How to Store Pillows: Practical Solutions for Every Space

If your closet is overflowing with unused pillows or you’re tired of tossing them in random corners, it’s time for a better plan.

Learning how to store pillows properly can extend their life, save space, and keep your home feeling fresh and organized.

Whether you’re tucking away guest pillows or rotating seasonal decor, smart storage makes all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best practices based on pillow type, material, and storage location.

How to Store Bed Pillows

Bed pillows are essential for comfort and sleep quality, so keeping them in good shape during storage is important.

Proper storage helps retain their loft, shape, and freshness, which ultimately supports better sleep when they’re back in use.

Start by making sure they’re clean and completely dry before packing them away to avoid any risk of odor or mildew.

Steps for Storing Bed Pillows:

1. Wash or air out the pillows:

   • Follow care instructions for down, memory foam, or synthetic fills.

   • Dry completely to prevent mold or mildew, especially if storing for extended periods.

   • For memory foam, air drying is usually best, while synthetic pillows can often go in the dryer on low.

2. Use breathable storage bags:

   • Cotton or linen bags allow airflow and prevent mustiness.

   • Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and can cause mildew.

   • For added freshness, tuck in a lavender sachet or cedar block.

3. Store in a dry, dark space:

   • Avoid direct sunlight, which can degrade fabric over time and cause discoloration.

   • Opt for closets, linen cabinets, or under-bed bins with good ventilation.

   • Avoid stacking heavy items on top of stored pillows to prevent flattening.

4. Label by use or season:

   • Mark guest pillows, winter bedding, or decorative types to simplify future swaps.

   • Group by fill type if storing multiple pillows to keep organization simple.

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Best Way to Store Pillows

Different pillow types need different handling to keep their shape, cleanliness, and freshness.

Storing them the right way not only protects the materials inside but also makes rotating them back into use far more convenient.

By Pillow Fill Type:

• Down and feather:

  • Store loosely in cotton bags that allow for airflow.

  • Avoid compression; it flattens natural fill and reduces fluffiness.

  • Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets to repel pests and add a pleasant scent.

  • If stacking, place a lightweight cloth layer between each pillow to prevent crushing.

• Memory foam:

  • Keep in original shape; avoid folding, bending, or compressing.

  • Use ventilated containers to avoid odor buildup and maintain shape.

  • Avoid placing items on top that could create long-term indentations.

• Polyester/synthetic:

  • Can be vacuum-sealed for short-term space-saving during moves or seasonal rotation.

  • If stored long-term, fluff regularly and store in breathable containers to prevent flat spots.

  • Consider using light pillowcases for added protection while in storage.

Ideal Locations:

• Under-bed drawers with good airflow and minimal exposure to temperature swings

• Linen closets with adjustable shelves to accommodate different pillow sizes

• High shelves in bedroom or hallway cabinets for seasonal or guest-use pillows

• Storage benches or chests with fabric linings to prevent dust buildup

Extra Tips:

• Rotate stored pillows every 3–6 months to prevent long-term flattening and to maintain freshness.

• Don’t overload storage containers—give each pillow enough space to maintain its form.

• For decorative pillows, remove covers and store inserts and cases separately to prevent color transfer and fabric creasing.

• Use clear or labeled bins to make it easier to find specific pillows when needed.

• When stacking, place heavier, denser pillows on the bottom and lighter ones on top to maintain structure.

How to Store Pillows in Storage Unit

Storing pillows in an off-site unit? It’s doable, but you need to take a few extra precautions to keep them safe and in good condition for future use.

Without the right preparation, pillows can become breeding grounds for mildew, dust mites, or flatten out from prolonged compression.

What You Need to Know:

• Climate control is key: Choose a unit that offers temperature and humidity control. Pillows are especially sensitive to moisture, which can degrade materials and attract mold.

• Use airtight containers: Plastic bins with snap-on lids keep out dust and pests. Look for bins that allow minimal airflow but still offer protection from changing conditions.

• Avoid stacking heavy items on top: Compression damages pillow structure, especially for foam or feather pillows. To maintain loft, use a dedicated bin for just pillows.

• Elevate containers off the ground: Prevents moisture absorption from concrete floors and allows air to circulate better throughout the unit.

We once had to store a bunch of extra bedding during a home renovation, and not protecting the pillows properly led to some unfortunate mildew damage.

Since then, climate-controlled bins have become a must. We also now place wooden pallets under each bin and use breathable inserts inside each to keep humidity in check.

Checklist for Storage Unit Prep:

• Clean and fully dry all pillows

• Store in labeled bins with desiccant packs or moisture absorbers

• Elevate bins using pallets or shelves to avoid ground contact

• Keep pillow types separated (e.g., foam vs. down) to prevent material-specific issues

• Consider adding breathable cotton liners inside bins for an extra layer of freshness

How to Store Extra Pillows Without a Closet

If your closet space is maxed out, don’t worry—there are still plenty of smart options.

Creative Storage Ideas:

• Under-bed bins with wheels: Easy to access and slide out when needed.

• Storage ottomans or benches: Great for living rooms or at the foot of your bed.

• Vacuum-seal bags for seasonal pillows: Reduce bulk and tuck away in tight spaces.

• Labeled bins on high shelves: Use clear containers so you can spot what’s inside without digging.

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How to Keep Pillows Fresh in Storage

Long-term storage can lead to stale-smelling or misshapen pillows. Exposure to humidity, poor airflow, or improper materials can quickly diminish their quality. Here’s how to keep them fresh and ready for use:

• Air them out every few months by setting them outside in the sun or in a well-ventilated room to reduce moisture and refresh the fill.

• Use moisture absorbers (like baking soda sachets or silica gel packs) inside storage bins to help control humidity and reduce the risk of mildew.

• Add natural scent boosters (lavender, cedar, or eucalyptus) for a clean, inviting fragrance that also deters moths and other pests.

• Avoid plastic bags unless they’re ventilated or specifically designed for breathable fabric storage—trapped moisture is a major culprit for musty odors.

• Fluff pillows occasionally while in storage to maintain their loft and prevent long-term compression.

• Consider using pillow protectors or clean cotton cases to guard against dust and keep them in ready-to-use condition.

With just a little seasonal maintenance, your pillows will stay clean, fresh, and supportive—ready for use whenever you bring them out of storage.

Final Thoughts

Mastering how to store pillows makes your home feel more organized and keeps your bedding and decor looking their best.

From short-term guest bedding storage to long-term off-season solutions, the right methods help preserve comfort and extend pillow life.

With the right containers, thoughtful prep, and climate considerations, you can store any type of pillow like a pro.

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