Can You Put Your Pillow in the Washing Machine? A Complete Guide

If you've ever wondered whether you can put your pillow in the washing machine, you're not alone. Pillows absorb sweat, oils, dust mites, and bacteria over time, making regular cleaning essential for hygiene and comfort. But before tossing your pillow in the washer, it's crucial to understand the type of pillow you have and how to clean it properly.

Quick answer: Yes but make sure you follow this guide

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about machine-washing pillows, including which types are safe to wash, the best washing techniques, and expert care tips to extend your pillow’s lifespan.

You can wash most pillows in the washing machine

Can You Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine?

Yes, many pillows can be washed in a washing machine, but it depends on the material.

Most synthetic, down, and feather pillows can handle machine washing, while memory foam and latex pillows should not be submerged in water.

Pillows That Can Be Machine-Washed

• Down and feather pillows – Generally machine washable if handled carefully.

• Polyester or synthetic pillows – Machine washable and easy to clean.

• Cotton pillows – Usually safe for washing machines, but check the label.

• Silk pillowcase - You can wash a silk pillowcase, but it’s best to hand wash it or use a delicate machine cycle with cold water and a gentle detergent.

Pillows That Should Not Be Machine-Washed

• Memory foam pillows – Water can damage the structure and integrity of the foam.

• Latex pillows – Washing machines can break down latex, reducing its lifespan.

• Buckwheat pillows – The hulls inside can become soggy and unusable.

Pillow Type	Machine Washable?	Notes
Down and feather pillows	Yes	Handle carefully to avoid clumping. Use a gentle cycle and low heat drying.
Polyester or synthetic pillows	Yes	Easy to clean, but check the care label for temperature settings.
Cotton pillows	Yes	Usually safe, but follow manufacturer guidelines.
Memory foam pillows	No	Water can damage the foam structure. Spot clean only.
Latex pillows	No	Washing machines can break down the material. Spot clean with mild detergent.
Buckwheat pillows	No	The hulls inside can become soggy and unusable. Empty the hulls before washing the case.

How to Wash Your Pillow in the Washing Machine

If your pillow is machine washable, follow these steps for the best results:

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Always read the manufacturer's care label before washing. It will provide specific instructions on whether machine washing is safe and any special considerations.

Step 2: Use a Gentle Detergent

Opt for a mild, liquid detergent that doesn’t leave residue. Avoid bleach, which can break down pillow fibres over time.

Step 3: Wash Two Pillows at a Time

Placing two pillows in the washer helps balance the load and prevent excessive agitation, which can damage the pillows.

Step 4: Select the Right Wash Cycle

Use a gentle cycle with warm water (not hot) to prevent fabric damage. If available, choose an extra rinse cycle to remove all soap residue.

Step 5: Spin and Drain Thoroughly

Pillows tend to hold water, so an extra spin cycle can help remove excess moisture before drying.

How to Dry Your Pillow Properly

Machine Drying

• Use a low heat or air-dry setting to prevent fabric shrinkage and damage.

• Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to the dryer to help fluff the pillows and distribute filling evenly.

• Check periodically to ensure the pillow is drying evenly and not overheating.

Air Drying

• If machine drying is not recommended, place the pillow in a well-ventilated area or under direct sunlight.

• Flip the pillow periodically to ensure even drying and prevent moisture buildup.

How Often Should You Wash Your Pillow?

For optimal hygiene and comfort, aim to wash your pillows every 3 to 6 months. If you suffer from allergies, washing every 2 to 3 months can help reduce dust mites and allergens.

Speaking to Ideal Home, Petya Holevich of Fantastic Services said:

"I’d generally recommend washing your pillows every 3 to 6 months. However, if you struggle with allergies, asthma, or another type of chronic health condition, you’ll need to wash them more frequently, around every 3 to 4 months instead."

Additional Pillow Care Tips

• Use a pillow protector to reduce dirt buildup and extend washing intervals.

• Fluff your pillow daily to maintain its shape and breathability.

• Replace pillows every 1 to 2 years, depending on the material and wear.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can put many pillows in the washing machine, but always check the care label first. Proper washing and drying techniques help maintain pillow hygiene and prolong their lifespan. Whether your pillow is down, synthetic, or cotton, following these care guidelines will ensure you get the best sleep while keeping allergens and bacteria at bay.

By taking the time to clean your pillow correctly, you’ll enjoy a fresher, healthier sleep environment.

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Can pillows be washed in the washing machine?

Yes, many pillows can be washed in the washing machine. However, it depends on the material. Down, feather, polyester, and cotton pillows are usually machine washable. Memory foam, latex, and buckwheat pillows should not be machine washed.

How do I know if my pillow is machine washable?

Always check the care label attached to your pillow. The manufacturer’s instructions will tell you whether the pillow can be machine washed and outline any specific washing recommendations.

Which pillows should not be washed in a washing machine?

Memory foam, latex, and buckwheat pillows should not be machine washed. Water can damage their structure, reduce their lifespan, or make them unusable.

What’s the best way to wash pillows in a washing machine?

• Use a gentle, warm water cycle.

• Wash two pillows at once to balance the load.

• Use a mild liquid detergent.

• Add an extra rinse cycle to ensure all soap is removed.

• Spin thoroughly to remove excess water.

Can memory foam pillows be washed?

No, memory foam pillows should not be submerged in water or machine washed. Instead, spot clean them with a mild detergent and allow them to air dry thoroughly.

How should I dry my pillows after washing?

• Machine drying: Use a low heat or air-dry setting. Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help fluff the pillows.

• Air drying: Place the pillow in a well-ventilated area or under direct sunlight. Flip it regularly to ensure even drying.

Can I put down or feather pillows in the dryer?

Yes, down and feather pillows can usually be tumble-dried on a low heat setting. Adding dryer balls or tennis balls can help prevent clumping and maintain fluffiness.

How often should pillows be washed?

Pillows should be washed every 3 to 6 months for general hygiene. Those with allergies may benefit from washing pillows every 2 to 3 months to reduce dust mites and allergens.

Can washing pillows damage them?

If the proper washing instructions are not followed, pillows can lose their shape or structural integrity. Using a gentle cycle, mild detergent, and correct drying methods will minimise the risk of damage.

What happens if you machine wash a pillow that shouldn’t be washed?

Washing a non-washable pillow, such as memory foam or latex, can cause the material to break down, deform, or become waterlogged, rendering the pillow unusable.

How can I extend the life of my pillow between washes?

• Use a pillow protector to shield against sweat and dirt.

• Fluff the pillow daily to maintain shape and airflow.

• Spot clean stains promptly.

• Replace pillows every 1 to 2 years depending on usage and wear.

Is it necessary to replace pillows even if they are washed regularly?

Yes. Even with regular washing, pillows lose support and accumulate allergens over time. Replacing them every 1 to 2 years ensures better hygiene, comfort, and sleep quality.