Yellow, stained pillows don’t have to be thrown away. With the right technique, you can often restore them to a fresh, clean, and sweet-smelling state. The yellowing is typically caused by a combination of body sweat, oils, and dead skin cells, which create a perfect environment for dust mites and bacteria.
While pillowcases are essential, they aren’t a foolproof barrier. Washing your pillows every three to six months is key to maintaining a hygienic sleep environment and extending their life.
Step 1: Check the Care Label
This is the most important step. Look for a tag with washing instructions. Symbols to look for include:
A tub of water: Machine washable.
A circle: Dry clean only.
A triangle with an « X »: Do not bleach.
An iron with an « X »: Do not iron.
Pro Tip: Most synthetic (polyester) and down-filled pillows are machine washable. Memory foam, latex, or feather pillows with a « dry clean only » tag should not be submerged in water.
