Fresh pillows are such an underrated upgrade 😴✨
Here’s a safe, effective way to clean dirty bed pillows so they come out white, fluffy, and smelling clean—not musty.
🛏 First: Check the Pillow Type
This method works for:
- ✔️ Polyester
- ✔️ Down / feather
⚠️ Do NOT machine-wash:
- Memory foam
- Latex pillows
(Those need spot-cleaning only.)
🧼 What You’ll Need
- Liquid laundry detergent
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Optional: oxygen bleach (NOT chlorine bleach for down)
🌀 Washing Instructions (Washing Machine)
1. Remove pillow protectors & cases
Wash those separately.
2. Load 2 pillows at a time
Balances the washer and cleans better.
3. Add to the detergent compartment:
- Normal amount of detergent
- ½ cup baking soda (brightens & deodorizes)
4. Wash on:
- Warm or hot water (check care tag)
- Gentle or normal cycle
🌬 Fresh-Smell Rinse Trick
During the rinse cycle, add:
- ½ cup white vinegar
👉 This removes detergent residue and neutralizes odors (no vinegar smell left behind).
🔁 Extra Rinse (Important!)
Run an extra rinse + spin to make sure all soap is gone—this prevents stiffness and smells.
☀️ Drying for Fluff & Freshness
Dryer method:
- Dry on low to medium heat
- Add 2–3 clean tennis balls or dryer balls
- Stop halfway and fluff by hand
Dry completely—even slight dampness = mildew smell later.
Sun bonus (optional):
Let pillows sit in sunlight for 1–2 hours for extra whitening and freshness 🌞
🚫 What NOT to Do
- Don’t overload the washer
- Don’t use fabric softener
- Don’t store pillows before they’re fully dry
🧠 How Often to Wash Pillows
- Every 3–4 months
- Always use a zippered pillow protector to keep them white longer
If you want, tell me:
- feather or synthetic
- yellow sweat stains vs musty smell
…and I’ll tweak the method perfectly for your pillows 💤
