How to Wash a Memory Foam Pillow

Your memory foam pillow plays an important role in your overall sleep quality. This underrated bed for your head actually supports 30% of your spine throughout the night, making it a key component in helping your alignment. While supporting your neck and head, your memory foam pillow is pressed against your head – making it one of the only items connected to your face for 7-9 hours a day. So, it’s no wonder why so many people are interested in learning how to wash a memory foam pillow.

Over time, your memory foam pillow inevitably absorbs moisture as you exhale and perspire, which promotes the growth of fungal spores. Even though memory foam pillows are naturally hypoallergenic and resist dust mites, your pillow can become a petri dish of bacteria that can negatively impact your health, skin, and sleep quality. Worse yet, traditional pillows can become home to health-harming dust mites, which can trigger asthma and allergies. Considering the importance of your pillow, it’s important to keep it clean regardless of the materials it’s made from!

Cleaning a pillow can be tricky, so it’s understandable if you want to skip the hassle of washing your pillow. The best way to protect your health and keep your pillow clean is by using a pillow protector. A pillow protector zippers shut around your pillow to provide a barrier against moisture, dust mites, and stains. It’s undetectable under your pillowcase and a great way to keep your pillow clean.

If you’ve been sleeping on your pillow for a while, adding a pillow protector may not be enough, so we’re sharing the best guide on how to wash memory foam pillows.

Can I Clean My Memory Foam Pillow?

Yes, you can clean your memory foam pillow. However, some memory foam pillows—such as Tempur-Pedic pillows or Malouf pillows—will have their own set of care instructions, so it’s important to check the care of tag for instructions first. Like these brands, your pillow might also have a care tag that lists how to clean your memory foam pillow. All pillows can be safely vacuumed. You can also use lukewarm water and a gentle detergent to spot clean any stains. Avoid using bleach, harsh chemicals, and heat when cleaning your pillow.

How Often Should I Clean My Memory Foam Pillow?

A gentle cleaning of your pillow should occur every time you change your sheets. You should deep clean your pillow every two months or so. If someone has recently been sick, you might want to deep clean it right after they are well.

Can I Wash My Memory Foam Pillow?

Washing your memory foam pillow can help rid it of any bacteria build up that it may have. It is not recommended to put it in the washing machine but you can wash it. Here are some steps to help you clean your pillow:

1. Remove pillowcase and pillow protector (also remove any covers if applicable).
2. Look at the care tag for any special instructions on how to clean the pillow. If none, continue to next steps.
3. Fill your bathtub or sink with cold water. Mix in a small amount of mild detergent.
4. Submerge your pillow completely while giving it gentle squeezes.
5. Once you remove any stains, empty tub or sink and refill with clean cold water and submerge again.
6. Gently squeeze the pillow until the water is clear.
7. Take the pillow out of the water and squeeze until most of the water is removed. Use a dry towel and roll pillow within it and gently squeeze out excess water. Repeat a couple times.
8. Place pillow on a clean towel and allow to air dry up to 24 hours. Do not put in direct sunlight or else the memory foam will start to break down.

How Do I Deodorize My Memory Foam Pillow?

Sometimes, your pillow may have a slight odor after longtime use. Deodorizing your pillow can help it smell as good as new.

1. Remove pillowcase and pillow protector (also remove any covers if applicable).
2. Sprinkle baking soda on one side of the pillow and let it sit in sunlight for 1-2 hours.
3. Use the upholstery vacuum attachment to suck up baking soda from the surface.
4. Flip the pillow and repeat the steps.