To wash pillows in a washing machine, first check that their care labels allow it. Load them evenly without overcrowding, add a small amount of suitable laundry detergent, and select the recommended cycle and water temperature.
Rinse thoroughly, use the spin setting permitted by the label, and dry completely using the specified drying method before reuse.
This 2026 guide explains:
- Which pillows are machine washable
- How to wash pillows in front-loading and top-loading washers
- Which settings and detergent to use
- How to rinse and spin pillows
- How to dry machine-washed pillows using the approved method
- Can You Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine?
Different pillow materials respond differently to water, detergent, agitation and dryer heat. Before washing any pillow, always check the care label first.
For a comparison of the materials used in hotel-style pillows, see our guide to pillow filling materials for hotel comfort.
The table below gives a general guide for common pillow types. If you own hotel-style pillows, check its specific care instructions before choosing a washing method. The instructions for your exact product take priority.
| Pillow Type / Fill Type | Machine Washable? | Best Wash Method |
|---|---|---|
| Down alternative pillows | Often, if care label allows | Gentle cycle with mild detergent |
| Polyester / fiberfill pillows | Often, if care label allows | Gentle cycle with the approved water temperature |
| Down and Feather pillows | Often, if care label allows | Gentle cycle with suitable detergent |
| Down pillows | Often, if care label allows | Gentle cycle and extra rinse if permitted |
| Shredded memory foam pillows | Depends on care label | Usually wash cover only or spot clean |
| Solid memory foam pillows | Generally no | Follow manufacturer’s cleaning instructions |
| Latex pillows | Generally no | Follow manufacturer’s cleaning instructions |
| Buckwheat pillows | Do not wash the hull filling | Wash removable cover only as directed |
| Decorative pillows | Depends | Follow care label carefully |
Following the correct cleaning method helps reduce the risk of damage to the cover and filling.
A washable removable cover does not necessarily mean the pillow insert is washable.
If machine washing is not permitted, check whether the manufacturer allows hand washing, spot cleaning or professional cleaning.
Our guide on how to wash pillows by hand explains these alternatives. Do not submerge the pillow unless its manufacturer permits it.
Important Clarification About Gel-Infused Pillows
Whether you can machine wash a “gel” pillow depends entirely on its construction:
Loose fill: Pillows using gel-infused polyester or microfiber strands may be machine washable if the care label allows it.
Solid core: Pillows featuring a solid gel slab, gel memory foam or layered inserts generally should not be machine washed unless specifically approved.
The word “gel” alone does not tell you whether a pillow can go in the washer.
How to Treat Yellow Stains Before Machine Washing
For a machine-washable pillow, pre-treat yellow stains with a stain remover permitted by the pillow’s care instructions. Follow the stain remover’s directions for application and contact time, then wash using the approved settings.
Test on an inconspicuous area first if the product instructions recommend it. Avoid scrubbing weak seams or soaking the filling unless permitted. Some discoloration may remain after washing; complete stain removal is not guaranteed.
Before You Start: Prepare Your Pillows
- Remove pillowcases and protectors.
- Inspect seams for weak stitching.
- Check care label instructions carefully.
- Pre-treat visible stains using a product approved for the pillow’s fabric and filling.
How to Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine—Step by Step
Step 1: Load Correctly
- Wash two similar pillows together if your washer has enough capacity.
- Keep weight balanced.
- Leave enough room for the pillows to move freely.
This helps prevent drum imbalance. Follow your washer’s manual for loading instructions, especially when washing only one pillow.
Do not force oversized pillows into a drum that cannot accommodate them.
Step 2: Use the Right Settings
Cycle: Gentle / Delicate, or Bedding if approved
Water Temperature: Follow the care label
Detergent: A small amount of suitable mild laundry detergent
For many machine-washable synthetic, down-alternative and feather pillows, cold or warm water is appropriate. Always follow manufacturer instructions to avoid damaging seams or fill material.
Avoid hot water unless specifically approved, as excessive heat can weaken fibers and shorten pillow lifespan.
Use the detergent manufacturer’s recommended amount for your load and washer. Concentrated formulas may require less detergent.
Avoid fabric softeners, which can coat fibers. Use bleach only when the pillow’s care label specifically allows it.
Harvard Health recommends washing bedding at 130°F (about 54°C) as part of dust-mite control. Use this temperature for a pillow only if its care label permits it. Otherwise, follow its approved temperature and wash removable pillowcases and protectors according to their own labels.
Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly
Use an extra rinse cycle if permitted to remove detergent residue from the filling.
If visible suds or detergent residue remain, repeat the approved rinse cycle before drying.
Using too much detergent can make pillows harder to rinse thoroughly.
Step 4: Remove Excess Water With an Approved Spin Setting
A spin cycle helps remove water from the fill material before drying. Follow any spin restrictions on the pillow’s care label.
If no spin speed is specified, consult the pillow manufacturer’s guidance and your washer manual rather than automatically selecting the highest speed.
If the washer becomes unbalanced, pause the cycle and redistribute the load according to the washer manual.
How to Wash Pillows in a Front-Loading Washer
Front-loading washers use a tumbling motion without a central agitator. Place pillows loosely in the drum without wedging or compressing them to fit.
Follow the main washing steps above and your washer manual’s instructions for bulky items.
How to Wash Pillows in a Top-Loading Washer
Top-loading machines require slightly more attention, especially if they contain an agitator.
Top-Load Washer With Agitator
Agitators can twist and compress pillow filling.
If both the pillow manufacturer and washer manual permit this method:
- Arrange pillows evenly around the agitator.
- Avoid wrapping or wedging pillows against it.
- Leave enough space for movement.
- Use the approved gentle cycle.
Top-Load Washer Without Agitator
Distribute pillows evenly around the basket and follow the washer’s capacity limits.
Use the same care-label-approved settings outlined in the main washing steps.
Additional Care for Down and Feather Pillows
Confirm that the entire pillow—not just its cover—is machine washable, and choose a detergent suitable for down or feathers.
During approved drying, gently separate clumps and redistribute the fill between drying intervals. Natural fill can remain damp inside even when the cover feels dry.
How to Dry Pillows After Machine Washing
Drying properly is just as important as washing. Machine washable does not automatically mean dryer safe. Follow the approved drying method below. To understand how filling, loft and construction contribute to the pillow’s feel, read why hotel pillows feel so comfortable.
Machine Drying: Down, Feather and Polyester
For pillows whose labels permit tumble drying:
- Use the recommended heat setting; low heat is commonly appropriate.
- If permitted by the pillow and dryer manufacturers, add two or three dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help redistribute the filling.
- Check periodically.
- Fluff and reposition regularly.
- Continue until the filling is completely dry.
Why You Should Avoid Unapproved High Heat
Excessive dryer heat can damage some synthetic fillings, affecting their shape and loft. Use the care-label-approved setting rather than increasing the temperature to speed up drying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash two pillows together?
Yes, if both pillows are machine washable and your washer has enough capacity. Two similar pillows can help balance the load, but they still need room to move freely.
Why does my pillow still smell after washing?
Detergent residue or incomplete drying may contribute to lingering odor. If residue remains, use an additional rinse permitted by the care instructions. If the filling is damp, continue the approved drying method. If a musty smell persists after complete drying, consult the manufacturer before using the pillow again.
Can I wash a gel pillow in the washing machine?
Check its construction and care label. Gel-infused fiberfill may be washable, while gel foam or solid cooling layers may require a different cleaning method.
Which washer cycle should I use for pillows?
Use the cycle recommended by the pillow manufacturer and washer manual. A gentle or delicate cycle is commonly suitable; a bedding cycle is appropriate only if approved.
Why does my pillow still have detergent after washing?
Too much detergent or insufficient rinsing can leave residue in the filling. Use an additional approved rinse cycle and reduce the detergent amount next time.
Does machine washing sanitize pillows?
Do not assume that a normal wash cycle sanitizes a pillow. If sanitizing is needed, check whether the pillow manufacturer permits a suitable laundry sanitizer or sanitizing cycle, and follow the product and washer instructions. Do not exceed the pillow’s approved washing temperature.
Why is my pillow lumpy after machine washing?
The filling may be unevenly distributed or still damp. Gently fluff it and continue the approved drying method if needed. Persistent lumps after complete drying may indicate compressed or damaged filling.