Can You Really Wash Bamboo Pillows? Our Guide Has the Answer

If you've recently invested in a set of luxurious bamboo pillows, you may be wondering how to properly care for them. After all, these pillows can be pricey, so you want them to last. Can you really machine wash bamboo pillows like your other bedding? Or will tossing them in the wash ruin the soft bamboo fabric? Don't worry - we have all the answers about washing bamboo pillows in this comprehensive guide.

While bamboo pillows need a bit of special care, you can absolutely wash them to keep them clean, fresh and supportive. We'll walk you through when and how to wash bamboo pillows, as well as drying and fluffing tips. With the proper laundry techniques, your bamboo pillows will stay comfortable and hygienic for years.

What Makes Bamboo Pillows So Great?

Before we dive into washing instructions, let's review why bamboo pillows are worth the extra care in the first place. Bamboo pillows have grown in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Here are some of the top benefits bamboo pillows offer:

Natural Hypoallergenic Properties

Bamboo pillows are naturally hypoallergenic, making them ideal for those with allergies or skin sensitivities. The bamboo fabric has antimicrobial properties that repel dust mites and resist mildew and bacteria growth. This helps bamboo pillows stay fresher longer.

Moisture-Wicking Capabilities

The cross-section and structure of bamboo fibers allows excellent ventilation and moisture wicking. Bamboo pillows have microscopic gaps and ridges that pull moisture away from your head and neck as you sleep. This keeps you drier and more comfortable all night.

Adjustable Loft and Shape

Many bamboo pillows are adjustable, allowing you to remove filling to customize loft and shape. This adjustability provides proper sleep posture alignment. You can fluff and shape your bamboo pillow to fit your sleep position and support your head, neck and shoulders.

Durable and Long-Lasting

Bamboo fiber is incredibly strong, even stronger than silk. Bamboo pillows are durable and resistant to fading, warping and termite damage. With proper care, they can last for many years without flattening.

Breathable and Temperature Regulating

The spaces within bamboo fibers regulate airflow and wick away heat and moisture. This makes bamboo pillows very breathable, keeping your head and neck cooler during sleep.

Why Washing Bamboo Pillows is Crucial

To keep your bamboo pillows clean, fresh, and free of allergens and bacteria, regular washing is key. Here's why it's so important:

Removes Oils, Sweat, and Dust Mite Allergens

Like other bedding, bamboo pillows accumulate oils, sweat, and dust mite allergens from daily use. Hot water washing removes these contaminants before they build up.

Prevents Odor Buildup

Over time, bamboo pillows can develop odors from skin oils, sweat, and even drool. Regular washing in hot water sanitizes and prevents odor buildup.

Sanitizes Pillows from Bacteria

Your pillow goes through a lot each night. Everything from dead skin cells, saliva, and facial products get transferred to the fabric. Washing removes traces of bacteria, ensuring your pillow stays hygienic and allergen-free.

Keeps Fill Material Clean

Not only does washing sanitize the bamboo cover, it also cleans the pillow's fill inside. This removes dust, dirt and debris that accumulates in memory foam, feathers or other fill materials.

How Often Should You Wash Bamboo Pillows?

On average, washing bamboo pillows every 2-4 weeks is ideal for most people. However, certain factors may require more frequent washing:

• Hot sleepers who sweat a lot at night
• Allergy sufferers sensitive to dust mites
• Areas with high humidity
• Pillows used by more than one person

In these cases, aim to wash bamboo pillows at least every 7-10 days. You may also wash the pillow covers more often than the pillows themselves. Use your judgment based on visible dirtiness, odors, or allergies.

How to Wash Bamboo Pillows

Washing bamboo pillows is simple if you follow a few guidelines:

Check Manufacturer Instructions

Although washing bamboo pillows is generally fine, always check label instructions first. Look for any special care requirements or warnings.

Use a Gentle, Non-Bleach Detergent

Choose a mild, hypoallergenic liquid detergent without bleach. Powder detergent can cling to bamboo fibers. Opt for fragrance-free if you have sensitive skin.

Wash Pillows Alone or With Other Bedding

For best results, wash bamboo pillows alone or with your other color-safe, gentle cycle bedding. Avoid washing with rough fabrics.

Select Cool or Warm Water Setting

Wash bamboo pillows in cool or warm water, but avoid hot water. Heat can damage bamboo fibers causing shrinkage.

Air Dry or Tumble Dry on Low Heat

Line dry or tumble dry bamboo pillows on low or delicate heat. High temperatures risk damage to the bamboo cover.

Tips for Washing Bamboo Pillows

Follow these top care tips when laundering your bamboo pillows:

Spot Clean Minor Stains First

For small stains or odors, spot clean bamboo pillows by dabbing the area with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Let sit briefly before rinsing.

Check Zippers Before Washing

If your bamboo pillow has a zippered cover, inspect closely and repair any broken zippers first. You don't want the fill escaping mid-wash.

Use Fabric Softener and Dryer Balls

Adding a natural fabric softener helps keep bamboo pillows fluffy after washing. Wool dryer balls also help separate and fluff the filling.

Reshape Pillows After Drying

As bamboo pillows dry after washing, periodically reshape or fluff them to maintain their original form.

Answering Common Bamboo Pillow Washing Questions

We know you likely have additional questions about properly washing bamboo pillows. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Can you put bamboo pillows in the dryer?

Yes, bamboo pillows can go in the dryer on low or delicate heat. Avoid high heat settings.

What happens if bamboo pillows get wet?

If bamboo pillows get soaked, simply wash and dry them per the instructions. Bamboo dries quickly without damage.

How do you sanitize a bamboo pillow?

Washing bamboo pillows in hot water or baking at a low temperature can help sanitize them from bacteria.

How do you make bamboo pillows fluffy again?

After washing, fluff and reshape bamboo pillows while drying. Use dryer balls to further fluff. Add stuffing if needed.

No, avoid using bleach when washing bamboo pillows as it is too harsh and can damage the fibers.