Can Pillows Be Stored in Vacuum Storage Bags?

Synthetic Pillows

• Synthetic pillow fillings are a favorite substitute for down or feather pillows because of their lower cost and appeal to some allergy sufferers. Most synthetic pillows can be safely compressed in a vacuum storage bag, but if you have any doubts, consult the pillow manufacturer.

Down or Feather Pillows

• Feather or down pillows should only be compressed about 50 percent and no further. Compressing them more can damage the feathers and compromise their ability to insulate and come back to their previous form when removed from the vacuum bag. The same rule should be followed for other feather- and down-filled items, such as comforters or sleeping bags.

Storing

• To store pillows in a vacuum storage bag, place the items inside the bag and slide the zipper to close the bag. Vacuum the air out of the bag to compress it, and store or pack the flattened items. Only vacuum out about half of the air for feather and down pillows. For synthetic pillows, compress the bag as much as you like. Pillows are ideal for vacuum bag storage because they are soft and will compress as much as 100 percent to double your storage space.

Opening

• To remove your pillows from storage, carefully open the bag, unzipping the top and gently pulling the sides of the bag apart from the center. Pull your pillows out of the bag, and toss and plump them or tumble them in a cool dryer to restore the loft. If you are storing pillows long term, perform this procedure every six months before returning them to storage.