Unlike your bed sheets or your pillowcase, you can’t just stuff any pillow in the washer. How you clean your pillow depends on what type of pillow it is. In this post, we explain why it’s important to clean your pillow and how to clean and take care of different types of pillows including fiber, memory foam and latex.

Why Your Pillow Might Be a Lot Dirtier Than You Think

If you’ve never cleaned your pillow, you probably don't want to see what it looks like under a microscope. Over time, pillows accumulate dead skin cells, body oils, dirt and all kinds of icky stuff. They can also harbor bacteria, mold and mildew. 

Keeping your pillow clean is essential for your skin health. If you keep getting acne and other skin reactions, the culprit could be your pillow. Debris and bacteria transfers from the pillow to your face, clogging pores and causing skin problems. 

Pillows can also be home to dust mites, pet dander, pollen and other allergens that trigger allergies and worsen respiratory conditions like asthma. 

How to Clean Different Types of Pillows

With some pillows, cleaning them is as simple as putting them in the washing machine. But you can’t do that with all types of pillows. 

Here’s a guide on how to keep different types of pillows clean. 

Fiber Pillows 

Fiber pillows go by different names including microfiber, hollow fiber, polyester fiber and down alternative. They all refer to pillows that contain a synthetic fiber filling. 

These are the easiest pillows to take care of since they are machine washable. Just follow the wash instructions on the care label. Most of these pillows can also be dried in the dryer on a low setting. 

Don't wash your fiber pillows too often or they’ll go flat or clump up. Every 4-6 months is about right. 

The rest of the time, fluffing and dusting the pillow every morning will help keep it clean. Every now and then, air the pillow outside in the sun. You can hang it up or lay it on a clean surface. The UV from the sun will kill any bacteria, mold and anything else in the pillow. 

Memory Foam Pillows 

There are two types of memory foam pillows: solid memory foam and shredded memory foam. Only shredded memory foam pillows are machine washable. 

But check the care instructions because some manufacturers recommend only washing the removable cover.     

When washing a shredded memory foam pillow, do it on a gentle cycle with cold water and dry on low heat. Only wash your pillow twice a year. 

If you have a solid memory foam pillow, you cannot put it in the washing machine or the dryer. But you can vacuum it to remove any dust and particles that have built up inside the pillow. Also do this every couple of weeks if you have a shredded memory foam pillow. 

Airing your memory foam pillow outside in the sun also helps dry out any trapped moisturizer, remove any odors and sterilize the pillow. 

Feather or Down Pillow

Natural feather and down pillows are machine washable on a gentle cycle with cold water and no bleach or fabric softener. Most can also be tumble dried on low heat or no heat. Add a couple of tennis balls to prevent clumping. 

As always, check the care instructions. Some manufacturers recommend air drying instead of tumble drying. 

Latex Pillow

Similar to memory foam pillows, latex pillows come in two types: solid latex and shredded latex. This distinction is important because only shredded latex pillows are machine washable. Use a gentle cycle and cold water. 

But check the care instructions. Many makers of latex pillows recommend against machine washing, regardless of whether the latex is solid or shredded. 

As for drying, latex pillows shouldn’t be put in the dryer (though some shredded latex pillows can be tumble dried on low or no heat). If you want to dry or air your latex pillow, make sure it is not exposed to direct sunlight as that can damage it.

Additional Tips To Keep Your Pillow Clean

• For pillows that cannot be machine or hand washed, spot clean them to remove stains and dirt. 
• Occasionally deodorize your pillows by sprinkling baking soda on them then vacuuming both sides (let the baking soda sit for a couple of hours to absorb odors). 
• A light spritz of vinegar on the pillow can freshen it up. Vinegar is also great for removing stains, mold and mildew. 
• Always use a pillowcase with your pillows. You can then change the pillowcase as often as you’d like (ideally 1-2 times a week).  
• Get an antimicrobial pillowcase that kills bacteria to prevent odors and protect your skin from acne. 
• A waterproof pillow protector will help keep your pillow clean. It’s especially helpful if you sweat a lot at night.