Let me be honest: I used to never think about washing my body pillow. I mean, it’s not like I was drooling on it every night… right? 😅 But then I started waking up feeling a little stuffy, and the pillow wasn’t as fluffy as it used to be. That’s when I realized that my cozy sleep companion was long overdue for some TLC.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned about how to wash a body pillow—without ruining it. Whether you’ve got a memory foam body pillow, a down alternative, or something ultra-soft and huggable, this guide has you covered.
Understanding Your Body Pillow Materials
Before we dive into the cleaning process, it’s important to understand what your body pillow is made of. Trust me, washing a memory foam pillow is a whole different process than cleaning one filled with polyester or down alternative.
Common Body Pillow Fillings:
- Memory Foam: Needs gentle spot cleaning or hand washing. Not machine safe.
- Shredded Memory Foam: Often machine-washable in a mesh bag, but check the label.
- Polyester/Microfiber: These are the easiest to toss in the washing machine.
- Down or Feather: Delicate and usually need special care or dry cleaning.
The first rule? Always check the care tag. If it’s missing, don’t worry—I’ll walk you through some general care methods that work safely for most pillows.
How Often Should You Wash a Body Pillow?
Let’s talk frequency. I used to wait until something smelled weird, but that’s definitely not ideal.
Here’s a better rule of thumb:
- Body pillow cover: Every 1–2 weeks (just like sheets)
- Body pillow insert: Every 2–3 months (unless there’s a spill or sweat buildup)
If you use a pillow protector, you can go a bit longer between full washes. These are a game-changer for keeping your pillow fresh without a ton of effort.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Body Pillow
Spot Cleaning vs. Full Washing
If there’s just a stain or small area that needs attention, spot cleaning is often enough. Use a mild detergent and a damp cloth to gently blot the area—don’t soak it.
But if it’s been a while or your pillow’s just feeling blah, it’s time for a full clean.
Machine Washing a Body Pillow
Here’s how I wash my microfiber body pillow at home:
- Remove the cover (and protector, if you use one)
- Check that the pillow is machine-washable
- Use a large front-loading washer (top loaders can twist or tear pillows)
- Wash on gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water
- Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent
- Add a couple of clean towels to balance the load
- Run an extra rinse cycle to remove soap residue
If your pillow is too big or heavy when wet, consider taking it to a laundromat with commercial machines. It’s worth it to avoid damage.
Hand Washing a Body Pillow
If you’ve got a memory foam or specialty pillow, here’s a safer method:
- Fill a bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water
- Add a small amount of gentle detergent
- Submerge and squeeze the pillow gently—don’t twist or wring
- Drain, refill with clean water, and rinse thoroughly
- Press out excess water by laying the pillow on a towel and rolling it up
Drying Your Body Pillow Without Damaging It
Air Drying Tips
Air drying is always the safest method—especially for memory foam.
- Lay the pillow flat on a drying rack
- Rotate every few hours to prevent mildew
- Keep in a well-ventilated space out of direct sunlight
Using a Dryer
Some body pillows (especially polyester) can go in the dryer:
- Use low or no heat
- Toss in dryer balls or clean tennis balls to keep it fluffy
- Check every 30 minutes and reposition to ensure even drying
Never use high heat. That’s the fastest way to warp your pillow or ruin the filling.
Keeping It Fresh Between Washes
Let’s be real: washing a huge pillow isn’t something you want to do every week. Here’s how I keep mine feeling fresh longer:
- Use a washable pillow protector under the cover
- Fluff it daily to redistribute the filling and let it breathe
- Air it out in the sun once a month (bonus: UV kills bacteria!)
- Sprinkle a little baking soda, let it sit for 30 minutes, and vacuum it off
It’s the little habits that keep your pillow from becoming a dust mite party.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Body Pillow
I’ve made a few of these, so let me save you the trouble:
- Don’t use hot water—it can shrink or break down materials
- Don’t wring out memory foam
- Don’t overstuff the washing machine
- Don’t skip the extra rinse if you use detergent
- Don’t ignore the drying process—moisture = mildew
When to Replace Your Body Pillow
No matter how well you care for it, every body pillow has a lifespan. If it’s:
- Losing shape or support
- Smelling funky even after a wash
- Lumpy beyond repair
- Making you wake up sore
…it might be time for a new one. Most pillows last 1–3 years, depending on use and material.
Final Tips for Long-Term Care
Caring for your body pillow doesn’t have to be a chore. I like to think of it as a little sleep ritual. You take care of it—it takes care of you.
So:
- Stay on top of cleaning the cover
- Give the pillow some fresh air and fluffing
- Don’t be afraid to spot clean between washes
FAQ: Common Questions About Washing Body Pillows
Can I put my body pillow in the washing machine?
Yes, if it’s polyester or shredded foam and the care label says it’s machine-safe. Use a gentle cycle and cold water.
What if my pillow is too big for my washer?
Head to a laundromat with commercial machines, or hand wash in a bathtub.
How long does it take to dry a body pillow?
It depends on the fill, but usually 8–24 hours for air drying. Machine drying takes 2–4 hours on low heat.
Can I dry memory foam in the dryer?
Nope—air dry only. Heat will ruin the structure.
Is it okay to use fabric softener?
I don’t recommend it. It can leave residue and reduce the pillow’s breathability.
Let’s Keep It Comfy Together
I hope this guide helps you get more life—and more comfort—out of your beloved body pillow. Got questions? Need help figuring out what kind of pillow you have? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear how your cleaning routine goes!
Sleep well, stay fresh, and treat your pillow like the sleep MVP it is. 💤