If your duvets and pillows have started to turn yellow, don’t worry, it’s quite normal. Over time, factors like dust mites or sweat can affect the quality of your bedding. But here’s the good news: it’s possible to make yellow pillows snowy white again with the right tricks. Let’s discover three simple and effective washing methods, along with some practical tips to always keep your linens clean.
Why Do Pillows Turn Yellow?
The main and most common reason for yellowing pillows is sweat. Each night, your pillow gradually absorbs sweat, causing it to turn yellow. But sweat is not the only culprit. Saliva and other bodily fluids also contribute to the discoloration. However, this isn’t just an aesthetic concern. The yellow stains are proof that bacteria and mites have made a home in your pillow, which can lead to asthma, allergies, or rhinitis.
Three Effective Methods to Wash Yellowed Pillows
1. Hot Water and Lemon
Lemon is a great natural whitener and disinfectant that can help you sleep comfortably. Here’s what you need to do:
- Boil 2.5 liters of water and add 6 cups of lemon juice.
- Soak the pillow in this lemon water for about 2 hours.
- Wash the pillow with soapy water to remove the stains.
- Rinse and dry the pillow.
2. White Vinegar and Baking Soda
A combination of white vinegar and baking soda can effectively lighten and soften the pillow’s fibers. Follow these steps:
- Fill a basin with hot water and add half a cup of white vinegar mixed with the same amount of baking soda.
- Soak the pillow in this solution for 1 hour.
- Run a normal wash cycle in the washing machine.
- Air dry the pillow.
3. Lemon and Hydrogen Peroxide
This treatment is ideal for whitening fabrics and removing stains. Here’s how you can do it:
- Prepare a bucket of hot water and add half a cup of lemon juice and double that amount of hydrogen peroxide.
- Place the pillow in the bucket and let it sit for an hour.
- Run a normal cycle in the washing machine to rinse the pillow.
- Let the pillow dry in the sun.
Practical Tips for Washing Pillows
To ensure optimal pillow washing, remember these tips:
- Always read the label and follow the care instructions to maintain the quality of your pillow.
- If you have a large-capacity washing machine, insert two pillows at once to keep the machine balanced.
- After washing, hang your pillows in the sun to benefit from UV rays, which promote fabric bleaching and help eradicate mites.
By following these methods and tips, you can bring back the snowy white appearance to your yellowed pillows. Enjoy a bright white pillow for a peaceful night’s sleep! And don’t forget to share these tips with your friends for their bedding woes.
