Say Goodbye to Stubborn Pillow Stains: A Complete Cleaning Guide

April 25, 2025

Pillows and pillowcases play a crucial role in ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep. However, they often absorb sweat, oils, and skincare residues, leading to unsightly stains and potential allergens. Maintaining clean bedding not only enhances hygiene but also extends the lifespan of your pillows. Here’s your go-to guide for keeping them fresh and spotless.

What Causes Stains on Pillowcases?

If you've noticed dark patches or yellowing on your pillowcases, you’re not alone. Here are some common causes:

Natural Oils & Hair Products: These can seep into fabric, causing greasy stains.
Sleeping with Wet Hair: Moisture and hair care products transfer easily onto pillows.
Sweat: A frequent cause of yellowing over time.
Skincare Products: Residues from moisturisers and serums can stain fabrics.
Drool & Saliva: These leave behind noticeable marks.
Makeup: Not removing makeup before bed can result in smudges.
Mould or Mildew: Storing pillows in a humid environment can lead to musty stains.

These stains not only affect appearance but may also cause unpleasant odours and skin irritations. Identifying the cause helps in proper cleaning and prevention.

How to Clean Yellowing Pillows

Pillows naturally yellow over time due to sweat and oil buildup. Here’s how to restore them:

Check the Care Label: Always follow manufacturer instructions.
Pre-treat Stains:
- Baking Soda: Sprinkle over stains and let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb oils and odours.
- White Vinegar: Mix equal parts vinegar and water, spray onto stains, and let it sit for 15 minutes.
Wash the Pillow: Machine wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Add a cup of white vinegar for stain removal.
Dry Properly: Air-dry completely to prevent mould and mildew.
Extra Tips:
- For memory foam pillows, spot clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Expose pillows to sunlight to reduce odours and yellowing.

How to Remove Stains from Pillowcases

Different stains require different treatments. Here are some effective solutions:

Sweat Stains: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, apply to stains, and rinse after 30 minutes.
Makeup Stains: Dab with micellar water and let sit for 10 minutes before washing.
Drool & Saliva Stains: Soak in a vinegar and water solution for 15-30 minutes before washing.

Using common household items like baking soda and vinegar can help keep pillowcases fresh and clean.

How to Wash Different Types of Pillows

Pillow care varies based on material. Here’s how to wash different types:

Microfibre Pillows: Machine wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
Down or Feather Pillows: Wash with cold or lukewarm water and mild detergent.
Memory Foam Pillows: Spot clean with a damp cloth and detergent. Avoid submerging in water.

How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows & Pillowcases?

Pillowcases: Wash weekly to prevent oil and bacteria buildup.
Pillows: Wash every 3-6 months to remove deep-seated stains and allergens.

Regular cleaning ensures a hygienic sleep environment and extends the life of your bedding.

How to Prevent Stains on Pillows & Pillowcases

Preventing stains is easier than treating them. Follow these tips:

Remove Makeup Before Bed: Reduces makeup transfer.
Shower Before Sleeping: Removes excess oil and dirt.
Use a Pillow Protector: Adds an extra barrier to absorb sweat and oils.
Change Pillowcases Frequently: Keeps bedding fresher for longer.
Maintain Good Night-time Hygiene: Washing your face and hair regularly minimises stains.

Additional Tips for Keeping Your Bedding Fresh

Store pillows in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew.
Ensure pillows are completely dry before putting them back on the bed.
Regularly sun-dry pillows to keep them fresh.

Keeping your pillows and pillowcases clean is key to a comfortable, healthy sleep. By understanding common stains and adopting a regular cleaning routine, you can ensure fresh and inviting bedding every night.

Ready to upgrade your sleep experience? Explore our range of premium pillows and bedding at Robinsons!