Washing a Tempurpedic pillow involves more than just tossing it into the washing machine because of its unique viscoelastic material, commonly known as memory foam. The proper way to wash your Tempurpedic pillow is to remove the cover and wash it according to the care instructions, usually in a machine with cold water and mild detergent. The foam pillow itself should not be machine washed, but rather, spot cleaned with a damp cloth if necessary, using mild soap if needed. Allow the pillow to air dry completely before putting the cover back on and using it.
Maintaining Your Tempurpedic Pillow for Longevity
Tempurpedic is a brand known for its high-quality memory foam products, which include mattresses, mattress toppers, and pillows. These products offer unique support and comfort and are designed to conform to the individual’s body shape, providing a personalized sleep experience.
When it comes to cleaning and maintaining your Tempurpedic pillow, it’s crucial to follow the recommended care guidelines to ensure it lasts as long as possible and retains its supportive properties.
Understanding the Material
Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s important to understand what makes Tempurpedic pillows special. The core of a Tempurpedic pillow is made from viscoelastic foam, which is sensitive to temperature and pressure. This material reacts to your body heat and weight, molding to the contours of your head and neck. As such, it requires special care during cleaning to preserve its unique characteristics.
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
Cleaning the Pillow Cover
The first step in cleaning your Tempurpedic pillow is to remove and clean the cover. Many Tempurpedic pillows come with removable covers that can be easily unzipped and detached from the foam. These covers are often machine washable, which makes cleaning straightforward.
To wash the cover:
1. Unzip and remove the cover from the pillow.
2. Check the care label for specific washing instructions. Most covers will fare best in a gentle, cold water cycle using mild detergent.
3. Consider washing the cover with similar fabrics to prevent pilling or damage from zippers and buttons on other items.
4. After washing, tumble dry on a low-heat setting or air-dry the cover. Avoid high heat as it can cause the fabric to shrink or warp.
Spot Cleaning the Memory Foam
The memory foam of the Tempurpedic pillow itself should never be soaked in water or placed in the washing machine. Doing so can break down the material and compromise the performance of the pillow. Instead, spot cleaning is the recommended method for dealing with stains or odors.
Here are the steps for spot cleaning your Tempurpedic pillow:
1. Remove the cover and set it aside for washing.
2. Take a clean, damp cloth and lightly dab at any stains on the foam. Avoid using too much water as it can penetrate the pillow and is difficult to dry out.
3. For stubborn stains, use a small amount of mild detergent on the damp cloth and gently rub the stain in a circular motion.
4. Once the stain is lifted, take a new damp cloth and wipe away any soap residue.
5. Allow the pillow to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Drying may take several hours, or even a day, depending on the environmental conditions.
Deodorizing the Pillow
Over time, Tempurpedic pillows can absorb odors from sweat, skin oils, or the environment. To freshen up your pillow, follow these steps:
1. Remove any bedding and the pillow cover, setting the latter aside for washing.
2. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface of the memory foam.
3. Let the baking soda sit for at least an hour, or ideally, overnight. The baking soda will absorb odors and help draw out moisture.
4. Vacuum the baking soda off the pillow using the upholstery attachment of your vacuum cleaner, being careful not to press too hard on the foam.
5. Air out the pillow in a well-ventilated area but avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
In-Depth Cleaning and Refreshing
Sometimes, your Tempurpedic pillow might need a more in-depth refresh beyond spot cleaning and deodorizing. If this is the case, you can use a fabric freshener spray designed for use with memory foam. Be sure to choose a product that is safe for use on foam to prevent potential damage.
Spray lightly across the pillow’s surface and allow the pillow to air dry thoroughly. Always test any cleaning product in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire pillow.
Preventing Damage and Stains
Preventative measures can go a long way toward keeping your Tempurpedic pillow clean and extending its life:
1. Always use a pillow protector in addition to the pillow cover. A waterproof pillow protector can shield against spills, sweat, and oils that may stain the pillow.
2. Keep food and drinks away from your pillow to prevent accidental spills.
3. Regularly wash the pillow cover and change your bedding to keep the sleeping environment fresh and clean.
When to Replace Your Tempurpedic Pillow
Even with proper care, Tempurpedic pillows will eventually wear out. The average lifespan of a quality memory foam pillow is around 2 to 4 years. You’ll know it’s time to replace your pillow when it no longer bounces back to its original shape, feels lumpy, or starts to sag, as it won’t provide the proper support anymore.
Finishing Thoughts
Caring for your Tempurpedic pillow might require a bit more attention than traditional pillows, but the extra effort can significantly enhance its lifespan and ensure you continue to get a restful night’s sleep. Regular cleaning of the cover, spot cleaning as needed, deodorizing with baking soda, and using pillow protectors are key steps to maintain your pillow’s integrity. By adhering to these care guidelines, you can keep your Tempurpedic pillow fresh, clean, and supportive for many nights to come. Remember not to submerge or machine-wash the foam, allow ample drying time after cleaning, and replace as needed for optimal sleeping comfort.
