5 Best Ways to Clean Yellowed Pillows and Make Them Feel Fresh Again

Over time, pillows can develop yellow stains from sweat, body oils, moisture, and everyday use. Even when the pillowcase looks clean, these deposits can gradually build up inside the pillow.

The good news is that many washable pillows can be refreshed at home with a few simple household ingredients. Before starting, always check the pillow’s care label to make sure it is machine washable and suitable for the cleaning method you choose.

1. Baking Soda and White Vinegar Wash

This is one of the simplest methods for refreshing washable pillows and reducing unpleasant odors.

You’ll need:

• ½ cup baking soda
• ½ cup white vinegar
• Your usual laundry detergent
• Warm or hot water, according to the care label

Step by step:

1. Remove the pillowcase and any protective cover.
2. Check the care label for washing instructions.
3. Place two washable pillows in the washing machine if possible. Washing two together helps keep the load balanced.
4. Add your normal amount of laundry detergent.
5. Add ½ cup of baking soda to the wash.
6. Run the washing machine using the warmest water recommended for the pillow.
7. During the rinse cycle, add ½ cup of white vinegar to the fabric-softener compartment.
8. Run an additional rinse cycle if your machine allows it.
9. Remove the pillows immediately after washing.
10. Dry them completely before using them again.

Important: Never mix vinegar with chlorine bleach. If you use bleach in another cleaning method, do not add vinegar to the same wash.

---

2. Oxygen Bleach for Stubborn Yellowing

For heavily yellowed white pillows, an oxygen-based laundry whitener can be a useful option. It is generally a better choice for fabrics than trying to use harsh chlorine bleach.

You’ll need:

• Oxygen bleach/laundry whitener
• Regular laundry detergent
• Warm water

Step by step:

1. Read the pillow’s care label.
2. Fill a basin or bathtub with warm water.
3. Add the oxygen bleach according to the product’s package directions.
4. Submerge the pillow completely.
5. Allow it to soak for the time recommended on the product label.
6. Gently agitate the pillow occasionally.
7. Drain the water.
8. Rinse the pillow thoroughly with clean water.
9. Wash it in the washing machine with regular detergent.
10. Run an extra rinse cycle to remove remaining cleaning solution.
11. Dry completely.

This method can be particularly helpful when yellowing has accumulated over months or years.

---

3. Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda Treatment

A combination of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can help tackle discoloration and odors on white, washable fabric.

You’ll need:

• ½ cup baking soda
• ½ cup 3% hydrogen peroxide
• Laundry detergent
• Warm water

Step by step:

1. Mix the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a loose paste.
2. Test a small, inconspicuous area first.
3. Apply a small amount to particularly yellow areas.
4. Let it sit for approximately 15–30 minutes.
5. Gently rub the area with a soft brush or cloth.
6. Wash the pillow according to its care label.
7. Use an extra rinse cycle if necessary.
8. Dry thoroughly.

Do not use this method on delicate or colored materials without first checking the manufacturer’s instructions. Never mix hydrogen peroxide with chlorine bleach or other cleaning chemicals.

---

4. Deep-Soak Method for Very Dirty Pillows

If the pillow has significant sweat and oil buildup, a longer soak before washing can help loosen the deposits.

You’ll need:

• Warm water
• Laundry detergent
• Oxygen-based laundry whitener, if the care label permits
• A bathtub or large basin

Step by step:

1. Fill a clean bathtub or basin with warm water.
2. Add laundry detergent according to the product directions.
3. Add oxygen bleach if appropriate for the pillow.
4. Place the pillow in the water.
5. Press it gently under the water so the filling becomes saturated.
6. Let it soak according to the oxygen-bleach product instructions.
7. Gently squeeze the pillow several times to help release dirt and body oils.
8. Drain the dirty water.
9. Rinse repeatedly until the water runs clear and there is no noticeable detergent residue.
10. Wash the pillow in the washing machine if the care label allows.
11. Dry it completely.

Avoid aggressively twisting or wringing the pillow because this can damage the filling and distort its shape.

---

5. Sun-Drying and Fresh-Air Refresh

Sometimes pillows don’t need an aggressive chemical treatment. Regular airing and proper drying can help keep them fresher between deep washes.

Step by step:

1. Wash the pillow according to its care instructions.
2. Remove as much excess water as possible without twisting it.
3. Place the pillow in a well-ventilated area.
4. If the care label permits outdoor drying, place it in indirect or moderate sunlight.
5. Turn the pillow periodically so both sides dry evenly.
6. Fluff the pillow several times while drying.
7. Make absolutely sure the inside is completely dry before putting it back on the bed.

Never put a damp pillow back into a pillowcase. Moisture trapped inside can contribute to musty odors and unwanted microbial growth.

How to Prevent Pillows From Turning Yellow

Cleaning is only part of the solution. Prevention can significantly reduce future staining.

• Use a washable pillow protector underneath your pillowcase.
• Wash pillowcases regularly.
• Wash pillows according to their care instructions.
• Allow pillows to air out occasionally.
• Avoid sleeping on a pillow while your hair is very wet.
• Make sure pillows are completely dry after washing.
• Replace pillows when the filling has permanently deteriorated or they can no longer be adequately cleaned.

A Few Important Precautions

Not every pillow should be treated the same way. Memory foam, latex, silk, wool, and other specialty pillows may require different cleaning methods and may not be machine washable. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions first.

Also, avoid combining household cleaning chemicals. In particular, never mix chlorine bleach with vinegar, ammonia, or other acidic cleaners, as dangerous fumes can result.

With the right washing method, thorough rinsing, and complete drying, many washable pillows can look noticeably brighter, smell fresher, and feel much cleaner again.

See more on the next page