How to Whiten Yellowed Pillows: A Comprehensive Guide

Yellowed pillows are a common household problem. Over time, sweat, body oils, saliva, and even skincare products can seep into the pillow fibers, causing them to turn yellow and sometimes develop unpleasant odors. While replacing pillows regularly is an option, it can be costly and wasteful. Fortunately, you can effectively whiten your yellowed pillows using simple household ingredients and a little bit of effort. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed steps and instructions to restore your pillows to their former glory.

Why Do Pillows Turn Yellow?

Understanding the reasons behind pillow yellowing is the first step in preventing it. The primary culprits include:

* **Sweat and Body Oils:** During sleep, we naturally sweat and release body oils. These fluids penetrate the pillow’s fabric and fill, leading to discoloration and staining.
* **Saliva:** Drooling during sleep is another common cause. Saliva contains enzymes that can break down fabric and cause staining.
* **Skincare Products:** Lotions, creams, and other skincare products applied before bed can transfer to the pillow and contribute to yellowing.
* **Hair Products:** Oils and residues from hair products can also stain pillows.
* **Mold and Mildew:** In humid environments, mold and mildew can grow inside pillows, causing discoloration and musty odors. This is especially common in pillows that aren’t properly dried after washing.
* **Dust and Dirt:** Over time, dust and dirt accumulate within the pillow fibers, contributing to overall discoloration.

Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

* **Laundry Detergent:** Use a high-quality laundry detergent, preferably one designed for whitening.
* **Borax:** Borax is a natural mineral that helps boost the cleaning power of your detergent and brighten fabrics. Look for it in the laundry aisle of your local grocery store.
* **Baking Soda:** Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and stain remover. It helps to lift dirt and grime from the pillow fibers.
* **White Vinegar:** White vinegar acts as a natural fabric softener and helps to remove detergent residue. It also has mild bleaching properties.
* **Hydrogen Peroxide (Optional):** For heavily stained pillows, hydrogen peroxide can provide an extra boost of whitening power. Use 3% hydrogen peroxide (the kind you find in drugstores).
* **Laundry Bluing (Optional):** Laundry bluing is a product that contains a blue dye that counteracts yellow tones in fabrics, making them appear whiter. Use it sparingly, as too much can leave a blue tint.
* **Washing Machine:** A washing machine is essential for cleaning the pillows. A top-loading machine without an agitator or a front-loading machine is ideal.
* **Dryer:** A dryer is needed to thoroughly dry the pillows after washing. Tennis balls or dryer balls are helpful for fluffing the pillows during drying.
* **Sunlight (Optional):** Sunlight is a natural bleaching agent. If possible, hang your pillows outside to dry on a sunny day.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurately measuring the cleaning ingredients.
* **Gloves (Optional):** To protect your hands from prolonged exposure to cleaning solutions.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Whitening Yellowed Pillows

Follow these steps carefully to effectively whiten your yellowed pillows:

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Before you do anything, check the care label on your pillows. This label will provide specific instructions for washing and drying, including recommended water temperature and drying settings. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging your pillows.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pillows

* **Remove Pillowcases and Protectors:** Take off any pillowcases or protectors and wash them separately.
* **Inspect for Damage:** Check your pillows for any tears or rips. If you find any, repair them before washing to prevent the filling from escaping.
* **Pre-treat Stains (Optional):** For heavily stained areas, pre-treat them with a stain remover or a paste made from baking soda and water. Apply the stain remover or paste to the stained area and let it sit for 30 minutes before washing.

Step 3: Load the Washing Machine

* **Load Pillows Evenly:** If you have a top-loading machine without an agitator or a front-loading machine, load two pillows at a time to balance the load. For a top-loading machine with an agitator, wash one pillow at a time to avoid damaging the machine.
* **Use Hot Water:** Hot water is more effective at removing stains and killing bacteria. However, always refer to the care label to ensure that hot water is safe for your pillows.

Step 4: Add Cleaning Agents

* **Detergent:** Add the recommended amount of laundry detergent to the washing machine. Use a high-quality detergent designed for whitening.
* **Borax:** Add 1/2 cup of borax to the washing machine. Borax helps to boost the cleaning power of the detergent and brighten fabrics.
* **Baking Soda:** Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the washing machine. Baking soda helps to deodorize and remove stains.
* **White Vinegar:** Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar to the washing machine’s fabric softener dispenser. White vinegar acts as a natural fabric softener and helps to remove detergent residue.
* **Hydrogen Peroxide (Optional):** For heavily stained pillows, add 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide to the washing machine. Be cautious when using hydrogen peroxide, as it can bleach colored fabrics. Make sure your pillows are white or light-colored before using it.
* **Laundry Bluing (Optional):** If you’re using laundry bluing, add a few drops to the washing machine’s dispenser according to the product’s instructions. Be very careful not to use too much, as it can leave a blue tint.

Step 5: Run the Washing Machine

* **Select the Correct Cycle:** Choose a gentle or delicate cycle to avoid damaging the pillows. If your washing machine has a specific setting for pillows or bedding, use that setting.
* **Extra Rinse Cycle:** Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure that all the cleaning agents are completely removed from the pillows.

Step 6: Dry the Pillows

* **Check the Care Label:** Refer to the care label for recommended drying settings. Most pillows can be dried on low heat.
* **Use Dryer Balls or Tennis Balls:** Add a few dryer balls or clean tennis balls to the dryer to help fluff the pillows and prevent them from clumping together.
* **Dry Thoroughly:** Dry the pillows completely to prevent mold and mildew growth. This may take several cycles.
* **Air Dry (Optional):** After drying in the dryer, you can air dry the pillows outside on a sunny day to further freshen them and remove any remaining moisture. Be sure to protect them from direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can fade the fabric.

Step 7: Fluff and Reshape

Once the pillows are completely dry, fluff them and reshape them to restore their original form. This is especially important for down or feather pillows, which can become flattened during washing and drying.

Alternative Cleaning Methods

If you prefer not to use a washing machine, or if your pillows are not machine-washable, here are some alternative cleaning methods:

Hand Washing

* **Fill a Tub with Hot Water:** Fill a large tub or basin with hot water.
* **Add Cleaning Agents:** Add the same cleaning agents as you would for machine washing (laundry detergent, borax, baking soda, white vinegar, and optional hydrogen peroxide or laundry bluing).
* **Submerge Pillows:** Submerge the pillows in the water and gently agitate them to loosen dirt and stains.
* **Soak for Several Hours:** Let the pillows soak for several hours, or even overnight, to allow the cleaning agents to work.
* **Rinse Thoroughly:** Rinse the pillows thoroughly with clean water until all the cleaning agents are removed.
* **Gently Squeeze Out Excess Water:** Gently squeeze out the excess water from the pillows. Avoid twisting or wringing them, as this can damage the filling.
* **Dry Thoroughly:** Dry the pillows in the dryer on low heat, or air dry them outside on a sunny day.

Spot Cleaning

* **Mix a Cleaning Solution:** Mix a small amount of laundry detergent with water to create a cleaning solution.
* **Apply to Stains:** Apply the cleaning solution to the stained areas of the pillow using a clean cloth.
* **Gently Blot:** Gently blot the stained areas with the cloth until the stains are removed.
* **Rinse with Water:** Rinse the cleaned areas with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
* **Dry Thoroughly:** Dry the cleaned areas with a clean towel or hairdryer.

Tips for Preventing Pillow Yellowing

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips for preventing your pillows from yellowing in the first place:

* **Use Pillow Protectors:** Pillow protectors act as a barrier between your pillow and sweat, body oils, and other contaminants. Choose a waterproof or water-resistant pillow protector for maximum protection.
* **Wash Pillowcases Regularly:** Wash your pillowcases at least once a week to remove sweat, body oils, and dirt.
* **Shower Before Bed:** Showering before bed helps to remove sweat and body oils that can transfer to your pillow.
* **Remove Makeup Before Bed:** Always remove makeup before bed to prevent it from staining your pillow.
* **Avoid Sleeping with Wet Hair:** Sleeping with wet hair can promote mold and mildew growth inside your pillow.
* **Air Out Pillows Regularly:** Air out your pillows regularly to freshen them and prevent moisture buildup. You can do this by placing them outside in the sun for a few hours.
* **Wash Pillows Regularly:** Wash your pillows every few months to remove accumulated sweat, body oils, and dirt. Follow the washing instructions provided in this guide.
* **Replace Pillows Regularly:** Even with proper care, pillows will eventually wear out and become stained. Replace your pillows every one to two years to ensure optimal hygiene and support.

Dealing with Specific Types of Pillows

The cleaning methods described above are generally safe for most types of pillows. However, some pillows require special care. Here’s how to clean specific types of pillows:

* **Down and Feather Pillows:** Down and feather pillows can be washed in the washing machine, but they require special care to prevent clumping. Use a gentle cycle and dry them on low heat with dryer balls or tennis balls. Make sure they are completely dry before using them.
* **Memory Foam Pillows:** Memory foam pillows should not be washed in the washing machine, as this can damage the foam. Instead, spot clean them or hand wash them using a mild detergent. Allow them to air dry completely.
* **Polyester Pillows:** Polyester pillows are relatively easy to clean and can be washed in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Dry them on low heat with dryer balls or tennis balls.
* **Buckwheat Pillows:** Buckwheat pillows cannot be washed. To clean them, empty the buckwheat hulls into a clean container and air out the pillowcase. You can also vacuum the pillowcase to remove dust and dirt. Replace the buckwheat hulls every one to two years.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

* **Pillows Still Yellow:** If your pillows are still yellow after washing, try repeating the washing process with an extra dose of hydrogen peroxide or laundry bluing. You can also try soaking them in a solution of hot water and oxygen bleach overnight before washing them again.
* **Pillows Smell Musty:** If your pillows smell musty, this is likely due to mold or mildew growth. Wash them with hot water and a disinfectant laundry detergent. Make sure they are completely dry before using them.
* **Pillows are Lumpy:** If your pillows are lumpy after washing, try fluffing them vigorously by hand or in the dryer with dryer balls or tennis balls. You can also try placing them in the freezer for a few hours to help break up the clumps.

Conclusion

Whitening yellowed pillows is a simple and effective way to refresh your bedding and improve your sleep environment. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can restore your pillows to their former glory and enjoy a cleaner, more comfortable sleep. Remember to take preventive measures to keep your pillows from yellowing in the first place, and to replace them regularly for optimal hygiene and support. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your pillows looking and feeling their best for years to come.

By implementing these detailed instructions and tips, you can say goodbye to unsightly yellowed pillows and hello to a cleaner, fresher sleep experience. Regular maintenance and preventative measures are key to keeping your pillows in top condition and ensuring a healthy sleep environment. So, get started today and enjoy the comfort of bright, white pillows once again!