Here’s a safe, effective way to clean your bed pillows so they look fresh, smell good, and last longer — without harsh chemicals.
How to Clean Dirty Pillows
What You Need
- Mild laundry detergent
- Baking soda (optional, for odor)
- White vinegar (optional, for extra freshness)
- Washing machine (or bathtub if hand-washing)
- Dryer or well-ventilated drying area
Step 1: Check the Label
- Always read the pillow care tag:
- Machine washable: most synthetic and down pillows
- Spot clean only: some memory foam or specialty pillows
Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
- For yellow sweat marks or spots:
- Mix 1 tablespoon baking soda + a few drops of water into a paste.
- Apply to stains and let sit 10–15 minutes.
- Gently rub and rinse.
Step 3: Wash
Machine Washing:
- Wash 2 pillows at a time to balance the load.
- Use warm water and mild detergent.
- Optional: add 1 cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle to remove odors.
Hand Washing:
- Fill a bathtub with warm water and detergent.
- Submerge pillow and squeeze gently, focusing on dirty areas.
- Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear.
Step 4: Dry Thoroughly
- Machine dry on low heat with clean tennis balls or dryer balls to fluff the pillows.
- If air-drying, place pillows in a sunny, ventilated area and fluff them occasionally.
- Pillows must be completely dry to prevent mold or mildew.
Step 5: Maintain Freshness
- Use pillow protectors to reduce stains and odors.
- Wash pillows every 3–6 months depending on use.
💡 Extra Tip:
Sprinkle a little baking soda on the pillow before vacuuming or fluffing to absorb odors between washes.
If you want, I can make a super-quick 5-minute hack that freshens and whitens pillows without a full wash, perfect for a last-minute guest setup.
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