Knowing how to wash a Tempur pillow is essential for keeping your investment clean and supportive for years. This guide will walk you through the safe methods, because doing it wrong can damage the special TEMPUR material.
Tempur pillows are a big investment in your sleep. They use a proprietary memory foam that responds to heat and pressure. This material is what makes them so comfortable, but it also means they need special care. Washing them incorrectly can ruin their structure and support. Don’t worry, though—it’s a straightforward process if you follow the right steps.
How to Wash a Tempur Pillow
Before you start, always check the care label attached to your pillow. This is the most important step, as instructions can vary slightly between models. Most Tempur-Pedic pillows are designed with a removable, washable cover and a foam core that should not be submerged in water. Here’s the general process.
What You’ll Need
- Mild liquid detergent (avoid powders, bleach, or fabric softeners)
- A large capacity washing machine (front-loading is gentler)
- Dryer or a well-ventilated drying space
- Two clean tennis balls or dryer balls (optional, but helpful)
Step-by-Step Washing Instructions
1. Remove the Outer Cover
Unzip and take off the outer stretch-knit cover. This is the part meant for regular washing. The foam core itself should not be machine washed unless the tag explicitly says it’s okay, which is rare for traditional memory foam pillows.
2. Wash the Cover
Place the cover in your washing machine. Use cold or warm water on a gentle or delicate cycle. Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Do not use bleach or fabric softener, as these can break down the fabrics and reduce the cover’s lifespan.
3. Handle the Foam Core (Spot Clean Only)
For the foam pillow itself, do not immerse it in water. Instead, spot clean any stains. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with cool water. Dampen a clean, white cloth with the solution and gently dab at the stain. Never rub, as this can push the stain deeper. Follow with a cloth dampened with plain water to rinse the area. Let it air dry completely before putting the cover back on.
4. Drying the Cover
Tumble dry the cover on a low heat setting. You can add clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff it up and prevent clumping. Remove it promptly once dry to avoid wrinkles. If you prefer, you can also air dry the cover flat, away from direct sunlight.
5. Reassemble Your Pillow
Once both the foam core (if spot cleaned) and the cover are completely dry, carefully put the cover back on the pillow. Make sure it’s settled evenly inside for the best comfort.
What If My Pillow Doesn’t Have a Removable Cover?
Some older or specific Tempur models have non-removable covers. In this case, you must only spot clean the entire pillow using the method described in Step 3. Never put a non-removable cover pillow in the washing machine—it will likely ruin the foam’s integrity and void any warranty.
Can You Machine Wash the Whole Tempur Pillow?
Almost always, the answer is no. Submerging the memory foam core in water is extremely damaging. The foam is dense and will absorb water like a sponge, leading to several problems:
- It will take forever to dry, creating a high risk for mold and mildew growth inside the pillow.
- The agitation from the washer can tear and break down the foam’s cell structure, making it lumpy and unsupportive.
- The weight of the waterlogged foam can strain or even break your washing machine.
Unless your pillow’s care tag explicitly states “machine washable,” assume it is not.
How to Dry a Tempur Pillow Safely
Proper drying is just as critical as washing. Any leftover moisture is a big problem for memory foam.
Drying the Foam Core After Spot Cleaning
If you spot cleaned a stain on the foam, press a dry towel against the damp area to soak up excess moisture. Then, place the pillow in a well-ventilated room, away from direct heat or sunlight. Flip it every few hours to ensure all sides dry. This can take up to 24 hours. You can use a fan to circulate air around it, speeding up the process.
Why You Should Never Put Memory Foam in the Dryer
Do not put the foam core of your Tempur pillow in the clothes dryer. The high heat can melt, shrink, or otherwise damage the material. It can also be a fire hazard. The dryer is only for the removable fabric cover.
Regular Maintenance and Care Tips
Washing isn’t the only thing that keeps your pillow fresh. Daily and weekly habits make a huge difference.
Use a Pillow Protector
This is the single best tip for extending time between washes. A quality, zippered pillow protector acts as a waterproof and allergen-proof barrier between your pillow and its cover. It’s much easier to wash a protector regularly than the pillow cover itself. Just toss it in with your sheets.
Air It Out Frequently
Once a week, when you change your sheets, take your Tempur pillow out of its cover and let it air out for a few hours. This allows moisture from sweat and air to evaporate, keeping it fresher. Just make sure it’s in a clean, dry spot.
Fluffing and Reshaping
Tempur pillows don’t need fluffing like down pillows, but you can gently knead and reshape them if they’ve become compressed in one area. This helps redistribute the material and maintain an even support.
Dealing with Odors
If your pillow develops a mild odor, sprinkle baking soda lightly over it, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, and then vacuum it off thoroughly with an upholstery attachment. This can help absorb smells without wetting the foam.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are the key errors that can shorten your pillow’s life.
- Using Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, stain removers, and strong detergents degrade the foam and fabrics.
- Wringing or Twisting: Never wring out a memory foam pillow to remove water. This will cause it to tear internally.
- Using High Heat: Avoid direct sunlight, hair dryers, radiators, or dryer heat on the foam core.
- Missing the Care Label: Always, always read the specific instructions for your model first.
- Putting a Damp Cover Back On: This traps moisture against the foam. Ensure everything is 100% dry.
FAQ: Your Tempur Pillow Washing Questions Answered
How often should I wash my Tempur pillow cover?
You should wash the removable cover every one to two months, similar to your mattress protector. If you use a pillow protector underneath, you can extend this to every three to four months. Always wash it if you spill something or notice any stains.
Can I dry clean my Tempur pillow?
No, Tempur-Pedic strongly advises against dry cleaning. The chemicals used in the process are too harsh for the memory foam material and will likely damage it beyond repair.
My pillow has yellowed. How do I clean it?
Yellowing is often due to sweat, body oils, or oxidation. For the cover, washing with a mild detergent may help. For the foam, a gentle spot clean is the only safe method. Prevention with a protector is the best strategy against yellowing, honestly.
Is it okay to put my Tempur pillow in the sun to kill germs?
While sunlight has disinfecting properties, direct and prolonged UV exposure can break down and damage the memory foam, causing it to become brittle over time. It’s better to air it out in a shaded, ventilated area instead.
What if I accidentally washed my whole Tempur pillow?
If you mistakenly put the entire pillow in the washer, the damage may be done. Immediately press out as much water as you can without wringing by pressing it between dry towels. Then, follow the air drying steps with maximum airflow (fans). Be prepared for a very long drying time (several days) and check closely for mold or structural damage afterwards. Its support will likely be compromised.
How long does a Tempur pillow usually last?
With proper care—using a protector, regular cleaning of the cover, and avoiding moisture—a Tempur-Pedic pillow can maintain its support and comfort for 3 to 5 years or even longer. Without proper care, its lifespan will be much shorter.
When It’s Time for a Replacement
Even with perfect care, all pillows eventually wear out. Here are signs your Tempur pillow may need to be replaced:
- It no longer regains its shape and stays flat or lumpy.
- You notice visible permanent indentations or tears in the foam.
- It has a persistent odor that doesn’t go away after cleaning and airing out.
- You wake up with more neck or shoulder pain, indicating loss of support.
Caring for your Tempur pillow properly is simple when you know the rules. Stick to spot cleaning the foam, regularly washing the cover on a gentle cycle, and always ensuring everything is bone-dry before reassembly. By following these steps, you’ll protect your investment and enjoy comfortable, hygienic sleep for many nights to come.