Easy Tips for Washing and Whitening Old Pillows

source: DAMRONG RATTANAPONG/Shutterstock

Pillows are often our best companions during a good night’s sleep, but over time, they can lose their freshness. If you’ve got old, yellowing pillows that are starting to look worse for wear, fear not! We’ll guide you through the simple yet effective process of washing and whitening old pillows. You’ll be amazed at how this can breathe new life into your trusty sleep buddies.

1. Assessing Your Pillows

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s essential to evaluate the condition of your pillows. Check for any lumps, tears, or worn-out spots. If your pillow is beyond repair, it might be time for a replacement. However, if it’s just dingy and yellow, you’re in luck.

2. Materials You’ll Need

To get started, gather the following materials:

  • Old pillows
  • Mild laundry detergent
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • A washing machine
  • A dryer
  • Tennis balls (optional)

3. Preparing Your Pillows

Remove the pillowcases and pillow protectors, if any. Shake your pillows to remove loose dirt and dust. This simple step will make the cleaning process more effective.

source: iStock

4. The Washing Process

Place two pillows in your washing machine to ensure they have enough room to move around. Use a mild detergent to prevent any harsh chemicals from damaging the pillow filling.

Select a gentle cycle with cold water, and add half a cup of baking soda to the mix. Baking soda works wonders to break down any lingering odors and stains. If you have front-loading machines, you can add a cup of white vinegar to the fabric softener dispenser. The white vinegar helps with stain removal and brightening.

5. Drying Your Pillows

After the wash cycle is complete, transfer the pillows to the dryer. If you want to fluff them up, you can add a couple of clean tennis balls. Use a low-heat setting to avoid damaging the pillow filling.

It’s crucial to ensure your pillows are completely dry to prevent mold growth. You might need to run an extra drying cycle if they’re not entirely dry after the first round.

source: YouTube / Rhapsody In Rooms

6. Whitening Old Pillows

To make your old pillows look as good as new, you can try a natural whitening technique. Mix equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Lightly spritz the pillow surface, and let it sit in the sun for a few hours. The sun’s natural bleaching power will help whiten your pillows.

7. Final Fluff and Comfort

Once your pillows are dry and beautifully white, give them a final fluff to restore their shape. Now, put them back in your favorite pillowcases and enjoy your revitalized pillows.

Reviving old pillows is a simple and cost-effective way to extend their lifespan and improve your sleep quality. By following these easy steps and using natural cleaning methods, you’ll have clean, white, and comfy pillows that are ready to provide you with a cozy night’s sleep.

So, there you have it – a guide to washing and whitening old pillows. Say goodbye to those dingy pillows and hello to a better night’s sleep!