How do I clean my pillow?

Your pillow is with you every night, but are you giving it the care it deserves? Washing the pillowcase is important, of course - but neglecting to clean the pillow itself can compromise your health, comfort and even the quality of your sleep.

In this article, we explain how to clean cushions safely, whether they're microfiber, viscoelastic or otherwise - with practical and simple tips for doing it all at home.

 

Why should you wash your pillow?

Pillows accumulate sweat, oil, dust, dead cells and mites - and can develop bad odors, fungi and bacteria. As well as causing allergic reactions, this dirt damages the durability and comfort of the filling.

Experts recommend washing your pillows 2-3 times a year, even if you use a pillowcase. If you have allergies or asthma, you should do this routine more frequently, every 2 months. 

How to wash filled cushions?

First of all, always check the label on the cushion. Washing methods vary depending on the filling:

Fiber, foam or polyester

• They can be washed by machine or by hand;
• Use warm water and a mild detergent;
• Choose a cycle for delicate clothes or comforters.

Viscoelastic or latex

These cushions should not be immersed in water, as the filling could be irreversibly damaged. Choose from:

• Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent;
• Deodorization with baking soda;
• Airing in the sun and in a dry place.

How to Wash Cushions with Bicarbonate of Soda?

Bicarbonate is a natural ally for eliminating odors and dry cleaning. Ideal for viscoelastic or delicate pillows:

1. Sprinkle the surface of the cushion with bicarbonate;
2. Leave on for 30 minutes;
3. Vacuum with a small nozzle to remove dust.

Additional tip: you can add a few drops of lavender essential oil to the bicarbonate for a pleasant aroma. 

Washing Pillows in the Washing Machine

Yes, you can wash cushions in the machine, as long as you respect the following rules:

1. Check the drum's capacity: the ideal is to wash two cushions at the same time to balance the weight;
2. Remove the pillowcases and, if you want to protect the filling, place the pillow inside an extra pillowcase;
3. Use a mild liquid detergent without bleach or softener;
4. Choose a gentle program with lukewarm water;
5. Do an extra rinse to make sure no residue remains. 

At what temperature should you wash a sleeping pillow?

The ideal washing temperature depends on the type of filling in the cushion. Always check the label, but as a general rule:

• Synthetic fiber or polyester cushions: up to 40 °C
• Feather pillows or natural down: up to 30 °C
• Pillows with mixed filling (feather + fiber): up to 30 - 40ºC;
• Memory foam pillows: should not be machine washed;
• Pillows with removable cover: the cover can be washed separately at up to 60ºC.

 

Whenever possible, choose to wash the pillow (or removable cover) at 60 °C, an effective temperature for eliminating dust mites and bacteria, especially useful in cases of allergies or asthma.

Each type of cushion requires specific care, so it's essential to read the label before washing. If in doubt, always opt for gentle cleaning and avoid high temperatures if the material is sensitive.

 

How to dry cushions after washing?

Drying is just as important as washing. A poorly dried cushion can become a breeding ground for bacteria and bad odors. You can dry it in two ways:

In the dryer:

• Use a low or medium temperature;
• Add two tennis balls inside clean socks to maintain volume and avoid lumps;
• Check the inside of the cushion: it should not be damp.

Air dry:

• Put it on a clothesline in a dry, ventilated place;
• Avoid direct exposure to the sun for long hours;
• Turn the cushion regularly to ensure even drying.

 

How to Wash Viscoelastic Pillows?

Memory foam pillows require special care:

• Never machine wash or immerse in water;
• Use a damp towel with neutral detergent to clean the surface;
• Leave to air dry completely, away from heat sources.

These cushions should be replaced every 2 to 3 years, even with good maintenance by the user.

 

Tips for Keeping Pillows Fresh

• Wash the pillowcase weekly;
• Vacuum the pillow every time you change the sheets;
• Air the cushion in the sun frequently;
• Avoid using it without a pillowcase: it protects the filling and makes it last longer;
• Avoid humid environments: this encourages the presence of fungi and dust mites.

Keeping pillows clean is an essential part of sleep hygiene. As well as improving health and well-being, it preserves the comfort and durability of the filling so that every night is synonymous with deep rest.

At Mercado do Colchão, we value comfort in every detail. Discover the range of pillows designed to turn your rest into an invigorating experience, night after night.