Body pillows provide full-body comfort and support, especially for side sleepers and pregnancy use. To keep this essential sleep aid fresh and hygienic, knowing how to wash a body pillow the right way is crucial. Improper washing can damage the pillow, reduce its lifespan, and affect its comfort.
Explore our Best Body Pillow Collection for options designed for easy care and lasting support, including Pregnancy Body Pillows.
Why Regular Pillow Cleaning Matters
Body pillows accumulate sweat, body oils, dust mites, and dirt over time. Cleaning them regularly:
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Prevents bacteria and allergens buildup
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Maintains support and comfort
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Extends pillow lifespan
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Keeps sleep environment clean and fresh
Start caring for your pillow now to enjoy restful nights and better hygiene.
Check Your Pillow’s Care Label First
Every body pillow has specific washing instructions based on its material. Always check the tag before cleaning to identify:
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Washing method allowed (machine, hand wash, or dry clean)
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Recommended water temperature (cold, warm, or no hot water)
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Detergent type
If the label is missing or unclear, follow general care guidelines by pillow type in the sections below.
Machine Washing Your Body Pillow
Machine washing is the most common and convenient method for pillows made of cotton, down, feathers, or synthetic fills.
Steps for Machine Washing:
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Wash pillow alone
Avoid overcrowding your washing machine. Wash the pillow by itself or with a few lightweight items to prevent damage or uneven cleaning. -
Use gentle detergent
Choose a mild, liquid or powder detergent that’s free from bleach or fabric softeners. -
Select a cold or warm water cycle
Hot water can damage pillow fibers and cause clumping. Cold or warm water preserves the shape and integrity of the fill. -
Add a second rinse cycle
Rinsing twice ensures no detergent residue remains, which can irritate skin. -
Dry properly
Tumble dry on low heat with dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help fluff the pillow and maintain loft. Make sure the pillow is completely dry to prevent mold or mildew.
Discover Our Body by Honeydew - Best Luxury Body Pillow in 2025
Description (Body by Honeydew - The Ultimate Luxury Body Pillow):
Ultimate Sleep Companion: The Body by Honeydew is a premium, handcrafted body pillow designed to transform your sleep experience. Made in California with love and precision, this luxury pillow combines innovative materials with ergonomic design for unparalleled comfort and support.
Key Features:
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Premium Fill: 100% CertiPUR-US certified virgin gel foam combined with silk-like fiber that sleeps cool all night
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Adjustable Comfort: Hidden zipper allows you to customize fill level for your perfect height
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Health Benefits: Improves spinal alignment, reduces snoring, and helps with sleep apnea
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Hypoallergenic: Down-alternative feel without allergy concerns
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Handmade in USA: Crafted with care in California by a family-owned business
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Oeko-Tex Certified: All textiles meet Standard 100 certification for safety
Pricing:
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Regular Price: $349.99 USD
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Sale Price: $299.99 USD (15% off)
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Free US shipping on orders over $50
Why Choose Body by Honeydew: This body pillow promotes deeper relaxation by releasing oxytocin and serotonin when hugged, lowering heart rate and reducing stress. Perfect for side sleepers, it dramatically improves breathing and spinal alignment, helping you wake up refreshed and pain-free.
Risk-Free Trial: 60-night trial period with free shipping both ways, backed by a 3-year warranty.
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Hand Washing for Delicate Pillows
Memory foam, latex, and some specialty pillows require gentle hand washing to avoid damage.
Hand Wash Instructions:
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Fill a tub or large basin with cold or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
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Submerge the pillow and gently massage to distribute soap without wringing or twisting.
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Rinse thoroughly multiple times using fresh water until all soap is gone.
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Press gently between towels to remove excess water.
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Air dry flat in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight for long periods to prevent discoloration.
Spot Cleaning for Stains and Small Messes
Spot cleaning is ideal for minor stains or spills, letting you refresh your pillow without full washing.
How to spot clean:
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Mix warm water with mild detergent.
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Use a damp cloth to gently scrub the stained area.
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Rinse with a clean damp cloth until the detergent is removed.
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Blot dry and air dry fully.
Common stains like sweat, makeup, coffee, or oils can be targeted with this method to keep your pillow fresh between washes.
Drying Your Body Pillow
Proper drying is vital to avoid mildew and maintain fluffiness:
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Tumble dry low heat with dryer balls to break up clumps.
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Line dry or air dry flat on a drying rack for memory foam or delicate pillows.
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Ensure the pillow is fully dry before use or storing.
Use the Body by Honeydew pillow for a plush, durable option that dries well while keeping its shape.
Keep Your Body Pillow Fresh Longer
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Use removable, washable pillow covers.
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Air out pillows regularly to reduce moisture.
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Wash pillows every 3-6 months or as needed.
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Address stains immediately with spot cleaning.
Explore our best body pillow collection and find pillows crafted for comfort and easy maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I wash my body pillow?
Wash your body pillow every 3-6 months or sooner if you notice stains or odors. Using a pillow cover that’s washed more frequently helps reduce the need for full pillow cleaning.
Can I machine dry a memory foam body pillow?
No, memory foam pillows should never go in the dryer as heat can damage the foam. Instead, hand wash and air dry flat.
What if my pillow has a tough stain?
Try spot cleaning with warm water and mild detergent first. For persistent stains, pre-treat with a gentle stain remover compatible with your pillow type.
Is it better to wash pillows alone or with other items?
It’s best to wash pillows separately or with a few similar-sized items to avoid damage and ensure thorough cleaning.
Can household detergents damage my pillow?
Harsh detergents with bleach or fabric softeners can break down pillow fibers and affect fill quality. Always choose mild or gentle detergents.
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