How Long to Put Pillows in Dryer to Kill Germs: A Complete Guide

Between everyday use, sweaty nights, and sneaky spills, pillows can quietly harbor bacteria, viruses, and allergens.

While regular washing helps, sometimes a simple refresh in the dryer can go a long way in killing lingering germs—if you do it right.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how long to put pillows in dryer to kill germs, along with other smart tips for a healthier sleep environment.

How Long Do Germs Live on Pillows?

Germs can linger on soft surfaces like pillows much longer than you might think. Depending on the type of germ and the conditions in your bedroom, they can remain active long enough to cause ongoing discomfort or reinfection:

• Bacteria like staph can survive for days to weeks, particularly on moist, warm materials.

• Viruses like cold or flu can live for several hours to a day, especially on pillowcases that are frequently touched.

• Fungi and dust mites can thrive indefinitely if conditions are humid and warm, feeding off dead skin cells and trapped moisture.

Factors That Influence Germ Survival:

• Pillow material (synthetic tends to harbor fewer germs than organic feathers due to tighter weaves and faster drying)

• Humidity and room temperature, particularly in bathrooms and bedrooms without ventilation

• Frequency of cleaning and exposure to fresh air, including routine washing of cases and airing out pillows

• Use of protective pillow covers that block moisture and allergens

After a bout of the flu ran through our house last winter, running everyone’s pillows through a thorough heat cycle on top of washing was a must. And laying them out after on our Puffy Lux Mattress—where airflow and allergen protection are built right in—made everything feel so much fresher.

Does Putting Pillows in the Dryer Kill Germs?

Yes, putting pillows in the dryer can kill many germs—if the right settings and timing are used.

Key Points:

• Heat is a proven method for killing many bacteria, viruses, and dust mites.

• Dryers can reach high enough temperatures to sanitize pillows.

• Time and temperature both matter to be effective.

Not all pillows are created equal though—memory foam needs different care compared to down or polyester fills.

How Long to Put Pillows in Dryer to Kill Germs

The general guideline is:

Step-by-Step:

1. Place pillows evenly in the dryer.

2. Add a couple of clean dryer balls or tennis balls wrapped in socks.

3. Select high heat (unless it’s memory foam).

4. Dry for at least 30 minutes for basic sanitizing; 40–50 minutes is ideal.

5. Check and fluff every 15–20 minutes.

6. Ensure pillows are completely dry to the core to avoid moisture breeding germs again.

For our guest pillows, I always finish with a good air fluff cycle after drying—especially when getting them ready for holiday stays on our Puffy Cloud Mattress. It’s all about starting fresh and cozy!

Does Sunlight Kill Germs on Pillows?

Sunlight can be a fantastic natural sanitizer.

How Sunlight Helps:

• UV rays can kill some bacteria and viruses.

• Direct sunlight can help dry out moisture where mold and dust mites thrive.

• Fresh air circulation reduces stale odors and allergens.

Best Practices:

• Lay pillows flat outside on a clean, dry surface.

• Flip them every hour or so.

• Aim for at least 2–3 hours of direct sun exposure.

• Protect delicate fabrics with a thin cloth if needed.

While sunlight helps, it’s best used in addition to—not instead of—a good dryer sanitizing session, especially after illness.

Best Way to Keep Pillows Germ-Free Year Round

• Wash pillow covers weekly.

• Wash and dry pillows every 2–3 months.

• Use breathable, washable protectors.

• Air out pillows monthly in fresh sunlight.

• Replace pillows every 1–2 years depending on material.

Tips for Drying Different Types of Pillows Safely

Synthetic/Down-Alt Pillows:

• Tolerate high heat well.

• Fluff mid-cycle to maintain shape.

Feather/Down Pillows:

• Dry with medium heat and balls to prevent clumping.

• Extend drying time slightly to ensure feathers dry thoroughly.

Memory Foam Pillows:

• Never use high heat.

• Spot clean and air dry only.

• Use UV sunlight and fresh air to sanitize safely.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how long to put pillows in dryer to kill germs can make a big difference for your home’s overall cleanliness.

A simple dryer cycle, timed and set correctly, refreshes your pillows and keeps hidden threats at bay—giving you a healthier, more restful sleep space.