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Here’s how to clean dirty bed pillows to leave them white and smelling sweet.
> ✅ This method is safe for most **down, feather, and synthetic fiber pillows.** Always check your pillow’s care label before washing.
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## 🌀 Step-by-Step Instructions
### 1. **Pre-Soak the Pillows** *(Optional but recommended for heavy stains)*
Fill your bathtub or a large basin with hot water. Dissolve the detergent, washing soda, and baking soda in the water. Add the pillows and let them soak for **30–60 minutes**.
### 2. **Load the Washing Machine**
Place two pillows in the machine to balance the load (top or front loader). Add your cleaning mix:
* 1 cup detergent
* 1 cup washing soda
* ½ cup baking soda
* 1 cup white vinegar
* Optional: 5–10 drops essential oil
Use the **hottest water temperature** allowed by your pillow’s care label and set it to a **gentle or bulky cycle**.
### 3. **Rinse Thoroughly**
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If your washer allows, run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all the detergent and residues are removed.
### 4. **Dry Completely**
Dry pillows on **low heat** with a few **clean tennis balls or dryer balls** tossed in to maintain fluffiness. Make sure the pillows are **completely dry** to avoid mold or mildew growth.
> 🌞 For an extra fresh feel, let them finish drying in the **sun**—sunlight is a natural brightener and odor eliminator.
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## 🧴 Bonus Tip: Deodorizing Between Washes
To keep pillows smelling fresh between deep cleans:
* Sprinkle a light layer of **baking soda** on your pillow
* Let it sit for 30 minutes
* Vacuum off with an upholstery attachment
This helps absorb moisture, oils, and odors in between washes.
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## Final Thoughts
Pillows are where we rest our heads every night—so they deserve the same attention we give our sheets and mattress. With just a few household ingredients, you can **bring old, dingy pillows back to bright white** and leave them **smelling fresh and clean**.
No harsh chemicals, no dry cleaning bills—just a simple, satisfying refresh for better sleep and better hygiene.
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Want printable cleaning checklists or tips for memory foam or decorative pillows? Just let me know!
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