Can You Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine?
10 Jun 2025
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Whether you can wash pillows in a washing machine depends entirely on the type of pillow. Always check the care label on your pillow first. This label will give you the manufacturer's recommendations.
Generally:
- Polyester and synthetic pillows: These are usually machine washable. Use a gentle cycle and cold water. Air dry them, or tumble dry on low heat.
- Down and feather pillows: These can be machine washed, but it's more delicate. Use a gentle cycle, cold water, and a small amount of mild detergent. Multiple rinse cycles are recommended to remove all the soap. Air drying is best, but low tumble dry is acceptable. However, frequent machine washing can damage down and feather pillows.
- Memory foam pillows: These are generally not recommended for machine washing. The foam can become damaged or lumpy. Spot cleaning is usually the best option.
- Latex pillows: Similar to memory foam, these are usually not machine washable and should be spot cleaned.
Important Considerations:
- Size: Overfilling the washing machine can cause damage to both the machine and the pillows. Wash pillows in pairs or smaller batches.
- Detergent: Use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Drying: Air drying is always the gentlest option for all types of pillows. If tumble drying, use a low heat setting and check frequently to prevent overheating.
If you're unsure, hand-washing is always a safer option than risking damage to your pillows or your washing machine.
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