If your pillow has started feeling flat, lumpy, or a little sad, don’t toss it yet! Knowing how to fluff a pillow properly can bring it back to life, restore its shape, and help you get that dreamy, cloud-soft comfort again.
And if you own a SquishPillow, learning how to fluff pillows the right way keeps that signature Squishmallows “Squish” feeling ultra-soft, supportive, and huggable, night after night.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
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The best way to fluff pillows (step-by-step)
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How to re-fluff pillows that feel totally flat
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Whether you can fluff pillows in the dryer
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How to fluff a SquishPillow specifically
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Tips to keep pillows fluffy longer
Let’s Squish right in!
Why Do Pillows Go Flat?
Over time, pillows compress under the weight of your head and movement while you sleep. The filling inside, whether foam, feathers, or down-alternative fiber, gradually becomes compacted.
That’s why learning how to fluff up a pillow is so important. Fluffing:
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redistributes the filling
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restores the pillow’s loft and shape
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increases airflow so it feels cooler and more breathable
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supports your neck and spine better
And yes — the same rules apply whether you’re asking:
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how to fluff my pillow
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how do I fluff my pillow
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or specifically how to fluff a SquishPillow
The Best Way to Fluff a Pillow (Quick Method)
If you want a fast refresh, here’s how to fluff a pillow in under a minute.
1️⃣ Grab both ends and shake
Hold the short sides of the pillow and shake it like you’re trying to “wake it up.” This loosens compacted filling.
2️⃣ Punch + knead gently
Use your hands to push and massage the pillow. Think: bread dough, but way more squishy.
This helps re-fluff the pillow from the inside.
3️⃣ Give it a quick “hug”
Fold the pillow in half and release. Repeat a few times. This forces trapped air back into the fiberfill.
That’s it! This works great for daily fluffing, especially with SquishPillows since they’re filled with the same signature fibers found in Squishmallows (adjusted for sleep-friendly support).
Deep Fluff: How to Re-Fluff a Pillow That’s Really Flat
If your pillow feels totally lifeless, here’s how to re-fluff a pillow for a deeper refresh.
1️⃣ Toss it in the dryer (no heat)
Place your pillow in the dryer with:
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dryer balls, or
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two clean tennis balls in socks
Dry on tumble / no heat for 10–15 minutes.
This helps break apart clumps while adding air back into the fibers.
Tip: This is especially helpful for restoring SquishPillows after shipping compression, fluffing after unboxing gives instant squish!
How to Fluff a SquishPillow (Best Results)
SquishPillows are designed with:
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a 250-thread-count organic cotton shell
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down-alternative polyester fiberfill
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materials that are GOTS and OEKO 100 certified
They’re intentionally soft, supportive, and incredibly squishy (just like Squishmallows, but ergonomic for sleep).
Here’s how to fluff a SquishPillow specifically:
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Remove from packaging and let it sit for a few minutes.
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Shake and knead the pillow lightly to separate fibers.
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Fold it in half and release to add more air.
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If needed, tumble (no heat) for 10–15 minutes.
That’s truly the best way to fluff a pillow, especially a SquishPillow.
If you want it to feel closest to a classic Squishmallows plush, choose:
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Soft firmness
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A matching SquishPillow Pillowcase
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A quick fluff after every wash or unboxing
Hello, maximum Squishiness. ✨
Can I Wash My SquishPillow?
Yes, but follow care instructions carefully.
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SquishPillow: spot clean only to extend the life of that signature squishy filling.
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Pillowcases: wash cold and tumble dry low to keep everything soft and cozy.
And after washing? Yep, fluff the pillow again!
Which SquishPillow Firmness Fluffs Best?
All firmness levels fluff beautifully, but here’s what we recommend:
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Soft – best for stomach sleepers and Squishmallows lovers
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Medium – great for back sleepers or combination sleepers
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Firm – ideal for side sleepers needing extra support
No matter which one you choose, knowing how to fluff up pillows helps them stay comfy longer.
Bonus: How to Keep Pillows Fluffy Longer
To get the most out of any pillow:
✔ Fluff daily (takes 20 seconds!)
✔ Wash pillowcases regularly
✔ Avoid sleeping with wet hair
✔ Spot clean instead of overwashing the pillow itself
✔ Use a protective pillowcase for longevity
Your pillow and your neck will thank you, and you’ll get your best rest yet!
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