Here’s how to clean dirty bed pillows to leave them white and smelling sweet

Cleaning bed pillows regularly helps keep them white, fresh, and free of odors. Here’s a simple and effective method to restore your pillows to their original brightness and leave them smelling sweet.


What You’ll Need:

  • Mild liquid laundry detergent
  • 1/2 cup baking soda (for deodorizing)
  • 1 cup white vinegar (for removing stains and odors)
  • Optional: Essential oil (like lavender or eucalyptus) for a fresh scent
  • Washing machine (ideally a top-loader)
  • Dryer or a clothesline for air-drying

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Before cleaning, check your pillow’s care label for specific washing instructions. Most synthetic and down pillows are machine-washable, while memory foam pillows are best spot-cleaned as they may lose shape in the wash.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains

If there are visible stains, you can pre-treat them before washing:

  • Make a paste of baking soda and a little water. Apply it to stained areas and let it sit for about 30 minutes.
  • Gently scrub with a soft brush or cloth, then rinse with water.

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