Quick answer
Most nursing pillow inserts can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water, then air dried or tumble dried on low. Always check the care tag first, because some fills clump or shrink in heat. Spot clean small stains to avoid unnecessary washing.
Check the care tag and identify your pillow's fill
Before washing, find the care tag sewn into the pillow or slipcover. It tells you whether the insert is machine washable and whether the cover can be tumble dried. If the tag is missing, treat the pillow as hand-wash only. Knowing the fill type matters: shredded foam can clump if soaked, while polyester fiberfill usually survives a gentle cycle. Down and buckwheat fills need different handling, so when in doubt, spot clean.
Spot clean minor stains before a full wash
For small spit-up or milk stains, spot cleaning is faster and safer for the pillow's shape. Mix a drop of mild dish soap with cool water, dab it onto a clean cloth, and blot the stain. Work from the outside of the stain inward to avoid spreading it. Rinse the cloth with plain water and blot again to remove soap residue. Let the spot air dry completely before use. This method also works for the My Brest Friend Professional Nursing Pillow Slipcover when you don't want to remove it.
Professional Nursing Pillow
Machine wash the insert on a gentle cycle
If the care tag allows machine washing, remove the slipcover and any straps or foam risers. Place the insert alone in the washing machine—do not overload. Use cold water and a gentle or delicate cycle with a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid fabric softener and bleach, which can break down fill fibers. For a pillow like the My Brest Friend Basic Nursing Pillow, which has a firm, flat surface, a gentle cycle helps maintain that structure. After the cycle, check for any clumping by gently squeezing the pillow.
Dry the pillow without heat damage
Air drying is the safest option: lay the pillow flat on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and add a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help break up clumps. Check the pillow every 15 minutes. Remove it while slightly damp and reshape it by hand, then let it finish air drying. Never use high heat, which can shrink covers or melt foam.
Remove odors with baking soda or vinegar
For lingering milk or spit-up odors, sprinkle baking soda generously over the dry pillow, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum it off. For a deeper refresh, add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle during machine washing. Vinegar neutralizes odors without leaving a scent. If the odor persists after washing, the fill may have absorbed milk; in that case, consider replacing the insert.
Step-by-step washing process
- 1. Read the care tag: Locate the tag on the pillow or slipcover and follow its instructions. If it says hand wash only, do not machine wash. No tag? Treat as hand-wash only.
- 2. Spot clean first: For small stains, mix mild soap with cool water and blot with a clean cloth. Rinse and air dry. Spot cleaning prevents unnecessary wear.
- 3. Pre-treat stubborn stains: Apply a small amount of enzyme-based stain remover to the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes before washing. Never rub vigorously—it can pill the fabric.
- 4. Machine wash on gentle: Remove slipcover and straps. Wash insert alone with cold water and mild detergent on a delicate cycle. Skip fabric softener and bleach.
- 5. Dry with care: Air dry flat, or tumble dry on low with dryer balls. Check every 15 minutes and remove while slightly damp. High heat ruins shape and fill.
- 6. Reshape and test: Once dry, squeeze the pillow to check for clumps. Reshape by hand and let it air out completely before use. If clumps persist, the fill may need replacing.
Products that make washing easier
- Basic Nursing Pillow: Basic Nursing Pillow has a lower profile and simplified back support, with a firm, flat surface for a stable feeding position. Its simple design means fewer crevices for milk to hide, so spot cleaning and air drying are often enough.
- Professional Nursing Pillow Slipcover: Professional Nursing Pillow Slipcover is designed for the My Brest Friend Professional Nursing Pillow and is available in multiple colors. A removable slipcover can be washed separately, protecting the insert and extending its life.
