How To Wash Pillows: A Pillow Care Guide

Resting your head on a fresh, clean pillow is one of life’s little indulgences, and taking good care of your pillows helps that feeling last. You can wash most down, down alternative, and polyfill pillows in the washing machine, though it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s care instructions first. Knowing how to clean pillows properly—and how to dry, refresh, and store them—can help them stay fluffy, supportive, and fresh over time.

How To Wash And Dry Pillows

If the care label indicates machine washing is safe, follow these steps to clean down, down alternative, and polyfill pillows while protecting the fill. Note that memory foam and other specialty pillows may have different care requirements.

1. Prepare Your Pillows for Washing

Remove pillowcases and protective covers and wash them separately. Check for stains that need extra attention before washing.

2. Spot-Treat Stains, If Necessary

Before washing, spot-treat stains with a mild dish detergent and water solution or a pillow-safe stain remover. Check the care label before using any treatment, especially on pillows with down fill, decorative stitching, or appliqué.

3. Wash With Mild Detergent and Cold Water

Choose a gentle cycle with cold water and a small amount of mild laundry detergent. Skip bleach, fabric softener, and other laundry additives, which can damage the fill. When possible, wash two pillows together to help balance the load without overcrowding the machine. Run an extra rinse cycle to remove lingering detergent, which can cause the fill to clump.

4. Dry Your Pillows Completely After Washing

If the care label recommends machine drying, tumble dry your pillows on low heat until the fill is completely dry. Stop the dryer periodically to shake and fluff the pillows, breaking up clumps and helping the fill dry evenly. 

Quick Tip: Add wool dryer balls to the dryer to help break up clumps and restore the pillows' loft as they dry.