But can you just toss that giant U-shaped pillow in the washer, or does it need a gentle hand wash? The answer depends on the material and filling.
We reviewed cleaning protocols for the most popular pregnancy pillows to create this quick guide. Here is everything you need to know to keep your pillow fresh, hygienic, and fluffy.
Key Takeaways
- Check the label: Always read the manufacturer’s care tag first; materials vary wildly between brands.
- Know your filling: Memory foam usually requires spot cleaning, while polyester fiberfill is often machine washable.
- Machine washing tips: Ensure the pillow fits loosely in the drum to prevent tears, and always use a gentle cycle.
- Drying matters: Air drying is safest, but if you use a machine, keep the heat low to avoid melting or warping.
Pregnancy Pillow Considerations
Before you shove that massive pillow into the laundry room, you need to gather a few details.
Knowing these specific factors will prevent you from accidentally ruining your bedding:
- Shape and size: If your pillow is too large for your machine, the agitator can tear it open. You may need a commercial-sized washer at a laundromat or a bathtub for hand washing.
- Cover material: Removable covers are common and easy to wash, but the inner pillow casing might be delicate.
- Filling type: This is the most critical factor. Styrofoam beads, memory foam, and polyester fibers all react differently to water and heat.
Once you know what you are working with, you can proceed safely. A clean pillow reduces allergens, eliminates dust mites, and helps you sleep better.
Check the Care Label First
The golden rule of washing pregnancy pillows is to find the tag. If you still have the manual or the packaging, check those first.
Manufacturers know exactly how their stitching and zippers hold up to agitation. They want their product to last, so their advice is usually spot-on.
Pro Tip
How to Machine Wash a Pregnancy Pillow
If your pillow has a polyester fiber filling and fits in your machine, this is the easiest route.
However, machines can be rough. Agitators and high spin cycles can rip seams or clump the filling. If the instructions say it is machine safe, follow these steps to minimize risk.
Important Note
1. Check the Fit
Ensure your pregnancy pillow fits loosely inside your washer and dryer. If you have to forcefully stuff it in, it is too big. A tight fit prevents water from circulating and increases friction, which can tear the fabric.
Full-body U-shaped pillows often require a large-capacity washer or a trip to the laundromat.
2. Remove the Cover
Take off the removable pillowcase and wash it separately. This prevents the pillow from getting tangled inside the cover during the spin cycle.
Pay attention to how the cover fits before you take it off. Putting a complex U-shaped cover back on can be like solving a puzzle.
3. Secure Zippers
If your pillow holds loose filling like microbeads, ensure the zipper is tightly closed.
A loose zipper can open during the wash, filling your machine with thousands of tiny beads. For extra safety, use a safety pin to lock the zipper pull to the fabric so it cannot slide open.
4. Use a Gentle Cycle
Set your machine to a “delicate” or “gentle” cycle with cold or warm water. Avoid hot water, as it can weaken fibers.
Skip the bleach and fabric softeners. Bleach damages fabric, and softeners leave a residue that reduces fluffiness. Use a mild liquid detergent.
Pro Tip
5. Dry With Caution
Transfer the pillow to the dryer and set it to low heat or “air fluff.” High heat can melt synthetic fibers and clump the filling.
Throwing two or three tennis balls (inside clean socks) into the dryer helps fluff the pillow and prevents clumps from forming as it dries. Be patient, as thick pillows take several cycles to dry completely.
How to Hand Wash a Pregnancy Pillow
If your pillow is made of delicate organic materials, memory foam, or is simply too big for the washer, hand washing is the safest option.
It takes a bit more effort, but it guarantees your pillow keeps its shape.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Get everything ready beforehand so you aren’t running around with wet hands.
You will need the following items:
- A bathtub or large basin.
- Mild laundry detergent.
- Clean, dry towels.
- A spot-cleaning brush or cloth.
2. Soak the Pillow
Fill your bathtub with lukewarm water and mix in a small amount of detergent. Submerge the pillow and gently massage it to work the soapy water into the fibers.
If there are specific stains, use your soft brush to gently scrub those areas. Avoid twisting or wringing the pillow aggressively, as this can warp the shape.
3. Rinse Thoroughly
Drain the soapy water and refill the tub with cool, clean water. Press down on the pillow to push out the soap.
Repeat this process, draining, refilling, and pressing, until the water runs clear and no soap suds appear. Residual soap can cause skin irritation, so rinsing is vital.
4. Press Out Water
Once rinsed, press the pillow against the side of the tub to squeeze out excess water. Do not wring it like a towel.
Lay the pillow on clean, dry towels and roll them up to absorb moisture. This significantly cuts down drying time.
5. Air Dry
Place the pillow in a well-ventilated area, preferably in the sun or near a fan. Lay it flat on a drying rack to ensure air circulates around it.
Rotate the pillow every few hours to dry it evenly. Ensure it is 100% dry before putting the cover back on to prevent mold and mildew growth.
FAQs
How Many Times a Month Should I Wash My Pregnancy Pillow?
Wash the removable cover every 1 to 2 weeks to remove sweat and oils. The inner pillow generally needs washing only every 3 months, or immediately if there is a spill or stain.
Can You Put Pregnancy Pillows in the Dryer?
Most covers are dryer-safe, but check the care label for the inner pillow. Synthetic fiber pillows can usually handle low heat, while memory foam should always be air-dried to prevent melting or crumbling.
How Long Do Pregnancy Pillows Take to Dry Naturally?
It depends on the humidity and airflow, but it typically takes 12 to 24 hours. Placing the pillow in direct sunlight or using a fan can speed up the process.
How Can I Make My Pregnancy Pillow Fluffy Again?
Hand-fluffing works well for most pillows. If it is machine safe, toss it in the dryer on “air fluff” (no heat) with a couple of tennis balls or dryer balls to break up clumps and restore volume.
What Happens If You Don’t Wash Your Pregnancy Pillow?
Over time, the pillow accumulates sweat, dead skin, and dust mites. This can trigger allergies, cause acne, or lead to unpleasant odors, making your sleep environment less hygienic.
How Do I Wash a Memory Foam Pregnancy Pillow?
Do not submerge memory foam in water. Instead, spot clean stains with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then let it air dry completely.
