Pillows can become yellowed over time due to a variety of factors. One common cause of yellowing is the accumulation of dirt, sweat, and oils from the skin and hair. Pillows that are not washed regularly can become yellowed as a result of this build-up.
Another cause of yellowing can be the use of certain hair care products, such as leave-in conditioners or styling sprays, which can leave a residue on the pillow.
Pillows can also yellow due to exposure to sunlight or other sources of UV light. Over time, the light can bleach the fibers of the pillow, causing it to become yellowed.
Finally, some pillows are made with materials that are prone to yellowing over time, such as polyester or nylon. These materials can become discolored due to a chemical reaction with the oils in the skin or with other substances in the environment.
Fortunately, recovering yellowed pillows is easier than you think, and we list the most effective solutions below.
Regular Pillows
To recover regular pillows simply machine wash them. You need:
-200 ml of laundry detergent
-80 grams of powdered dishwasher detergent
-100 ml bleach (or a similar effective alternative)
-50 grams of borax
Soak the pillows in warm water for 30 minutes, then add all the ingredients listed above and more hot water. Let the pillows soak for 30 minutes, then wash them normally in the washing machine.
Delicate pillows
Usually, this type of pillow cannot be washed in the washing machine. In this case, take advantage of warm weather to expose the pillow to sunlight to lighten it, then apply a little vinegar to a toothbrush to treat the stains directly.
You can also add a little baking soda to eliminate odors and absorb moisture.
Microfiber and memory foam pillows
This type of pillow should not be put in the washing machine either. In this case, you can soak the pillow in a solution of warm water and very little laundry detergent.
It is important to let the pillows dry thoroughly before using them again. Make sure they are put to dry in a well ventilated area.
Although it is very easy to hide and forget the problem by using pillowcases, this is obviously not the best solution. Over time, the pillow can begin to emit an unpleasant odor and harbor germs that are harmful to your health.
Remember to follow the care instructions on your pillows and be sure not to use any harsh chemicals as these can damage the fabric. It may take a few attempts to fully remove the yellowing, but with patience and persistence, you should be able to recover your pillows.
