Like all pillows, body pillows accumulate dust, sweat, dirt, and other bodily debris over time. However, unlike other pillows, body pillows can be more challenging to clean properly due to their size, making it essential to understand how to wash a body pillow thoroughly. By following our guide below, you’ll be able to quickly and easily clean your body pillow, giving you the best night of sleep ever!
Machine Washing Your Pillow
Although your body pillow in the washing machine is the easiest way to clean it, it is also the quickest way to cause extreme wear and tear to your pillow. Before putting it in the machine, make sure to read the washing instructions thoroughly to make sure that it is even an option.
If the tag on your body pillow states that it is machine washable, be sure to place it alone in the washing machine, as the large size will take up the majority of the space. By washing your pillow independently, you are ensuring that all parts of the pillow will be cleaned thoroughly and retain its shape and fluffiness. In addition, make sure to wash your pillow on a low heat setting, as high temperatures can also alter the shape and density. Finally, be sure to use a mild or hypoallergenic detergent, as this pillow will be in direct contact with your face after washing.
Once the pillow comes out, you can place it in a dryer on a low tumble dry setting. Be aware that certain materials, such as real down feathers, may take multiple hours to fully dry out, even in the machine. After removing them from the machine, make sure to fluff your pillow by massaging it back into its original shape.
Hand Washing Your Pillow
If your pillow is made of memory foam or latex foam, you are likely going to have to hand wash your pillow to protect the shape and structure. To begin, fill a large bathtub with cold water and a mild detergent until it foams, and then place your pillow in. Massage the pillow in the water to ensure that you are reaching all nooks and crannies, and then gently wring it out to prevent excess moisture from building up.
To air dry, lay your pillow out flat in a sunny area for a maximum of two hours, which will help to kill off any lingering germs or bacteria. If your pillow is still damp after two hours, move it to a shadier location to prevent any potential discoloration. Make sure you are positive your pillow is dry before using it, as a damp pillow can spread bacteria, fungus, and mold to both you and your mattress.
Spot Cleaning Your Pillow
If you’re not interested in totally washing your pillow, consider a quick spot treatment to brighten it up! By putting a mild detergent on a damp cloth, you should be able to scrub out any smaller stains on your pillow. That being said, experts recommend fully washing your pillow at least every six months to ensure maximum cleanliness.
