How-Tos

Your down pillows can be washed in a regular washing machine (a high-capacity front-loading machine is best, so if necessary, you may want to visit a laundromat.)

First, remove any pillow covers. Check for rips or tears (repair if necessary) and pop one or two pillows into the washer. Then wash in cold water on the gentle cycle. Use a mild detergent such as Woolite or a specialized down cleaner and set the machine for a second rinse/spin if possible.

Gently squeeze out any excess water from the pillow. Don’t worry if the feathers have a strong smell – this is normal and will disappear when the pillow is dry.

Drying is the most important step of the cleaning process. Down pillows must be thoroughly dried or else mould and bacteria may develop. Place one or two pillows at a time in the dryer along with a couple of clean tennis balls (or put tennis balls in a clean sock). The tennis balls will move the feathers around to increase fluffiness.

You may also wish to add a fabric softener sheet or a clean cloth lightly infused with essential oil for a pleasant smell. Make sure that there is enough room in the dryer for the pillow(s) to move around. Use the lowest setting (tumble dry on cool air is recommended) as heat destroys the oils essential to the down and feathers’ performance. The process will require several cycles. After each cycle, remove and fluff the pillow by hand then return to the dryer until completely dry, inside and out.

Wash your down pillows once or twice a year to keep them clean but still fluffy and soft. Avoid dry cleaning (unless you find a professional cleaner that specializes in down) as the harsh chemicals will break down the feathers and eliminate their ability to loft, insulate and keep you warm.

Since cleaning down pillows is a time-consuming project, do yourself a favour and use protective pillow covers to cut down on the washing.