Here’s How to Clean Dirty Bed Pillows to Leave Them White and Smelling Fresh
Over time, pillows collect sweat, body oils, dust, skin cells, and odors. Even with clean pillowcases, the pillow itself can become yellowed and musty. A proper wash and refresh routine can help restore freshness and extend the life of your pillows.
What You’ll Need
- Laundry detergent
- Baking soda
- White vinegar (optional)
- Clean towels
- Dryer balls or clean tennis balls (optional)
Step 1: Check the Pillow Care Label
Before washing, check the label. Many cotton, polyester, and down pillows can be washed, but some memory foam and specialty pillows should not go in the washing machine.
Step 2: Remove Pillowcases and Covers
Wash pillowcases and protective covers separately using your normal laundry routine. This prevents oils and dirt from transferring back onto the clean pillow.
Step 3: Wash the Pillows
For machine-washable pillows:
- Place two pillows in the washing machine to keep the load balanced.
- Use warm water (or the temperature recommended on the care label).
- Add your usual detergent.
- Add ½ cup of baking soda to help neutralize odors and brighten fabric.
- Use an extra rinse cycle to remove leftover detergent.
Optional: Add a small amount of white vinegar during the rinse cycle to help reduce odors and detergent buildup. Do not mix vinegar directly with bleach.
Step 4: Dry Thoroughly
Drying completely is important because damp pillows can develop a musty smell.
- Use a low or medium heat setting if allowed.
- Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help fluff the filling.
- Pause occasionally to remove pillows and break up clumps.
- Make sure the inside is completely dry before use.
Step 5: Fluff and Freshen
Once dry:
- Shake and fluff the pillow.
- Let it air out in a well-ventilated area.
- Use a clean pillow protector to reduce future buildup.
