Polyester pillows are a popular choice for many sleepers thanks to their affordability, durability, and easy care. However, even polyester pillows require proper washing, drying, and general care to keep them clean, fluffy, and supportive for a good night’s sleep. Follow this comprehensive guide to get the most out of your polyester bed pillows by learning how to wash, dry, and care for them properly.
Why Choose Polyester Pillows
Before diving into care instructions, let’s review the benefits that make polyester such a widely used pillow filling:
Affordability
Polyester pillows are very budget-friendly compared to other fills like down or memory foam. The synthetic polyester fibers have a low manufacturing cost that keeps polyester pillow prices quite low. This makes them ideal if you want inexpensive pillows.
Durability
The synthetic polyester fibers are quite strong and resistant to damage. Polyester pillows maintain their structure and do not get lumpy or flattened out as easily as other fills. The polyester material is resistant to mold, mildew, and dust mites as well. All of this makes polyester pillows a very durable choice.
Easy Maintenance
Polyester pillows can be machine washed and dried easily at home with minimal special care or precautions needed. Their durability also allows them to withstand frequent laundering without harming the pillow. This washable convenience makes polyester pillow maintenance a breeze.
Hypoallergenic Potential
The synthetic polyester fibers discourage the growth of mold, mildew, and dust mites that commonly trigger allergies in sleepers. This makes it easier for polyester pillows to remain hygienic and potentially hypoallergenic over time.
How Often Should You Wash Polyester Pillows
With regular use, polyester pillows should be washed every 3 to 6 months on average. Here are some signs it’s definitely time to launder your polyester pillows:
- Noticeable odors from sweat, drool, hair products, etc.
- Visible stains on the pillow surface
- An increase in allergies when sleeping
- Pillows feeling flat, lumpy, orotherwise losing support
- Using pillows after an illness to remove germs
- Pillows used by a new user (guests, kids going to camp, etc.)
- Pillows purchased used or from uncertain hygienic conditions
Washing Machine Settings
Polyester pillows can be washed in any standard household washing machine without fear of damage. Here are the recommended settings:
- Machine: Any type – top load, front load, high efficiency, etc.
- Cycle: Use a Gentle/Delicate cycle to clean polyester pillows. The agitation should be light.
- Temperature: Wash in warm water up to 105°F/40°C for thorough cleaning. Avoid hot water over 130°F/55°C.
- Detachable agitator: Remove the agitator if possible in a top loading machine.
- Water level: Use the highest water level/fill setting. Polyester pillows should float and tumble freely.
- Detergent: A mild liquid laundry detergent or one formulated for synthetics works best.
- Bleach: Do not use bleach or color safe bleach on polyester pillows.
- Fabric softener: Skip the fabric softener, it can affect pillow loft.
- Load size: Wash 2 standard pillows together. For king pillows, wash 1 at a time.
How to Wash Polyester Pillows
Follow these step-by-step instructions for washing polyester pillows properly:
Supplies Needed
- Polyester pillows
- Liquid laundry detergent
- Washing machine
Steps
- Strip the pillow covers – Remove any zippered cover from the polyester pillow itself before washing. These often require separate laundering.
- Check the care label – Although most polyester pillows can be machine washed, always check the care label for specific instructions.
- Pretreat stains – Use a prewash stain remover or diluted detergent to pretreat any visible stains on the pillow.
- Load the washer – Place 1 or 2 standard polyester pillows into the washing machine drum. For king pillows, only wash 1 at a time.
- Choose settings – Select the Gentle or Delicate cycle at warm temperature up to 105°F/40°C. Set the machine to the highest water level.
- Add detergent – Add the recommended amount of mild laundry detergent made for synthetics on the detergent package.
- Start the wash – Begin the wash cycle. Allow the machine to complete the full gentle cycle.
- Remove promptly – Take pillows out immediately after washing finishes to prevent mold.
Helpful Washing Tips
- Check zippers are closed tightly so covers do not come off in the wash.
- Use tennis balls in the washer drum to help fluff and aerate the pillows.
- Vinegar in the rinse cycle helps remove detergent residue.
- Avoid overstuffing the washer so pillows can move around freely.
- Wash pillows separately from other items to prevent filling damage.
- Wash pillows in pairs so they support each other during the cycle.
How to Dry Polyester Pillows
Proper drying is key to keeping polyester pillows fluffed up after washing. Here are your polyester pillow drying options:
Air Drying
- Lay pillows flat or hang to air dry outside or in a well-ventilated area.
- Change pillow sides periodically for even drying.
- May take 1-2 days if pillows are washed fully.
Machine Drying
- Use the air fluff or no heat cycle on your dryer.
- Add a couple clean tennis balls to help aerate and fluff.
- Check frequently and remove promptly when fully dry.
- Repeat short fluff cycles if pillows are still damp.
Drying Tips
- Over-drying polyester can damage the fibers – err on the side of under-drying.
- Do not place pillows in direct sun when air drying, as it can fade colors.
- Expect some shrinkage of up to 4% – this is normal for polyester.
- Plump and reshape pillows with your hands as they are drying.
- Lay pillows flat to fully air dry and return their loft before using.
Caring for Polyester Pillows
A little regular care keeps polyester pillows fresh and maximizes their lifespan:
Fluffing
Fluff and shake pillows daily to redistribute filling and restore loft.
Alternating Sides
Switch the side you sleep on nightly so both sides get equal wear.
Spot Cleaning
Use diluted soap and water to spot clean stains as needed between washes.
Protective Covers
Zip your pillows in a pillow protector to shield them from body oils and stains.
Proper Storage
Store pillows laying flat or upright without folding or compression to retain their shape.
No Bleach
Never use bleach or color safe bleach, as it can damage and yellow the synthetic polyester.
Low Heat Drying
Always tumble dry polyester pillows on low or no heat settings to prevent melt damage.
Light Detergent
Use a mild, synthetic-formulated detergent to prevent buildup on the polyester fibers.
Gentle Wash Cycles
Only use the Gentle or Delicate cycle to wash polyester pillows. Aggressive agitation can harm them.
How to Wash Pillow Covers
Polyester pillows often have removable zippered covers that require washing as well. Here are some options for cleaning polyester pillow covers:
- Machine wash cool – Use cold or cool water up to 80°F/27°C and the gentle cycle.
- Mild detergent – Opt for liquid detergent or one made for delicates.
- Air dry – Tumble dry low or line dry pillow covers to prevent shrinking.
- Inspect zipper – Check the cover zipper still runs smoothly after washing.
- Handwash option – For decorative covers, handwashing is gentler. Use cool water and delicate soap.
How to Disinfect Polyester Pillows
To kill germs and thoroughly disinfect your polyester pillows:
- Machine wash in hot water at 130°F/54°C or the hottest setting allowed.
- Tumble dry on high heat through the full drying cycle to kill germs.
- Alternatively, use Lysol or similar disinfecting spray made for fabrics.
- Spot clean heavily soiled areas then spray pillows fully. Let air dry.
- A bleach or vinegar soak can also disinfect pillows. Dilute to proper levels first.
- For severe disinfection needs, consider replacing old pillows with new ones.
Extending Polyester Pillow Lifespan
With proper care, polyester pillows typically last 1 to 2 years. Here are some tips to maximize your pillows’ lifespan:
- Wash pillows regularly every 3-6 months
- Alternate sleeping on each side to prevent uneven wear
- Fluff and reshape pillows daily
- Use pillow protectors to minimize staining
- Store correctly – do not fold or compress tightly
- Replace pillows displaying loss of support and loft
- Do not overload the washer – only wash 1-2 at a time
- Follow all fabric care label instructions carefully
Polyester Pillow FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about polyester bed pillow care and cleaning:
Can you put polyester pillows in the dryer?
Yes, polyester pillows can go in the dryer on low heat or a fluff air dry setting. Avoid high heat to prevent melting the synthetic fibers.
How do you wash pillows that are not machine washable?
For polyester pillows labeled dry clean only or non-machine washable, use a professional dry cleaner to launder them. Ask for a cleaning process without harsh chemicals.
Why do my pillows go flat after washing?
Excessive heat and dryer time can damage pillow loft. Try air drying instead and plump pillows back to shape by hand. Proper drying is key to retaining fluff.
How do you sanitize pillows without washing?
Spraying pillows thoroughly with Lysol fabric disinfectant or another EPA-approved sanitizing spray designed for fabrics can sanitize without washing. Just make sure to allow proper contact time for the sanitizer.
What is the best way to wash pillows?
For polyester pillows, the best washing method is using the gentle cycle in warm or cool water, with a mild detergent and the highest water level on your machine. Dry on low or no heat, and avoid over-drying.
Can you wash and dry pillows together?
It is best to wash polyester pillows together in pairs to support each other in the wash. But dry pillows separately with space between them for proper airflow and drying.
Conclusion
Regular washing, safe drying, and proper care are the keys to keeping polyester pillows clean and comfortable for sleeping. By following the instructions in this comprehensive guide, you can easily launder your polyester pillows at home. Proper care will help remove odors, allergens, and germs from the pillows while extending their usable life. With just a little routine attention and maintenance, your polyester pillows will provide cozy, supportive rest for years to come.