Do your pillows look dingy or smell a little off? You’re not alone. While most of us regularly wash sheets and duvet covers, pillows often get neglected—even though they soak up sweat, body oils, and drool night after night. The good news? You can restore your pillows to a fresh, fluffy, like-new state right at home.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to wash your pillows properly, what cleaning products to use, how to dry them safely, and how to keep them clean longer. Whether you’re dealing with yellow stains or just doing regular maintenance, we’ve got you covered.
🧼 Step 1: Check the Care Tag First
Before tossing your pillows into the wash, always read the care label.
- Why it matters: Not all pillows are machine-washable. Washing the wrong type—like memory foam—can ruin it.
- Look for: Machine-wash instructions such as cold water, gentle cycle, and mild detergent.
- Quick tip: If the label shows only laundry symbols, take a photo with your iPhone and swipe up for symbol meanings.
Special Case: Memory Foam Pillows
- Never machine wash memory foam. It will break apart.
- Remove the zippered cover (if it has one) and wash it separately.
- The foam insert should be spot cleaned only (more on that below).
🧴 Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains Before Washing
Yellow stains from sweat and drool? Pre-treating is key.
Option 1: Hydrogen Peroxide (3%)
- Spray generously until the pillow is damp.
- Focus on yellow stains and drool spots.
- Use a soft brush to gently agitate stained areas.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes before washing.
Option 2: Laundry Stain Remover
- Try something like Tide Ultra Oxy.
- Spray liberally and scrub gently.
- Oxygen bleach helps brighten and remove tough stains.
Pro Tip: If the pillow is very old or completely stained, consider replacing it instead of spending hours trying to salvage it.
🌀 Step 3: How to Machine Wash Your Pillows
Machine Washing Tips:
- Place two pillows in the drum (one on each side) for balance.
- Use a free-and-clear detergent—no dyes or fragrances.
- Set washer to cold water and gentle or bulky cycle.
- Always follow the pillow’s care tag.
While You Wait: Spot Clean Memory Foam
- Mix warm water and a drop of dish soap (Blue Dawn works great).
- Never soak the memory foam.
- Spray the solution on a towel, then blot the stained area.
- Rinse with a damp microfiber cloth.
- Let it air dry in sunlight to eliminate odors and moisture.
🌬️ Step 4: Dry Your Pillows the Right Way
How to Dry:
- Fluff pillows before putting them in the dryer.
- Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to prevent lumpiness.
- Use low or no heat to protect the pillow’s structure.
- Choose the bulky or delicate setting depending on your dryer.
Reminder: If stains remain after washing, treat and wash again before drying. Heat sets stains permanently!
Deep Stains Still There?
Soak the pillow in a tub with warm water and OxyClean for 3–4 hours, rinse, and rewash.
🛏️ How to Keep Your Pillows Clean Longer
- Change your pillowcase weekly to reduce transfer of oils and drool.
- Use a pillow protector for an extra layer of defense. Affordable and available online.
- Wash your pillows every 3 to 6 months to prevent buildup and extend their life.
✅ Final Thoughts
Keeping your pillows fresh and clean isn’t just about appearance—it’s also about hygiene and sleep quality. By checking labels, using the right pre-treatments, and drying correctly, you can revive your pillows instead of replacing them.
Don’t wait until your pillows are yellow and smelly. Start a regular pillow-cleaning routine today and enjoy better sleep on fresher bedding.
