HomeLux Comfort
How to Dry a Down Pillow: A Step-by-Step Guide
Lux Comfort

How to Dry a Down Pillow: A Step-by-Step Guide

From Puffy Editorial Team
Last updated on: Dec 26, 2024 | 4 min read
How to Dry a Down Pillow: A Step-by-Step Guide

Key Takeaways

  • Down pillows require careful drying to maintain their loft and prevent odors.
  • A dryer is the most efficient option, but low heat and proper techniques are critical.
  • Natural air drying is also effective if time allows and proper airflow is ensured.

Drying a down pillow might seem straightforward, but improper techniques can lead to clumping, odors, or even damage.

Whether you’re using a dryer or air drying, this guide ensures your down pillow stays fresh, fluffy, and ready for a good night’s sleep.

Can You Dry a Down Pillow?

Why Drying Is Essential

Down pillows absorb moisture during washing, which can lead to mildew and unpleasant odors if not dried thoroughly. Drying ensures the feathers retain their natural loft and comfort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using high heat, which can scorch the feathers.
  • Not fluffing the pillow during drying, leading to clumping.
  • Storing the pillow before it is completely dry.

Adding a Puffy Cloud Mattress to your sleep setup enhances overall comfort and breathability, complementing the softness of your down pillow.

Can You Put a Down Pillow in the Dryer?

Dryer Safety for Down Pillows

Yes, you can dry a down pillow in the dryer, but caution is key. Down feathers are delicate, and high heat can damage them.

How to Prepare Your Down Pillow for the Dryer

  1. Remove any pillow protectors or cases.
  2. Inspect for any tears or loose seams and repair them to prevent feathers from escaping.
  3. Add dryer balls or tennis balls to the drum to prevent clumping.

How to Dry Down Pillow

Using a Dryer

  1. Set the Heat to Low: Always opt for a low or no-heat setting.
  2. Add Dryer Balls: These help fluff the pillow and ensure even drying.
  3. Check Frequently: Pause the cycle every 20-30 minutes to fluff the pillow and redistribute the feathers.

Air Drying a Down Pillow

  1. Lay the pillow flat on a clean, dry surface in a well-ventilated area.
  2. Flip and fluff the pillow every few hours to promote even drying.
  3. Allow up to 48 hours for complete drying, depending on the humidity level.

Pairing a Puffy Lux Mattress with your freshly cleaned pillow ensures a breathable and hypoallergenic sleep environment, ideal for sensitive sleepers.

How Long Does It Take to Dry a Down Pillow in the Dryer?

Factors That Affect Drying Time

  1. Pillow Size: Larger pillows take longer to dry.
  2. Dryer Efficiency: A high-quality dryer with consistent airflow can speed up the process.
  3. Humidity Levels: High humidity can extend drying time.

Average Drying Time

On average, it takes 1.5 to 2 hours to dry a down pillow in the dryer. Ensure the pillow is completely dry before use to prevent odors or mildew.

DIY Tips for Drying Down Pillows

Fluffing Techniques

  • Use your hands to gently fluff the pillow during and after drying.
  • Rotate and shake the pillow to distribute the feathers evenly.

Odor Prevention

  • Add a small sachet of lavender or a few drops of essential oil on a dryer ball for a refreshing scent.
  • Ensure the pillow is thoroughly dry before storage to avoid musty smells.

Troubleshooting Common Drying Issues

Pillow Feels Damp After Drying

Run an additional dryer cycle on low heat or leave the pillow to air dry for several hours.

Feathers Are Clumped

Gently massage the pillow with your hands to break up clumps and restore its shape.

Musty Odor Persists

Sprinkle baking soda over the pillow and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming off. This helps absorb residual odors.

Conclusion

Properly drying a down pillow is crucial to maintain its comfort, loft, and longevity.

By following these techniques, you can ensure your pillow remains a cozy and hygienic addition to your bedding setup for years to come.

Get Your Puffy Lux Mattress
$1,350 in savings
Transform your comfort with the Puffy Lux.
Relax into award-winning comfort with this hybrid mattress:
  • 8 layers of cloudlike luxury.
  • Medium-plush feel.
  • Gel-infused cooling.
  • 101-night sleep trial.
SHOP PUFFY LUX

Shop the award-winning Puffy collection.

puffy mattresss

Choose your award-winning mattress.

Experience the cloudlike comfort and support of our hybrid and memory foam mattresses.

  • 4 luxury mattresses
  • All sleeper types
  • Made in the USA

Prices start from $499

SHOP MATTRESSES
puffy bed frame

Customize your comfort with a bed frame.

Upgrade your sleep with our stylish and supportive bed frames, bases, and foundations.

  • Support for all mattresses
  • Adjustable comfort options
  • Quick and easy setup

Prices start from $152

SHOP BED FRAMES
puffy beddings

Elevate your sleep with luxury bedding.

Add luxury to bedtime with our silky soft sheets, protectors, blankets, and more.

  • Premium materials
  • Contemporary style
  • Ultra-soft comfort

Prices start from $59

SHOP BEDDING

Puffy is ranked America’s #1
luxury mattress.

Hear from
12,000+
satisfied Puffy sleepers about why they give our award-winning comfort 5 stars.

READ PUFFY MATTRESS REVIEWS

Find official Puffy
mattress stores near you.

Try out the cloudlike comfort of the luxury Puffy mattress collection before you buy at our partner stores across the USA.

FIND A MATTRESS STORE NEAR YOU
SIGN UP FOR EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS.
Get special offers, product news,
and sleep tips straight to your inbox.
Save $1,425 when you buy any Puffy mattress. Verify your eligibility for our: