Here’s a safe, effective way to clean dirty bed pillows so they look white and smell fresh 🌿
(Works for most cotton, down, and polyester pillows—always check the tag first.)
🛏️ How to Wash Pillows & Make Them White Again
✅ What You’ll Need
- Laundry detergent (regular amount)
- Baking soda – ½ cup
- White vinegar – 1 cup
- Hot water (if care label allows)
- Optional: oxygen bleach (not chlorine)
🧼 Step-by-Step
1️⃣ Check the label
- Most pillows are machine washable
- Foam or memory foam ❌ do not machine wash
2️⃣ Load the washer correctly
- Wash two pillows at a time to balance the machine
- Use hot water if allowed (best for oils & stains)
3️⃣ Add cleaners
- Add detergent as usual
- Add ½ cup baking soda directly into the drum
- Add 1 cup white vinegar to the fabric softener dispenser
➡️ Removes odors, yellow stains, and buildup
4️⃣ Extra rinse
- Run an extra rinse cycle to remove residue
5️⃣ Dry completely (very important)
- Dry on low to medium heat
- Add 2 clean tennis balls or dryer balls
➡️ Keeps pillows fluffy and prevents mildew - Dry until 100% dry (may take 2 cycles)
🌬️ Sun Brightening (Optional but Excellent)
- Place pillows in direct sunlight
- Sunlight naturally whitens and deodorizes
🚫 What NOT to Do
- ❌ Don’t use bleach (can yellow pillows over time)
- ❌ Don’t leave pillows damp
- ❌ Don’t machine wash memory foam
🌸 Make Them Smell Sweet
- Add 5–10 drops of essential oil (lavender or lemon) to a cloth and toss in dryer
- OR air-dry outside for a fresh scent
📅 How Often to Wash
- Every 3–6 months
- Pillow protectors = wash monthly
If you want, tell me:
- Pillow type (down, synthetic, foam)
- Top-loader or front-loader washer
I can tailor the steps perfectly for your setup 😊
