The Daily Miracle

How to Wash a Pillow (Down, Foam, or Fiberfill)

Published
November 02, 2026

How to Wash a Pillow the Right Way | Miracle Made

Knowing how to wash a pillow starts with knowing what's inside it. Down, fiberfill, memory foam, and latex each need a different method. The wrong one can flatten the fill or leave it damp.

This guide gives steps for each fill type. You'll also learn how to dry a pillow safely and how often to wash it.

Find Your Pillow's Fill

The tag tells you what's inside and how to wash it. Check it before anything else. Sleep Foundation says many down pillows only allow dry cleaning. Machine washing is fine only if the tag permits it.

If the tag is gone, look at the pillow itself. Squeeze it and watch how it responds. This table gives a quick guide:

Fill	Typical feel	Washing method
Down or feather	Soft, fluffy, springs back	Tag decides; many dry clean only
Fiberfill (polyester)	Light, springy	Often machine washable; check the tag
Solid memory foam	Firm, slow to rebound	Spot clean only
Shredded memory foam	Lumpy, moldable	Hand wash if the maker allows
Latex	Bouncy, dense	Do not machine wash

How to Wash a Down or Feather Pillow

Down and feather need gentle care. Hot water and rough handling damage the fill. Sleep Foundation advises cool or warm water and a small amount of mild detergent or down soap. Follow these steps if the tag allows machine washing:

Wash two pillows at once to balance the load.
Use a gentle cycle with cool or warm water.
Add a small amount of mild detergent. Use a soap made for down if you have it.
Run an extra rinse to clear soap from the fill.
Squeeze out the water without wringing.

Hand washing works too. Soak the pillow in a basin with detergent, then press it gently and rinse. Never twist it.

How to Wash a Fiberfill Pillow

Fiberfill pillows are the easiest to wash. Many tags allow the machine. Sleep Foundation's page has no fiberfill method. Use these general steps and let the tag lead:

Check the tag for machine-wash approval.
Wash two pillows at once for balance.
Choose a gentle cycle with cool or warm water.
Use a small amount of mild detergent.
Rinse twice and spin out extra water.

Fiberfill can clump after washing. Fluff it by hand and use dryer balls to break up lumps. Our post on the best cooling pillow covers pillows built to stay breathable.

How to Clean a Memory Foam Pillow

Foam does not like water. Sleep Foundation says not to machine wash or submerge solid memory foam. Soaking leaves the core damp, and it dries slowly. Spot clean instead:

Mix mild detergent with cool water.
Dab the stain with a damp cloth. Do not soak.
Sprinkle baking soda over the pillow and let it sit.
Vacuum the baking soda away to lift odors.
Air dry away from direct heat.

Shredded foam pillows may allow hand washing if the maker says so. Use room-temperature water for the wash and lukewarm water for the rinse. Squeeze out the water and air dry in direct sunlight. A fan helps speed things up.

How to Clean a Latex Pillow

Latex is dense and holds moisture. It cannot go in the washer. Sleep Foundation's pillow guide notes that latex is hard to wash in a machine. Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Dry it in a ventilated spot out of direct heat. Check the tag for any extra rules, since latex types vary.

How to Dry a Pillow

Drying decides whether the wash works. A damp pillow can smell and grow mildew. Sleep Foundation advises drying down and feather on the lowest heat setting. It also advises running multiple cycles and fluffing between them.

Use these tips:

Use dryer balls. They keep the fill from clumping.
Fluff often. Stop the dryer and break up lumps by hand.
Squeeze, don't wring. Wringing damages the fill.
Allow time. Pillows can take several cycles.

The Dry Check

Press a clean towel against the center of the pillow. Squeeze both ends. Any cool or damp spot means more drying is needed. Hold a nose close to the fill. A musty smell means moisture remains inside.

How Often to Wash a Pillow

Sleep Foundation advises washing pillows at least twice a year. It also suggests replacing them every 1 to 2 years. Wash more often if you have allergies, sweat at night, or sleep with pets.

Cleveland Clinic names dust mites as common on pillows and beds. It suggests dust mite covers to keep them off the surface. A study on allergen removal looks at how washing and heat affect dust mite allergens in bedding. Pillowcases need washing much more often. Wash them weekly.

Use a Protector and Pillowcase

A cover cuts down on how often you wash the pillow itself. A pillow protector sits between the pillow and the case. It blocks sweat and dust. A dust mite cover adds more protection.

Choose smooth, breathable pillowcases and wash them weekly. For the full routine on your other layers, see how to wash a mattress protector.

Wash the RemyCloud Pillow

The RemyCloud adjustable cooling pillow is machine washable, including the inserts. The care label gives these steps:

Air out the pillow for 24 hours before first use.
Place it inside a mesh laundry bag.
Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle.
Tumble dry on low.
Do not bleach. Do not iron.

The front is 100% cotton, and the back is nylon and spandex. The fill is polyester down alternative. The brand says the silver-treated cotton helps reduce up to 99.7% of odor-causing bacteria.

Disclaimer: Antimicrobial finish helps protect the fabric from odor-causing bacteria. Does not protect users against bacteria or other disease organisms.

Replace the Pillow When Needed

Replace yours when it stays flat after fluffing, feels lumpy, or has yellowed. Sleep Foundation says the best pillows can last up to five years. Most last one to two years.

Our existing guide on how to wash pillows covers the general routine. Pair clean pillows with fresh bedding and dry towels for spills. A fresh set of cooling sheets finishes the job.

Pillow Washing FAQs

Can You Wash Any Pillow in the Washing Machine?

No. Solid memory foam and latex should not go in the machine. Check the tag first.

Can You Dry a Pillow in the Dryer?

Often yes for down and fiberfill, on low heat with dryer balls. Foam should air dry.

How Do You Know a Pillow Is Dry?

Press a towel into the center. If it feels cool or damp, keep drying.

How Often Should You Wash Pillows?

At least twice a year, according to Sleep Foundation.

What Water Temperature Is Best?

Cool or warm. Hot water can damage down and feather.

Gray satin pillowcases on a bed with a 'Shop Now' button.

Keep Your Pillows Fresh

Match the method to the fill. Wash gently, dry fully, and fluff often. Replace the pillow when it loses its support.

Miracle Made makes bedding for a clean, comfortable bed. A well-kept pillow helps you sleep better, night after night.

Sources:

How to Wash Pillows | Sleep Foundation

What's Hiding in Your Dirty Pillows and Upholstery? | Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials

Environmental Allergen Elimination and Pillow Laundering | NIH PMC