You wash the pillowcase that covers your memory foam pillow frequently but forgets that the memory foam itself needs cleaning from time to time to maintain hygiene. We spend at least six hours night after night with our heads on a pillow, so ensuring that it remains clean for every night’s use is essential.
So, yes! You can wash memory foam pillows; however, you cannot put them in a washing machine, as they will be damaged. There are several ways to clean a memory foam pillow and keep it fresh without damaging the fillings.
How To Wash Memory Foam Pillow
During sleep, natural oils and dead skin cells are released into the pillow, and these stains and odors develop. Before you clean or refresh this memory foam, you should know a few things.
The memory foam pillow molds the contours of the head and the neck. You risk damaging this function in you put the foam in a washer. The spin cycle would most definitely distort the foam.
Washing the foam in your machine also substantially shortens the pillow’s lifespan. The more you wash in the washing machine, the more likely your memory foam will end up shredded or torn into multiple pieces.
The memory foam pillow is best given a gentle wash to preserve the foam and keep it clean. To safely wash the memory foam pillow, follow these simple steps below:
Step 1: Remove all pillowcases and covers from the memory foam pillow. Fill up a large sink or tub with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent.
Step 2: Soak for at least ten minutes to allow any dirt or stains on your pillow to be loosened up, so they are easier to remove during washing.
Step 4: Drain out the excess water from your sink or tub and place your wet pillow into it. Pour one cup of white vinegar to help loosen stains even more than just using soap alone.
Step 5: Let it sit in the solution for about 30 minutes. Rinse it off thoroughly with running warm water and leave it to dry. If you’re unsatisfied with the results, you might need to repeat the process.
Washing your pillow every four months is recommended to keep it fresh and in good condition. It also does not have to be a deep clean all the time.
How To Clean Memory Foam Pillow Without Washing
How you are to clean your memory foam pillow depends on its condition. For example, if you spilled food on it or want to lift an odor. Below are the easiest are safest ways to clean your pillow without washing.
Spot Treatment
If you want to wash your memory foam because it got stained, immediate spot cleaning is recommended.
Step 1: Remove all pillowcases and covers from the memory foam pillow. Use a dry, clean rag or cloth to blot the stain if it is fresh.
Step 2: Mix a mild detergent and lukewarm water in a bowl until the mixture bubbles. Then, use a clean cloth or a sponge to stroke the mixture into the stain in a circular motion until it all comes out.
Step 3: Remove excess soap and water from the foam with another dry and clean cloth.
Step 4: Air-dry the pillow completely for at least two hours. Avoid placing the pillow in the dryer, for it could damage the foam.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a multi-purpose household ingredient that can help clean your memory foam pillow without washing it. Here is what to do below:
Step 1: Take off all pillowcases and covers and lay the pillow on a flat surface.
Step 2: Sprinkle baking soda on one side and leave it directly under direct sunlight for 2-3 hours.
Step 3: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove the baking soda from the pillow’s surface. Then repeat the same process on the other side of the pillow.
Deep Cleaning
If spot cleaning and baking soda are not sufficient, try deep cleaning. Before you deep clean a memory foam pillow, ensure that you check the manufacturer’s instruction label.
Step 1: Fill a large basin or your bathtub with warm water and add a little amount of gentle detergent.
Step 2: Submerge the memory foam pillow in the water and gently squeeze the pillow a few times to allow the soapy water inside it. Ensure that you squeeze gently, do not wring.
Step 3: immediately the stain is lifted, empty the water and repeat the procedure until the water runs clear.
Step 4: Once the water runs clear, gently squeeze out as much excess water as you can from the pillow.
Step 5: Air-dry the foam for at least 24 hours. Ensure that the pillow is completely dried out before you put it back in the pillowcase.
Tips For Caring For Your Memory Foam Pillow
Investing in a good quality pillow protector will extend the life of your pillow beyond learning how to wash it.
Use Pillow protector: use a pillow protector if you sweat a lot or wear facial moisturizers or oils at night. The same goes for hair products – any moisture that can seep into your pillow.
Do not bleach your memory foam pillow: Bleach can easily destroy your pillow and wear and tear, especially if you have liquid bleach.
Store properly: store your blanket in a dry and well-ventilated area where it won’t have access to direct sunlight. Be sure to keep it stored to make it easy to remove and use whenever you need it.