How to Wash Down or Feather Pillows

While You May Have Heard That Down or Feather Pillows Are Notorious for Dust and Dust Mites and Can Exacerbate Asthma and Breathing Problems, Evidence Shows That They Do Not Actually Harbor More Dust and Contaminants Than Other Pillows. in Fact, One Study Found That Synthetic Pillows Are Just as High of a Risk Factor for Severe Asthma, If Not More So, Than Down or Feather. That Being Said, Down and Feather Pillows Can Still Harbor Dust and Dust Mites, and Should Be Washed on the Regular.

How to Wash Polyester Pillows

Polyester Pillows Can Easily Be Cleaned in the Washing Machine on a Gentle Cycle, Garcia Says. “Use a Mild Detergent and Avoid Using Fabric Softener, as It Can Leave a Residue. ” (For Best Results Stick to Cold to Warm Water).

How to Clean Memory Foam or Latex Pillows

Unfortunately These Materials Can Break Down in a Washing Machine or a Dryer. “For Memory Foam or Latex Pillows, Spot Cleaning Is Recommended, ” Advises Garcia. “Use a Mild Detergent Mixed with Water and Gently Dab the Stained Areas. Avoid Soaking or Submerging the Pillows to Prevent Damage. ” (Click Thorough Here to Learn How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress.)

How to Clean Buckwheat Pillows

Buckwheat Pillows Require a Special Kind of Cleaning Process, Which, Fortunately Isn’t Too Difficult. the Most Important Tip to Remember Is That Buckwheat Hulls Cannot Get Wet, as the Water Will Ruin Them Completely.

What *Not* to Do When Washing Pillows

The One Thing to Keep in Mind When Cleaning Any Type of Pillow: “Avoid Using Bleach or Harsh Chemicals, as They Can Damage the Fabric and Filling, ” Says Garcia. “Additionally, Avoid Excessive Heat or Drying on High Settings, as It Can Cause Shrinkage or Damage. ”

How to Freshen Any Pillow Fast

If You Don’t Have a Lot of Time or Just Want to Get Your Pillows Looking Cleaner When Company Is on the Way, There Are Ways to Do It Without Putting Them Through a Full Wash Cycle. “When You’re in a Hurry, a Quick Way to Freshen Any Kind of Pillow Is to Sprinkle Baking Soda on Them, Let It Sit for About 15 Minutes, Then Vacuum It Off, ” Says Garcia. “It Helps Absorb Odors and Leaves Them Smelling Fresh. ”

How to Wash Pillows Based No Matter What the Filling

By Alexander Ross

• Oct 8, 2026 • 6 min read

How to Wash Pillows Based No Matter What the Filling

Direct Answer • Key Takeaway

Plush, Fresh Pillows Are a Dream! Keeping Them Clean? May Feel More Like a Nightmare. Though Guidelines Say the Average Pillow Only Needs a Wash One Every Four to Six Months (Or Three to Four Times per Year), It Can Still Be a Nuisance When You Aren’t Sure Where to Start. Plus, Since Certain Washing Methods Can Ruin the Materials Inside of the Casing, You’ll Want to Ensure You’re Following Proper Pillow Protocol. That’s Why We Asked Cleaning Pros to Share the Scoop on How to Wash Pillows Based on Their Filling Type, Plus Two Simple Tricks to Freshen Them When You’re in a Hurry.

Alexander Ross

Gaming, Esports & Interactive Media Writer

Alexander Ross has covered the video game industry for a decade, writing deep dives on game design, esports tournaments, VR developments, and gaming culture.

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