When was the last time you cleaned your pillow? If you’re like most people, it probably hasn’t happened in a while. It’s one of those chores that often slips through the cracks. Yet, over time, pillows can turn yellow from sweat, body oils, and dirt. Even after washing, they sometimes don’t look much better, making you wonder if it’s worth the effort or if you should just buy new ones.

However, you don’t need to throw away your pillows just because of some yellow stains. Jillee from the blog One Good Thing by Jillee offers a handy solution to restore those pillows to their former white glory without having to spend money on replacements. Her method not only saves you money but also helps reduce waste.

Why Do Pillows Turn Yellow?

As Jillee explains, it’s normal for pillows to become discolored over time. Your body naturally releases sweat and oils while you sleep, which seep into your pillow. This build-up is inevitable and often leads to that yellowish tint. Additionally, dust and other particles accumulate, making your pillows less appealing.

But here’s the good news: you can clean them up effectively at home using a few basic ingredients you likely already have. This process isn’t just about getting rid of the stains but also about removing hidden dirt and allergens that could affect your sleep quality.

How to Clean Your Yellowed Pillows

Jillee’s method is simple and doesn’t require any special products. Here’s what you 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 the stains and restore the pillow’s original whiteness. The best part? You can do it all at home.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

1. Prepare Your Washer: Place the stained pillows into your washing machine. Make sure there’s enough room for them to move around freely for a thorough wash.
2. Add Cleaning Ingredients: Combine the Borax, dishwashing detergent, laundry detergent, and bleach in the washer. Use the hottest water setting to allow the cleaning solution to work more effectively.
3. Let Them Soak: For optimal results, let the pillows soak in the hot water for at least 30 minutes. If your washer doesn’t have a soak option, you can use a large tub or even a pot on your stove. If you use the stovetop method, heat the water to a boil, then add the cleaning ingredients. Make sure everything dissolves before you pour the solution over the pillows.
4. Run the Wash Cycle: After soaking, run the washer through a full cycle. This helps remove the cleaning solution along with the dirt and stains that have loosened up.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: It’s essential to rinse the pillows thoroughly to get rid of any remaining detergent or bleach. You can repeat the rinse cycle if necessary.
6. Dry and Fluff: Once clean, toss the pillows into the dryer on a fluff or low heat setting. You can add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help maintain the pillows’ shape and speed up the drying process.

Why This Method Works

The combination of Borax, powdered detergents, and bleach is powerful enough to break down tough stains while also sanitizing your pillows. It’s an eco-friendly alternative to buying new ones, which saves money and reduces waste. Plus, freshly cleaned pillows can improve your sleep quality, as they’ll be free from dirt and allergens.

Final Thoughts

Instead of tossing out yellowed pillows, give this cleaning method a try. Not only is it cost-effective, but it’s also better for the environment. The next time you see your pillows turning yellow, you’ll know exactly what to do!