There’s something oddly comforting about a giant body pillow. These oversized pillows become part of our daily lives, whether shaped like a long sausage, a U-shaped cocoon, or a massive rectangular cloud.
They support us when we’re sleeping, lounging, reading, recovering, or even when we are just emotionally drained and need something to hug.
But as comforting as a big body pillow can be, it's easy to forget it needs care, too. You wouldn’t wear the same shirt daily without washing it, right? Pillows are no different. They absorb sweat, oils, dead skin, and sometimes even crumbs from those sneaky midnight snacks.
So, if you want your beloved pillow to stay fresh, fluffy, and supportive, here are seven effective (and surprisingly easy) ways to care for it.
1. Wash the Cover Regularly
Most large body pillows come with removable covers, which is advantageous. The cover is your first layer of soil and contaminant protection. Depending on use, try washing the cover once a week.
Gentle detergents and cold or warm water washes work best. Hot washes and harsh chemicals weaken the fibres and fade the fabric of your biggest body pillow over time. Air drying the cover is best, but low tumble drying is safe if you're in a hurry.
Believe it or not, an old mug, a favourite hoodie, or even the ever-reliable bearing pillows. They silently witness some of our most vulnerable states and deserve some regard and dignity.
2. Spot Clean Spills Immediately
Perhaps you knocked over your coffee while lounging online, or your over-eager dog took a bite from the fluffy pillow. Whatever the mess, you should respond quickly. Instant attention to spot cleaning helps prevent the biggest body pillow stains from becoming permanent.
- Apply a dilute soap solution using a soft cloth or sponge.
- Do not rub, as gentle blotting will suffice.
- Always conduct a test on a secluded area of the fabric first.
Spot cleaning is like damage control. It may not be glamorous, but it is incredibly effective.
3. Air It Out Weekly
Pillow respiration is one of the easiest care tasks yet most neglected. Every week or so, toss the pillow outside in the shade (avoid direct sunlight, especially for memory foam or latex pillows). Fresh air eliminates trapped smells, moisture, and even dust mites.
If airing out shouldn't be done outside, lean it against a wall in a well-ventilated room for a few hours. Open windows if possible.
This is a quick reminder that old-school laundry used to be dried on clotheslines, and how lovely it looked can do wonders for your pillow.
4. Fluff It Up
Over time, the stuffing inside your body pillow can shift and compress, especially if you use it every night. Fluffing helps redistribute the filling and keeps it supportive.
Here is how to fluff it effectively:
- Grab both ends and give it a few strong shakes.
- Knead or punch it gently to work out the lumps.
- Do it regularly, at least a few times a week.
A well-fluffed pillow is not just more comfortable; it lasts longer, too.
5. Use a Pillow Protector
This is one of the most underrated tips. However, a pillow protector does a great job of maintaining your pillow. A protector acts as an additional cover placed underneath the decorative pillow cover.
It defends your pillow from sweat, allergens, and liquids, while most protectors can be laundered. Think of it as putting on a phone case. While a phone case isn’t critical, it offers a level of protection that is incredibly beneficial for durability.
6. Know When and How to Wash the Whole Pillow
Washing a body pillow is not as simple as throwing a shirt into the washing machine. The first step is checking the care tag. Some pillows, such as down, polyester, or cotton-filled, can be washed, while others, like memory foam pillows, cannot.
A quick note: everything changes, some good and some bad. Watching the entire process unfold, like transforming a pillow into a clean plush, is oddly satisfying.
It may not be the most thrilling thing ever, but watching the equivalent of a close friend getting a long-overdue haircut is interesting.
7. Store It Properly When Not in Use
On certain occasions, putting the big plush away is needed. Maybe you’re going on a trip, moving, or simply changing. Remember to keep them in breathable bags or cotton storage sacks when not in use to avoid moisture that leads to mildew or other unpleasant odours.
Keeping them in a dry place without direct sunlight and heat sources ensures that your pillow will always be fresh and ready to use.
Final Thoughts: Treat It Like a Friend
Caring for your biggest body pillow isn’t just about cleanliness but about maintaining comfort and prolonging that cosy companionship. These pillows are more than fabric and filling; they’re part of your environment, routine, and safe space.
It might sound odd to talk about a pillow with so much affection, but you know what I mean if you’ve ever had a rough day and hugged one tight. They’re always there, silent and soft, asking for nothing in return except a little fluff and a wash now and then.
So, next time you pass by your body pillow, give it a little pat or fluff. It’s earned.
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