Over time, pillows can lose their bright appearance and start to look dull or yellow due to sweat, oils, dust, and dead skin cells. Even with pillowcases, the pillows themselves still absorb dirt and allergens. If your pillows are looking worse for wear, don’t toss them out just yet — you can bring them back to life with a deep clean.
This guide walks you through an effective method for washing and whitening pillows using common household cleaning products. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and can dramatically extend the life of your pillows while improving hygiene and sleep quality.
With the right technique, your pillows will look and feel fresh, fluffy, and clean again.
Why Should You Wash Your Pillows?
Many people wash pillowcases regularly but forget the pillows themselves need attention too. Over time, pillows accumulate:
- Body oils and sweat
- Dead skin cells
- Dust mites and allergens
- Bacteria and mildew
All of this not only makes pillows yellow and dingy but can also affect your health and sleep. Regular washing — at least 2 to 4 times a year — keeps pillows fresh, fluffy, and free of allergens.
Materials You’ll Need
To brighten your pillows and remove deep-seated dirt, you’ll need the following cleaning supplies:
Cleaning Ingredients
- Very hot water – Helps dissolve dirt and disinfects.
- 1 cup laundry detergent – Removes sweat, body oils, and grime.
- 1 cup powdered dishwasher detergent – Cuts through stubborn buildup and helps whiten fabric.
- 1 cup bleach – Whitens and disinfects (use with caution, especially on colored pillows).
- ½ cup Borax – Boosts cleaning power and helps lift stains.
Tools and Equipment
- Washing machine – Preferably top-loading, but front-loading works too with minor adjustments.
- Dryer or drying rack – For fluffing or air-drying pillows after washing.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Wash and Whiten Pillows
Prepare the Washing Machine
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Fill the washing machine about one-third full with hot water.
Use the hottest water your machine can handle. If needed, you can boil water and pour it in for an extra boost. -
Add all the cleaning agents:
- 1 cup laundry detergent
- 1 cup powdered dishwasher detergent
- 1 cup bleach
- ½ cup Borax
Let the machine agitate briefly to dissolve the ingredients.
Wash the Pillows
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Add your pillows.
Place two pillows in the washer to keep the machine balanced. Gently press them down into the water to fully saturate. -
Let the machine fill the rest of the way with hot water.
Allow it to agitate for a few minutes. If your machine has an agitator, you may want to pause mid-cycle and flip the pillows for even cleaning.
Rinse and Repeat
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Run two rinse cycles.
This is important to remove all soap and cleaning agents from the pillows. It also ensures that any lingering allergens or bleach residue are flushed out.
Drying the Pillows
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Dry thoroughly based on pillow type.
- Synthetic or down-alternative pillows can usually go in the dryer on a low heat setting. Add a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff them.
- Feather pillows may require air drying or very low tumble drying.
- Foam pillows should never go in the washer or dryer. Instead, spot clean and air dry.
How to Check If Your Pillows Are Machine Washable
Before you toss your pillows into the washer, check the care tag. Most down-alternative and synthetic pillows are machine washable. Memory foam or specialty pillows typically are not and should be spot cleaned or hand-washed instead.
If your pillows have no tag, a general rule is:
- Polyester and down-alternative: Machine washable
- Feather/down: Machine washable with extra care
- Memory foam: Spot clean only
Tips for Best Results
- Pre-soak stained pillows: If your pillows are extra dirty or yellowed, soak them in hot water with detergent for an hour before washing.
- Use a second rinse: Always run a second rinse cycle to remove any leftover soap or bleach.
- Balance the load: Wash two pillows at once to maintain balance in the washing machine.
- Fluff regularly: Between washes, fluff your pillows daily to keep them from going flat and to reduce buildup.
- Dry completely: Damp pillows can grow mold or mildew. Ensure they’re fully dry before putting them back on the bed.
How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?
For most households, washing pillows every 3–6 months is ideal. If someone in your home has allergies, sensitive skin, or gets night sweats, consider washing them more frequently.
In between deep cleans, use pillow protectors and wash pillowcases weekly.
Whitening Alternatives for Sensitive Users
If you prefer not to use bleach or want a more natural approach, try this whitening combo:
- 1 cup hydrogen peroxide
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 cup vinegar (add during rinse cycle)
This blend is gentler on fabrics and still helps brighten white pillows.
FAQs
Can all pillows be washed in a washing machine?
No, memory foam pillows and some specialty orthopedic pillows should not be machine washed. Always check the care tag before cleaning.
What if my washing machine doesn’t have hot water?
You can boil water on the stove and pour it into your washer (top-loader only) to increase the water temperature. Be careful not to scald yourself.
How do I dry my pillows properly?
Dry synthetic and feather pillows on a low heat setting with dryer balls. For foam or delicate pillows, air-dry them flat in a well-ventilated area, flipping them occasionally.
How do I get rid of a musty smell in pillows?
Musty smells are usually caused by bacteria or mildew. Wash the pillow using the method above and ensure it dries completely to prevent the smell from returning. Add a few drops of essential oil for a fresh scent.
Is it safe to use bleach on all pillows?
No. Only use bleach on white, machine-washable pillows. Avoid using it on colored or delicate fabric as it may cause damage or discoloration.
Can I wash throw pillows the same way?
No. Many decorative throw pillows have different materials or covers. Remove the cover (if possible) and wash it separately. Spot clean the insert or follow specific label instructions.
Final Thoughts
Washing and whitening your pillows doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can restore your pillows to their original fluffy, fresh condition. Not only does it improve their look and feel, but it also creates a healthier sleeping environment.