If you’ve just bought a memory foam pillow that smells like sweat, don’t worry – you’re not alone! This is a common issue with memory foam pillows, and there are a few things you can do to fix the problem. Herein, we will discuss what causes memory foam pillows to smell like sweat and how to eliminate the odor. We’ll also provide tips on keeping your memory foam pillow smelling fresh for longer! So let’s get your craving to sleep on that pillow once more.
What Causes the Sweaty Smell on Foam Pillow
Several causes would make your memory foam pillow smell like sweat. They are;
- Pillow Make
Memory foam is an incredibly dense material, and when it’s first made, it’s full of tiny spores.
When you first take your memory foam pillow out of the packaging, those pores are still open and filled with that new-foam smell. But as you use your pillow, those pores begin to close up. And as they do, they trap sweat, skin cells, dust mites, and other things that can cause odors.
- Bacteria
One of the most common causes of the sweaty smell on a foam pillow is bacteria. Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments; the human body is a prime example. When we sweat, the moisture provides an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. In addition, our skin is covered in tiny pores that can become clogged with sweat, sebum, and dirt. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria, creating an unpleasant smell.
- Mold
Another common cause is mold. Mold loves damp places, and a pillow constantly exposed to your body heat and sweat can provide the perfect conditions for mold to grow. This may lead to a bad smell.
- Dust Mites
These tiny creatures feed on dead skin cells and thrive in warm, humid environments. If you have looked closely at your pillow, you may have noticed specks of dust. These are dust mite droppings and can contribute to an unpleasant smell.
How to Do Away With Sweaty Smell from Memory Foam Pillow

The good news is that you can do a few things to get rid of the sweaty smell on your memory foam pillow! Follow the following tips.
Wash Your Pillowcase Regularly
If you’re using a pillowcase, make sure to wash it frequently. A dirty pillowcase can contribute to the sweaty smell on your memory foam pillow. In addition, it’s essential to wash your sheets and bedding regularly. This will help to keep the environment around your pillow clean and fresh.
Use a Pillow Protector

A memory foam pillow protector is a great way to keep your pillow clean and fresh. It will protect your memory foam from sweat, skin cells, dust mites, and other things that can cause odors.
Aerate the Pillow
If your memory foam pillow smells like sweat, it’s likely because the pores are clogged with sweat and other things. One way to fix this is to put your memory foam pillow in the sun for a few hours. The sunlight will help to kill bacteria and mold, and it will also help to dry out the pillow.
Another way to aerate your memory foam pillow is to put it in the freezer for a few hours. This will help to kill any bacteria or mold that may be growing on the pillow.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural odor absorber, so it’s a great way to eliminate the sweaty smell on your memory foam pillow. Just sprinkle some baking soda on your pillow and let it sit for an hour or two before vacuuming it up.
Try Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another natural odor absorber. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water and spray it on your memory foam pillow. Please leave it to absolve the mixture for a while before you can use it.
Try Air Purifiers
Air purifiers can help to remove the sweaty smell from your memory foam pillow by removing the airborne particles that contribute to the odor. Just place an air purifier in your room and let it do its job! This might not work the magic right away, but it will surely help in the long run.
Change Your Sleeping Habits
If you’re a sweaty sleeper, you can do a few things to minimize the amount of sweat your body produces. First, try sleeping on your back or stomach instead of your side. This will help reduce the contact between your body and the pillow. In addition, try to sleep in a cool room and use light bedding. These things will help to keep your body temperature down and reduce sweating.
FAQs

How can I prevent my memory foam pillow from smelling?
You can do a few things to prevent your memory foam pillow from smelling. For example, try using a pillow protector, washing your sheets and bedding regularly, and sleeping on your back or stomach instead of your side. You can also try to keep your room cool and ventilated.
Do air purifiers help with memory foam pillow smell?
Yes, air purifiers can help to remove the sweaty smell from your memory foam pillow by removing the airborne particles that contribute to the odor.
Is it safe to wash a memory foam pillow in the washing machine?
It is safe to wash a memory foam pillow in the washing machine. Just be sure to use a gentle cycle and mild detergent. You may also want to put your memory foam pillow in the dryer on low heat to fluff it up.
My memory foam pillow smells like chemicals. Is this normal?
No, this is not normal! If your memory foam pillow smells like chemicals, it’s likely because it’s made with synthetic materials that are off-gas. These chemicals can harm your health, so you should try to find a memory foam pillow made with natural materials.
Conclusion
There you have it! You might be experiencing the memory foam pillow smell because you’re a sweaty sleeper or because the pillow is made with synthetic materials. But don’t worry, the solutions mentioned above are a few things you can do to fix the problem. Be sure to use a pillow protector, wash your sheets and bedding regularly, and keep your room cool and ventilated. More often, open your bedroom windows and let the air in. By doing all that, you get to enjoy your all-time fresh memory foam pillow.