How to Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine | Complete Guide for Bed, Down, Feather & Throw Pillows

Learning how to wash pillows in the washing machine can make regular bedding care much easier, but not every pillow belongs in a washer. Many synthetic, down, and feather pillows can be machine washed when their care labels permit it, while solid memory foam and some specialty pillows require different treatment. The safest approach is always to check the manufacturer’s instructions before adding a pillow to the machine. Sleep Foundation

For washable pillows, the process is relatively simple: remove the cover, inspect the pillow for damage, balance the load when possible, use a small amount of suitable detergent, choose a gentle cycle, rinse thoroughly, and dry the pillow completely. Proper drying is just as important as washing because moisture trapped inside the filling can lead to odors, clumping, or other problems. Sleep Foundation

Can You Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine?

Yes, many pillows can be washed in a washing machine, but the answer depends on the pillow’s filling and care label. Whirlpool states that synthetic, down, and some feather pillows can generally be machine washed, while memory foam pillows require different care. Sleep Foundation likewise emphasizes checking the care tag because some pillows are machine washable, some are hand-wash only, and others are dry-clean-only. Sleep Foundation

Before washing pillows in the washing machine, identify the material and inspect the label. A pillow that looks washable from the outside may contain foam, delicate filling, or a construction method that cannot tolerate machine agitation.

• Check the sewn-in care label.
• Identify the pillow filling.
• Confirm that machine washing is allowed.
• Remove the pillowcase.
• Remove any washable protective cover.
• Inspect seams for tears.
• Repair or replace damaged pillows before washing.
• Check the recommended water temperature.
• Check whether bleach is prohibited.
• Check the recommended drying method.
• Use a gentle cycle when machine washing is permitted.
• Use an appropriate detergent.
• Avoid excessive detergent.
• Make sure the pillow can fit comfortably inside the washer.
• Never assume every pillow can be machine washed.

Which Pillows Can Go in the Washing Machine?

The most important distinction is between washable fillings and materials that can be damaged by water or mechanical action. Synthetic pillows are often machine washable, and many down and feather pillows can also be washed if their labels permit it. Solid memory foam is generally not suitable for a washing machine. Sleep Foundation

Pillow type	Machine washing?	General approach
Polyester/synthetic	Often yes	Gentle cycle if label permits
Down	Often, but check label	Mild detergent and careful drying
Feather	Often, but check label	Gentle cycle and thorough drying
Down/feather blend	Often, but check label	Follow manufacturer instructions
Solid memory foam	Usually no	Spot clean instead
Polyfoam	Usually no	Follow manufacturer instructions
Shredded memory foam	Sometimes	Only if manufacturer permits
Decorative pillow	Depends	Check cover and insert separately
Throw pillow	Depends	Follow fabric and filling instructions
Outdoor pillow	Depends	Follow outdoor-fabric instructions
Dry-clean-only pillow	No	Professional cleaning
Spot-clean-only pillow	No full wash	Spot clean only

Sleep Foundation specifically warns that solid memory foam should not generally be machine washed, while some shredded memory foam products may be washable if the manufacturer says so. Sleep Foundation

How to Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine Step by Step

Once you have confirmed that the pillow is machine washable, preparing it correctly can reduce the chance of an unbalanced load, excessive suds, or incomplete rinsing.

Whirlpool recommends loading two pillows together when possible, using a small amount of detergent, choosing a gentle cycle, and using an extra rinse if available. Whirlpool

1. Remove the Pillowcase and Protector

Take off the pillowcase and any removable protector. Wash these separately according to their own care labels unless the manufacturer specifically permits washing them together with the pillow.

2. Inspect the Pillow

Look closely at the seams and outer shell. If the fabric is torn, washing can cause the opening to expand and allow the filling to escape.

3. Balance the Washer

When possible, wash two similar pillows together. A pair can help balance the washer as the pillows absorb water and become heavier. Sleep Foundation

4. Add a Small Amount of Detergent

Use a mild detergent appropriate for the pillow. Whirlpool recommends using only a small amount because excessive detergent can create oversudsing and make rinsing more difficult. Whirlpool

5. Select a Gentle Cycle

Choose the delicate or gentle cycle when the pillow’s care label allows machine washing. A gentler cycle reduces unnecessary mechanical stress on the filling.

6. Choose the Correct Water Temperature

Follow the care label. Do not automatically choose hot water. Down and feather pillows, for example, are generally washed in cool or warm water rather than hot water. Sleep Foundation

7. Use an Extra Rinse

An additional rinse can help remove detergent residue, particularly when the pillow has a thick filling.

8. Remove the Pillow Promptly

Take the pillow out of the washer when the cycle ends. Do not leave a wet pillow sitting inside the machine for an extended period.

9. Dry It Completely

Follow the drying instructions carefully. The inside of a pillow can remain wet even when its outer fabric feels dry.

How to Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine With a Top Loader

A top-loading machine can be used for compatible pillows, but the exact loading method depends on whether the washer has an agitator and what the pillow manufacturer permits.

Sleep Foundation recommends loading down and feather pillows vertically around an agitator when using a top-loader, helping reduce the risk of damage. Sleep Foundation

• Confirm the pillow is machine washable.
• Remove the pillowcase.
• Inspect the seams.
• Wash two pillows together when possible.
• Avoid overloading the drum.
• Follow the manufacturer’s loading instructions.
• Use a mild detergent.
• Keep detergent quantity low.
• Select the delicate cycle.
• Use the permitted water temperature.
• Add an extra rinse if available.
• Avoid harsh agitation.
• Remove pillows immediately after washing.
• Dry according to the care label.
• Check the center for moisture before use.

How to Wash Pillows in a Front-Load Washing Machine

A front-load washer can be particularly convenient for compatible pillows because there is no central agitator. However, the pillow still needs enough room to move freely and rinse properly.

The general process remains the same: check the care label, balance the load where possible, use a small amount of detergent, select a gentle cycle, and make sure the pillow is completely dry afterward.

• Check the care instructions.
• Remove all pillow coverings.
• Inspect for holes or weak seams.
• Place compatible pillows in the drum.
• Add a second pillow when appropriate.
• Avoid stuffing too many pillows into the washer.
• Use a mild liquid detergent.
• Follow the detergent dosing instructions.
• Select a delicate or gentle program.
• Use the temperature permitted by the pillow label.
• Select an extra rinse if available.
• Avoid unnecessary high-speed or aggressive settings.
• Remove pillows promptly after the cycle.
• Transfer them to the appropriate drying method.
• Check thoroughly for trapped moisture.

How to Wash Down Pillows in Washing Machine

Washing down pillows in the washing machine requires extra attention because down can clump when exposed to too much moisture or detergent. Some down pillows are washable, while others require professional cleaning, so the care label must come first.

Sleep Foundation recommends a mild or low-sudsing detergent, a small amount of detergent, cool or warm water, a delicate setting, and an extra rinse and spin for machine-washable down and feather pillows. Sleep Foundation

• Check the care label.
• Confirm that machine washing is permitted.
• Remove the pillowcase.
• Inspect the shell for tears.
• Wash two pillows together when possible.
• Use mild detergent.
• Use only a small amount.
• Avoid hot water unless specifically permitted.
• Select a delicate cycle.
• Use an extra rinse.
• Use an additional spin if appropriate.
• Remove the pillow promptly.
• Do not wring it.
• Dry using the permitted low or no-heat method.
• Continue drying until the filling is completely dry.

How to Wash Feather Pillows in Washing Machine

Washing feather pillows is possible for many washable products, but the label determines whether machine washing is appropriate. Feathers contain quills and can behave differently from down, making gentle handling important.

Sleep Foundation recommends mild detergent, cool or warm water, a delicate cycle, additional rinsing, and careful low-heat or no-heat drying for machine-washable feather and down pillows. Sleep Foundation

• Remove the pillowcase.
• Check the pillow shell for damage.
• Confirm machine-wash instructions.
• Wash two pillows when possible.
• Use mild detergent.
• Avoid excess soap.
• Choose a delicate cycle.
• Avoid unnecessarily hot water.
• Use an extra rinse.
• Remove excess water without twisting.
• Transfer to the dryer promptly if permitted.
• Use low heat or air fluff according to the label.
• Fluff between drying cycles.
• Break up clumps gently.
• Do not use the pillow until it is completely dry.

How to Wash Bed Pillows in the Washing Machine

Most people asking how to wash bed pillows in the washing machine are dealing with polyester, down, feather, or blended pillows. These are often among the easier pillow types to machine wash, provided their labels allow it.

Regular cleaning can help remove accumulated sweat, body oils, dust, and other debris. Sleep Foundation recommends cleaning pillows according to their material and care requirements rather than relying only on pillowcase washing. Sleep Foundation

• Remove the pillowcase.
• Remove the protector.
• Check the care label.
• Identify the filling.
• Inspect for damage.
• Wash compatible pillows in pairs.
• Use mild detergent.
• Avoid over-dosing.
• Select a gentle cycle.
• Follow the recommended temperature.
• Use an extra rinse when appropriate.
• Remove the pillow immediately after washing.
• Dry according to instructions.
• Fluff the pillow while drying when appropriate.
• Make sure the entire pillow is dry before putting it back on the bed.

How to Wash Throw Pillows in Washing Machine

Whether you can wash throw pillows in the washing machine depends on both the cover and the filling. A removable cover may be machine washable even when the insert is not.

Before washing a throw pillow, check both care labels if the cover and insert can be separated. If the entire pillow is one piece, follow its specific instructions rather than assuming it can be treated like a bed pillow.

• Remove the cover if possible.
• Check the cover label.
• Check the insert label.
• Inspect decorative stitching.
• Look for beads, embroidery, piping, or other details.
• Confirm machine-wash compatibility.
• Close zippers before washing.
• Turn the cover inside out if recommended.
• Use a gentle cycle.
• Choose the correct temperature.
• Use appropriate detergent.
• Avoid bleach unless explicitly allowed.
• Do not overload the machine.
• Dry according to the fabric instructions.
• Reassemble only after all components are completely dry.

Can You Wash Decorative Pillows in the Washing Machine?

Sometimes. Decorative pillows vary widely in fabric, construction, trim, and filling. Some removable covers are machine washable, while the insert may require separate care.

A decorative pillow should never be placed into the washing machine simply because another pillow in your home is washable. Check the manufacturer’s instructions first.

For delicate decorative pillows, spot cleaning may be safer than full machine washing. Sleep Foundation recommends following the specific care instructions because some pillows are labeled spot clean only or dry clean only. Sleep Foundation

Can You Wash Couch Pillows in the Washing Machine?

Some couch or sofa pillows can be machine washed, but many are upholstery cushions rather than conventional bed pillows. Their size, filling, cover fabric, and construction can make machine washing unsuitable.

If a couch pillow has a removable cover, wash the cover separately if its label allows it. For an attached cover, follow the upholstery manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.

Do not force a large cushion into a household washer simply because it fits physically. A compressed cushion may not wash or rinse properly, and the machine may become unbalanced.

How to Wash Memory Foam Pillows in Washing Machine

Most solid memory foam pillows should not be washed in a washing machine. Sleep Foundation explains that machine agitation and moisture can cause solid memory foam to break down, while Whirlpool similarly recommends against machine washing memory foam pillows. Sleep Foundation

This means the answer to “can you wash memory foam pillows in the washing machine?” is generally no for solid memory foam.

What About Shredded Memory Foam?

Shredded memory foam is different. Some products have removable covers and washable inserts, while others do not. Sleep Foundation notes that some shredded memory foam pillows may be washable, but the manufacturer’s instructions should determine whether machine washing is allowed. Sleep Foundation

Never assume that a shredded foam pillow can be washed simply because it is not a solid foam block.

How to Clean Pillows Without Washing

Not every pillow needs a complete wash every time it becomes slightly dusty or develops an odor. How to clean pillows without washing depends on the material and the type of contamination.

For solid memory foam, Sleep Foundation recommends methods such as vacuuming and baking soda for freshening, while spot cleaning can be used for localized stains. Sleep Foundation

• Remove the pillowcase.
• Wash the removable cover separately.
• Vacuum appropriate pillow surfaces.
• Air the pillow in a suitable location.
• Use baking soda only when compatible with the material.
• Allow baking soda to sit before vacuuming when using this method.
• Spot clean small stains.
• Use a mild cleaning solution when permitted.
• Blot instead of aggressively rubbing.
• Avoid saturating solid foam.
• Keep the pillow ventilated.
• Follow the manufacturer’s drying instructions.
• Do not use excessive heat.
• Inspect the pillow after cleaning.
• Replace the pillow if it is deteriorating or cannot be cleaned safely.

How to Clean Yellow Pillows Without Washing Machine

Yellowing often develops from sweat, oils, hair products, and other substances that pass through pillowcases over time. If the pillow cannot be machine washed, do not automatically soak it.

For a spot-clean-only pillow, concentrate on the stained area using a material-compatible cleaning method. For solid memory foam, avoid saturating the foam because excess moisture can be difficult to remove.

• Remove the pillowcase.
• Check the pillow’s care label.
• Identify the cause of the discoloration if possible.
• Vacuum surface debris.
• Test the cleaning method in an inconspicuous area.
• Use a mild compatible cleaner.
• Apply it to a cloth rather than flooding the pillow.
• Blot the yellowed area gently.
• Avoid aggressive scrubbing.
• Do not use chlorine bleach unless specifically approved.
• Avoid soaking foam.
• Remove cleaning residue as directed.
• Press the area with a clean towel.
• Allow complete air circulation.
• Do not use the pillow until fully dry.

How to Disinfect Pillows Without Washing

Cleaning and disinfecting are not always the same thing. A pillow should not automatically be sprayed with disinfectant simply because you want it to feel cleaner.

If you need to address contamination, first determine whether the pillow and its cover are washable. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the label of any disinfecting product. Never apply a chemical to a pillow unless the product specifically allows that use.

For many routine situations, washing a compatible pillow and its removable cover is more appropriate than improvising a disinfecting treatment.

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How Often Should You Wash Pillows?

The ideal schedule depends on the pillow type, use, environment, protective covers, and manufacturer recommendations. Whirlpool recommends washing compatible pillows at least twice a year, while Sleep Foundation’s guidance for down and feather pillows similarly suggests cleaning at least every six months, with more frequent cleaning potentially appropriate for heavier use. Whirlpool

A pillow protector can reduce the amount of sweat, oil, and other material reaching the pillow itself, but it does not necessarily eliminate the need to clean the pillow.

Pillow	General cleaning approach
Synthetic bed pillow	Wash according to label, often periodically
Down pillow	Wash according to manufacturer’s instructions
Feather pillow	Wash according to manufacturer’s instructions
Memory foam	Spot clean unless manufacturer says otherwise
Throw pillow	Follow cover and insert labels
Decorative pillow	Often spot clean or wash cover
Couch cushion	Follow upholstery instructions
Outdoor pillow	Follow fabric manufacturer’s instructions

How to Dry Pillows After Machine Washing

Drying is one of the most important stages of washing pillows in the washing machine. A pillow can feel dry on the surface while the filling remains damp inside.

Sleep Foundation recommends checking for lingering moisture, clumps, and odors, particularly with down and feather pillows. It notes that inadequate drying can allow mold or mildew to develop. Sleep Foundation

• Read the drying instructions before washing.
• Remove the pillow from the washer promptly.
• Do not wring the pillow.
• Press excess water out gently when appropriate.
• Use low heat if the label allows it.
• Use no-heat or air-fluff settings when recommended.
• Fluff the pillow between drying cycles.
• Dryer balls may help separate clumps when appropriate.
• Check the center of the pillow.
• Feel for cool or damp areas.
• Continue drying if moisture remains.
• Air-dry when the manufacturer recommends it.
• Provide good airflow.
• Avoid unnecessary direct heat.
• Never store or sleep on a pillow that is still damp.

Can You Put Pillows in the Dryer?

Some washable pillows can go in the dryer, but not every pillow can be tumble dried. Sleep Foundation specifically advises checking the care label because foam pillows generally cannot safely be machine dried, while down pillows may require low or air-dry settings. Sleep Foundation

Whirlpool recommends low heat for compatible synthetic pillows and no-heat air fluff for down or feather pillows, subject to the care tag. Whirlpool

The safest rule is simple: the pillow’s drying instructions determine the dryer setting.

Common Mistakes When Machine Washing Pillows

Even a machine-washable pillow can be damaged by an unsuitable cycle or drying method.

• Washing without checking the care label.
• Washing a solid memory foam pillow.
• Overloading the washing machine.
• Washing only one bulky pillow when the washer becomes unbalanced.
• Using too much detergent.
• Choosing a harsh cycle.
• Using unnecessarily hot water.
• Ignoring the manufacturer’s temperature recommendation.
• Skipping the extra rinse when appropriate.
• Leaving a wet pillow inside the washer.
• Wringing down or feather pillows.
• Using excessive dryer heat.
• Removing a pillow from the dryer while its center is damp.
• Storing the pillow before it is completely dry.
• Assuming all pillows can be treated the same way.

How to Keep Pillows Cleaner Between Washes

Regular maintenance can reduce how frequently the actual pillow needs deep cleaning. The pillowcase is the first line of defense, while a protective cover provides another washable barrier.

• Use a pillow protector.
• Wash pillowcases regularly.
• Wash protective covers according to their labels.
• Fluff pillows regularly.
• Air pillows when appropriate.
• Treat spills promptly.
• Avoid eating directly over pillows.
• Keep pets from heavily soiling pillows.
• Vacuum suitable pillow surfaces periodically.
• Keep bedroom humidity under control.
• Do not allow pillows to remain damp.
• Rotate pillows when appropriate.
• Inspect seams periodically.
• Replace severely worn pillows.
• Follow the manufacturer’s long-term care instructions.

Washing Pillows in Washing Machine: Quick Checklist

Before starting the washer, run through this checklist:

• Check the label: Confirm that machine washing is allowed.
• Identify the filling: Synthetic, down, feather, foam, or another material.
• Remove covers: Wash pillowcases and protectors separately when appropriate.
• Inspect seams: Do not machine wash a damaged pillow without addressing the damage.
• Balance the load: Wash two compatible pillows together when appropriate.
• Choose detergent: Use a mild, suitable detergent.
• Measure carefully: Avoid excessive detergent.
• Select the cycle: Use gentle or delicate when permitted.
• Choose temperature: Follow the care label.
• Add a rinse: Use an extra rinse when appropriate.
• Remove promptly: Do not leave pillows sitting wet.
• Dry carefully: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Fluff if appropriate: Particularly useful for down and feather pillows.
• Check the center: Make sure no moisture remains.
• Use only when dry: A pillow should be completely dry before returning to the bed.

Final Tips for Safe Machine Washing

The phrase “can you wash pillows in a washing machine?” sounds like it should have a simple yes-or-no answer, but the correct answer is material-specific. Synthetic, down, and feather pillows can often be washed when their care labels allow it, while solid memory foam generally cannot. Decorative, throw, couch, and specialty pillows need to be evaluated individually. Sleep Foundation

If machine washing is approved, the safest general method is gentle rather than aggressive: use a suitable detergent in a small amount, avoid unnecessary heat, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. Down and feather pillows require especially careful drying, while memory foam requires a completely different cleaning approach. Sleep Foundation

Conclusion

Knowing how to wash pillows in the washing machine can help keep washable bed pillows fresher without complicated cleaning routines. The basic process is straightforward: check the care label, remove the covers, inspect the seams, balance the load when possible, use a small amount of suitable detergent, select a gentle cycle, rinse thoroughly, and dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Synthetic, down, and feather pillows are often suitable for machine washing when their labels allow it. Whirlpool

The biggest mistake is treating every pillow as machine washable. Solid memory foam pillows generally should not be placed in a washer, and decorative, throw, couch, and specialty pillows may require separate cleaning methods. By matching the washing method to the filling and following the care label, you can clean your pillows more safely while reducing the risk of shrinkage, clumping, damaged foam, or lingering moisture.