How to clean dirty bed pillows to leave them white and smelling sweet

Pillows naturally lose their freshness over time and can develop stains, even when protected with pillowcases. They come in contact with sweat and other elements every night, leading to dust, oil, and even tiny mites. For people with allergies, maintaining a clean pillow is essential for a comfortable night’s sleep. This guide will help you learn how to refresh your bed pillows and ensure a healthier sleeping environment.

Whether it’s feather-filled or latex, soft or firm, selecting the right pillow, just like choosing sheets or duvets, is key to a good night’s rest. Yet, beyond its type or quality, keeping it clean is crucial. A pillowcase alone doesn’t shield it from nightly perspiration, which can lead to those unsightly yellow spots. Let’s explore some methods to rejuvenate your pillows and bring back their original charm.

Regular Pillow Maintenance: How Often Should You Clean?

If you want to fend off the yellow tint, it’s advisable to clean pillows periodically. This yellowing primarily stems from nightly sweat, creating a damp environment ideal for bacteria and mites. While some might dispose of their pillows at the first sight of a stain, others rely solely on pillowcases for protection. The truth? Ideally, pillows should be laundered every six months. Meanwhile, freshen up your duvet annually.

Pillow Revival: A Tried-and-True Cleaning Tip

Looking for an efficient way to disinfect your pillows and banish germs? Here’s a trusty old-fashioned trick:

Ingredients:

Baking soda
Regular laundry detergent
Lavender essential oil

Before you start, make sure your pillows are machine-washable by checking their labels. Pour your chosen detergent in the designated drawer, followed by half a cup of baking soda and a few lavender oil drops directly into the drum. Add two pillows for balance and run your wash.

If you want to prolong your pillows’ freshness, adopt good daily habits. Each morning, remove the pillowcases, open up the windows, and let sunlight bathe your pillows. Doing this airs out your room and deters excess moisture and mold growth. And if your pillows look a bit drab? A steam cleaner can spruce them up. For a brighter touch, pre-soak them in a mix of lemon juice, white vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide before a machine wash.