Washing pillows
how to wash pillows
What you need to know before washing a pillow
Can memory foam pillows be washed?
Hand washing or machine washing latex pillows?
Washing anti-dust mite or hypoallergenic pillows
also: How to choose a cervical pillow
When should you avoid washing the pillow?
Unless otherwise stated on the label, it is not recommended to wash standard rectangular, polyurethane and/or latex pillows if the washing machine drum is small. If you really want to, remove the pillowcase, even if it is sewn in, to prevent the pillow from folding inside it and breaking. This is especially true for very thin pillows.Is your washing machine suitable?
An 8 kg washing machine may be sufficient for washing pillows, but it is advisable to put in at least two at a time so as not to unbalance the drum. It is even better if the washing machine is modern (like those that make a concert when the cycle ends) and therefore equipped with an unbalance lock.
Do not underestimate this advice ⬆️ several people have had to replace their washing machine as a result of this incident.
When washing anything, whether a pillow, a mattress protector, a piece of clothing, etc., the goal is for it to come out like new, without losing its properties and consistency. Sometimes simply following the instructions is enough; other times the material it is made of does not allow water washing but only dry cleaning.
Before tackling the washing of the pillow , you need to understand how it is made. It is often not that simple, because you may need to wash a pillow you bought a few years ago or that you did not buy yourself, but someone else in your family did.
The label on the pillowcase may indicate that only the pillowcase is washable, not the pillow filling, especially if it has a zipper and the pillow is therefore removable.
Usually, a pillow lasts several years, from 2 to 5, for hygiene reasons, but if the pillow is not deformed and is not worn internally, it can be washed and kept for longer.
Maintaining the hygiene and cleanliness of the pillow is essential for your health and to prevent allergic rhinitis. In addition to washing, it is necessary to protect it with a waterproof pillowcase or a cotton one, or an anti-dust mite pillowcase, which can be washed frequently.
Fabric washing label icons
Washing Memory Foam Pillows
A memory foam pillow, whether in a traditional rectangular shape or an anatomical "double wave" shape, is recognizable because placing your hand on it leaves an imprint for a few seconds. Memory foam pillows cannot be washed in the traditional way, neither by hand nor, much less, in a washing machine. The outer cover should be washed according to the instructions on the label. Washing memory foam pillows with water can be done onthe inner core with a damp, not too wet, cloth, and then immediately left to air dry, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight and heat sources such as heaters and radiators.
Washing Latex Pillows
Unlike a memory foam pillow, a latex pillow can be washed by hand (the recommended option) and, with special care, in the washing machine as well. We recommend avoiding the spin cycle when washing the pillow, as well as long washes at high temperatures above 40°C.
We recommend always removing the cover, i.e., washing only the core without the cover that wraps it. Always read the label; many manufacturers advise against machine washing because a latex pillow could break during machine washing.
Use soap sparingly. To dry, gently wring it out and leave it to air dry, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight or artificial heat sources. However, always follow the instructions on the label;
One mistake to avoid is washing an old pillow (over 5 years old), especially if you notice rubber particles breaking off, like a kind of latex crumbling. This could also damage the washing machine.
Machine Washing Fiber Pillows
A fiber pillow, the classic pillow stuffed with polyester fiber (also called synthetic wool, siliconized fiber, or spiral fiber), is often chosen for its ease of washing. In fact, these pillows can be washed frequently in the washing machine and even at high temperatures up to 95°C, like the Dacron Comforel pillow. Furthermore, they are always hypoallergenic, especially if they are made in Italy, as we can be certain of this feature.
Can anti-dust mite pillows be washed?
The question is asked because there is a concern that a pillow made anti-dust mite by immersion in anti-dust mite additives may lose these properties when washed with water. The cover and/or filling should retain their anti-dust mite properties for several washes.
Always read the labels!
Tips, questions, concerns? Ask your question or share your experience by filling out the blog form below!
