rub
4. Use a second cloth dampened with plain cold water to blot and rinse
5. Press a dry towel firmly onto the area to absorb moisture
6. Allow to air dry completely with a fan before using

For Organic Stains (Sweat, Saliva, Urine)

1. Apply Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Cleaner to a microfiber cloth
2. Press the cloth against the stain and hold for 10–15 minutes
3. Blot with a cold damp cloth to rinse
4. Press dry towels to absorb moisture
5. Dry completely with a fan before use

Method 3: Sunlight and Fresh Air

On a dry, sunny day, take the memory foam pillow outside and lay it flat in indirect sunlight (not direct sun, which can degrade foam) for 2–3 hours. Fresh air and UV exposure naturally kill bacteria and carry away odors. This is one of the most effective no-moisture refreshing methods.

Method 4: Febreze Quick Refresh

For a quick odor refresh between deep treatments, lightly mist the pillow with Febreze Fabric Refresher and allow to dry completely before putting the pillowcase back on. Use sparingly — don't saturate the foam.

Drying After Spot Cleaning

Proper drying is critical for memory foam:

• Point a fan directly at the cleaned area
• Open windows for airflow
• Memory foam can feel dry on the surface while still damp inside — allow extra time
• Press firmly on the cleaned area — if it feels cool, it's still damp
• Never put the pillowcase back on until completely dry

Protecting Your Memory Foam Pillow

The AllerEase Pillow Protectors are especially important for memory foam. The zippered design creates a barrier against sweat, saliva, and allergens — keeping the foam clean and dry. Wash the protector monthly. With a good protector, you may only need to do a full baking soda treatment every 2–3 months.

How Often Should You Clean a Memory Foam Pillow?

• Monthly: Baking soda deodorizing
• As needed: Spot clean stains immediately
• Every 2–3 months: Sunlight airing
• Replace: Every 2–3 years, or when the foam no longer springs back or has permanent odors

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put a memory foam pillow in the dryer on air-only setting?

A brief tumble on the air-only (no heat) setting can help fluff the pillow and remove surface dust, but it's not a substitute for cleaning. Never use heat settings on memory foam. If you do use the air-only setting, keep it to 10–15 minutes maximum.

My memory foam pillow has a strong smell — what do I do?

For persistent odors, do an extended baking soda treatment — apply generously and leave overnight. Follow with sunlight airing. If the odor is from a specific stain (urine, sweat), treat with enzyme cleaner first, dry completely, then do the baking soda treatment.

How do I know when to replace a memory foam pillow?

Replace when the foam no longer springs back to its original shape, when it has developed permanent indentations, or when odors persist despite cleaning. Most memory foam pillows last 2–3 years with proper care.