Published by Mercado do Mattress on 24th Jul 2025
How to clean the sleeping pillow
Your pillow is with you every night, but do you give it the care it really deserves? Washing the sling is important, of course, but ignoring the cleanliness of your own pillow can affect your health, comfort and even the quality of your dreams.
In this article we explain how to clean pillows safely, whether they are made of microfiber, memory foam or other materials, with practical and simple tips that you can apply at home.
Why should you wash your sleeping pillow?
Pillows accumulate sweat, grease, dust, dead cells and mites and can develop bad smells, mold and bacteria. In addition to causing possible allergic reactions, this dirt affects the durability and comfort of the cushion.
Experts recommend washing your pillows 2 to 3 times a year, even if you use a sling. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, it is recommended that you do this more often, approximately every 2 months.
How to wash pillows according to the type of pillow
First of all, always check the product label, as the cleaning method depends on the type of glaze:
Fiber, foam or polyester
-
They can be machine or hand washed.
-
Use tempered water and mild detergent.
-
Run a delicate or duvet cycle.
Viscoelastic latex
These pads should not be immersed in water, as the panel could be irreversibly damaged.
Opt for:
-
Localized cleaning with a damp cloth and neutral detergent.
-
Deodorization with sodium bicarbonate.
-
Airing in the sun in a dry, ventilated place.
How to clean pillows with baking soda
Bicarbonate is a natural ally for eliminating odors and dry cleaning, ideal for memory foam or delicate pillows:
-
Sprinkle bicarbonate over the surface.
-
Leave it on for 30 minutes.
-
Vacuum with a small attachment to remove the dust.
Additional tip: add a few drops of lavender essential oil to the bicarbonate to achieve a fresh, relaxing scent.
Washing pads in the washer
Yes, you can wash pillows in the washer if you follow these recommendations:
-
Check the drum's capacity: the ideal is to wash two pillows at a time to balance the weight.
-
Remove the slings and, if you want to protect the roof, put the pillow in an additional sling.
-
Use mild liquid detergent, without dirt or softeners.
-
Program a delicate cycle with tempered water.
-
Add an extra rinse to remove soap residue.
At what temperature should a pillow be washed?
The ideal washing temperature depends on the type of cloth. As a general rule:
-
Synthetic fiber or polyester: up to 40 °C.
-
Plumes or natural feathers: up to 30 °C.
-
Mixed yarn(feather + fiber): between 30 °C and 40 °C.
-
Viscoelastic (memory foam): should not be machine washed.
-
With removable sling: the sling can be washed separately at up to 60 °C.
Whenever possible, choose temperatures of 60 °C to eliminate dust mites and bacteria, especially if you suffer from allergies or asthma.
How to dry pillows after washing
Drying is just as important as washing: a poorly dried pillow can become a source of dirt and bad smells.
In the dryer
-
Uses low or medium temperature.
-
Add two tennis balls to clean tiles to maintain volume and avoid lumps.
-
Check that the interior is completely dry.
Outdoors
-
Keep the pillow in a dry and ventilated place.
-
Avoid direct exposure to the sun for many hours.
-
Turn the pad regularly to ensure even drying.
How to clean memory foam pillows
Memory foam pillows require special care:
-
Never machine wash or soak them in water.
-
Clean the surface with a damp cloth and neutral detergent.
-
Leave to dry completely in the air, away from heat sources.
These cushions should be replaced every 2 or 3 years, even with good maintenance.
Tips for keeping lunches fresh
-
Wash the sling weekly.
-
Aspira la almohada cada vez que cambies las sábanas.
-
Air it in the sun frequently.
-
Don't use it without a sling: it protects the glaze and prolongs its durability.
-
Avoid damp environments, which favor the appearance of dust mites and mold.
Keeping pillows clean is an essential part of sleep hygiene. In addition to improving health and well-being, it preserves the comfort and durability of the pillow, ensuring nights of deep rest.
At Mattress Market, we value comfort in every detail. Discover our range of pillows designed to transform your rest into a revitalizing experience, night after night.