How to Clean Pillows in Bathtub: A Simple Guide

Let’s be honest—when was the last time you really cleaned your pillows? If you’re like most people, pillowcases get washed regularly, but the pillows themselves are often forgotten. Yet pillows absorb sweat, oil, dust mites, and allergens night after night.

Knowing how to clean pillows in bathtub offers a practical way to keep them fresh—especially if you don’t have a large-capacity washer. Here’s how to bring your pillows back to life with a deep, satisfying soak.

How to Wash Pillows in Bathtub

Bathtub washing is gentle, effective, and ideal for large or delicate pillows. Whether you have synthetic fiberfill or down-filled pillows, the steps are similar with just a few tweaks.

What You’ll Need:

• Mild liquid detergent (free of dyes and fragrances)

• Optional: baking soda or white vinegar for odor and stain removal

• Large bath towel

• Warm water (not hot)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Fill the tub:

   • Use warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Stir until fully dissolved to ensure the solution is evenly distributed throughout the water.

   • For a deeper clean, you can also add 1/4 cup of borax or washing soda for enhanced stain and odor removal.

2. Submerge the pillows:

   • Gently press them down until fully soaked. For two pillows, wash them side by side to maintain balance and ensure equal exposure to the cleaning solution.

   • Rotate the pillows occasionally to allow all sides to be soaked evenly.

3. Agitate by hand:

   • Press and release the pillows repeatedly to push water through the fill, helping to loosen dirt and oils trapped inside.

   • Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can damage the inner structure and cause uneven lumping.

4. Soak for 30–60 minutes:

   • Halfway through the soak, gently press and agitate the pillows again.

   • Add ½ cup of baking soda or vinegar during this stage to help neutralize odors and dissolve stubborn buildup.

5. Drain and rinse thoroughly:

   • Refill the tub with clean, lukewarm water and press out detergent.

   • Repeat rinsing 2–3 times or until the water runs clear with no suds remaining.

6. Roll in a towel:

   • Lay each pillow on a clean, absorbent towel and roll tightly to remove excess water.

   • Avoid applying too much pressure to preserve the pillow’s shape.

7. Air dry or tumble dry low:

   • Dry in sunlight if possible, flipping periodically to ensure even drying and to naturally eliminate any lingering bacteria.

   • Alternatively, tumble dry on low heat with dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help fluff the pillow and prevent clumping.

Freshly washed pillows feel even better when paired with a Puffy Lux Mattress. The breathable layers help your pillows stay fresh longer while offering cloud-like support night after night.

How to Deep Clean Pillows in Bathtub

Sometimes surface cleaning isn’t enough—especially after illness, heavy sweating, or seasonal allergies.

Signs You Need a Deep Clean:

• Yellowing or dark stains

• Persistent odors

• Pillow feels heavy or flat

• It’s been more than 6 months since the last wash

Deep Cleaning Steps:

1. Pre-treat stains: Use a mix of water and baking soda or a gentle laundry pre-treater on visible spots. Gently dab with a soft cloth and let it sit for 10–15 minutes before soaking to help lift deep-set stains.

2. Fill the tub with hot (not boiling) water: This helps break down body oils, bacteria, and allergens. Make sure the water is comfortably hot to the touch, as extreme heat can damage delicate materials.

3. Add detergent + vinegar: Combine 1 tablespoon of mild detergent with ½ cup of white vinegar. Stir until the solution is fully integrated for even cleaning coverage.

4. Let soak for up to 2 hours: Flip pillows halfway through to expose all sides evenly. Every 30 minutes, gently press and release the pillows to help move water and cleaning solution through the fill.

5. Rinse and dry thoroughly: Rinse multiple times in clean, lukewarm water until all soap and vinegar are gone. Squeeze gently without wringing, then follow up with towel rolling and low-heat tumble drying or sun drying to fully refresh and fluff.

After a deep clean, laying your pillows out on a Puffy Cloud Mattress feels like a true reset—its hypoallergenic, cool-to-the-touch cover helps keep everything feeling ultra-fresh.

Best Way to Wash Pillows Without a Washing Machine

No machine? No problem. Bathtub washing isn’t just effective—it can sometimes be gentler than tossing pillows into a washer.

Extra Tips:

• Only wash 1–2 pillows at a time to avoid crowding.

• Never wring a pillow—this can break the inner structure.

• For foam pillows, skip soaking and spot clean instead.

• Always air dry fully to prevent mildew.

How Often Should You Wash Pillows?

Pillow cleaning frequency depends on use and personal needs:

• Every 4–6 months: General guideline for all households.

• Every 3 months: For allergy sufferers or those with pets.

• After illness: Always deep clean after colds, flu, or infections.

Pairing this with regular pillowcase and protector washing every 1–2 weeks can make a huge difference in sleep quality.

Types of Pillows You Can Clean in a Bathtub

Always check the care tag before submerging any pillow in water.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to clean pillows in bathtub is a smart, budget-friendly alternative to machine washing—and it gives you more control over how your pillows are cared for.

From regular washes to deep seasonal cleanings, these simple steps can keep your pillows fluffy, fresh, and supportive.

And when paired with a breathable, durable mattress, you create a sleep environment that feels brand new every night.