Adding plain white vinegar to the washing machine can restore stained, sweaty pillows to a clean, white, stain-free state, according to organisation expert Carrie Higgins. The high acidity of vinegar breaks down organic stains such as sweat and oils, and it also has antibacterial and deodorising properties.
Why pillows get stained
As summer draws to a close, pillows are particularly prone to discolouration and staining due to increased perspiration. Carrie Higgins, author of Organisation Hacks and founder of Making Lemonade, highlighted pillows as a breeding ground for bacteria and even mould.
She said: "I won’t go into too much detail, but needless to say, pillows are hotbeds of junk collected in the six to eight hours you spend on them every day. Body oils, hair product residue, sweat, drool, dust mites, exfoliated skin… clean ‘dat pillow!"
How to wash pillows with vinegar
First, check the care label to confirm the pillow is suitable for machine washing, as certain materials, such as memory foam, require alternative cleaning methods. Pop your pillows into the washing machine, being careful not to cram it full. Experts suggest tackling two pillows per wash for best results.
Pour 250ml of white vinegar into the machine's fabric softener compartment, followed by your usual detergent. Carrie opts for All Free and Clear laundry detergent liquid, which comes without scents, perfumes or dyes. Select the highest water temperature that's safe according to the pillow's care label and set the machine to a gentle cycle.
Drying pillows after washing
Once the wash is complete, run a spin cycle to eliminate any lingering moisture. Transfer the pillows to a tumble dryer on a low-heat setting and toss in some wool dryer balls to restore fluffiness. Alternatively, hanging them outdoors is brilliant as natural sunlight can help brighten fabrics while breaking down stubborn stains.
Ensure pillows are bone dry before putting them back on the bed to avoid mould growth or unpleasant odours. Carrie said: "As dirty and drooly as my pillows were, I didn't need to run ANY of them through a second time, the vinegar...worked like magic!" She added: "Now your pillows will be gorgeous and ready to show off!"
