If you haven’t cleaned your pillows in a while, you’re not alone. It’s one of those chores that many of us tend to overlook. However, over time, pillows can develop unsightly yellow stains caused by sweat, body oils, and dirt. Even after a regular wash, they often still look dingy, leading many people to toss them out and buy new ones. But before you rush to the store, there’s an easy trick that can restore your pillows to their original whiteness.

Jillee from the blog One Good Thing by Jillee has shared a simple cleaning method that can effectively remove yellow stains from your pillows. Her technique not only helps you save money by extending the life of your pillows, but it’s also an eco-friendly alternative to replacing them. Plus, it’s a satisfying way to keep your pillows fresh and clean, improving both their appearance and your sleep quality.

Why Do Pillows Turn Yellow?

It’s common for pillows to turn yellow over time. As Jillee explains, the main culprits are sweat, body oils, and dust that accumulate while you sleep. Your body naturally releases moisture and oils, which seep into the pillow fabric, creating a yellowish tint. Even regular pillowcases can’t fully protect against this build-up. In addition, dust and other particles settle on your pillows, making them less appealing and potentially impacting your sleep quality. Fortunately, these stains can be removed with a little effort and the right ingredients.

How to Restore Yellowed Pillows

Jillee’s cleaning method uses basic household ingredients to break down stains and whiten pillows. You won’t need any specialized products, just a few simple items you might already have in your home:

• 1 cup of Borax
• 1 cup of powdered dishwashing detergent
• 1 cup of powdered laundry detergent
• 1 cup of bleach

This combination is powerful enough to tackle tough stains and remove built-up dirt, making your pillows look nearly new again.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Yellowed Pillows

Here’s how to clean your pillows using Jillee’s tried-and-true method:

1. Prepare Your Washing Machine: Start by placing your stained pillows in the washing machine. Make sure there’s enough room for them to move around freely during the wash cycle, allowing for thorough cleaning.
2. Add the Cleaning Ingredients: Next, add the Borax, powdered dishwashing detergent, laundry detergent, and bleach to the washer. Set the machine to the hottest water setting available, as the heat will help activate the cleaning solution more effectively.
3. Let the Pillows Soak: For best results, let the pillows soak in the hot water for at least 30 minutes. If your washer doesn’t have a soak setting, you can use a large tub or even a pot on the stove. For the stovetop method, heat the water to a boil before adding the cleaning ingredients, ensuring they dissolve completely before pouring the solution over the pillows.
4. Run a Full Wash Cycle: After soaking, run the washer on a full cycle. This helps to remove both the cleaning solution and the loosened stains, leaving your pillows much cleaner.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: It’s crucial to rinse the pillows thoroughly to remove any remaining detergent or bleach. If needed, repeat the rinse cycle to ensure all residues are gone.
6. Dry and Fluff: Once the wash cycle is complete, transfer the pillows to the dryer. Use a low heat or fluff setting to dry them. To help maintain their shape, toss in a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls. This also speeds up the drying process and keeps the pillows fluffy.

Why This Method Is Effective

The combination of Borax, powdered detergents, and bleach is what makes this cleaning method so powerful. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: Borax breaks down tough stains, dishwashing detergent cuts through grease and oils, and bleach restores the original whiteness. Together, they not only remove visible stains but also sanitize the pillows, making them safer and more comfortable for sleeping.

In addition to being cost-effective, this cleaning approach is better for the environment. By reviving your old pillows, you reduce waste and avoid unnecessary purchases. Plus, clean pillows can improve your overall sleep quality, as they’ll be free from hidden dirt, allergens, and odors.

Final Thoughts

Don’t be quick to throw away yellowed pillows. With this easy cleaning method, you can restore them to their original brightness without spending money on new ones. This trick not only extends the life of your pillows but also keeps your home greener by reducing waste. The next time you notice those pesky yellow stains, remember that you have a solution that’s simple, effective, and good for the environment. So, grab those ingredients and give your pillows the deep clean they deserve