Before taking a pillow to the laundry room, check what is inside it. The cover, filling and care label each have a say in this job.
Read the pillow’s care label first. Many fiber-filled pillows can be machine washed, while memory foam and latex often require cover washing and limited spot care. Dry the filling completely before use.
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Before you begin
A missing label is not permission to machine wash. Check the manufacturer using the product name. Never cram a large pillow into a washer that cannot move it freely.
What you’ll need
- Pillow care label
- Mild laundry detergent
- Clean cloth
- Suitable washer and dryer only if allowed
Optional tools & supplies
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Use what you already have. Choose supplies that fit your task, and check instructions and current prices.
Arm & Hammer HE liquid laundry detergentLowe’s · ProductFollow the garment label, washer instructions and product dosing. More detergent is not always better.
Rubbermaid Commercial microfiber cloths, 16-packLowe’s · ProductUse a clean cloth approved for the surface; keep dirty or gritty cloths away from delicate finishes.
Let’s do this
Step by step
- 01
Separate the cover from the insert
Remove pillowcases and washable protectors. Check both labels: a washable cover does not mean the filling is washable. Inspect seams for splits that could release filling.
- 02
Choose the permitted cleaning route
For a washable insert, use the recommended gentle cycle, temperature and a small appropriate detergent dose. For foam or a nonwashable insert, follow the maker’s spot-care directions and avoid soaking.
- 03
Balance and rinse a washable load
If capacity allows and your washer manual agrees, washing two compatible pillows can help balance the load. Use the label’s rinse instructions; lingering suds or detergent call for additional permitted rinsing.
- 04
Dry using the label’s setting
Use only the permitted dryer heat or air-drying method. Fluff washable filling as directed and check the middle, seams and corners for dampness. A dry outer cover can hide a wet center.
- 05
Reassemble only after a dry check
Let the pillow cool before the final moisture check. Refit clean covers when the insert is fully dry. Replace an insert that remains musty, damaged or unsuitable for effective cleaning.
A cover can reduce the next big wash
A removable protector takes much of the everyday handling and can usually be cleaned more easily than an insert. Match its size and care instructions to your pillow.
Do not rush the last stage
Plan this job when you have enough time for drying. If the insert still feels damp, use another pillow that night rather than covering it and trapping moisture.
A quick final check
- Cover and insert labels checked
- Correct cleaning route used
- Detergent rinsed away
- Center and corners completely dry
Common questions & sticking points
Can memory foam go in the washer?
Generally no. Follow its maker’s instructions; Tempur-Pedic says not to wash or submerge an insert unless its specific care instructions allow it.
Does every down pillow use the same dryer setting?
No. Filling, fabric and construction vary. Use your label rather than a universal hot-dryer rule.
Sources & further reading Optional
References used to check this guide. Follow your product’s own safety instructions where its design differs.
Last source check: September 24, 2026
