The Best Way To Wash & Deodorize Gel Pillows For That Extra-Fresh Feeling

Getting a good night's sleep is a different experience for everyone, and one of the factors that impacts your ability to enjoy solid rest is your pillow. For those who want more support and a cooling experience when they are dozing, gel pillows are an attractive option. Not only do they collect and disperse the heat that comes off your head, helping to keep you sweat-free in summer, but they also are known for having a decently long lifespan of 2 to 5 years. While there is a lot to love about gel pillows, they are unfortunately a challenge to clean; all hope is not lost, however, as there is still a way to get your gel pillow smelling and feeling fresh, year after year.

Before attempting any cleaning of your gel pillow, it's best to read the instructions that came with yours; it's possible that your particular brand might require specialty care that differs from the information outlined here. For starters, gel pillows are made from very delicate materials that can be mangled and destroyed if thrown into a washing machine. Unless your pillow specifically recommends using a washing machine, your safest bet is to hand wash it.

In order to properly wash your pillow, you'll need a large sink, baking soda, water, and a large plastic basin. Fill your large sink or tub with cool water (avoid using any hot or warm water), and sprinkle several tablespoons of baking soda in, allowing it to dissolve fully. Push the gel pillow gently into the water and let the baking soda to do its work. Unless your pillow's instructions say otherwise, it should be okay to wash it by gently squeezing it to work the water in and out of the pillow; be careful to not twist or scrub it. 

Certain types of gel memory foam pillows aren't designed to ever be soaked or washed in water. However, if the care label indicates that yours is one of these, you may still be able to target marks by spot cleaning with a more concentrated baking soda mixture and a small soft brush. 

When it's time to dry the pillow, be sure to carry it in a plastic basin, as it will likely drip aggressively. Bring it outside and place the pillow on a clean surface where it can drip dry. Be warned that it might take hours for your gel pillow to fully dry, so it's a good idea to have a backup pillow for use that evening. Finally, while you may be tempted to try to speed up the drying process, never put your gel pillow in the dryer (unless yours denotes that this is an acceptable way to dry it).

Given the elbow grease required to wash your gel pillow (and the lengthy wait for it to dry), you may want to take preventative measures to protect your pillows from daily wear, tear, and dirt. Pillows can collect a lot of debris over their lifespan, including sweat, drool, dead skin cells, and more, so the best course of action is to cover yours with a pillow protector, such as this breathable one from Amazon for $19.99. These covers usually zip over the pillow itself, offering a second skin to the inner. One of the benefits of pillow protectors is that they are easier to wash than the pillow itself. 

In terms of frequency, how often you should wash your pillow really comes down to personal preference. Washing your pillow protector every week with your bedding (yes, that is how often you should be washing your sheets) is an easy routine to get into and will ensure that your gel pillow stays fresh. If you want to keep your gel pillow extra fresh in between washes, you can air it out on a bright day in the shade, which can help to eliminate any mildly unpleasant odors. With the right care, you can ensure that your gel pillow stays deodorized and clean all year round.