How to Get Pillows White Again: Simple Tips and Tricks

Pillows are an essential part of any comfortable bed, and they can quickly become yellow and dingy over time. This discoloration can be caused by sweat, drool, and other bodily fluids that seep into the fabric.

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While it’s tempting to throw out the stained pillows and buy new ones, this can be expensive and wasteful. Fortunately, there are many ways to get pillows white again and extend their lifespan.

One of the most effective ways to whiten pillows is by using bleach. However, not all pillows can be bleached, so it’s essential to check the care label before attempting this method.

If the pillow can be bleached, it’s best to use a non-chlorine bleach, as this is gentler on the fabric. Another option is to use hydrogen peroxide, which is a natural whitener that can be mixed with water and applied to the pillow.

Understanding Pillow Discoloration

Pillows are an essential part of a good night’s sleep, but over time they can become discolored. Understanding the causes of pillow discoloration can help you prevent it from happening and keep your pillows looking fresh and clean.

Causes of Yellow Stains

Yellow stains on pillows can be caused by a variety of factors, including sweat, drool, body oils, makeup, hair products, skin cells, dust mites, and bed bugs.

Sweat and drool can leave behind salt and other minerals that can cause yellowing. Body oils and makeup can also leave behind residue that can discolor pillows over time. Hair products, such as hairspray, can cause yellow stains as well.

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Dust mites and bed bugs can also contribute to yellowing pillows. These tiny pests feed on dead skin cells and can leave behind waste that can cause discoloration. In addition, if you have yellow pillows, it could be a sign that they are infested with dust mites or bed bugs.

Types of Pillows and Their Care

Different types of pillows require different care to prevent discoloration. For example, down pillows should be fluffed daily to prevent clumping and should be washed every 6-12 months. Synthetic pillows can be washed more frequently, every 3-6 months.

To prevent yellowing, it’s important to use pillow protectors and pillowcases that can be washed regularly. Pillow protectors can also help prevent dust mites and bed bugs from infesting your pillows.

Pre-Treatment Tips for Whiter Pillows

When it comes to keeping pillows white, prevention is key. By taking some simple pre-treatment steps, you can avoid stains and discoloration before they even happen.

Spot Cleaning Stains

If you notice a stain on your pillow, it’s important to act fast. The longer a stain sits, the harder it will be to remove. Use a laundry pretreatment stain remover and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to treat the stain.

For tough stains, make a baking soda paste by mixing baking soda with water and applying it to the stain with a toothbrush. Let the paste sit for 30 minutes before washing.

Using Pillow Protectors

One of the best ways to prevent stains and discoloration on your pillows is to use pillow protectors. Zippered pillow protectors provide a protective cover for your pillow, keeping it clean and fresh.

Not only do they help keep your pillows white, but they also extend the life of your pillows by protecting them from sweat, oil, and other common causes of wear and tear.

Before using a pillow protector, make sure your pillow is clean and dry. Inspect the protector regularly for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it as needed.

By following these pre-treatment tips, you can keep your pillows looking white and fresh for longer. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy a good night’s sleep on clean, comfortable pillows every night.

Washing Pillows for Whiteness

Pillows are an essential part of our bedding, and they can be a breeding ground for bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens. Over time, pillows can become discolored and lose their whiteness.

Fortunately, there are several ways to wash them and restore their original color. In this section, we will discuss two methods for washing pillows for whiteness: machine washing and hand washing.

Machine Washing Techniques

Machine washing is a convenient and effective way to clean pillows. However, it is essential to follow the care label instructions to prevent damage to the pillows. Here are some tips for machine washing pillows for whiteness:

Use hot water: Hot water is effective in killing bacteria and dust mites. However, check the care label to ensure that the pillow can be washed in hot water.
Use laundry detergent: Use a mild detergent that is suitable for the type of pillow you are washing. For example, use a detergent that is safe for memory foam pillows.
Add bleach or oxygen bleach: Adding bleach or oxygen bleach can help whiten the pillows. However, be careful not to use too much, as it can damage the fabric. Follow the instructions on the bleach bottle.
Add borax: Borax is a natural laundry booster that can help whiten and brighten pillows. Add ½ cup of borax to the wash cycle.

Hand Washing Methods

Hand washing is a gentle way to clean pillows, and it is suitable for delicate pillows such as down and feather pillows. Here are some tips for hand washing pillows for whiteness:

Use warm water: Use warm water to avoid damaging the fabric. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage delicate pillows.
Use a mild detergent: Use a mild detergent that is suitable for the type of pillow you are washing. For example, use a detergent that is safe for down pillows.
Add hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is a natural whitener that can help whiten pillows. Add ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide to the water.
Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the pillows thoroughly to remove all the soap. Squeeze out the excess water, but do not wring the pillows.

In conclusion, washing pillows for whiteness is easy and can be done using a washing machine or by hand. By following the tips mentioned above, you can restore your pillows to their original color and keep them clean and fresh.

Natural Whitening Solutions

If you’re looking for a natural way to whiten your pillows, there are a few solutions that you can try. Here are two of the most effective methods:

Vinegar and Baking Soda

White vinegar and baking soda are two common household items that can be used to whiten pillows. To use this method, simply follow these steps:

Mix 1/2 cup of white vinegar and 1/2 cup of baking soda in a large bowl or sink.
Place your pillow in the mixture and let it soak for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the pillow and rinse it thoroughly with water.
Place the pillow in the dryer on low heat or hang it outside to dry in the sunlight.

This method is effective because the vinegar helps to break down any stains or discolorations on the pillow, while the baking soda helps to absorb any odors.

Sunlight and Fresh Air

Another natural way to whiten pillows is to expose them to sunlight and fresh air. Follow these steps to use this method:

Remove the pillowcase from your pillow and place the pillow outside in the sunlight.
Let the pillow sit in the sun for a few hours, flipping it over every hour or so to ensure that both sides are exposed to the sunlight.
After a few hours, bring the pillow back inside and let it air out for a few more hours before putting the pillowcase back on.

This method is effective because the sunlight helps to naturally bleach any stains or discolorations on the pillow, while the fresh air helps to remove any odors.

Using these natural whitening solutions, you can keep your pillows looking clean and fresh without the use of harsh chemicals like bleach.

Drying and Maintaining White Pillows

Keeping your pillows white is not just about washing them properly; it’s also about how you dry and maintain them. Here are some tips to help you keep your pillows looking their best:

Proper Drying Techniques

After washing your pillows, it’s important to dry them properly to avoid any damage or discoloration. Here are some techniques to help you get the best results:

Use dryer balls or wool dryer balls instead of tennis balls to fluff your pillows. Tennis balls can release chemicals that can damage your pillows and cause discoloration.
Dry your pillows on low heat to avoid damaging the filling. High heat can cause the filling to clump together and lose its shape.
Add a clean, dry towel to the dryer to help absorb moisture and speed up the drying process.
Fluff your pillows every 20-30 minutes to help them dry evenly and prevent clumping.

Long-Term Pillow Care

Proper care can help extend the life of your pillows and keep them looking and feeling great. Here are some tips to help you care for your pillows:

Use pillowcases to protect your pillows from moisture, wet hair, and oils that can cause discoloration and odors.
Store your pillows in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture and bacteria buildup. A breathable storage bin or pillow cover can help protect your pillows from dust and dirt.
Follow the care instructions on your pillow to avoid damaging the filling or cover.
Use linen spray to freshen up your pillows between washes and keep them smelling clean and fresh.

By following these tips, you can help keep your pillows white and looking their best for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to remove yellow stains from pillow cases?

Yellow stains on pillowcases can be removed by soaking them in a mixture of hot water and laundry detergent for at least 30 minutes before washing them in the washing machine. Adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle can also help to remove stubborn stains.

Can you use baking soda to clean discolored pillows?

Yes, baking soda can be used to clean discolored pillows. Simply sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the pillow and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before vacuuming it off. For best results, repeat the process several times.

Is vinegar effective for whitening yellowed pillows?

Yes, vinegar can be effective for whitening yellowed pillows. Add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle when washing your pillows to help remove yellow stains and brighten the fabric.

What tips are there for whitening pillows in a front-loading washing machine?

To whiten pillows in a front-loading washing machine, add a cup of bleach or oxygen-based bleach to the wash cycle along with your regular laundry detergent. Use hot water and a gentle cycle, and avoid overloading the machine to ensure that the pillows are properly cleaned and whitened.

How can borax be used to make pillows white again?

Borax can be used to make pillows white again by adding a cup of borax to the wash cycle when washing your pillows. This will help to remove stains and brighten the fabric.

Are there any household hacks for washing and whitening dingy pillows?

One household hack for washing and whitening dingy pillows is to add a cup of lemon juice to the wash cycle. The citric acid in the lemon juice can help to break down stains and brighten the fabric.

Another hack is to use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to create a paste, which can be applied to stains before washing.

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