How to Wash a Pillow?

Pillows are one of the essentials that directly affect our sleep quality. During daily use, factors such as sweat, skin oils and dust can make pillows dirty. That’s why washing pillows regularly is important for hygiene and for extending their lifespan. When done using the right techniques, washing helps your pillow retain its shape and filling.

Pillow-cleaning methods vary depending on the materials used. Different fillings, such as cotton, wool, fiber, visco, silicone, bamboo and goose down, call for different care methods. Knowing what your pillow is filled with helps you choose the right washing and drying methods.

What Temperature Should You Wash a Pillow At? Temperature Recommendations

The recommended washing temperature for pillows varies depending on the filling. In general, synthetic and cotton pillows can be washed at 30-40 degrees, while lower temperatures are recommended for pillows made from natural materials or with delicate fillings. For example, cotton pillows should generally be washed on cycles no hotter than 40 degrees to prevent damage to the cotton fibers. If you’re wondering, “Can fiber pillows be machine-washed?”, most fiber pillows can be safely washed on a delicate cycle. Wool pillows, on the other hand, require more careful handling: wash them by hand or, if your washing machine has one, use the wool cycle at a low temperature. Keep in mind that high temperatures can damage pillow fillings and speed up wear. That’s why it’s important to always follow the washing instructions on the manufacturer’s label.

Which Cycle Should You Use to Wash Pillows?

Washing pillows correctly is essential for both hygiene and durability. Different types of pillows need special care, so choosing the right cycle and temperature is crucial. Here’s what you need to know about washing different types of pillows:

• Silicone Pillows: Silicone pillows should be washed on a delicate or hand-wash cycle. These cycles help prevent damage to the filling and preserve the pillow’s shape. Avoid high temperatures, too.

• Cotton Pillows: Cotton pillows should generally be washed at no more than 40 degrees. This temperature helps protect the cotton fibers and keeps the pillow in good condition for longer.

• Fiber Pillows: Fiber pillows can generally be machine-washed on a delicate cycle. A low temperature and low spin speed are recommended.

• Wool Pillows: As wool pillows are more delicate, they should be hand-washed or washed on the machine’s wool cycle at a low temperature. High temperatures can cause wool fibers to shrink.

Washing pillows correctly helps prevent damage to the filling and keeps them in good condition for longer. Following the manufacturer’s instructions will always give you the best results.

Cleaning Fiber and Cotton Pillows

If you’re wondering how to wash a fiber pillow, the process is quite simple. Most fiber pillows can be machine-washed; just use a delicate cycle and a low temperature. After washing, dry on low heat and gently squeeze by hand to help the filling regain its original shape.

Choosing the right detergent is also important when washing fiber pillows. If you’re wondering which detergent to use, mild, fragrance-free liquid detergents are the best choice.

Cotton pillows, thanks to their durable construction, are easy to clean in the washing machine. However, avoiding excessive detergent helps protect the cotton fibers. When washing cotton pillows, choose cold or lukewarm water to help preserve their shape.

Caring for Wool and Goose Down Pillows

Wool and goose down pillows made from natural materials require especially careful handling.

• Wool pillows should be hand-washed. Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent suitable for wool pillows. When drying, avoid compressing the pillow; let it air-dry on a flat surface in the sun or in the shade.

• Goose down pillows require the same delicate care as wool pillows. Avoid squeezing them too hard and dry them flat in the open air. Do not apply high pressure when cleaning goose down pillows.

Washing Visco and Bamboo Pillows

Visco and bamboo pillows are modern pillow types that require special care. Visco pillows are generally not suitable for machine-washing. Surface cleaning and changing the cover are usually recommended for visco pillows. Bamboo pillows can generally be hand-washed or washed on the machine’s delicate cycle, but high temperatures should be avoided. Excessive heat can damage the bamboo filling. For this reason, bamboo pillows should be washed on a suitable cycle, following the care instructions.

How to Clean Yellowed Pillowcases? 

Cleaning yellowed pillowcases is important for both appearance and hygiene. Yellowing is usually caused by factors such as sweat, makeup, body oils or soap residue. Follow these steps to remove yellowing:

1. Use a Whitener or Stain Remover: Oxygen-based whiteners (not bleach) or special stain removers can be effective for white or light-colored pillowcases. Before washing, apply the stain remover directly to the yellowed areas and leave it for a few minutes. Then wash the pillowcase.
2. Baking Soda and Vinegar Mixture: Add 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of white vinegar to a bucket of hot water. Soak the yellowed pillowcase in the mixture for about 30 minutes. Baking soda helps remove yellowing, while vinegar acts as a natural whitener.
3. Whiten with Lemon Juice: Lemon juice can be used as a natural whitener. Add some lemon juice to hot water and soak the pillowcase in it. The acidity of the lemon helps remove yellowing and brighten the fabric.
4. Use Hot Water When Washing: Pillowcases should be washed in hot water according to the material they’re made from. Cotton and synthetic pillowcases can generally be washed at 40-60 degrees. However, it’s important to use a lower temperature for delicate fabrics.
5. Avoid Using Too Much Detergent: Using too much detergent to tackle yellowing can leave residue in the pillowcase fibers and make the yellowing worse. Be sure to use the right amount of detergent.
6. Drying: Drying the pillowcase in sunlight after cleaning can help prevent yellowing. Sunlight is a natural whitener. However, drying delicate fabrics in the shade is more suitable.

These steps help clean yellowed pillowcases and restore their fresh, clean appearance. Choosing the right cleaning method for your type of pillowcase extends the fabric’s lifespan and helps your pillow last longer. You may also be interested in our blog post, Why Do Mattresses Turn Yellow? Cleaning Tips .

How to Make Your Pillows Last Longer

Here are a few practical steps you can take to keep your pillows in good condition:

• Using pillows only while sleeping helps the filling retain its shape.

• Regularly airing them out helps prevent moisture and unpleasant odors.

• Changing pillowcases often and keeping them clean helps the filling last longer.

• Airing and fluffing the filling of delicate pillows a few times a year helps prevent allergic reactions.

Pillows with microfiber and silicone fillings can last a long time with proper care. If you’re wondering which cycle to use for a silicone pillow, choose a delicate or hand-wash cycle. Pillows with special fillings such as bamboo and goose down can be cared for by air-drying them naturally and handling them with care.

Cleaning and caring for your pillows improves sleep quality and extends their lifespan. With washing methods suited to the filling, the right detergent and regular airing, your pillows will stay fresh and comfortable.