How to Clean a Memory Foam Pillow

There are several ways to clean a memory foam pillow without damaging it. The right methods give you a sanitary place to rest your head, but the wrong cleaning methods can cause the foam to break down prematurely. 

Memory foam pillows are popular for their close-conforming, pressure-relieving support. The unique properties that make memory foam pillows comfortable also call for distinct care techniques. Understanding how to clean a memory foam pillow can help you keep your pillow hygienic and in good condition. 

We recommend referring to the manufacturer’s care instructions whenever possible. These guidelines are intended for your specific pillow model, so they’re likely to be your most effective option for freshening up your pillow without damaging it. However, we’ll share some general processes that work for most memory foam pillow models.

Can You Wash a Memory Foam Pillow in the Washer?

You shouldn’t wash most memory foam pillows in a washing machine or dry them in a dryer. 

Memory foam can break down if exposed to excessive agitation or moisture, both of which it would experience in a washer. Heat from a dryer can also damage the material. Machine washing or drying may cause a memory foam pillow to lose its shape and become less supportive.

While solid memory foam pillows shouldn’t usually be machine-washed, some shredded memory foam pillows may hold up to a gentle wash cycle. Refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions, and only machine wash a shredded memory foam pillow on a gentle cycle if the manufacturer recommends it.

Steps for Cleaning Your Memory Foam Pillow

We’ve outlined some of our favorite, safest methods for cleaning memory foam pillows below.

Quick Clean Method

To quickly freshen up your memory foam pillow, you’ll need a vacuum cleaner and baking soda. Once you have them, follow these steps:

1. Remove the pillow cover.
2. Sprinkle baking soda on one side of the pillow surface.
3. Let the pillow sit for one hour.
4. Using the upholstery brush on your vacuum, vacuum the baking soda off. 
5. Repeat the process on the opposite side of the pillow. 

Deep Clean Method

After you’ve checked the manufacturer’s care instructions, you may decide to deep clean your memory foam pillow if that is appropriate for your model. To do so, you’ll first need to access supplies, like gentle soap and a clean bathtub, sink, or basin. Then, follow these steps: 

1. Remove the pillow cover.
2. Fill a clean bathtub, sink, or basin with lukewarm water. 
3. Add a small amount of gentle detergent (approximately 1 tablespoon per gallon of water), and mix thoroughly. 
4. Submerge the pillow in the soapy water.
5. Gently squeeze and massage the pillow to allow the lather into the memory foam, avoiding harsh movements. Continue the process for several minutes.
6. Drain the soapy water from the bathtub, sink, or basin.
7. Rinse the pillow to remove the soapy water from inside it. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear. 
8. Carefully squeeze the remaining water out of the pillow. Avoid any wringing motion, which could damage the material or change the pillow’s shape.

How to Dry Your Memory Foam Pillow

Once you’ve squeezed the excess liquid from your memory foam pillow, begin the drying process:

1. Select a location away from direct heat and sunlight.
2. Place the pillow on a flat surface that allows air circulation around all sides of the pillow. 
3. Leave the pillow to dry for 24 hours.

Don’t use or store your pillow until it is fully dry, since lingering moisture could contribute to mold or mildew growth. 

While you should avoid using a standard clothes dryer or direct heat to speed up the drying process, you may use a fan or a blow dryer on the cool setting.

How to Spot-Clean a Memory Foam Pillow

Spot-cleaning targets specific stains rather than the pillow as a whole. This can be a convenient solution to remove visible dirt while preserving the integrity of the pillow. The process of how to spot-wash a memory foam pillow is also quicker, saving you time and effort. To spot-clean, you’ll need a bowl, mild detergent, and two clean washcloths. 

1. Remove the pillow cover.
2. In a bowl, mix lukewarm water with a small amount of mild detergent.
3. Dip a clean washcloth into the mixture.
4. Gently blot the outer edges of spots and stains with the cloth, working your way inward. Avoid rubbing spots and stains, as this could damage the pillow or spread the stain. Instead, blot or dab gently.
5. Rotate the washcloth to use a clean area as the stain transfers onto the washcloth.
6. Continue until the stain has been removed from the pillow.
7. Moisten a fresh, clean washcloth with lukewarm water. 
8. Dab the spot on the pillow with the washcloth to remove the soap residue. 
9. Follow the drying process detailed above.

How Often Should You Clean Your Pillow?

We generally recommend cleaning your pillow at least twice a year. Regularly cleaning your pillow helps remove allergens, oil, dirt, dust, dander, and other things you’d rather keep away from your face. In some cases, maintaining a clean memory foam pillow may also extend the pillow’s lifespan by removing substances that could break down the memory foam over time. 

While cleaning your pillow is a good option, there are also other methods to maintain memory foam pillow care. Regularly washing your pillowcase can reduce the risk that a buildup of oil, sweat, dead skin cells, and other debris will seep through into your pillow itself. Incorporating a pillow protector can further help prevent dirt and debris from reaching your pillow.