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The best way to store pillows is to clean and dry them fully, place them in a breathable storage bag, and keep them in a cool, dry spot. Avoid damp basements, hot attics, and long-term storage in tightly compressed bags.
The right method depends on the pillow fill. Down, feather, foam, polyester, and decorative pillows do not all handle pressure and moisture the same way.
Clean Pillows Before Storing Them
Do not store a pillow that has sweat, skin oils, pet hair, food crumbs, or moisture on it. Dirt and odors can become harder to remove after months in storage.
Check the care label before washing, drying, bleaching, or using heat. Some pillows can go in a washing machine. Others need spot cleaning or professional cleaning.
Before storage:
- Remove the pillowcase and protector.
- Check for stains, tears, or loose seams.
- Wash or clean the pillow as directed.
- Dry it completely.
- Let it air out before packing.
A pillow may feel dry on the outside while still holding moisture inside. Thick pillows and down-filled pillows may need extra drying time. Follow the care label and make sure the center is dry before putting the pillow away.
Choose a Breathable Storage Bag
A clean cotton storage bag, fabric bin, or breathable pillow bag works well for most pillows. These covers help block dust while allowing some airflow.
A clean pillowcase can also work for short-term storage. Fold the open end over or tie it loosely.
Plastic bags and sealed plastic bins can trap moisture. This is a bigger concern in humid rooms or when a pillow was not fully dry. A plastic bin may still be useful in a clean, climate-controlled closet, but the pillows should be fully dry before the lid is closed.
Avoid storing pillows loose on a closet floor. They can collect dust, pet hair, and moisture from the floor.
Do Not Compress Every Pillow
Compression bags save space, but they are not the best choice for every pillow.
Down and feather pillows
Down and feather pillows need room to stay fluffy. Long-term compression can flatten the fill and create clumps.
Store these pillows loosely in a breathable bag. Do not place heavy boxes on top of them.
“Loft” means the height and fluffiness of a pillow. Protecting the loft helps the pillow keep its shape.
Memory foam and latex pillows
Foam pillows should not be folded, rolled tightly, or vacuum compressed unless the manufacturer says it is safe. Pressure may cause cracks, dents, or lasting shape changes.
Store foam pillows flat in their natural shape. Keep them away from high heat, direct sunlight, and damp areas.
Foam pillows are often spot-clean only. Check the care label before washing them.
Polyester pillows
Polyester-filled pillows usually handle light compression better than down or foam. Still, long-term vacuum storage may leave them flat or lumpy.
For seasonal storage, place them loosely in a bag or bin. If space is tight, use only gentle compression and check the current manufacturer guidance.
Decorative pillows
Remove washable covers when possible. Clean the covers and inserts before storage.
Store shaped, embroidered, beaded, or structured pillows without heavy items pressing on them. Wrap delicate trim in clean tissue paper or a soft cotton cloth so it does not catch on nearby items.
Pick a Cool, Dry Storage Location
A bedroom closet, linen closet, under-bed storage area, or climate-controlled spare room is usually better than an attic, garage, shed, or damp basement.
A good pillow storage area should be:
- Dry
- Clean
- Away from direct sunlight
- Away from heaters and vents
- Protected from leaks
- Free from strong smells
- Large enough to prevent crushing
High heat can affect foam and other pillow materials. Moisture can lead to stale odors and fabric damage.
For under-bed storage, use a covered container or zippered fabric bag. Check that the floor beneath the bed stays dry, especially in humid homes.
In an RV, avoid leaving pillows inside for long periods if the space becomes very hot or damp. Clean and dry them, then move them to a climate-controlled room when practical.
Store Pillows Flat or Upright
Most pillows can be stored flat in a stack or upright on a shelf.
When stacking pillows, place heavier, firmer pillows on the bottom. Put soft down, feather, or decorative pillows on top.
Do not make the stack too tall. The weight can flatten the lower pillows.
Foam pillows are best stored flat. Avoid bending them to fit into a short bin or shelf.
For a small bedroom, upright storage in a zippered fabric bag can save shelf space. Make sure the pillows are not forced into a space that is too narrow.
The best way to store pillows is to clean and dry them fully, place them in a breathable storage bag, and keep them in a cool, dry spot; compare boxes and bags for stored bedding by airflow, moisture, pests, compression, material, seal, access, cleanliness, full drying, and storage duration.
Keep Stored Pillows Fresh
Do not spray pillows heavily with perfume or fabric spray before storage. Strong scents can become unpleasant over time, and some products may leave marks.
Instead, store only clean, fully dry pillows. A clean storage bag and dry closet will do more than added fragrance.
Check stored pillows every few months when possible. Look for:
- Moisture
- Stale odors
- New stains
- Flattening
- Damage to the storage bag
- Leaks or damp walls nearby
In humid homes, a moisture absorber may help inside the closet. Keep it separate from the pillows and follow the product directions.
How to Store Guest-Room Pillows
Guest pillows often sit unused for long periods. Keep them protected even if they remain on the bed.
Use clean pillow protectors under the pillowcases. A pillow protector is a removable fabric cover that helps keep dust and everyday dirt away from the pillow.
If the room is rarely used, cover the made bed with a clean bedspread or store extra pillows in a linen closet. Wash the pillowcases before guests arrive if they have been sitting out for months.
Do not pack guest pillows away immediately after use. Air them out first, then wash or clean them as directed.
How to Store Seasonal Pillows
Some households swap pillows and bedding by season. You may use firmer or warmer-feeling pillows in a cold bedroom and lighter bedding during warm months.
For a seasonal swap:
- Inspect each pillow.
- Clean it according to the care label.
- Dry it fully.
- Label the storage bag.
- Store it without heavy pressure.
- Check it before putting it back on the bed.
Labels such as “guest room,” “winter bed,” or “decorative covers” make laundry-day storage easier.
Storing Kids’ and Dorm Pillows
Kids’ pillows may collect spills, crumbs, and marker stains. Clean them before storing and check for damaged seams.
Keep stored pillows in a place children cannot use as a climbing step or pull down from a high shelf.
Dorm pillows may need to be stored between school terms. A breathable zippered bag works well when moving them home. Avoid leaving pillows in a hot car, storage unit, or uncooled room for a long period.
For long breaks, unpack the pillows at home and let them air out before placing them in a closet.
Storing Pillows in Pet-Friendly Homes
Pet hair and odors can transfer to stored bedding. Wash removable covers and remove loose hair before storage.
Use a closed fabric bag or lidded container if pets can reach the closet. Keep the bag off the floor when possible.
Do not store pet bedding and guest pillows in the same open bin. Separate storage helps keep hair and odors from moving between items.
What to Avoid When Storing Pillows
Common storage mistakes include:
- Packing pillows while damp
- Using vacuum bags for foam, down, or feather pillows
- Placing heavy items on top
- Folding foam pillows
- Storing pillows directly on the floor
- Leaving pillows in direct sunlight
- Using a hot attic or damp basement
- Packing dirty pillowcases with clean pillows
- Ignoring the care label
- Storing pillows near strong chemicals or odors
A pillow that smells musty after storage should not go straight onto the bed. Remove the cover, inspect the pillow, and clean or air it according to the care instructions.
How to Bring Stored Pillows Back Into Use
Take the pillows out of storage at least a few hours before making the bed.
Inspect them for stains, damage, and odors. Fluff pillows by hand and allow them to air out in a clean room.
Some machine-safe pillows may be refreshed in a dryer on a care-label-approved setting. Do not use dryer heat on foam unless the manufacturer allows it.
Replace the pillowcase and protector with clean ones before use.
A pillow that stays flat, has damaged foam, or no longer feels comfortable may be ready for replacement. Check local textile recycling or donation rules before disposing of it. Used pillow donation policies vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can pillows be stored in plastic bags?
Pillows can be stored in plastic bags for a short move, but breathable fabric bags are usually better for long-term storage. Plastic may trap moisture and odors. Make sure the pillows are completely dry before using any sealed container.
Can you vacuum-seal pillows?
Some polyester pillows can handle light, short-term compression. Down, feather, memory foam, and latex pillows may lose loft or shape when vacuum-sealed. Check the manufacturer guidance before compressing a pillow.
Should pillows be washed before storage?
Yes, pillows should be clean before storage. Follow the care label because some pillows are machine washable while others require spot cleaning. Always dry the pillow fully before packing it away.
Is it better to store pillows flat or upright?
Either position can work if the pillows are not crushed. Foam pillows are best stored flat. Soft pillows may be stored upright in a roomy fabric bag or stacked with heavier pillows on the bottom.
How do you keep stored pillows from smelling musty?
Store only clean, fully dry pillows in a cool, dry space. Use a breathable cover and check the storage area for humidity or leaks. Avoid heavy perfumes, which may cover an odor without fixing the moisture problem.
Can pillows be stored in an attic or garage?
Attics and garages often have large changes in heat and humidity. These conditions may affect pillow fill and fabric. A dry, climate-controlled closet is usually a safer choice.
How long can pillows stay in storage?
Pillows can remain stored for months if they are clean, dry, protected, and not compressed. Check them from time to time for odors, moisture, flattening, and fabric damage.
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