Pillows can turn yellow for a number of reasons, with the most common being sweat. This can make them a hotspot for bacteria for thrive, including bed bugs.
Whilst throwing your pillow into the washing machine may seem simple, doing so can actually distort the shape of it and even ruin it. Instead, experts at Mary’s Kitchen Flour Sack Towels, recommended a 70p method. This includes using two household staple items, including baking soda and white vinegar.
Start by taking off any pillowcases and covers before sprinkling baking soda over the entire surface of the pillow.
Make sure both sides are covered. It may be worth stripping your bedding at the same time and cleaning the mattress too.
Mix some water and white vinegar in a 1:2 ratio in a spray bottle before spritzing the pillow.
Leave it to work for 30 minutes before taking a vacuum and removing the baking soda and any debris.
The pros noted: “If weather permits, you can place the pillows in the sun to air dry. Sunlight has natural disinfectant properties and can help eliminate lingering odours.
“Give the pillows a good fluffing and rotate them to ensure even cleaning and drying.”
The experts said: “While the prescence of bacteria on pillows may sound alarming, it’s important to remember that most of these bacteria are harmless.
“Some bacteria actually help to protect us from harmful pathogens. The recommended cleaning frequency for pillows varies based on their type. Synthetic pillows can generally be washed every three to six months, maintaining a routine regular cleaning.”
Down and feather pillows are best suited to dry cleaning every six to 12 months, whilst memory foam pillows should be spot-cleaned.