How to Wash a Pillow: It Depends on the Filling
Whether down, microfibre or memory foam, here is what can go in the washing machine and what is better left out.
Read the care label first
Whether a pillow can go in the washing machine depends on the filling: pillows with a fibre filling are often washable, foam cores usually are not. The care label is always what counts, as it states washability, temperature and drying method. General tips apply only where the label says nothing different.
As a rule of thumb, pillows with a fibre filling (for example microfibre or polyester) are often washable. For down and feather pillows the instructions vary: some are washable, others may only be professionally cleaned according to the label. Pillows with a foam core, such as memory foam, are usually not put in the machine. Only the cover is washed.
If the label is missing or illegible, ask the manufacturer. If in doubt, wash only the cover and air the pillow.
For KomfortKissen pillows, you will find the care instructions on the label and on the respective product page.
Overview table: care by filling
| Filling | Washing machine? | Drying |
|---|---|---|
| Microfibre / polyester | Often yes, according to the label | Air dry or, if the label allows, tumble dry on low heat; shake out in between |
| Down / feathers | Depends on the label (sometimes cleaning only) | Dry thoroughly, shake out in between |
| Memory foam (core) | No | Air only |
| Memory foam (shredded) | Filling no, cover yes | Cover air dried, filling aired |
| Latex | Usually no | Air only |
The table is a guide. What counts is always the label on your pillow.
Washing pillows: fibre filling and down
For fibre fillings such as microfibre or polyester: gentle cycle, mild detergent, no fabric softener. Fabric softener can make the fibres stick together. It is better to add an extra rinse.
For down and feathers: first check whether the label allows machine washing. If so, a special down detergent is often recommended. Wash gently and make sure the pillow dries sufficiently. If the label only says "cleaning", have the pillow professionally cleaned.
General notes:
- If possible, wash two pillows at the same time so the drum runs evenly.
- Choose the temperature stated on the label.
- Dry until the pillow is completely dry inside. If moisture remains, it can smell musty.
- Shake the pillow out regularly while drying.
Note: this is general guidance. Your pillow may have different instructions.
Memory foam, latex and others
Foam pillows usually do not belong in the washing machine. The foam absorbs a lot of water, dries slowly and can lose its shape in the process. The KomfortKissen warranty page states for viscoelastic pillows: not washable, only the covers can be washed.
How to proceed:
- Remove the cover and wash it according to the care label.
- Only air the core, do not soak or wring it out.
- Treat stains spot by spot with a damp cloth and mild detergent. More in the guide Cleaning memory foam pillows.
This also applies to pillows with shredded foam such as the Wolkenkissen. The filling is not washed; the bamboo viscose cover is removable and, according to the care label, machine washable.
Drying pillows without the musty smell
Thorough drying is the most important step. A damp filling can develop a musty smell.
- Air drying: lay the pillow flat or hang it up. Turn it over in between.
- In the tumble dryer: only if the label allows it. Choose a low temperature and shake the pillow out in between. Dryer balls can help break up clumps.
- Do not dry on a radiator or in strong sunshine, unless the label says otherwise.
At KomfortKissen, among others, the following notes apply to the covers:
- Body pillow: cover on a gentle cycle at 40 °C, air dry flat. The inner pillow is not washed.
- Wolkenkissen Air+: outer cover washed cold on a gentle cycle.
- Butterfly pillow: cover on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, according to the care label.
How often to wash?
There is no fixed rule. Many people change the pillowcase every one to two weeks. The pillow itself is washed less often; once or twice a year is often mentioned, provided the label says it is washable. This is a guideline, not a requirement.
It depends on several things:
- How warm you sleep and whether the pillow gets damp.
- Whether you eat or drink in bed.
- Whether pets sleep in the bed.
- How the material reacts to care.
Freshening up without a machine
Not every pillow needs washing straight away. In between, simple measures help:
- Airing: put the pillow outside or by an open window, preferably in the shade.
- Changing the cover: a fresh cover makes a big difference.
- Shaking out: with fibre fillings this loosens the structure.
- Baking soda: often recommended to absorb odours. Sprinkle it on thinly, leave it to work and vacuum it off. Test on an inconspicuous spot first.
If odours or stains remain, professional cleaning is an option. Ask beforehand whether they clean your pillow's material.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wash a pillow in the washing machine?
That depends on the filling. Pillows with a fibre filling are often washable, pillows with a foam core usually are not. With foam pillows, only the cover is washed. What counts is always the care label on your pillow.
At what temperature should I wash a pillow?
The temperature is stated on the care label. Follow it. With foam pillows only the cover is washed; for KomfortKissen the temperature is on the label of each product, and for the body pillow it is 40 °C on a gentle cycle.
How do I dry a pillow properly?
The pillow must dry completely inside. Lay it flat or tumble dry it if the label allows. Shake it out in between. A damp filling can smell musty.
How often should I wash my pillow?
There is no fixed rule. The cover is often changed every one to two weeks, the pillow itself much less often. Go by the label and by how the pillow smells and feels.
Can I dry a memory foam pillow in the tumble dryer?
As a rule, no. The foam core is not washed and usually does not belong in the dryer. Only the cover is washed, according to the care label. Air the core in the open air.