How to Clean Dirty Bed Pillows and Make Them Fresh
Dirty pillows can collect sweat, skin oils, dust, and odors over time. Fortunately, many washable pillows can be cleaned at home.
What You Need
- Mild laundry detergent
- Washing machine
- Two clean towels
- Dryer or a well-ventilated place to dry
- Optional: a small amount of baking soda for odor control
Step 1: Check the Care Label
Before washing, check the pillow’s label. Some pillows are machine-washable, while others—especially certain memory-foam and latex pillows—should not be put in a washing machine.
Step 2: Remove the Pillowcase
Take off the pillowcase and protector. Wash these separately according to their care instructions.
Step 3: Treat Stains
For yellow or dirty areas, apply a little mild liquid detergent to the stain. Gently rub it in and let it sit for about 10–15 minutes.
Step 4: Wash the Pillow
For washable pillows, place two pillows together in the washing machine to help keep the load balanced. Use a gentle cycle with warm water if the care label permits.
Use only a modest amount of detergent. Too much detergent can be difficult to rinse completely.
Step 5: Rinse Well
An extra rinse can help remove detergent residue, which may otherwise leave the pillow feeling stiff or smelling unpleasant.
Step 6: Dry Completely
Dry the pillow according to its care label. If using a dryer, use an appropriate low or medium setting and check the pillow regularly.
Make sure the pillow is completely dry inside before using it. Moisture trapped inside can encourage mold and unpleasant odors.
Step 7: Freshen It
Once completely dry, let the pillow air out in a clean, well-ventilated area. You can also sprinkle a little baking soda over the dry pillow, leave it for several hours, and then vacuum it off carefully.
