When was the last time you cleaned your pillow? If you’re like most people, it’s probably been a while. Pillows are one of those household items that often get overlooked, despite how frequently they’re used. Over time, it’s not uncommon for pillows to develop yellow stains, thanks to sweat, body oils, and dirt. Even regular washing doesn’t always make them look brand new, which might leave you wondering whether it’s worth the effort or if you should just buy new ones.

But don’t toss those pillows just yet! Jillee from the blog One Good Thing by Jillee has a simple, budget-friendly solution to restore your pillows to their former whiteness. Her cleaning method not only revives your pillows but also helps reduce waste, making it an eco-friendly choice that saves you money.

Why Do Pillows Turn Yellow?

As Jillee explains, yellowing is a natural occurrence. Your body releases sweat and oils during sleep, which gradually seep into the pillow’s fabric. This build-up is inevitable and leads to those unsightly yellowish stains. Additionally, dust and dirt accumulate over time, making your pillows less appealing. Even if you use pillow protectors, they can’t completely prevent the gradual discoloration.

The good news is that you can effectively clean yellowed pillows at home using a few common ingredients that you might already have in your laundry room. This process not only gets rid of the stains but also eliminates hidden dirt and allergens that could be affecting your sleep quality.

How to Clean Yellowed Pillows

Jillee’s cleaning method is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy products. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup of Borax
• 1 cup of powdered dishwashing detergent
• 1 cup of powdered laundry detergent
• 1 cup of bleach

These ingredients work together to break down tough stains and restore the pillow’s original whiteness. The best part? You can easily do this at home.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Yellowed Pillows

Here’s how to clean your pillows using Jillee’s method:

1. Prepare Your Washer: Start by placing your yellowed pillows into the washing machine. Ensure there’s enough room for the pillows to move around freely during the wash cycle. This will allow the cleaning solution to penetrate the fabric thoroughly.
2. Add Cleaning Ingredients: Add 1 cup each of Borax, powdered dishwashing detergent, powdered laundry detergent, and bleach directly into the washer. Set the water temperature to the hottest setting, as heat helps activate the cleaning agents for better stain removal.
3. Let the Pillows Soak: For optimal results, let the pillows soak in the hot water for at least 30 minutes. If your washing machine doesn’t have a soak option, you can use a large tub or even heat the water in a pot on the stove. Bring the water to a boil, add the cleaning ingredients, and stir until everything is dissolved. Then, pour the solution over the pillows to let them soak.
4. Run a Full Wash Cycle: After soaking, run a full wash cycle. This step will help remove not only the cleaning solution but also the loosened stains and accumulated dirt.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: It’s essential to rinse the pillows thoroughly to remove any leftover detergent or bleach. If necessary, repeat the rinse cycle to ensure no residue remains.
6. Dry and Fluff: Once clean, transfer the pillows to the dryer. Use a fluff or low-heat setting. To help the pillows maintain their shape and dry faster, add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls into the dryer. These will keep the pillows fluffy while preventing clumping.

Why This Method Works

The combination of Borax, powdered detergents, and bleach is a powerful stain remover. Borax helps to break down stubborn stains, while the detergents cut through oils and dirt, and the bleach restores the whiteness of the fabric. This cleaning method not only removes visible stains but also sanitizes the pillows, making them safer and more pleasant to sleep on.

Additionally, this approach is eco-friendly. By restoring your pillows instead of replacing them, you reduce waste and save money. Plus, freshly cleaned pillows are free from allergens and bacteria, potentially improving your sleep quality.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve noticed yellow stains on your pillows, don’t rush to buy new ones. Instead, give this cleaning method a try. It’s a simple, cost-effective solution that keeps your pillows looking and feeling fresh. The next time you see those yellow spots appear, you’ll know exactly what to do. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be making a sustainable choice that benefits both your home and the environment. So, before you decide to throw away your pillows, try this easy cleaning trick—you might be surprised by the results!