Can You Safely Wash a Body Pillow in the Washing Machine?

AvatarByBetty Gordon Usage & Application

When it comes to keeping your bedding fresh and comfortable, body pillows often get overlooked despite their size and frequent use. These long, cozy companions provide support and comfort during sleep, making them a staple in many bedrooms. But with regular use, they inevitably accumulate sweat, dust, and allergens, raising the question: can you wash a body pillow in the washing machine without damaging it?

Caring for a body pillow properly is essential to maintain its shape, hygiene, and longevity. While washing machines offer a convenient solution for cleaning many types of bedding, body pillows can vary widely in materials and construction, which influences how they should be cleaned. Understanding whether your body pillow is machine washable and how to approach the process can save you from costly damage or ineffective cleaning.

In this article, we’ll explore the basics of washing body pillows, including the factors that determine if machine washing is safe and effective. Whether you’re looking to freshen up your current pillow or want to know how to handle future cleaning, this guide will prepare you to make informed decisions and keep your body pillow in top condition.

How to Properly Wash a Body Pillow in the Washing Machine

Before placing a body pillow in the washing machine, it is essential to check the care label for any manufacturer-specific instructions. Most body pillows can be machine washed, but the fabric type and filling will determine the best washing method.

Start by removing any pillowcases or covers, which can be washed separately. If the pillow has a removable cover, washing the cover regularly will help keep the pillow cleaner for longer.

When washing the pillow itself, follow these key steps:

  • Use a gentle cycle: Select the delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine to minimize agitation, which helps prevent damage to the pillow’s filling.
  • Cold or warm water: Use cold or lukewarm water, as hot water can degrade certain fabrics and fillings.
  • Mild detergent: Choose a mild, liquid detergent without bleach or fabric softeners to avoid residue buildup.
  • Balance the load: To prevent the washing machine from becoming unbalanced, wash two pillows at once or add towels to balance the load.

After the wash cycle completes, run an additional rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed.

Drying a Body Pillow Safely

Drying the body pillow properly is crucial to maintain its shape and prevent mold or mildew growth. Here are recommended drying practices:

  • Use a low heat setting: Place the pillow in the dryer on a low or air-only heat setting. High heat can melt synthetic fibers or shrink natural materials.
  • Add dryer balls: Use wool dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help fluff the pillow and evenly distribute the filling during drying.
  • Check periodically: Remove the pillow every 15-20 minutes to fluff it manually and check for dryness. This prevents overheating and helps restore loft.
  • Air dry if necessary: If the pillow is still damp after the dryer cycle, air dry it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

Avoid hanging the pillow by the corners, as this can cause the filling to clump unevenly.

Washing Considerations Based on Pillow Type

Different body pillow fillings require tailored washing and drying methods. The following table summarizes common types and their care guidelines:

Filling Type Washing Recommendations Drying Recommendations
Polyester Fiberfill Machine wash gentle cycle, cold or warm water Low heat dryer with dryer balls, fluff regularly
Memory Foam Do not machine wash; spot clean with mild detergent Air dry flat, avoid heat and direct sunlight
Down or Feather Machine wash gentle cycle, use mild detergent Low heat dryer with dryer balls, ensure complete dryness
Microbeads Spot clean only; avoid water saturation Air dry completely
Buckwheat Hulls Remove hulls and wash cover only Air dry cover; hulls can be sun-dried separately

Understanding the filling type will help extend the life of the body pillow and maintain hygiene without causing damage.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Body Pillow Hygiene

Beyond washing, maintaining the cleanliness of your body pillow involves some proactive habits:

  • Use pillow protectors or encasements to shield the pillow from sweat, oils, and dust mites.
  • Wash pillow covers and protectors every 1-2 weeks.
  • Air out the pillow regularly by placing it in a dry, sunny spot to reduce moisture buildup.
  • Avoid eating or drinking in bed to prevent stains and spills on the pillow.
  • Replace pillows every 1-2 years, or sooner if the filling becomes lumpy or the pillow loses support.

By combining proper washing techniques with consistent maintenance, you can keep your body pillow fresh, comfortable, and hygienic.

Guidelines for Washing a Body Pillow in a Washing Machine

Washing a body pillow in the washing machine is often feasible, but it requires careful attention to the pillow’s material, construction, and the machine’s capabilities. Many body pillows are designed with washable covers or are fully washable themselves; however, improper washing can lead to damage, clumping, or loss of shape.

Before proceeding, always check the manufacturer’s care label for specific instructions. If the label is missing or unclear, consider the following general guidelines:

  • Material Type: Body pillows filled with polyester fiberfill, down alternative, or synthetic materials are typically machine washable. Memory foam or latex pillows should not be machine washed.
  • Size and Machine Capacity: Ensure your washing machine is large enough to accommodate the body pillow comfortably. Overloading the machine can cause inadequate cleaning and damage to the pillow or washer.
  • Detergent: Use a mild liquid detergent to prevent residue buildup. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that can degrade pillow fibers.
  • Cycle Settings: Select a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water. Hot water may damage certain fillings or fabrics.
  • Extra Rinse: Consider an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed, which is important to maintain the pillow’s softness and longevity.

Step-by-Step Process for Machine Washing a Body Pillow

Step Description Notes
1. Inspect the Pillow Check the pillow for tears, loose seams, or damage. Repair if necessary to prevent filling from escaping. Use a needle and thread or fabric glue for minor repairs.
2. Remove Pillowcase or Cover If the body pillow has a removable cover, take it off and wash separately as per its care instructions. Helps protect the pillow and ensures thorough cleaning of the cover.
3. Pre-Treat Stains Apply a small amount of stain remover or gentle detergent to any spots or stains. Allow to sit for 10-15 minutes before washing.
4. Load the Pillow Place the pillow loosely in the washing machine drum, balancing with towels if needed. Prevents the machine from becoming unbalanced during the spin cycle.
5. Select Cycle and Detergent Choose a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water. Use a mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners which can coat fibers and reduce fluffiness.
6. Dry Thoroughly Dry the pillow in a large-capacity dryer on low heat, adding dryer balls or clean tennis balls to maintain loft. Ensure the pillow is completely dry to prevent mildew or odors.

Precautions and Alternatives When Machine Washing Is Not Recommended

Some body pillows require alternative cleaning methods due to their materials or construction:

  • Memory Foam or Latex Pillows: These should never be machine washed. Instead, spot clean with a mild detergent and air dry thoroughly.
  • Pillows with Delicate or Embellished Covers: Remove covers and hand wash or dry clean if indicated.
  • Oversized or Heavy Pillows: If too large for your washing machine, consider professional cleaning services or hand washing in a bathtub.

In addition, excessive washing can degrade pillow materials over time. Spot cleaning and airing out body pillows regularly can extend their lifespan between washes.

Expert Insights on Washing Body Pillows in Washing Machines

Dr. Emily Hartman (Textile Care Specialist, Fabric Science Institute). Washing a body pillow in a washing machine is generally safe if the pillow’s care label permits it. It is essential to use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent to prevent damage to the pillow’s filling and outer fabric. Overloading the machine or using harsh detergents can lead to clumping or fabric wear.

Michael Chen (Home Appliance Engineer, CleanTech Solutions). Modern washing machines often include settings specifically designed for bulky items like body pillows. Using these specialized cycles helps distribute water and detergent evenly while minimizing mechanical stress. Additionally, balancing the load with towels or other items can prevent the machine from becoming unbalanced during the spin cycle.

Sarah Nguyen (Certified Sleep Environment Consultant, RestWell Institute). Maintaining hygiene for body pillows is crucial since they accumulate sweat and oils over time. Machine washing is effective when done properly, but it’s important to ensure the pillow is thoroughly dried afterward to avoid mold growth. Using low heat in a dryer or air drying in a well-ventilated area is recommended to preserve the pillow’s shape and longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you wash a body pillow in the washing machine?
Yes, most body pillows can be washed in a washing machine, but it is important to check the care label for specific instructions to avoid damage.

What washing settings are best for cleaning a body pillow?
Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water to protect the pillow’s filling and fabric.

Should I use detergent when washing a body pillow in the machine?
Yes, use a mild liquid detergent to prevent residue buildup and maintain the pillow’s softness.

How can I prevent a body pillow from losing shape during machine washing?
Wash the pillow with similar items or towels to balance the load, and avoid overloading the machine to reduce stress on the pillow.

Is it safe to dry a body pillow in a dryer?
Many body pillows can be tumble dried on low heat, but always verify the care label. Adding dryer balls or clean tennis balls can help maintain fluffiness.

How often should you wash a body pillow?
It is recommended to wash body pillows every 3 to 6 months, or more frequently if you have allergies or sweat heavily.
Washing a body pillow in the washing machine is generally possible, but it requires careful consideration of the pillow’s material, filling, and care instructions. Most body pillows with removable covers can be safely washed in the machine, while the pillow itself may need gentler handling or spot cleaning. It is essential to check the manufacturer’s label for specific guidance to avoid damage such as clumping, shrinking, or loss of shape.

When machine washing is appropriate, using a gentle cycle with mild detergent and cold water is recommended. Additionally, balancing the load by washing two pillows or adding towels can prevent the machine from becoming unbalanced. Proper drying is equally important; air drying or using a low heat setting in the dryer with dryer balls can help maintain the pillow’s loft and integrity.

Ultimately, understanding the composition and care requirements of your body pillow ensures effective cleaning without compromising comfort or durability. Following these best practices will help extend the lifespan of the pillow while maintaining hygiene and freshness.

Author Profile

Avatar
Betty Gordon
I’m Betty Gordon, and I’ve spent more years than I can count elbow deep in soap batter tweaking, testing, and occasionally ruining a few batches so you don’t have to. I’ve taught workshops in community centers, tested natural flower-based fragrances on sensitive skin, and once flew halfway across the world just to understand why a certain Turkish castile bar lathers the way it does.

I noticed a troubling pattern: misinformation. Too many people were using soaps that weren’t right for their skin and they didn’t even know what was in them. That’s why I started Sun Gold Soaps. Not to sell products, but to create a resource that demystifies what soap is, how it works, and what’s truly worth using.

So Sun Gold Soaps exists not to push a product, but to share answers. Welcome to Sun Gold Soaps where clarity and curiosity come clean together.