Ultimate Guide to Washing Pillows: Care Tips for Different Materials

Have you ever thought about how much time you spend with your head resting on a pillow? With research by bed company Dreams suggesting we spend around a third of our lives slumbering in our beds – the equivalent of over 225,000 hours snuggled up on our pillows – it’s no surprise that even with protective covers, pillows are a household item that need regular washing.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about pillow care, from washing methods based on materials to dealing with the dreaded stubborn yellow stains.

Whether you're a homeowner, a parent keen on maintaining a healthy environment for your family, or simply like to create a hygienic living space free from dust and allergens, this guide is tailored for you.

Washing Methods by Pillow Material

Different pillow materials require different cleaning approaches. Knowing what type of material your pillow is made from is the first step in proper care.

Feather Pillows

Feather pillows are quite traditional and need a little more love than their synthetic cousins. Experts suggest that feather pillows can be machine washed, but it’s important to use cold water and a mild detergent. To avoid clumping, wash two pillows at a time to balance the load or add a few towels.

A gentle cycle is best to preserve the feathers' structure.

Graphite Latex Pillows 

Graphite Latex Pillows should also be treated with caution. Following our brief guide should prolong the life expectancy of your pillow.

1. Outer Cover Care: Hand wash only! Just like any cotton/wool product. 
2. Foam Inner Care: Spot-clean with mild detergent & warm water. 
3. Keep it Fresh: Occasionally vacuum-clean the foam. 
4. Air Dry: Let it dry at room temp after cleaning. 
5. Sunshine Reminder: Keep foam away from direct sunlight & heat. 
6. Cover Only: No machine washing the cover—hand wash only! 
7. Foam Reminder: Never wash foam in the machine or by hand; avoid heat drying or dry cleaning. 

Synthetic Pillows

Synthetic pillows are typically made from polyester or other man-made fibres, making them more straightforward to clean. Most synthetic pillows can handle a warm water wash on a gentle cycle. Use a small amount of mild detergent to prevent residue build-up.

Memory Foam Pillows

Memory foam pillows should never be machine washed.

Instead, spot clean them with a damp cloth and a mild detergent.

Experts recommend using a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove dust and debris. Air-drying is crucial for memory foam to prevent mildew.

Wool Pillows 

According to the British Wool Organisation wool pillows should be washed once or twice a year (delicate wash cycle). However, it is advisable to air them out as often as possible to retaining the wool's freshness and 'bounce back ability'. Be careful not to wash your pillows too often as it can damage the wool fibres.

Always dry on a low temperature and be sure there is plenty of room on the machine for the pillow to circulate thus preventing lumping and matting of the wool. 

Organic Buckwheat Pillow

We know this is the one you have all been waiting for. It is important to maintain your organic buckwheat pillow correctly in order to maximise it's lifecycle.

DO NOT put and organic buckwheat pillow into a washing machine. Buckwheat hulls can be severely impacted by liquid saturation and need to be replaced. The following guide should insure a safe hygienic process for the maintenance of organic buckwheat pillows.   

To wash your organic buckwheat pillow, follow these steps:

1. Remove the Buckwheat Hulls: Start by unzipping the pillow and pouring the buckwheat hulls into a large container. Make sure the container is clean and dry.

2. Wash the Pillow Cover: The cover can usually be machine washed. Use cold water and a mild detergent on a gentle cycle. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners.

3. Dry the Cover: Air dry the cover or use a low heat setting in the dryer. Ensure it's completely dry before refilling.

4. Clean the Buckwheat Hulls: While the hulls themselves don't need washing, you can spread them out in the sun to air out and refresh them.

5. Reassemble the Pillow: Once the cover is dry, refill it with the buckwheat hulls.

Regular maintenance like this will keep your pillow fresh and extend its lifespan.

How to Remove Yellow Stains from Pillows

Yellow stains on pillows are common and usually result from sweat, oils, or drool. Here’s how to tackle them:

Pre-Treatment

Before washing, pre-treat stains with a stain remover. Apply the remover directly onto the stain and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes. For natural remedies, a paste made from baking soda and water can be effective.

Wash Cycle

Once treated, wash your pillows according to their material guidelines. A hot wash (130 degrees Fahrenheit)  with a cup of white vinegar or half a cup of baking soda can help lift stains for machine-washable pillows.

Sun Drying

Sun drying is an excellent method for further whitening. The sun acts as a natural bleaching agent, helping reduce the visibility of any remaining stains while naturally deodorising your pillows.

How Often You Should Wash Pillows

The short answer is definitely more OFTEN than you think!

Regular washing is key to maintaining healthy pillows. Lucy Ackroyd, head of design at Christy, advises, “Your pillows should be cleaned every 3-4 months.” This frequency helps reduce allergen build-up and keeps your pillows fresh and supportive.

Adjust for Allergies

For those with allergies or respiratory issues, consider washing pillows more frequently. Every two months might be best to ensure allergens are kept to a minimum.

Pillow Protectors

Using pillow protectors can extend the time between washes by acting as a barrier against oils and sweat. Wash protectors alongside your sheets every 2-3 weeks.

Best Practices for Drying Pillows

Drying pillows properly is just as important as washing them. Inadequate drying can lead to mould and mildew growth.

Dryer Tips

For machine-dryable pillows, use a low heat setting. Adding dryer balls or clean tennis balls can help fluff the pillows and keep the filling from clumping.

Air Drying

For memory foam or latex pillows, air drying is essential.

Lay them flat in a well-ventilated area or outdoors in the sun. Avoid hanging them, as this can cause the filling to shift.

Check for Dampness

Ensure pillows are completely dry before use. Any lingering moisture can lead to mildew, which is both unsightly and unhealthy.

Washing Machine vs Hand Washing

Deciding whether to use a washing machine or hand wash depends largely on the pillow material.

Washing Machine

Machine washing is convenient and effective for most down, cotton, and synthetic pillows. Always follow the care label instructions and use a gentle cycle with a mild detergent.

Hand Washing

Hand washing is best for delicate materials like memory foam, latex, and wool. Use lukewarm water and a small amount of detergent. Gently squeeze the pillow without twisting or wringing it to avoid damaging the filling.

Final Spin

For pillows that are machine washable but require extra care, consider skipping the spin cycle and opting for a gentle manual squeeze to remove excess water and natural drying on a washing line perhaps. After all there's nothing quite like the smell of line fresh washing to soothe away the stress of the day.  

Sleep Tight and Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite! 

Regular pillow care is essential for maintaining a clean, comfortable bed environment. From understanding the needs of different materials to tackling stubborn stains and ensuring proper drying, each step is crucial for healthy sleep.

Taking the time to care for your pillows can enhance your sleep quality and create a healthier home.