To wash pillows by hand, first check that their care labels allow soaking. Fill a clean basin with water at the recommended temperature, add a small amount of suitable laundry detergent, and gently press the pillow to move water through the filling.
Rinse with fresh water, press out excess moisture without wringing, and dry completely using the method specified on the label.
If your pillow is labeled “spot clean only,” do not submerge it. Hand washing cleans the whole pillow with water; spot cleaning treats individual marks with minimal moisture.
Which Pillows Can Be Washed by Hand?
The care label determines whether you can wash the entire pillow, clean only its cover, or treat individual stains.
| Pillow Type | Can You Hand-Wash It? | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester / synthetic | If the care label allows | Gently press rather than twist; follow the specified drying method |
| Feather / down | If the care label allows | Use suitable detergent and the recommended water temperature |
| Memory foam | Do not assume immersion is safe | Many inserts require spot cleaning or prohibit liquid cleaning |
| Latex | Do not assume immersion is safe | Follow the exact product’s instructions; some cores must remain dry |
| Buckwheat | Do not wash the hull filling | Clean the empty removable cover as directed |
| Specialty or layered pillows | Depends on construction | Check the instructions for each removable component |
A washable cover does not mean the filling is washable. If the label is missing or unclear, contact the manufacturer before soaking the pillow.
If you are unsure which filling your pillow contains, our guide to pillow filling materials explains the differences between common options. Confirm your pillow’s filling and care instructions before choosing a cleaning method.
For pillows approved for machine washing, see our separate guide on how to wash pillows in a washing machine.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather:
- Large basin, sink or bathtub
- Mild laundry detergent suitable for the pillow’s filling
- Soft cloth or sponge for permitted stain treatment
- Clean, absorbent towels
- Drying rack or another suitable surface with good airflow
Prepare your drying space before washing. Wet filling can take much longer to dry than the outer fabric.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Pillows by Hand
Use these steps only for pillows whose care instructions permit immersion.
1. Remove Covers and Check the Pillow
Remove pillowcases and protectors. Wash them separately according to their labels.
Inspect the pillow for torn fabric, loose stitching or exposed filling. Wet filling adds weight and can strain weakened seams.
For visible stains, lightly spot-clean first using a treatment approved for the pillow’s fabric and filling. Test an inconspicuous area and follow the product’s directions.
2. Prepare the Soapy Water
Fill the basin with water at the temperature specified on the care label.
Add a small amount of suitable laundry detergent and mix it into the water before adding the pillow. Follow the detergent’s hand-washing directions where available.
Avoid using excess detergent, which can be difficult to rinse from the filling. Do not add vinegar, baking soda or other cleaners unless the pillow manufacturer recommends them.
3. Gently Wash the Pillow
Lower the pillow into the water while supporting its weight.
Gently press and release it to allow soapy water to move through the filling. Avoid twisting, wringing or pulling at the seams.
If the manufacturer recommends soaking, follow its stated duration. There is no universal 30-minute soaking time suitable for every pillow.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with fresh water.
Gently press and release the pillow to remove detergent. Repeat with clean water until no visible suds or slippery detergent residue remain.
Support the pillow when lifting or moving it between rinses. Do not lift a heavy, saturated pillow by one corner.
5. Remove Excess Water
Gently press out water while keeping the pillow supported. Do not wring or twist.
Place the pillow between clean towels and press evenly to absorb moisture. Replace wet towels as needed.
Avoid forcefully compressing delicate filling or hanging a saturated pillow from one edge.
6. Dry Using the Care Label’s Instructions
Reshape the pillow gently and follow the drying method specified by the manufacturer.
If flat air drying is allowed:
- Lay the pillow on a clean drying rack or breathable surface.
- Allow airflow around both sides.
- Turn it periodically so the underside can dry.
- Replace any damp towels underneath it.
- Keep it away from heaters or direct heat that the label prohibits.
Drying time depends on the filling, remaining moisture, humidity and airflow. A dry outer surface does not confirm that the interior is dry.
Check the center and seams for dampness before replacing the cover. If you are uncertain, continue drying using the permitted method.
Once the pillow is completely dry, check how its height feels in your usual sleeping position. If it now feels too flat or too high, our guide to pillow loft height for each sleep position can help you assess the fit.
How to Spot Clean Memory Foam or Latex Pillows
Memory foam and latex should not automatically be treated as hand-washable materials. Some manufacturers permit damp spot cleaning, while others prohibit liquids on the insert.
Follow the exact product’s instructions before using water or detergent.
If damp spot cleaning is permitted:
- Remove the washable cover and clean it separately.
- Lightly dampen a soft cloth with the recommended cleaning solution.
- Blot the stain without soaking or scrubbing the insert.
- Remove cleaning residue as directed by the manufacturer.
- Blot with a clean, dry towel.
- Allow the pillow to dry completely in a ventilated area before replacing the cover.
Do not machine dry foam or latex unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it.
If liquid cleaning is prohibited, clean only the removable cover and follow the brand’s instructions for caring for the insert.
Common Hand-Washing Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming “not machine washable” means “safe to soak”
- Using more detergent than necessary
- Leaving a pillow soaking longer than instructed
- Twisting or wringing wet filling
- Lifting a saturated pillow by its seams
- Replacing the cover before the interior is dry
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hand-wash a memory foam pillow?
Only if its manufacturer explicitly permits it. Many memory foam inserts should not be submerged. Some allow damp spot cleaning, while others prohibit liquid cleaning altogether.
Can I hand-wash feather or down pillows?
Yes, if the care label allows hand washing. Use a detergent suitable for the filling, follow the recommended water temperature, and dry using the specified method. Do not assume every down or feather pillow can be soaked or air-dried.
How long should I soak a pillow?
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not automatically soak every pillow for 30 minutes; some permit only brief washing, and others should not be submerged.
How do I remove smells from a pillow that cannot be soaked?
Clean the removable cover and air the insert in a dry, ventilated area if permitted. For a persistent odor, ask the manufacturer about an approved treatment rather than soaking a nonwashable core.
Can I wring out a pillow after hand washing?
Avoid wringing or twisting. Support the wet pillow and gently press it between clean towels to absorb excess water.
How do I know when a hand-washed pillow is dry?
Check several areas, including the center and seams, for remaining dampness. Surface dryness alone is insufficient. If you are unsure, allow additional drying time using the care-label-approved method before reuse.
If you decide to replace your pillow, explore our hotel-style pillows and check the individual product’s filling and care instructions before choosing.