We all love the feeling of fresh sheets, but have you ever stopped to think about your pillows? Even if you regularly wash your pillowcases, the pillow underneath could be hiding a lot more than just comfort.
From dust mites and dead skin flakes to bacteria and sweat buildup, your pillows can accumulate plenty of unwanted grime over time. If you’re wondering whether pillows can be washed without damaging them—good news: most can be cleaned easily and safely at home.
As your trusted cleaning services company in Red Deer, we’re here to walk you through the best way to wash your pillows and keep your bedtime routine fresh and healthy.
Are Your Pillows Washable?
Yes! Most synthetic, down, and even memory foam pillows can be cleaned. While a high-capacity front load washer works best, even standard top-load washers are usually up to the task.
Pro Tip: Aim to wash your pillows every 6 months—or with the change of each season.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Your Pillows at Home
1. Preparation
Remove pillowcases and any protective covers. Check the care label if you’re unsure what type of pillow you have.
2. Washing
- Use a gentle, unscented liquid detergent
- Wash in warm water on the gentle cycle
- For balance, wash two pillows at a time (if your machine allows)
- Allow water to partially fill before adding the pillows
Avoid detergents with bleach, stain removers, or added fragrances—they can damage the filling.
3. Extra Rinse & Spin
Run an additional rinse cycle to remove all detergent. Then use an extra spin cycle (or two) to extract as much water as possible.
4. Drying
- Foam pillows: Air dry only—heat can damage or melt them
- Down or feather pillows: Use the air fluff/no heat setting
- Synthetic pillows: Low or medium heat is usually safe
Toss in a few dryer balls or tennis balls wrapped in socks to help fluff the pillows as they dry.
Why Clean Pillows Matter
Fresh pillows not only feel better but also:
- Improve indoor air quality
- Reduce allergens like dust mites
- Help prevent skin irritation and acne
- Support better sleep hygiene
A clean pillow supports a clean lifestyle—and if you’re not already doing it, now’s a great time to start.
Need Help With Deeper Cleaning?
Whether it’s your home or business, Performance Building Maintenance in Red Deer offers professional cleaning services to keep your space spotless. Contact us for a free quote or ask us about deep-cleaning your soft furnishings and more.