How to Clean a Pregnancy Pillow Without Ruining It
When I first got my pregnancy pillow, I didn’t realize how quickly it would get dirty. Between night sweats, spills, and everyday use, it needed frequent cleaning. But I also knew one wrong move could ruin its shape.
If you’re wondering how to clean a pregnancy pillow without ruining it, I’ll walk you through the best methods that keep it fresh and fluffy for as long as possible.
Table of Contents
1. Check the Care Label First
Every pregnancy pillow is different. Some have removable covers you can machine wash, while others require hand washing.
➡️ My go-to pillow with a washable cover: PharMeDoc U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow on Amazon – easy to clean and super durable.
2. Remove and Wash the Cover
If your pillow has a removable cover, take it off and machine wash it on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Use cold or warm water (not hot) to prevent shrinking.
➡️ Try the QUEEN ROSE Replacement Covers on Amazon if you need an extra one while washing.
3. Spot Clean the Pillow Itself
If the pillow doesn’t fit in your washing machine, use a damp cloth, mild detergent, and a small amount of warm water to spot clean stained areas.
➡️ The Woolite Fabric & Upholstery Cleaner is safe for delicate pillow fabrics.
4. Hand Wash for a Deeper Clean
For pillows without removable covers, fill a bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water and gentle detergent. Submerge the pillow, gently squeeze the soapy water through, and then rinse thoroughly.
5. Dry Carefully to Avoid Lumps
Never toss your pregnancy pillow in a hot dryer. High heat can damage the filling and cause clumps. Instead, air dry it flat on a drying rack or clean surface.
➡️ If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and add a few clean tennis balls to help fluff it as it dries.
6. Keep It Fresh Between Washes
To avoid constant deep cleaning, use a pillow protector. It adds a layer of defense against sweat, spills, and stains.
➡️ I highly recommend the Meiz Waterproof Pregnancy Pillow Protector – it’s breathable and easy to wash.
Extra Tips for Cleaning Pregnancy Pillows
- Wash removable covers every 1–2 weeks, or more often if you sweat at night.
- Fluff your pillow daily to keep the filling distributed evenly.
- Avoid using too much detergent—it can leave residue and stiffen the fabric.
- Store your pillow in a cool, dry place if you’re not using it regularly.
➡️ Shop the best pregnancy pillow cleaning products on Amazon here
My Final Thoughts
Cleaning a pregnancy pillow without ruining it isn’t hard—it just takes a little care.
Personally, I wash my removable covers weekly and spot clean the pillow itself as needed. This keeps it fresh without risking damage.
➡️ Click here to shop the best pregnancy pillows and washable covers on Amazon
Trust me, keeping your pillow clean will make it feel brand new and extend its life.
When I first tried cleaning my pregnancy pillow, I made the mistake of throwing it straight into the washing machine without checking the label. It came out lumpy and uneven, and I had to replace it. That’s when I learned how important it is to follow the care instructions carefully.
If you have a front-loading washing machine without an agitator, you may be able to machine wash the pillow itself. But be sure to use a gentle cycle and cold water. Hot water can damage the filling and cause the pillow to lose its shape.
One of my favorite hacks is to spot clean with baking soda and vinegar for stubborn stains. Sprinkle a little baking soda on the affected area, spritz lightly with vinegar, and blot gently with a clean cloth.
Another tip is to always remove the pillow cover before washing. This prevents dirt and oils from seeping into the filling, and you can clean the outer cover more thoroughly.
If you need to hand wash your pillow, use a small amount of gentle detergent and avoid wringing it out. Squeezing too hard can shift the filling and make it clumpy.
For pillows that must air dry, flip them over every few hours to ensure even drying. This helps prevent mildew and keeps the filling from settling on one side.
One mistake I made early on was using too much detergent when spot cleaning. Excess soap can be hard to rinse out completely and may leave the pillow feeling stiff. A little goes a long way.
If you must use a dryer, add a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls inside a pillowcase and toss them in with the pillow. They help fluff the pillow as it dries and prevent clumps from forming.
I also recommend using a pillow protector or waterproof cover. This simple step reduces the frequency of deep cleaning and protects your pillow from sweat, spills, and accidental leaks.
To keep your pillow smelling fresh between washes, you can sprinkle a little baking soda inside the pillow cover and vacuum it out after a few hours. This helps absorb odors naturally.
Another pro tip is to rotate and fluff your pillow daily, even if you’re not washing it. This keeps the filling evenly distributed and extends its lifespan.
Finally, avoid exposing your pillow to direct sunlight for long periods. While a little sunlight can help with drying, too much can weaken the fabric and fade the color over time.
If your pregnancy pillow is memory foam, never soak it completely in water. Memory foam is highly absorbent, and it can take days to dry, which often leads to mold and mildew. Instead, lightly spot clean it and let it air dry.
I also recommend washing removable covers separately from the pillow to avoid unnecessary wear on the inner pillow. Covers can handle more frequent washing, while the pillow itself only needs deep cleaning occasionally.
If you’re dealing with lingering odors, try placing the pillow outdoors in a shaded, breezy area for a few hours. Fresh air naturally removes odors without the need for harsh chemicals.
Lastly, consider investing in an extra set of removable covers. This way, you always have a clean one ready to go, and your pillow stays protected from dirt and spills, extending its life.