Pillow Care Guide

How often should I wash my pillows?

Wash your pillows every six months to remove oils, bacteria, and stains that seep into fabrics while we sleep. Allergy sufferers or those with respiratory issues should wash their pillows more often. Semi-annual cleaning is healthy, extends the pillow life, and helps restore original shape and fluffiness.

Down vs. feather pillows: What’s the difference?

Let’s clear up one common misconception about the bedding world: down pillows and

feather pillows are not the same. Down is the soft and fluffy material found on the underbelly of waterfowl, while feathers contain stiff quills from the wings and back. Down clusters typically give a softer “cloud-like” feel in a flatter pillow, while feathers tend to make a thicker pillow and provide more support. Down is more expensive but is believed to last longer. Feather pillows are less expensive and have been shown to help those with neck pain by molding to the shape of the neck for custom support. Down and feather pillows can be washed at home, but require special instructions to maintain their original structure. Down and feather pillows are considered luxury pillows for their comfort and durability, often lasting 5-10 years.

Down alternative pillows are made with synthetic polyester or cotton material spun to mimic the softness and support of down. Down alternative pillows are a less expensive option and are 100% hypoallergenic. Down alternative pillows are arguably the easiest to wash and care for since the fibers aren’t as delicate and dry faster. Synthetic pillows may need to be replaced more often (every 2-3 years).

Preventative Care for Pillows

Extend the life of your pillow by treating it with a pillow protector, a pillowcase, and regular fluffing. Bed pillows collect dead skin cells, sweat, saliva, and face and hair products daily. This becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, dust mites, allergies, and stains. Even going to bed with wet hair can damage our pillows, which need to stay dry to maintain their shape. A few simple steps can help preserve the freshness and support of pillows: 

• Pillow Protector: A quality pillow protector zips around the entire pillow and keeps out dust, dirt, and other allergens. A pillow protector keeps moisture away from the pillow much better than using a pillowcase alone, which will extend the life of any pillow. Pillow protectors are essential for feather pillows to prevent quills from poking out. Pillow protectors should be washed once a month.
• Pillowcase: Pillowcases protect your pillow from body oil, sweat, fluids, and products that can cause stains and other damage. Pillowcases also provide added comfort and aesthetics to the bedroom. They come in various materials, and some offer added benefits for skin and hair while you sleep.
• Fluffing: Regular pillow fluffing extends pillow life, helps keep it full and supportive, and enhances sleep quality.  Fluff your pillow anywhere from once a day to once a week, depending on your desired results.  For feather and down pillows we strongly suggest a daily fluffing. The most common fluffing methods include the accordion technique, massaging, or using the machine dryer (per the pillows instructions). If these key steps aren’t enough to revive your pillow, you can also add additional down and feathers to your pillow to bring it back to its full potential.

How to clean feather pillows and down pillows

Down and feather pillows should be washed at home rather than a dry cleaner where harsh chemicals can damage the fill. If cleaning down and feather pillows sounds daunting, fear not. It’s actually quite simple. Follow our pro tips to safely rejuvenate natural fibers and enjoy the fluffy freshness of a brand-new pillow.

• Warning: Prewashing is not necessary! Our pillows arrive ready to be used.  Washing may remove the silky-smooth feeling that comes straight from the factory.
• Pretreatment: Stains are inevitable. If you have a question about a bedding stain, we likely have the answer. Check out our Bedding Stain Removal Guide to learn how to treat common bedding stains from red wine to pet urine to blood.
• Washing instructions:

1. Remove pillowcases and pillow protectors.
2. Add two pillows at a time to keep the washer balanced.
3. Add 1 tsp of gentle dish soap, such as Dawn. DO NOT USE laundry detergent.
4. Select a gentle or delicate cycle.
5. Wash the pillows with warm or cool water. AVOID HOT WATER, as this can cause fibers to shrink.
6. Run an extra spin cycle to remove as much moisture as possible.

Drying is the most crucial step in cleaning a feather or down pillow. Pillows must be bone dry to preserve their intended shape and feel. Being completely dry also prevents a moldy smell that lingers with damp down and feathers. Have patience. A dry pillow is a happy pillow that will provide the best quality sleep.

• Drying instructions:

1. Wrap wet pillows in a towel and gently press to remove excess water (Do not twist or ring).
2. Add pillows to the dryer with a couple of dryer balls or clean tennis balls. This will help naturally fluff the down and feathers throughout the cycle.
3. Select a high heat cycle
4. Always use a timed dry setting, especially if the dryer has a moisture-detection mode
5. Run the dryer 2-3 times in a row, gently fluffing in between cycles

*Don’t rush this step. Trust us when we say the third time really is the charm. Even if pillows feel dry on the outside, the inside takes several cycles, and it’s worth the wait. 

How to wash down alternative pillows

Washing polyester and cotton pillows should be done at home rather than a dry cleaner where chemicals may ruin the polyester fibers.. Make sure to use the proper settings and detergent size for the best results:

• Washing instructions

1. Remove pillowcases and pillow protectors.
2. Add two pillows to the washer to keep the machine balanced.
3. Use mild laundry detergent sparingly (2 tsp. should do the trick)
4. Select a gentle or delicate cycle.
5. Wash the pillows with WARM* water.
6. Run an extra rinse cycle to remove any excess detergent.

Down alternative pillows can be tossed into the dryer for quick and effortless drying. Follow our pro tips below to efficiently dry and restore your polyester or cotton pillows:

• Drying instructions:

1. Fluff wet pillows by hand and toss them into the dryer.
2. Add dryer balls or two clean tennis balls to the load. This will help break up the filling for soft, fluffy, and even pillows.
3. Select a high heat setting
4. Inspect the pillows after one cycle, but they will likely need two full cycles to get completely dry. Don’t be afraid to throw them back in for extra drying time if you’re unsure.

Pillow Cleaning FAQs

What are the yellow stains on my pillow?

Yellow stains on a pillow are usually from natural body oils, lotions and products, or excess water (such as going to bed with wet hair). Usually, these stains come out in the washing machine using our pillow cleaning instructions.

Why does my pillow have brown stains?

Light brown stains are typically caused by the enzymes in saliva. These stains should come out when you wash your pillow without extra treatment. Dark brown stains could be from blood or coffee and require additional treatment. Check out our Bedding Stain Removal Guide to identify and care for stains.

Why does my pillow smell funny after washing?

If your pillow suddenly smells different after washing, it’s probably not completely dry. Return your pillows to the dryer as soon as you notice and run them for an additional cycle or two.

When is it time to get a new pillow?

Down and feather pillows last 5-10 years, while down alternative and synthetic pillows should be replaced every 2 years. But you need to pay attention to more than just the calendar.  If you’re suddenly waking up with neck pain, notice that your pillow is getting lumpy, or are sneezing more often, it may be time for a new pillow.  Also, if you notice any smells or discoloration that don’t go away after washing, it’s time to go shopping.

Downlite provides quality down pillows, feather pillows, down alternative pillows, and hotel pillows for every type of sleeper. Check out our Pillow Buying Guide to get started. If you want personalized assistance or professional advice, contact our customer service representatives, who will assist you in your decision-making.