Last week, I hugged my favourite pillow and paused. Something smelled off. Not strong—just musty. Like old fabric mixed with sleep. My pillow had seen better days. But I wasn’t ready to give it up. So I learned how to clean a smelly memory foam pillow without ruining it. It took patience, but now it’s fresh again. If your pillow smells bad, too, don’t worry. Cleaning it is easier than you think. I’ll walk you through it, step by step.
Can You Wash a Memory Foam Pillow? Let’s Clear That Up
No, you should not put it in the washer. It may seem like a quick fix, but it can ruin the foam. It is soft, dense, and porous. Holds water deep inside and breaks down fast with too much force.
I made this mistake once. The cushion came out heavy and misshapen. It took two days to dry, and it never felt the same again.
So, how to clean it right? Wash it by hand. That’s the safest way to remove dirt odour. Use a mild cleaner, rinse slowly, and dry it flat.
This type of pillow needs care. It reacts like a sponge—gentle pressure works best. You don’t need fancy tools. Just patience, warm water, and a soft touch. If you’re dealing with neck pain, you might also want to check out the best pillow for bulging disc in neck for extra support and comfort.
How to Clean (Step-by-Step Guide)
It can get smelly over time. Sweat, oils, and dust build up. But don’t worry. You can clean it safely at home. Here’s how to clean the right way.
01. Remove the cover and vacuum the pillow
- Take off the pillowcase and any protectors
- Use a handheld vacuum or upholstery tool
- Gently clean all sides to remove dust and hair
02. Spot clean with mild soap
- Mix a few drops of gentle soap in warm water
- Dip a soft cloth, wring it out, then dab any stains
- Use clean water to blot away soap
- Pat dry with a towel
03. Deodorise with baking soda
- Sprinkle baking soda on the cushion
- Let it sit for 4–6 hours (sunlight helps)
- Vacuum off the powder
04. Deep soak (only if the smell remains)
- Fill a tub with lukewarm water and mild soap
- Submerge the cushion gently
- Press down slowly to let water in and out
- Drain the tub and refill with clean water to rinse
05. Rinse and dry the right way
- Press out water with a clean towel
- Lay the cushion flat on a dry towel in the open air
- Place near a fan or outside in the shade
- Let it dry fully—it may take 1–2 days
Tips to Keep Your Pillow Smelling Fresh
Once your pillow is clean, keeping it that way is easy. A few small habits can make a big difference. These maintenance tips will help prevent cushion odour and extend the life of your favourite cushion.
Use a breathable pillow protector
A soft, washable protector keeps sweat and oils off the foam. It acts like a shield but still lets air flow. Wash the cover every one to two weeks to keep things fresh.
Air it out regularly
Each morning, give some space. Pull back the blanket and let it breathe. Air helps dry out moisture and keeps the cushion fresh longer.
Sprinkle baking soda once a month
Lightly dust the surface with baking soda. Let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it off. This simple step helps remove smells before they build up.
Avoid using heavy oils or hair products before bed
These soak into the fabric and foam. Over time, they lead to buildup and odor. Try washing your face or covering your hair before sleep.
When to Replace Your Memory Foam Pillow
No pillow lasts forever. Even the best wears down over time. Knowing when to replace a is key to good sleep and health.
Look for these signs:
- Deep stains that won’t wash out
- A musty or old cushion smell that keeps coming back
- Flat spots or lumps that no longer bounce back
- Neck pain or less support at night
These issues mean is past its prime. Mould and trapped moisture can also lead to poor pillow hygiene. Cleaning helps for a while, but not forever.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning doesn’t have to be hard. A little time, gentle care, and simple tools go a long way. Once you know how to clean, it becomes part of your easy cushion cleaning routine.
Think of it like brushing your teeth—small steps, big difference. A fresh cushion every night means better sleep, better skin, and a happier morning.