Memory foam is washable but needs special care to remove stains, odors, and allergens.
Your vacuum can help here.
All pillows made with synthetic, down, or feathershould be cleaned regularly.
Credit: Annie Schlechter
But can you wash memory foam pillows?
The answer is yesand no.
However, a vacuum cleaner can be used to clean a memory foam pillow quickly and with ease.
There aremethods for stain removaland deep cleaning that are safe for memory foam pillows.
When it comes to cleaning memory foam pillows, vacuuming is the go-to method.
Sprinkle the pillow withbaking sodaand allow it to sit for one hour prior to vacuuming to help neutralize odors.
However, this step only needs to be done as necessary.
Use apillow protectorto keep dirt and debris from reaching your pillow.
This fabric encasement goes under the pillowcase for added protection.
Using a white or light-colored cloth prevents dye transfer.
Removing very deep stains might require a laundry brush.
Step 3: Dab the Stain
Use the cloth to dab the stain remover onto the stain.
Blot the stain until it’s gone, reapplying the stain treatment to the cloth as necessary.
Avoid scrubbing stains, as this can grind them deeper into the fibers or cause them to spread.
But can you wash memory foam pillows?
Typically, memory foam will need to be hand-washed, as machine washing can cause it to break apart.
Before deep cleaning a memory foam pillow, check the care label for specific instructions.
Fill the basin with lukewarm water and 1 tablespoon detergent.
Use only the amount of detergent necessary to avoid difficult and time-consuming rinsing.
Then, submerge the pillow in the detergent solution.
Return it to the basin and massage it again.
Step 4: Rinse the Pillow
Rinse the pillow thoroughly with clean water.
If you washed your pillow in the tub or sink, rinse it under the faucet.
While rinsing, gently squeeze the pillow to extrude sudsy water.
Rinse the pillow until the water coming out of it runs clear.
Place another towel on top of the pillow, and bear down to squeeze out more water.
Lay the pillow flat to air dry; if possible, air dry thepillow outdoors in the sun.
With proper care, a memory foam pillow can last up to three years.
At that point, it will likely start showing its age and be less fluffy and supportive overall.
