Memory pillows are part of every household due to their exceptional support and comfort. Made from a viscoelastic polyurethane foam, they have the ability to conform to the shape of your head and neck, providing necessary support to your body.
Although the memory foam is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, it can still accumulate sweat, oils and dead skin cells. Appropriate cleaning methods and regular maintenance will extend the pillow’s lifespan and make a hygienic sleeping environment. In this blog post, we will share the best cleaning methods for different types of memory foam pillows, so you can take all the advantages of them.
Can Memory Foam Pillows Be Washed?
Although all memory foam pillows can be washed, the appropriate cleaning method depends on the type of memory foam. Two most common types of pillows are solid memory foam pillows and shredded memory foam pillows. Solid memory foam is made of a single piece of foam, while shredded memory foam is composed of small pieces – that is why they provide greater flexibility and adjustability. These two types of pillows require different care and different cleaning methods.
Machine Washing Memory Foam Pillows
Solid memory foam pillows are generally not suitable for machine washing, because it can damage the foam irreparably. Washing machine cycles can tear and crumble the delicate memory foam, or even make it lose its supportive properties. The good news is that some shredded memory foam pillows have removable covers that protect the pillow from dirt and spills. These covers can be washed in a machine, but always check the manufacturer’s care instructions first.
If you are looking for additional cleaning inspiration, such as bathroom cleaning, you may find it helpful to explore our step-by-step guide for other household chores.
Hand Washing Memory Foam Pillows
Hand washing is the most reliable and safe method for cleaning solid memory foam pillows. You should start with preparing a cleaning solution – mix lukewarm water with a small amount of gentle detergent and place the pillow into the solution. Let the mixture penetrate the foam by gently pressing the pillow – it will dislodge dirt and oils. When removing the excess water, do not wring the pillow – just gently press it. When you are done, replace the soapy water with clean water and repeat the process to remove any detergent residue. Before usage, let the pillow completely air dry – lay it flat in a well-ventilated area to avoid mold or mildew growth. For a thorough cleaning of your living space, you might consider professional apartment cleaning services.
Deep Cleaning Memory Foam Pillows
If your pillow is very dirty, and you notice stubborn stains or odors, it needs to be deeply cleaned. Deep cleaning follows the same hand-washing process, but the soaking period needs to be extended. You should let your pillow soak for about 15 – 30 minutes, depending on the level of accumulated dirt. After soaking, rinse it and dry as described above.
For a more professional approach, explore the benefits of deep cleaning services to maintain cleanliness in other areas of your home.
Cleaning Smelly Memory Foam Pillows
Memory foam pillows can absorb odors from sweat, body oils or environment. Don’t worry – these odors can easily be eliminated with baking soda. Sprinkle it generously all over the pillow and let it sit for several hours. The results will be even better if you place the pillow in a sunny spot, because the sunlight will speed up the process.
Use a vacuum cleaner to remove the baking soda powder, and if the odor persists, just mist the pillow with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. After you applied this solution, let the pillow completely air dry before the next usage.
Cleaning Memory Foam Pillows with Cooling Gel
Cooling gel-infused memory foam pillows are very delicate and you need to be extra cautious when washing them. These pillows cannot be soaked because the moisture can damage the gel layer. We recommend using a spot cleaning method, and now we will explain how it works.
The first step is dampening a soft cloth with a mild detergent solution. Then, gently dab the solid area, taking care not to damage the gel layer. The detergent residue should be removed with a clean, damp cloth. When you are done with wiping, let the pillow air dry, avoiding direct heat or sunlight to protect the cooling gel.
Tips for Regular Maintenance
No matter which type of memory foam pillow you use, there are several general pieces of advice you should follow. Always use pillow protectors, as they shield the pillow from all kinds of dirt and reduce the need for deep cleanings. Prevent accumulating odors and moisture by regularly airing out the pillow. Although direct sunlight can make the drying process faster, prolonged exposure can degrade the foam. Better option is to dry your pillows in a well-ventilated area.