How do you disinfect pillows that can't be washed?

Introduction

Your pillows absorb sweat, skin cells and oil every night, and many of them can’t go in the washing machine. That can make keeping them clean a challenge. Here are some tips for disinfecting and cleaning non-washable pillows, so they stay fresh and clean.

Learn About Pillow Materials

Different Types of Pillow Materials

Pillows come in memory foam, latex, down and synthetic fill. Each has different characteristics and needs different care. Memory foam in particular is very dense and sensitive to moisture, so you can’t wash it the normal way. Always follow the care label.

Why Can’t All Pillows Be Washed?

Some materials aren’t designed to be washed. If you wash them anyway, the shape, support and comfort can be affected, or the material can be ruined. Memory foam is the main example, and it should never go in the dryer. That’s where other cleaning methods come in.

Why Pillows Need Disinfecting

Bacteria, Allergens and Dust Mites in Your Pillows

Pillows collect bacteria, mould and dust mites over time. Dead skin cells, sweat and oils are all food for them. What they leave behind, such as dust mite droppings and mould spores, are common allergens.

How This Can Affect Your Sleep and Wellbeing

A dirty pillow may contribute to skin irritation, a stuffy nose or allergy symptoms, and can affect how well you sleep. Cleaning your pillows regularly, even the ones you can’t put in the washing machine, helps keep germs and allergens down in your sleep space. If symptoms don’t improve, see your GP.

Disinfection Methods for Non-Washable Pillows

Sunlight Exposure

UV rays from the sun may help reduce bacteria and dust mites. Place the pillow in direct sunlight for a few hours, turning it over halfway through. Don’t leave it out too long, as long sun exposure can damage some fabrics. Sunlight also dries the pillow, which helps prevent mould. This method suits synthetic and down-alternative pillows. Keep memory foam and latex pillows out of direct sun, as UV can break the foam down.

Vacuuming

Remove surface dust first so germs can’t hide underneath. Use the upholstery attachment to vacuum both sides of the pillow (a vacuum with a HEPA filter is best if you have one). Pay extra attention to seams and folds. For foam pillows, sprinkle on some baking soda, leave it for 30 minutes, then vacuum it off.

Disinfectant Sprays

Choose a spray made for fabrics, ideally one without bleach, as bleach can damage the fibres. Follow the directions on the label: lightly spray the whole surface and leave it to dry naturally. For stubborn smells, a light mist of white vinegar may help. Don’t soak the pillow, and let it dry completely before using it. If you can see mould growing on or inside the pillow, it’s time to replace it.

Steam Cleaning

A handheld steamer can help kill bacteria and dust mites on the surface of a pillow. Don’t let the pillow get too wet. Check the care label or the manufacturer’s instructions first. Steam usually isn’t suitable for memory foam, because the moisture can get trapped inside.

Each method can help, but choose the one that best suits your pillow’s material. Set a cleaning schedule for your pillows. Cleaning them regularly, using pillow protectors and changing your pillowcase often will help keep your sleep space feeling fresh and clean.

It’s worth knowing that, according to ASCIA, no spray or vacuum will completely remove dust mites. That’s why protectors and regularly hot-washing your pillowcases matter so much.

Preventive Measures

Pillow Protectors

Protectors are closely woven to help keep dust, allergens and moisture away from the pillow, and some are even waterproof. They can mean you need to clean your pillow less often, and can help it last longer. Wash the protector monthly.

Changing Pillowcases Regularly

Change your pillowcase at least once a week, and more often if you sweat a lot. Dead skin cells, sweat and oil collect on your pillowcase, feeding bacteria and dust mites. Washing pillowcases in hot water (above 60°C, if the care label allows) helps kill dust mites.

Proper Pillow Storage

Store spare pillows in a clean, dry place, ideally in a breathable fabric bag that lets air circulate. Don’t store pillows in plastic bags, as plastic traps moisture and can lead to mould and mildew.

Along with the methods above, these habits help keep your pillows fresh, even if they can’t go through your usual wash. The better your pillow feels at night, the better your night will be.

Conclusion

Keeping pillows clean matters, even ones that can’t be washed. Sunlight (for the right materials), vacuuming, fabric-safe sprays and steam cleaning can all help refresh your pillows. Use pillow protectors, wash your pillowcases often, and store your pillows properly for a cleaner, more comfortable place to sleep.

FAQs

Q: Why can’t all pillows be washed?
Some materials and designs can’t handle a normal wash. Washing them can damage the fill and ruin the pillow’s shape, support and comfort.

Q: How can sunlight be used to disinfect pillows?
Take the pillow out of its cover and lay it flat in direct sun for a few hours. UV rays may help reduce bacteria and dust mites. This works best for synthetic pillows. Keep memory foam and latex out of direct sun, and remember some fabrics can fade.

Q: What does a pillow protector do?
It protects the pillow from spills, dust and allergens. Many have a tight weave to help keep dust mites out, and some have a waterproof layer.

Q: How often should I change my pillowcase?
At least once a week, and more often if you sweat a lot. This stops skin cells, sweat and oils building up.

Q: Is it safe to disinfect my pillow with a steam cleaner?
Usually, for many fabrics. A handheld steamer can do the job, but not all materials suit steam, including most memory foam, so always check the care label first.

Q: How often should pillows be disinfected?
Every 4 to 6 months, or more often if you have allergies or sweat a lot. Clean up any spills straight away.

Q: Can I dry my memory foam pillow in a dryer?
No. Heat from the dryer can break memory foam down. Spot clean with a damp cloth and let it air dry flat, out of direct sun, until it’s completely dry.

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This is general information only. If you have ongoing allergies, breathing problems or skin irritation, please speak with your GP.