Here’s how to clean dirty bed pillows to leave them white and smelling sweet.

### Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Pillows

#### Step 1: Check the Care Label
Before cleaning, check the care instructions on your pillow’s tag. Some pillows, like memory foam or specialty pillows, may need special care and should not be washed in a machine. However, most standard pillows made of synthetic fiber, cotton, or down are machine washable.

If your pillow can’t go in the washing machine, you can spot clean or follow alternative cleaning methods outlined later.

#### Step 2: Prep the Pillows
Before washing, inspect your pillows for any major stains or dirt that may need extra attention. Lightly scrub any visible stains with a sponge or brush, using a small amount of mild detergent. You can also sprinkle a little baking soda on the stain, let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then gently scrub it away.

#### Step 3: Washing in the Machine
For machine-washable pillows, the washing process is simple and effective.

– **Load the pillows**: Place two pillows in the washing machine to balance the load. Avoid washing just one pillow, as it can lead to an unbalanced load that’s difficult to rinse and dry.
– **Add detergent**: Use a small amount of mild detergent, or if you want to brighten the pillows naturally, add a scoop of oxygen bleach (like OxiClean) along with your detergent.
– **Baking soda boost**: To help with odors and freshen the pillows, add half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle.
– **Use warm water**: Wash the pillows on a gentle or delicate cycle with warm water. Hot water can break down the fibers of the pillow, so warm is the ideal temperature.

#### Step 4: Rinsing
It’s important to make sure all detergent and baking soda residue is fully rinsed out. If your machine has a second rinse option, use it to ensure your pillows are free from any leftover soap.

#### Step 5: Drying the Pillows
Proper drying is just as important as washing when it comes to getting your pillows back to their fluffy and fresh state.

– **Dry in the dryer**: Place your pillows in the dryer on a low or medium heat setting. Add a few clean towels to help evenly distribute the pillows and create air circulation, which aids in fluffing them. Tossing in dryer balls or clean tennis balls can also help break up clumps and maintain the pillow’s fluffiness.
– **Check frequently**: Drying can take a while—up to an hour or more. Periodically check the pillows to ensure they’re drying evenly. If you notice damp spots, let them dry for additional cycles.

If you prefer air-drying, lay the pillows flat on a dry surface or hang them out in a well-ventilated area. Just make sure they dry thoroughly to prevent mold growth.

#### Step 6: Add a Sweet Scent
Once your pillows are clean and dry, you can add a fresh fragrance to them by lightly misting them with a mix of water and a few drops of essential oils (such as lavender or eucalyptus). This will leave them smelling fresh and promote a calming atmosphere for a restful night’s sleep.

#### Step 7: Fluff and Enjoy!
Once dry, give your pillows a good fluff to help restore their shape and ensure they stay comfy and soft. Patting them into shape will also help distribute any filling that may have shifted during the wash. Now your pillows are fresh, clean, and ready for a peaceful night of sleep!

### Alternative Methods for Non-Washable Pillows

If you have a pillow that cannot be machine washed (like memory foam or down pillows), don’t worry! You can still clean them effectively:

– **Spot cleaning**: Use a damp cloth with mild detergent or a mixture of white vinegar and water to spot clean any stains or dirt. Gently scrub with a soft brush or sponge and allow it to air dry.
– **Deodorizing with baking soda**: For a quick refresh, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the pillow and let it sit for several hours. Afterward, vacuum the baking soda off. This will help neutralize odors and freshen the pillow.
– **Air drying**: If your pillow has become lumpy or has a slight odor, take it outside on a sunny day. Place it flat to air out and get rid of any unpleasant smells naturally.

### Tips for Keeping Your Pillows Clean Longer:

– **Use pillow protectors**: Pillow protectors are a great way to prevent dirt, oils, and dust from getting into the pillow itself. They’re easy to remove and wash regularly.
– **Wash your pillowcases often**: Pillowcases are the first line of defense against oils, sweat, and dirt. Change and wash them at least once a week.
– **Fluff your pillows regularly**: Fluff your pillows daily to redistribute the filling and keep them from getting flat.
– **Keep them fresh with baking soda**: Every few months, sprinkle some baking soda on your pillows, let it sit, and vacuum it off to keep them smelling fresh and free of odors.

### Conclusion: Fresh, Clean, and Inviting Pillows

Your bed should be a sanctuary, and clean pillows play a huge part in making it a comfortable and inviting space. With these easy steps, you can restore your dirty bed pillows to their original white and make them smell sweet again. Whether you use your washing machine, spot cleaning, or deodorizing techniques, the key is to clean your pillows regularly to ensure they remain fresh, comfortable, and hygienic.

So, give your pillows a little TLC and enjoy a restful night’s sleep on freshly cleaned, fluffy, and sweet-smelling pillows!