How to Wash Different Types of Pillows and Bedding

Pillows and bedding are essential for a good night’s sleep, but they can also accumulate dirt, sweat, and oils over time. And let’s not talk about crumbs, pet hair or anything else that gets accidentally brought to bed too!

Regular cleaning keeps them fresh, hygienic, and long-lasting. However, not all pillows and bedding are created equal—feather, memory foam, synthetic, and other materials all require different care.  And sleep can definitely be hindered if you are not washing your bedding regularly enough (although even what is regular enough is up for debate too!)

Here’s a detailed guide on how to properly wash and care for various types of pillows and bedding to maintain their fluffiness, cleanliness, and shape.

Feather and Down Pillows

Feather and down pillows are soft and fluffy, but they require gentle care to avoid clumping and loss of loft. Here’s how to wash them properly:

Washing Instructions:

• Check the Care Label: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing.
• Use a Front-Loading Washer: Feather pillows can become heavy when wet, and a front-loading washer is gentler and less likely to damage the pillow than a top-loading machine with an agitator.
• Use Mild Detergent: Choose a mild, low-sudsing detergent, and use a small amount. Too much detergent can leave residue.
• Wash on a Gentle Cycle: Set your washer to a delicate or gentle cycle with cold or warm water.

Drying Instructions:

• Dry on Low Heat: Use low heat to avoid damaging the feathers or down. It’s important to ensure the pillows are thoroughly dried to prevent mildew.
• Add Dryer Balls: Toss a couple of dryer balls or clean tennis balls into the dryer to help break up clumps and maintain the pillow’s fluffiness.
• Fluff Regularly: Pause the drying cycle every 30 minutes to manually fluff the pillows and ensure even drying.

Memory Foam Pillows

Memory foam pillows can’t be machine washed because the material can break down when saturated with water. However, they still need regular care.

Washing Instructions:

• Spot Clean: Use a mild detergent mixed with water to spot clean stains. Gently dab the solution onto the stained area and blot with a clean cloth. Avoid saturating the foam.
• Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the surface.

Drying Instructions:

• Air Dry: After spot cleaning, allow the pillow to air dry completely. Do not use heat or place memory foam pillows in the dryer, as heat can cause the foam to deteriorate.
• Regular Care: To keep memory foam pillows fresh, remove the pillowcase and allow the pillow to air out in a well-ventilated area regularly.

Synthetic Pillows (Polyester or Microfiber)

Synthetic pillows, often made of polyester or microfiber, are generally machine washable and easier to care for.

Washing Instructions:

• Use a Gentle Detergent: Choose a mild detergent to prevent residue build-up.
• Machine Wash on Gentle Cycle: Wash two pillows at a time to maintain balance in the washing machine. Use a gentle cycle with cold or warm water.

Drying Instructions:

• Dry on Low Heat: Synthetic pillows should be dried on low heat. Avoid high heat as it can cause the fibers to melt or clump.
• Use Dryer Balls: Toss in a few dryer balls to prevent clumping and to keep the pillows fluffy.
• Ensure Full Drying: Make sure the pillows are completely dry before use, as any moisture left inside can lead to mold or mildew.

Buckwheat Pillows

Buckwheat pillows are unique in that they are filled with buckwheat hulls, making them firm yet moldable. These require different care from standard pillows.

Washing Instructions:

• Remove the Buckwheat Hulls: Before washing, empty the buckwheat hulls into a container. The hulls should never be washed.
• Wash the Pillow Cover: Wash the outer pillow cover according to the care instructions, usually in cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.

Drying Instructions:

• Air Dry the Hulls: Spread the hulls out on a flat surface in a sunny spot to air them out and remove any moisture.
• Machine Dry the Cover: Dry the pillow cover on low heat, or air dry it to prevent shrinking. Refill with buckwheat hulls once the cover is dry.

Silk and Satin Pillowcases

Silk and satin pillowcases are delicate and require extra care to maintain their smooth texture and sheen.

Washing Instructions:

• Hand Wash or Use a Delicate Cycle: Wash silk or satin pillowcases by hand or on a delicate cycle in cold water with a mild detergent.
• Avoid Bleach or Fabric Softeners: These can damage the delicate fabric and cause discoloration.

Drying Instructions:

• Air Dry: Air drying is the safest option. Lay the pillowcase flat on a towel and let it air dry in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight.
• Low Heat Ironing: If needed, use a low-heat iron or steamer to smooth out wrinkles, but be careful not to overheat the fabric.

Quilts, Comforters, and Duvets

Bedding like quilts, comforters, and duvets can be bulky and require special care to avoid damaging the filling and fabric.

Washing Instructions:

• Check the Care Label: Always read the care label, as some comforters may need to be dry cleaned.

• Use a Large Capacity Washer: If your washing machine is not large enough, consider using a commercial-sized washer at a laundromat to prevent bunching.
• Gentle Detergent and Cycle: Use a mild detergent and select a gentle cycle with cold or warm water.

Drying Instructions:

• Dry on Low Heat: Dry comforters and duvets on low heat to prevent damage to the filling.
• Add Dryer Balls: Use dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help redistribute the filling and maintain fluffiness.
• Periodic Fluffing: Take the bedding out every 30 minutes to fluff and ensure even drying. Make sure the comforter or duvet is completely dry before storing or using.

Electric Blankets

Electric blankets have internal wiring, so they need special care when being washed.

Washing Instructions:

• Unplug and Remove Controls: Disconnect the controls and unplug the blanket before washing.
• Machine Wash on Gentle Cycle: Most electric blankets can be washed on a gentle cycle in cold water, but always check the care label.

Drying Instructions:

• Air Dry When Possible: Air drying is best to prevent damage to the internal wiring.
• Low Heat Dryer: If machine drying is recommended, use the lowest heat setting. Avoid over-drying.

Sweet Dreams

Caring for your pillows and bedding properly can extend their lifespan, improve comfort, and ensure a clean, hygienic sleeping environment. Always check care labels and use gentle cleaning methods for the best results. Proper washing and drying techniques will help maintain the fluffiness and shape of your pillows and bedding, keeping them fresh for years to come.