Bamboo pillows have grown in popularity thanks to their soft, breathable feel and eco-friendly construction. But keeping these pillows fresh requires some special care. If you’re wondering “can you wash bamboo pillows?,” read on as we answer the top maintenance questions.
Our quick guide breaks down everything from bamboo pillow materials, to cleaning instructions, proper drying techniques and more. Follow our tips and you’ll extend the life of your bamboo pillows while enjoying cleaner, fresher rest.
What are Bamboo Pillows Made Of?
To understand bamboo pillow washing, it helps to know what these pillows contain. While bamboo is the star of the show, most bamboo pillows include additional materials in their construction:
- Bamboo cover – The soft, breathable exterior made of bamboo-derived rayon.
- Interior fill – Usually a poly-fill alternative like shredded memory foam, microfiber, buckwheat hulls or kapok fibers.
The fill material impacts cleaning requirements, so check your pillow’s label to understand what’s inside. Now let’s explore proper washing steps.
Should You Wash Bamboo Pillows Regularly?
We recommend washing just the bamboo pillow cover every 2-4 weeks. This prevents allergy triggers like dust mites and maintains good hygiene. Follow any special instructions from the manufacturer as well.
As for the fill, only wash if soiled. The interior takes longer to fully dry, so frequent cleaning causes mold and bacteria. Some fill types like buckwheat hulls rarely need washing at all.
When to Wash More Frequently
Certain circumstances call for more frequent bamboo pillow cleaning:
- Allergy sufferers may need to wash covers 1-2 times per week.
- Humid climates also warrant more washing as moisture accumulates faster.
Additionally, inspect both cover and fill for visible stains/soils and wash as needed.
Are Bamboo Pillows Machine Washable?
Some bamboo pillows allow machine washing but others strictly specify hand wash only. Always check the sewn-in tag for guidance. When machine washing is permitted, follow these best practices:
- Use a gentle or delicate cycle
- Wash with cold or lukewarm water
- Add a small amount of mild detergent
Avoid harsh detergents, bleach or fabric softeners – these can degrade bamboo fibers. Now let’s explore hand washing steps for delicate bamboo pillows.
How to Hand Wash Bamboo Pillows
When care labels dictate “hand wash only,”, follow this method:
- Fill sink or tub with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild, sensitive skin detergent.
- Immerse the bamboo cover only and gently clean, being careful not to over- soak the entire pillow.
- Rinse very thoroughly until water runs clear.
- Gently press excess moisture using a clean towel, reshape and air dry.
You can spot clean the exterior shell more frequently as needed. Now let’s explore proper bamboo pillow drying techniques.
Proper Drying Guidelines
Proper drying helps bamboo pillows maintain their comfort and support. We recommend air drying instead of machine drying. Here’s how:
- On sunny days, hang pillows outdoors so breeze and sunlight can fully dry interior and exterior.
- Alternatively, lay flat on a clean, dry surface and allow to completely air dry.
If machine drying, use an air fluff cycle and remove promptly when dry. Avoid high heat – it can damage bamboo fibers or cluster fill. Always reshape before use or storage.
With regular care, your bamboo pillows should provide years of restful service. But there are signs it’s time for replacement:
- Visible exterior wear and tear
- Interior fill that’s become misshapen or flattened
You can prolong lifespan with bamboo pillow accessories like adjustable fills and sleeping masks. Altering sleep position also helps evenly distribute wear. Speak with your health provider if you still experience discomfort.
Now that you know can you wash bamboo pillows? – and how to clean and care for them properly – you can keep your bamboo pillows fresh for better rest night after night.