Can You Wash Cotton Pillows?

Can you wash cotton pillows? This is a common question among daily users of cotton pillows. If you’re one of them, the good news is that you can wash cotton pillows. However, knowing the proper way to maintain cleanliness and freshness is crucial.

Cotton pillows are popular for many people because of their softness and comfort. However, they can accumulate sweat, oils, and other debris over time, leading to an unpleasant odor and a less-than-ideal sleeping experience.

That’s why it’s essential to know how to properly wash and maintain your cotton pillows to keep them clean and fresh.

This article will explore the best practices for washing cotton pillows and provide tips to help you extend their lifespan.

Key Takeaways

Yes, you can wash cotton pillows, and it’s important to do it correctly to keep them clean and fresh.
You can wash cotton pillows in a washing machine or by hand, and we provide step-by-step instructions for both methods.
Drying your pillows properly is important to prevent damage and maintain their shape and fluffiness, and we provide tips on how to do it.

Can You Wash Cotton Pillows?

If you’re wondering whether you can wash your cotton pillows, yes, you can! However, following specific steps and precautions is important to avoid damaging them.

Cotton pillows are natural fibers that absorb water and detergent but can shrink and lose shape if not handled properly. The type of filling (down, feather, synthetic), the size and weight of the pillow, and the care instructions on the label can all affect how well cotton pillows can be washed.

Before washing your cotton pillows, remove the pillowcase and protector, check for rips or tears, and fluff the pillow to distribute the filling evenly. It’s also a good idea to spot-clean any stains or dirt before washing the entire pillow.

Washing cotton pillows is a simple and effective way to keep them clean and hygienic, as long as you take the necessary precautions and follow the care instructions on the label.

How to Wash Cotton Pillows in a Washing Machine

Washing your pillows regularly can help eliminate bacteria, allergens, and stains, making them much more comfortable to sleep on. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wash your cotton pillows in a washing machine:

Step 1: Check the care label on your pillows to see if they are machine washable. Most cotton pillows are, but some may require hand washing or dry cleaning.

Step 2: Remove the pillowcases and any other covers from the pillows. If the covers are machine washable, you can include them in the same load as the pillows.

Step 3: Load two pillows in the washer to balance the load and prevent them from getting twisted or lumpy. If you have a top-loading washer, place them vertically on opposite sides of the agitator. If you have a front-loading washer, place them horizontally on either side of the drum.

Step 4: Choose a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach, fabric softener, or harsh chemicals that can damage the fibers or cause allergic reactions.

Step 5: Run an extra rinse cycle to remove excess detergent or residue from the pillows. This will help prevent mold, mildew, or odors from developing.

Step 6: Gently squeeze out any excess water from the pillows by hand. Do not wring or twist them, as this can damage the filling or cause clumping.

Step 7: If you have a dryer, dry the pillows on low heat with a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to fluff them up. If you don’t have a dryer, you can air dry them on a flat surface or hang them outside in the sun.

Step 8: Once the pillows are dry, fluff them up by hand and put them back into their pillowcases or covers.

Related: Can you wash throw pillows?

How to Wash Cotton Pillows by Hand

If you prefer to wash your cotton pillows by hand, it’s a straightforward process requiring time and effort. Here’s how:

Step 1: Fill a large sink or bathtub with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. Swirl the water to create suds and dissolve the detergent.

Step 2: Submerge one pillow at a time in the water and gently press it down to soak it thoroughly. Do not rub or scrub the pillow, which can cause the filling’s wear and tear or matting.

Step 3: Drain the soapy water and refill the sink or bathtub with clean water after soaking. Rinse the pillow several times with clean water until no suds or detergent remain.

Step 4: Squeeze out as much water as possible by hand without wringing or twisting. You can also use a dry towel to press the pillow and remove excess water gently.

Step 5: Repeat the process with the other pillow if needed.

As an alternative, you can also spot-clean your cotton pillows. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with water and use a clean cloth to rub the stain gently. Rinse the cloth and repeat until the stain is gone. Then, rinse the pillow with clean water and let it air dry.

Can You Put Cotton Pillows in the Dryer?

If you’re wondering whether you can dry your cotton pillows in a dryer, the answer is yes, you can. However, you must follow specific steps to avoid damaging or shrinking them.

Drying cotton pillows in a dryer can help fluff them up and restore their shape and loft, but it can also expose them to high heat and friction that can cause shrinkage or deterioration of the fibers.

Therefore, use the right settings and techniques to minimize these risks and ensure your pillows are fluffy and fresh.

Here are some tips on how to dry cotton pillows in a dryer:

Use low or medium heat settings: High heat can damage the cotton fibers and cause them to shrink or flatten. Therefore, using low or medium-heat settings to dry your pillows gently and gradually is best. You can use a no-heat or air-dry cycle if your dryer has one.

Add dryer balls or tennis balls: Adding some dryer balls or tennis balls to the dryer can help fluff up the filling and prevent clumping. You can also use wool dryer balls, which are more eco-friendly and durable than plastic.

Check on them frequently: It’s important to check on your pillows frequently and shake them gently to redistribute the filling evenly. This can prevent lumps and ensure that the pillows dry evenly and thoroughly.

Remove them as soon as they are dry: Over-drying your pillows can cause them to lose shape and loft. Therefore, removing them from the dryer as soon as they are dry to the touch is important. You can also let them air-dry for a while to ensure they are completely dry before using them again.

How Often Do You Wash Cotton Pillows?

Cotton pillows are popular due to their softness, breathability, and durability. However, like any other type of pillow, cotton pillows require regular cleaning to maintain hygiene, freshness, and quality.

So, how often should you wash your cotton pillows? The answer depends on various factors, such as the frequency of use, allergens or stains, and personal preferences.

Here are some general guidelines to help you determine how often to wash your cotton pillows:

If you use your cotton pillows daily and sleep on them for several hours, you should wash them at least every three to six months. This frequency ensures that you remove any sweat, saliva, oils, or dirt that may accumulate on the pillows over time and affect their comfort and cleanliness.

If you use your cotton pillows less frequently, such as in guest rooms or for decoration, you can wash them less often, such as once or twice a year. However, remember that even unused pillows can attract dust mites, mold, or mildew if stored in damp or humid environments, so it’s always a good idea to inspect them regularly and wash them if necessary.

If your cotton pillows have visible stains, odors, or allergens, you should wash them as soon as possible to prevent them from setting in or spreading to other areas. You can spot-clean the affected areas with a mild detergent or vinegar solution and then wash the entire pillow as usual.

If you share your bed with pets, you should wash your cotton pillows more often every two to three months to remove any pet hair, dander, or odor that may cling to the pillows and cause allergic reactions or discomfort.

Using a pillowcase and a pillow protector over your cotton pillows can extend their lifespan and reduce the need for frequent washing. Pillowcases and protectors can trap dust, sweat, and oils before they reach the pillows, and you can wash them weekly or bi-weekly to keep them clean and fresh.

Remember that washing cotton pillows too frequently can shorten their lifespan and reduce their fluffiness and support.

Cotton pillows can lose their shape and density if exposed to excessive heat, agitation, or harsh detergents, so it’s important to follow the care label instructions and use a gentle cycle, cool water, and mild detergent when washing them.

Frequently Asked Question

Can you wash 100% cotton pillows?

Yes, using mild detergent and warm water, you can wash 100% cotton pillows in a washing machine or by hand. However, always check the care label for instructions before washing your pillows.

How long does it take for a cotton pillow to dry?

It depends on the drying method and the pillow’s size and weight. Generally, it can take about one hour to dry a cotton pillow in a dryer and several hours to air dry it. Before using it again, ensure the pillow is completely dry, as dampness can cause mold and mildew.

How do I know if my cotton pillow is completely dry?

To check if your cotton pillow is dry, feel, smell, and squeeze it. If it’s hot, soft, and fluffy with no dampness or musty odor, it’s likely dry. You can also fluff and pat it on both sides to check for moisture. Dry it in the sun or put it in the dryer again if it’s damp.

Why do my cotton pillows get lumpy after washing?

Wash cotton pillows regularly on gentle cycles with low heat settings. Fluff before and after washing, and use tennis balls or dryer balls to prevent clumping caused by dirt, moisture, and debris in cotton fibers.

Can you soak cotton pillows in a washing machine?

Soak cotton pillows in a washing machine to pre-treat or whiten stains, but don’t soak for too long to avoid losing shape or shrinking. Rinse well and squeeze out excess water before drying.