How to Whiten Yellowed Pillows: A Comprehensive Guide

Pillows, those soft companions of our sleep, often bear the brunt of our nightly repose. Over time, they can accumulate sweat, oils, saliva, and even stray makeup, leading to unsightly yellowing. While yellowed pillows might seem destined for the trash, don’t despair! With the right techniques and ingredients, you can restore them to their former glory, saving you money and contributing to a cleaner, healthier sleep environment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods to whiten yellowed pillows, offering detailed steps, helpful tips, and important considerations to ensure success.

Why Do Pillows Turn Yellow?

Understanding the causes of pillow yellowing is the first step in preventing and addressing the problem. Here are the primary culprits:

• Sweat: During sleep, our bodies release sweat, which contains salts and oils that can penetrate the pillow fabric and react over time, causing discoloration.
• Body Oils: Similar to sweat, natural oils produced by our skin can seep into the pillow, leading to yellowing.
• Saliva: For those who drool in their sleep, saliva can contribute to staining and discoloration.
• Makeup and Hair Products: Residue from makeup, lotions, and hair products can transfer to the pillow and cause staining.
• Moisture: Even without sweat or saliva, general moisture from humidity can contribute to the breakdown of pillow materials and lead to discoloration.
• Detergent Buildup: Ironically, using too much detergent when washing pillows can leave residue that attracts dirt and contributes to yellowing over time.
• Age: As pillows age, the materials naturally break down, contributing to a general yellowing effect.

Preventing Pillow Yellowing: Proactive Measures

Before diving into cleaning methods, let’s explore preventative measures to minimize yellowing and extend the life of your pillows:

• Use Pillow Protectors: Encase your pillows in high-quality, zippered pillow protectors. These act as a barrier against sweat, oils, and other contaminants. Choose waterproof or water-resistant protectors for maximum protection.
• Wash Pillow Protectors Regularly: Wash your pillow protectors every 1-2 weeks along with your bed sheets.
• Shower Before Bed: Removing makeup, sweat, and oils before sleep significantly reduces the transfer of these substances to your pillow.
• Avoid Sleeping with Wet Hair: Wet hair can transfer moisture and product residue to the pillow, contributing to yellowing.
• Air Out Your Pillows: Regularly air out your pillows outdoors in direct sunlight (weather permitting) to help kill bacteria and freshen them up. Avoid prolonged exposure to intense sunlight, which can damage some pillow materials.
• Use a Clean Pillowcase: Change your pillowcases every 2-3 days, or even daily if you have oily skin or use a lot of hair products.

Cleaning Methods for Whitening Yellowed Pillows

Now, let’s explore various methods for whitening yellowed pillows. Always check the care label on your pillow before attempting any cleaning method. Some materials may require special care or professional cleaning.

Method 1: The Laundry Booster Power Wash

This method combines the power of common laundry boosters to create a potent whitening solution. It’s generally effective for most types of pillows, but always test a small, inconspicuous area first.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup laundry detergent (powdered is generally preferred)
• 1 cup powdered dishwashing detergent (not liquid – look for brands like Cascade or Finish)
• 1 cup chlorine bleach (use with caution and only on white pillows) OR 1 cup oxygen bleach (such as OxiClean or Borax) for colored or delicate pillows
• ½ cup Borax (optional, but boosts whitening power)
• Hot water

Instructions:

1. Check the Care Label: Before proceeding, carefully check the care label on your pillow. If it indicates “dry clean only,” follow those instructions. Avoid using bleach on pillows with colored patterns or delicate fabrics.
2. Prepare the Washing Machine: Remove any pillow protectors or pillowcases. Ensure your washing machine is clean. A dirty washing machine can re-soil your pillows.
3. Mix the Cleaning Solution: Fill your washing machine with hot water. Add the laundry detergent, dishwashing detergent, bleach (or oxygen bleach), and Borax (if using). Allow the washing machine to agitate for a few minutes to dissolve the powders completely.
4. Load the Pillows: Place two pillows in the washing machine to balance the load. Avoid overloading the machine, as this can prevent proper cleaning.
5. Wash: Wash the pillows on a normal cycle with hot water. For heavily yellowed pillows, consider using the “bulky” or “heavy-duty” setting to ensure a thorough cleaning.
6. Rinse Thoroughly: Run an extra rinse cycle to remove all traces of detergent. Detergent residue can attract dirt and lead to future yellowing.
7. Dry: Dry the pillows thoroughly. Follow the drying instructions on the care label. Most pillows can be dried in a clothes dryer on a low heat setting. Add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer to help fluff the pillows and prevent them from clumping. You can also air dry pillows outside on a sunny day. Make sure the pillows are completely dry before using them to prevent mold or mildew growth.

Important Considerations:

• Bleach Safety: When using chlorine bleach, wear gloves and eye protection. Ensure proper ventilation. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners, as this can create dangerous fumes.
• Oxygen Bleach: Oxygen bleach is a gentler alternative to chlorine bleach and is safer for colored fabrics and delicate materials. However, it may not be as effective at removing stubborn stains.
• Detergent Choice: Choose a high-quality laundry detergent that is designed for removing stains and brightening fabrics. Avoid detergents with added fabric softeners, as these can leave a residue on the pillows.
• Water Temperature: Hot water is generally more effective at removing stains and killing bacteria. However, always check the care label to ensure that hot water is safe for your pillow material.
• Drying Time: Pillows can take a long time to dry completely, especially down or feather pillows. Be patient and allow ample drying time to prevent mold or mildew growth. You may need to run the dryer for multiple cycles.

Method 2: The Lemon Juice Soak

Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that can help to whiten yellowed pillows. This method is best suited for pillows that are lightly yellowed or for those who prefer a more natural cleaning approach. Lemon juice is acidic, so test on an inconspicuous area first.

Ingredients:

• Juice of 6-8 lemons (freshly squeezed is best)
• Hot water

Instructions:

1. Check the Care Label: As with the previous method, check the care label before proceeding.
2. Prepare the Lemon Juice Solution: Fill a large tub or basin with hot water. Add the lemon juice and stir well to combine.
3. Soak the Pillows: Submerge the pillows in the lemon juice solution. Make sure the pillows are completely saturated.
4. Soak Time: Allow the pillows to soak for at least 4-6 hours, or even overnight for heavily yellowed pillows. The longer the soak, the more effective the lemon juice will be.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: Remove the pillows from the lemon juice solution and rinse them thoroughly under cool, running water. Make sure to remove all traces of lemon juice.
6. Wash (Optional): You can wash the pillows in your washing machine using a mild detergent after the lemon juice soak. This will help to remove any remaining dirt or residue. Follow the instructions in Method 1 for washing.
7. Dry: Dry the pillows thoroughly, following the instructions on the care label. Air drying in direct sunlight is ideal for this method, as the sun’s rays will further enhance the whitening effect.

Important Considerations:

• Lemon Juice Acidity: Lemon juice is acidic and can potentially damage delicate fabrics. Test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the lemon juice does not cause any discoloration or damage.
• Sunlight Exposure: Direct sunlight can help to whiten pillows, but prolonged exposure can also fade colors or damage certain fabrics. Monitor the pillows carefully while they are drying in the sun.
• Complete Drying: Ensure that the pillows are completely dry before using them to prevent mold or mildew growth.

Method 3: The Vinegar Rinse

Vinegar is another natural cleaning agent that can help to whiten and deodorize pillows. It’s particularly effective at removing detergent residue and softening fabrics. Use white distilled vinegar for this method.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white distilled vinegar
• Water

Instructions:

1. Wash Pillows: Wash your pillows as you normally would, using a mild detergent. Follow the instructions in Method 1 for washing.
2. Prepare the Vinegar Rinse: After the wash cycle is complete, add 1 cup of white distilled vinegar to the rinse cycle.
3. Rinse: Allow the washing machine to complete the rinse cycle. The vinegar will help to remove any remaining detergent residue and soften the fabrics.
4. Dry: Dry the pillows thoroughly, following the instructions on the care label. Air drying is preferred for this method, as the sun will help to deodorize the pillows.

Important Considerations:

• Vinegar Smell: Vinegar has a strong smell, but it will dissipate as the pillows dry. If you are sensitive to smells, you can add a few drops of essential oil (such as lavender or lemon) to the vinegar rinse.
• Fabric Compatibility: Vinegar is generally safe for most fabrics, but it’s always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area first.

Method 4: Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda is a mild abrasive and deodorizer that can help lift stains and freshen pillows. This method is best for spot-treating localized yellow stains.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup baking soda
• ¼ cup water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Soda Paste: In a small bowl, mix the baking soda and water to form a thick paste.
2. Apply the Paste: Apply the paste to the yellowed areas of the pillow.
3. Let it Sit: Let the paste sit on the pillow for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours for stubborn stains.
4. Rinse: Rinse the paste off the pillow with cool water. Make sure to remove all traces of baking soda.
5. Dry: Dry the pillow thoroughly, following the care label instructions.

Important Considerations:

• Paste Consistency: The paste should be thick enough to adhere to the pillow without dripping.
• Thorough Rinsing: It’s important to rinse the baking soda paste completely to avoid leaving a powdery residue.

Specific Pillow Types and Cleaning Considerations

The cleaning method you choose will depend on the type of pillow you have. Here are some considerations for different pillow materials:

• Down and Feather Pillows: These pillows require special care to prevent clumping and damage to the feathers. Use a mild detergent and wash on a gentle cycle. Dry on low heat with dryer balls. Ensure they are *completely* dry to prevent mold. Professional cleaning is often recommended.
• Memory Foam Pillows: Memory foam pillows should not be washed in a washing machine, as this can damage the foam. Spot clean with a mild detergent and water. Air dry thoroughly, away from direct sunlight. Some memory foam pillows have removable, washable covers.
• Polyester Pillows: These pillows are generally easy to clean and can be washed in a washing machine on a normal cycle. Use a mild detergent and dry on low heat.
• Cotton Pillows: Cotton pillows are also generally machine washable, but they can shrink if washed in hot water. Use warm water and dry on low heat.
• Latex Pillows: Similar to memory foam, latex pillows are best spot cleaned. Washing machines can damage the latex. Air dry thoroughly.

When to Replace Your Pillows

Even with regular cleaning, pillows eventually need to be replaced. Here are some signs that it’s time for a new pillow:

• Visible Stains: If your pillows are heavily stained and cleaning doesn’t improve their appearance, it’s time to replace them.
• Loss of Support: If your pillow no longer provides adequate support for your head and neck, it’s time to replace it.
• Lumps or Bumps: If your pillow has developed lumps or bumps, it’s time to replace it.
• Allergies: If you are experiencing increased allergy symptoms, your pillow may be harboring dust mites or other allergens, even after cleaning.
• The Fold Test: Fold your pillow in half. If it stays folded, it’s lost its support and should be replaced. (This test is more applicable to down and feather pillows.)
• Age: As a general rule, pillows should be replaced every 1-2 years.

Conclusion

Yellowed pillows are a common problem, but they don’t have to be a permanent one. By understanding the causes of pillow yellowing, implementing preventative measures, and using the cleaning methods outlined in this guide, you can restore your pillows to their former glory and enjoy a cleaner, healthier sleep. Remember to always check the care label on your pillow before attempting any cleaning method, and don’t be afraid to experiment to find the method that works best for you. Sweet dreams!