Quick Guide to Cleaning Non-Washable Pillows
When you have a pillow that can’t be thrown in the wash, cleaning it may seem like a challenge. One effective way to freshen it up is to spot clean any stains with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. For general freshness, sprinkle the pillow with baking soda, let it sit for an hour or so, then vacuum the baking soda off. For a thorough refresh, expose the pillow to sunlight and fresh air for a few hours, which will help kill bacteria and eliminate odors.
Understanding the Delicate Nature of Your Pillow
Different pillows have different cleaning requirements. Materials like foam or silk may deteriorate in water, so it’s essential to check the care label before proceeding with any cleaning method. Pillows filled with down or feathers, while often washable, can be tricky to dry properly and may take a special approach.
Spot Cleaning Stains and Spills
Choosing Your Cleaning Solution
When dealing with stains, always opt for a gentle solution. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with water to create a solution. Test this mixture on an inconspicuous area of the pillow first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric. Avoid bleach as it can be too harsh, especially on colored and delicate fabrics.
Applying the Cleaner
Once you have your solution ready, lightly dab it on the stain with a clean, white cloth. Do not scrub vigorously, as this can damage the surface of the pillow or push the stain deeper into the material. Pat the area with a damp cloth to rinse out the detergent, then with a dry towel to remove moisture.
Our Top 5 Pillow Picks
Updated September 2026MFWW Cervical Contour Memory Foam Pillow
Best for neck pain. A dual-height ergonomic contour cradles your head and supports the neck, for back and side sleepers.
- Contour memory foam
- Dual-height design
- Cool breathable cover
Cooling Shredded Memory Foam Pillows, Standard, 2-Pack
Best value pair. Shredded foam you can adjust to your loft, with a cool-gel feel and no solid-block heat. Two pillows in one box.
- Adjustable shredded foam
- Cool gel
- Hypoallergenic
- Standard 2-pack
Cooling Shredded Memory Foam Pillows, Queen, Set of 4
Best for the whole household. The same adjustable cooling foam in queen size, four to a set, so every bed in the house gets an upgrade.
- Adjustable shredded foam
- Cool gel
- Hypoallergenic
- Queen set of 4
Utopia Bedding Hotel Pillows, Queen, Set of 4
Best hotel-style set. Plush, cooling pillows made to suit side, back and stomach sleepers alike. A safe pick for guest rooms.
- Queen set of 4
- Cooling
- All sleep positions
- Hotel style
Zalmureta Goose Feather & Down Pillows, Queen, Set of 2
Best luxury pick. A three-chamber goose feather and down fill wrapped in a 100% cotton shell, for that five-star-hotel feel at home.
- Goose feather & down
- 3-chamber design
- 100% cotton shell
- Queen 2-pack
Deodorizing Your Pillow
Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is a great deodorizer that’s gentle on most materials. Spread a generous amount over the pillow and leave it for at least an hour. If possible, let it sit overnight. Vacuum the baking soda off with an upholstery attachment to avoid damage to the fabric. This method can neutralize most odors, leaving your pillow fresh and clean.
Eliminating Bacteria and Dust Mites
Using Sunlight and Fresh Air
Ultraviolet rays from the sun have natural sanitizing properties. Place your pillow outside on a sunny, breezy day for a few hours. Make sure to turn it over so both sides are exposed to the sun. This can help kill dust mites and bacteria, reduce odors, and evaporate moisture that might have accumulated over time.
Maintaining Hygiene for Non-Washable Pillows
Regular Pillowcase Changes
Prevention is always better than cure. Using pillow protectors under your pillowcases and changing them regularly can significantly reduce the need for cleaning your pillow. This simple habit keeps sweat, oils, and dead skin cells away from the pillow itself, making it easier to maintain.
Vacuuming
Regularly vacuuming your pillow can reduce allergens and keep it free of dust and debris. Carefully use an upholstery attachment to go over the entire surface of the pillow. This is especially important for foam pillows, which can trap particles more easily than other types.
Professional Cleaning
If the pillow is particularly expensive or delicate, consider seeking professional cleaning services. These services can safely clean and sanitize your pillow without damaging it, especially when dealing with materials like silk or certain types of foam.
Handling Different Types of Pillows
Memory Foam Pillows
Memory foam is particularly sensitive to water and can become lumpy or damaged if not cleaned properly. For these pillows, spot cleaning, deodorizing with baking soda, and airing out are usually the safest options.
Latex Pillows
While latex is more water-resistant than memory foam, it still requires care to maintain its structure. Latex pillows should not be submerged but can typically handle gentle spot cleaning and air drying.
Down or Feather Pillows
While some down or feather pillows are washable, those that aren’t should only be cleaned using non-water-based methods such as vacuuming, airing out, or professional dry cleaning to prevent clumping or mildew.
Silk and Wool Pillows
These high-maintenance materials are susceptible to damage from standard cleaning methods. Avoid water and stick to gentle vacuuming, spot cleaning with suitable cleaners, and airing out only.
Finishing Thoughts
Cleaning a pillow that can’t be washed can seem intimidating at first, but with the right approach, you can refresh your non-washable pillows without water. Remember to spot clean gently, deodorize, and use sunlight to eliminate bacteria and odors. Regular upkeep like changing pillowcases and vacuuming can extend the life of your pillows significantly. When in doubt, seek professional cleaning to avoid damage to delicate pillow materials. With these tips, you can enjoy a clean, fresh pillow and the restful sleep that comes with it.
