How to Fix a Flat Pregnancy Pillow and Make It Last Longer
When I was pregnant, my pregnancy pillow was my lifeline. But after a few months, I noticed it was getting flat and lumpy. The support I loved was gone, and I didn’t want to buy a brand-new pillow. That’s when I learned a few simple tricks to fix a flat pregnancy pillow and make it last longer.
If your pillow has lost its shape, don’t worry—you can revive it with these easy steps.
Table of Contents
Why Pregnancy Pillows Go Flat
Pregnancy pillows are filled with materials like polyfill, memory foam, or microbeads. Over time, these fillings compress with nightly use. Washing, sweat, and shifting can also break down the stuffing.
➡️ If you need a long-lasting replacement, I recommend the PharMeDoc U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow on Amazon because it’s durable and machine-washable.
Step 1: Fluff Your Pillow by Hand
Start by fluffing the pillow like you would a regular pillow:
- Grab both ends and shake it vigorously.
- Use your hands to push and pull the filling back into place.
- Pay extra attention to any flat spots.
Doing this daily can help maintain its loft.
Step 2: Put It in the Dryer
If your pregnancy pillow is dryer-safe:
- Place it in the dryer on low heat or air-only.
- Add a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to break up clumps.
- Run it for 20–30 minutes and check the fluffiness.
➡️ If you’re worried about heat, use the air-fluff setting to avoid damaging the filling.
Step 3: Add Extra Filling
For pillows with zippers, you can easily add more stuffing. I used polyfill from Amazon to restore mine.
➡️ Grab high-quality pillow stuffing here.
If your pillow doesn’t have a zipper, you can make a small seam cut, add the filling, and sew it back up.
Step 4: Wash It Properly
Washing your pregnancy pillow too often or incorrectly can cause it to go flat. Always:
- Follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions.
- Use a gentle cycle with cold water.
- Dry thoroughly to avoid mildew.
➡️ For easy cleaning, use a removable pregnancy pillow cover to protect it from sweat and spills.
Step 5: Rotate and Store It Correctly
I started rotating my pillow every couple of nights so the same area didn’t get all the pressure. When not in use, store it in a cool, dry place rather than crumpling it up in a closet.
When It’s Time to Replace Your Pregnancy Pillow
Even with the best care, pregnancy pillows don’t last forever. If you’ve tried everything and your pillow is still flat, it may be time to invest in a new one.
➡️ Shop my top-rated pregnancy pillows on Amazon here
My Final Thoughts
Learning how to fix a flat pregnancy pillow saved me from buying a new one during my pregnancy.
Personally, I found that adding extra stuffing and using the dryer method made the biggest difference. And now I always use a pillow cover to make it last longer.
➡️ Click here to shop the best pregnancy pillows and accessories on Amazon
Trust me, with a little maintenance, your pillow can stay fluffy and supportive through your entire pregnancy.
When my pregnancy pillow first started going flat, I thought it was beyond saving. But after trying a few simple tricks, I realized it could be restored and last much longer than I expected.
One thing that really helped was fluffing it daily by hand. I would grab each end and shake it for 15–20 seconds, then massage the filling to redistribute it. This kept it from clumping and getting lopsided.
I also learned that putting the pillow in the dryer with a couple of tennis balls made a huge difference. The tennis balls bounced around and broke up the filling, restoring the loft in areas that had gone completely flat.
Another tip is to add new filling before it’s too late. If your pillow has a zipper, you can add polyfill or shredded memory foam to bring it back to life. I did this once during my second trimester, and it felt brand new.
If your pillow doesn’t have a zipper, you can carefully open a seam with a seam ripper, add the filling, and sew it closed. I was nervous to try this, but it was easier than I thought and worked perfectly.
One mistake I made early on was washing the entire pillow too frequently. Over-washing breaks down the stuffing faster. Now I only wash it when necessary and always use a removable pillow cover to keep it cleaner.
I also rotate my pillow every few nights. This helps distribute the wear evenly so one section doesn’t get all the pressure. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference.
When I’m not using my pregnancy pillow, I avoid folding or compressing it in a small space. Storing it in a breathable bag or on top of the bed keeps it from losing its shape.
If you live in a humid environment, be careful when washing and drying your pillow. Any leftover moisture can cause mildew or odors, which will ruin it faster. I always make sure mine is 100% dry before using it again.
Another hack I love is to use dryer sheets or a little fabric refresher spray when fluffing. It keeps the pillow smelling fresh and makes it feel more inviting at bedtime.
If your pillow cover is getting worn out, replacing it with a new one can help extend the life of the pillow. Covers protect the stuffing and make washing easier, especially if you use your pillow every night.
Finally, be realistic about when it’s time to replace your pillow. Even with the best care, the stuffing will eventually break down. I treat my pillow well, but I still plan to replace it every 12–18 months if I need the full support.