How to Clean Dirty Pillows
1. Check the Care Label
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Before anything, check the pillow’s label for washing instructions.
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Most down, feather, cotton, or synthetic pillows can be machine-washed; memory foam usually cannot be fully submerged in water.
2. Pre-Treat Stains
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Spot-clean any visible stains with:
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A mixture of mild detergent + water
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Baking soda paste (1 tbsp baking soda + 1 tsp water) for tough spots
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Let it sit 15–20 minutes, then gently rub and rinse.
3. Machine Wash (For Most Pillows)
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Wash 2 pillows at a time for balance.
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Use warm water and gentle cycle.
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Add 1/2 cup baking soda to the wash for extra whiteness and odor removal.
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Optional: Add a few drops of essential oil (like lavender) to make them smell fresh.
4. Extra Whitening (Optional)
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For very dingy pillows, add 1/2 cup white vinegar during the rinse cycle.
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This brightens whites and removes odors naturally.
5. Dry Pillows Thoroughly
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Tumble dry on low heat, adding 2–3 clean tennis balls or dryer balls to fluff the pillows.
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Make sure pillows are completely dry to prevent mildew.
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You can also air dry in the sun—sunlight naturally kills bacteria and freshens the pillow.
6. Maintain Freshness
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Use pillow protectors under pillowcases.
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Wash pillows every 3–6 months.
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Fluff pillows daily to prevent them from becoming flat or musty.
✨ Pro Tips:
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Baking soda and vinegar are natural deodorizers and whitening agents.
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Never overload the washer—pillows need room to get fully clean.
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Memory foam pillows: spot clean only, or place in a mesh bag with warm water and mild detergent, then air dry completely.
If you want, I can also make a quick “natural DIY pillow deodorizer” that keeps pillows smelling sweet between washes.
Do you want me to make that?
