Pillows are essential for a good night’s sleep. But over time and with regular use, it’s common for them to develop an unappealing yellowish tint.
This discoloration is usually caused by a buildup of natural body oils, sweat, dust, and other residues. If you’ve been wondering how to restore your yellowed pillows to their original white, you’ve come to the right place.
The Main Causes of Yellow Stains on Pillows
Nighttime Sweating
Your body naturally sweats during the night—even if you don’t notice it. On average, a person can lose between 500 and 700 ml of sweat per night. That moisture gets absorbed into fabrics and, over time, leaves yellow stains.
Body Oils
Your skin constantly produces natural oils that transfer to your bedding. Unlike sweat, these oils are greasy and harder to remove. Over time, they soak into your pillow and contribute to yellowing.Saliva
If you tend to drool while sleeping, it can also speed up discoloration. Saliva contains enzymes that, when absorbed into fabric, can change its color.
Skincare Products and Makeup
Night creams, serums, and other skincare products applied before bed can also stain your pillow. Even after washing your face, residue may linger on your skin and transfer to the fabric overnight.
Below are three effective methods to make your pillows look like new again.
How to Whiten Yellowed Pillows and Keep Them Fresh and Clean
1. Lemon Soak Method
Lemon is well known for its natural whitening and disinfecting properties. For this method, you’ll need hot water and the juice of several lemons.
How to do it:
- Remove the pillowcase and place the pillow in a large container filled with hot water and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Let the pillow soak for about an hour.
- Gently scrub any stubborn stains with a soft-bristled brush.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let it air-dry, or use a blow dryer on a low heat setting.
2. White Vinegar and Baking Soda
Both white vinegar and baking soda are natural, powerful cleaning agents with excellent whitening abilities.
How to do it:
- Remove the pillowcase and place the pillow in your washing machine.
- Add ½ cup of white vinegar to the rinse compartment and ½ cup of baking soda to the detergent compartment.
- Wash the pillow on a gentle cycle using hot water.
- Once the cycle is complete, dry the pillow thoroughly—either outdoors in fresh air or in the dryer on a low heat setting.
3. Lemon and Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
Lemon and hydrogen peroxide are also great for removing tough stains and brightening fabric.
How to do it:
- Mix the juice of half a lemon with ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide in a bowl.
- Remove the pillowcase and spray the mixture directly onto the yellowed areas.
- Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
- Gently scrub with a soft brush.
- Rinse well with clean water and dry the pillow either in the open air or with a blow dryer on low heat.
Helpful Tips to Keep Pillows Clean and White
Now that you know how to whiten your yellowed pillows, here are a few tips to help you maintain them over time:
- Wash Pillows Regularly
It’s best to wash your pillows at least twice a year—or more frequently if needed. This removes buildup and keeps them smelling fresh. - Use Pillow Protectors or Cases
Pillowcases provide a barrier against sweat, oils, and dirt. Make sure to wash them regularly along with your pillows. - Dry Pillows Completely
After washing, ensure your pillows are completely dry before using them again. Leftover moisture can cause unpleasant odors and promote the growth of bacteria and mold. - Regular Maintenance
In between washes, vacuum your pillows to remove dust and mites. You can also air them outside occasionally to refresh them and reduce odors.
By following these tips and using the whitening methods outlined above, you can keep your pillows clean, fresh, and white—ready to give you a restful, healthy sleep. Proper care will extend the life of your pillows and improve your sleep quality. Enjoy cool, comfortable nights in your bed!