How To Wash & Whiten Yellowed Pillows

Make sure to like Practical Homesteading Ideas on Facebook, Shop at Amazon to help support my site and explore our PINTEREST BOARDS  for innovative ways you can become self-sufficient.

Have you ever looked at your once pristine pillows and noticed they’ve turned yellow over time? Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us. Sweat, oils, and everyday use cause pillows to become discolored. But before you think about tossing them out, there’s good news: You can bring your pillows back to life with some simple home techniques. In this post, we’ll show you how to wash and whiten yellowed pillows, making them look and feel fresh again.

Why Do Pillows Turn Yellow?

Pillows turn yellow due to exposure to sweat, body oils, and drool while we sleep. These substances soak into the pillow and cause discoloration over time. Even pillow protectors and regular pillowcases can’t prevent this entirely. Other factors like dust mites and moisture from humid environments can also contribute to yellowing.

How To Wash and Whiten Yellowed Pillows

What You’ll Need:

• Hot water (for machine washing)
• 1 cup of powdered laundry detergent
• 1 cup of washing soda
• 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide (a natural whitener)
• ½ cup of white vinegar (for odor removal)
• Optional: a few drops of essential oil for freshness
• A laundry machine and dryer

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Check the label: Before anything, make sure your pillow is machine washable. Most polyester, cotton, or down pillows are, but always check the care label.
2. Pre-treat stains: If there are visible stains, pre-treat them by spraying a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda on the spots. Let it sit for 15 minutes before washing.
3. Run a hot water cycle: Set your washing machine to the hottest water temperature possible. This helps remove deep stains and kills any dust mites or bacteria.
4. Add your cleaning solution: Place your pillows in the washing machine and add the powdered detergent, washing soda, and hydrogen peroxide. The combination of these ingredients works to lift stains and brighten your pillows.
5. Run a second rinse cycle: After the first wash, run a second rinse cycle with ½ cup of white vinegar. This helps remove any soap residue and deodorizes the pillows.
6. Dry thoroughly: Place your pillows in the dryer with a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls. These help fluff up the pillows and prevent clumping. Make sure to dry them on low heat until completely dry. Wet pillows can develop mildew, so don’t skip this step!
7. Fluff and refresh: Once dry, fluff your pillows by hand, and if desired, add a few drops of essential oil to give them a fresh scent.

Tips For Keeping Pillows White

• Use pillow protectors: A pillow protector creates an additional barrier against sweat and oils, extending the life of your pillows.
• Wash pillowcases weekly: This reduces the amount of oil and dirt that can seep into your pillows.
• Air out pillows regularly: Fluff and air out your pillows every few weeks to keep them fresh.
• Wash every 3-6 months: Clean your pillows at least twice a year to maintain their color and hygiene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I wash my pillows?
A: You should wash your pillows every 3-6 months to prevent a buildup of sweat, oils, and dust mites. Washing them regularly also helps prevent yellowing in the first place.

Q: Can I wash memory foam pillows?
A: Memory foam pillows can’t be washed in a machine. Instead, spot clean them with a damp cloth and mild detergent. You can also vacuum them to remove dust and dirt.

Q: Will this method work for down or feather pillows?
A: Yes! Down and feather pillows can be washed using the same method. Just be sure to use a gentle cycle and dry them thoroughly to prevent the feathers from clumping together.

Q: What if my pillows still look yellow after washing?
A: If your pillows still appear yellow, try repeating the washing process or soak them overnight in a mixture of hot water and hydrogen peroxide before washing.

Q: Can I bleach my pillows to whiten them?
A: Bleach can weaken pillow fibers over time and isn’t recommended, especially for pillows made of delicate materials like down or feather. Hydrogen peroxide is a safer and more effective whitening alternative.

Keeping your pillows clean and white doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little effort, you can enjoy fresh, fluffy, and bright pillows every night. Make sure to incorporate these steps into your routine, and your pillows will stay fresh for years to come!

Pin for later!