When was the last time you washed your pillows? If you can’t remember, you’re not alone—but it might be time to toss them in the wash! While many of us wash our sheets regularly, pillows themselves often get neglected. Keeping your pillows clean not only helps with hygiene but also improves your health and overall sleep quality. Clean pillows can make a huge difference, helping you sleep better and wake up refreshed.
In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know: how to wash your pillows, when to do it, and most importantly, why a regular wash schedule is key to better sleep.
Why Washing Your Pillows Matters
Pillows absorb more than just sweat and oil over time. Dust mites, dead skin cells, and bacteria can build up, making your pillows a potential source of allergies and even skin problems. Keeping your pillows clean doesn’t just make them smell better—it ensures you have a healthier sleeping environment, which can help you sleep better each night.
Additionally, clean pillows provide better support. Dirty, flattened pillows lose their shape, affecting neck and back alignment. Proper support can help you sleep better by keeping your spine aligned and reducing discomfort.
How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?
Pillows should ideally be washed at least twice a year, though washing them every three to four months is even better, especially if you suffer from allergies or tend to sweat while you sleep. Regular cleaning will remove the dust, dirt, and allergens that can disrupt your sleep, helping you sleep better consistently. If your pillows are visibly yellowing or feel lumpy, it’s a sign they need washing—or even replacing—to help you sleep better.
How to Wash Your Pillows Properly
Here’s a simple guide to get your pillows clean and back to their fluffy, supportive state:
1. Check the Care Label
Before tossing your pillows into the washing machine, read the care label. Most pillows, including down, synthetic, and cotton-filled types, can be machine-washed, but each material may have specific instructions. Following the manufacturer’s guidance ensures your pillows stay in good shape, helping you sleep better for longer.
2. Use a Gentle Detergent
Opt for a mild, liquid detergent to avoid leaving any residue behind. Harsh chemicals can damage pillow fillings, causing them to lose their shape or softness. Using the right detergent helps preserve your pillow’s integrity so you can sleep better on a well-supported, clean surface.
3. Wash Two at a Time
If possible, wash two pillows together to keep your washing machine balanced. This prevents your pillows from becoming lumpy or uneven after washing. Keeping the pillows in good shape ensures they stay comfortable and supportive, which helps you sleep better.
4. Select a Gentle Cycle with Warm Water
Use warm water and a gentle cycle to clean your pillows. Warm water is effective for removing dirt and killing bacteria but won’t damage the pillow material as hot water might. Cleaning thoroughly helps eliminate allergens, helping you sleep better in a fresher environment.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
Pillows can trap soap, so make sure to run an extra rinse cycle to remove all detergent. Leftover soap can cause irritation and make your pillow less comfortable, affecting your sleep quality. Thorough rinsing ensures a residue-free pillow so you can sleep better without discomfort.
6. Dry Completely
Drying your pillows properly is essential to prevent mold and mildew from growing. Use a low-heat setting in your dryer, and throw in dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help fluff the pillows while they dry. This will help maintain their shape and support, ensuring you sleep better on a well-fluffed pillow.
For pillows made of memory foam or latex, machine washing isn’t recommended. Instead, spot clean these pillows and allow them to air dry. Although they require gentler care, keeping them clean will still help you sleep better.
Caring for Pillows Between Washes
To keep your pillows clean for longer and ensure you sleep better, consider the following tips:
- Use Pillow Protectors: A pillow protector adds an extra barrier against sweat, dust, and allergens. They can be washed regularly to keep your pillows cleaner for longer, helping you sleep better in a healthier environment.
-Air Them Out: Every few weeks, take your pillows outside to air out. Fresh air can help remove trapped moisture and odors, ensuring your pillows remain fresh and helping you sleep better.
-Fluff Them Daily: Fluff your pillows every morning to keep the filling evenly distributed and prevent them from flattening. This will help maintain their support and keep you sleeping better.
Clean Pillows Improve Your Sleep
Clean pillows directly contribute to better sleep by reducing allergens, bacteria, and irritants that can disturb your rest. You’ll also breathe easier and feel more comfortable when lying on a fresh pillow, which helps you sleep better throughout the night.
Plus, a properly cleaned pillow maintains its support, which means you get the right neck and spine alignment. This reduces the risk of waking up with stiffness or neck pain, ensuring you sleep better and feel more refreshed when you wake up.
When It’s Time to Replace Your Pillows...
Even with regular washing, pillows don’t last forever. Over time, they lose their ability to provide the proper support. If you notice your pillows are no longer as comfortable or if they remain flat and lumpy after washing, it might be time for new ones. Generally, pillows should be replaced every 1-2 years to ensure they continue to help you sleep better.
Washing your pillows regularly is an important part of maintaining a clean and healthy sleep environment. By following these steps, you can ensure that your pillows stay fresh, comfortable, and supportive, all of which will help you sleep better every night. Don’t forget to check your pillows often and follow a good care routine to make the most out of them—and to sleep better, night after night.