Why Your Pillow Turns Yellow and How to Keep It Fresh
At first, a pillow is bright white and fresh. However, after just a few months of use, it begins to take on a yellowish hue, which can seem unsanitary. Are these stains caused by dirt, wear, or something else? The answer is simple: this yellowing is due to the accumulation of sweat, body oils, saliva, and residues from skincare products. Even with clean pillowcases, these substances gradually seep into the pillow, leading to discoloration.
Let’s take a closer look at the main causes of this phenomenon and explore ways to prevent and reverse it.
Main Causes of Pillow Yellowing
Nighttime Sweating
During the night, the body naturally releases sweat, even if you don’t notice it. On average, a person loses between 500 and 700 ml of sweat each night. This moisture soaks into the fabric, leaving yellow stains over time. Sweat is one of the primary contributors to the yellowing of pillows, especially when it’s trapped in the pillow’s fabric and unable to evaporate.
Body Oils
The skin produces natural oils continuously, which settle on bedding. Unlike sweat, these oils are more greasy and harder to remove. Over time, they penetrate into the pillow and contribute to its yellowing. This is especially true for people with oily skin or those who tend to sleep in positions that press their face into the pillow, making the accumulation of oils more significant.
Saliva
If you tend to drool while sleeping, it can also accelerate the discoloration of your pillow. Saliva contains enzymes that, as they accumulate, alter the color of the fabric. This isn’t just an issue for those who experience frequent drooling; even minimal amounts of saliva over time can contribute to yellowing.
Skincare Products and Makeup
Moisturizers, serums, and other skincare products applied before bed can also stain your pillow. Even after washing your face, residues can remain on the skin and transfer to the fabric throughout the night. Heavy night creams or makeup left on the pillow may leave unsightly yellow stains as well. While these products are beneficial for your skin, they can be detrimental to the condition of your pillow.
How to Prevent Your Pillows from Turning Yellow
Fortunately, there are several simple tips you can follow to limit the appearance of these stains and keep your pillows fresh for longer.
Use a Pillow Protector
A waterproof or breathable pillow protector acts as a barrier between your pillow and sweat or body oils. Washable and easy to maintain, a pillow protector is much easier to clean than a pillow itself. By using one, you prevent oils and moisture from directly soaking into your pillow, which helps keep it cleaner and fresher for longer.
Pillow protectors are also great for people with allergies, as they can help reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other allergens. Be sure to wash the protector regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
Change Your Pillowcase Regularly
Wash your pillowcases at least once a week to prevent the buildup of dirt and oils. Opt for a wash cycle at 60°C (140°F) to effectively eliminate bacteria and residue. Regularly washing your pillowcase ensures that it continues to act as a protective layer, reducing the amount of sweat, oils, and skincare product residue that reaches the pillow.
For added protection, you can also rotate pillowcases frequently or use multiple pillowcases to help extend their life and reduce the frequency of washing.
Avoid Greasy Skincare Products Before Bed
If you apply a night cream or moisturizer before sleep, wait until it has been fully absorbed before lying down on your pillow. This will help minimize the transfer of product onto the fabric. If you use heavy creams or serums, try switching to lighter options that are less likely to stain your pillow.
Additionally, if you wear makeup to bed, consider changing this habit to preserve both the condition of your skin and the freshness of your pillow.
Keep Your Sleep Environment Cool
Sleeping in a cooler room can help reduce nighttime sweating. Try to keep your room temperature between 18-20°C (64-68°F). By maintaining a cooler environment, you can minimize the amount of moisture your pillow absorbs, thereby preventing yellowing due to excessive sweat.
Using breathable sheets and pillowcases also helps to promote air circulation and reduce the buildup of sweat. This also contributes to a more comfortable and restful sleep.
How to Clean a Yellowed Pillow
If your pillow has already turned yellow, don’t worry. There are effective methods to restore its brightness and cleanliness.
Check the Care Label
Not all pillows are washable the same way, so start by checking the care label. Some pillows can be machine washed, while others may require dry cleaning. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent damage to the pillow.
If the pillow is machine washable, ensure it’s safe to use hot water. If not, look for other cleaning methods suitable for your pillow type.
Pre-Treat the Stains
Before washing your pillow, apply a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar to the yellowed areas. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to help break down the oils and stains. Baking soda is known for its ability to lift dirt and odors, while vinegar can help to neutralize the yellowing caused by sweat and oils.
Alternatively, you can make a paste of baking soda and water, which can be directly applied to the stained areas for a deeper clean.
Wash with Hot Water
If the care label allows, wash your pillow in the washing machine with a mild detergent and a cup of baking soda. Hot water helps break down oils and bacteria, and the addition of baking soda helps to brighten the fabric and remove lingering odors. Washing your pillow regularly (every few months) can help prevent yellowing and keep your pillow fresh.
Be sure to wash the pillow in a gentle cycle to avoid damage. You may also want to wash two pillows at a time to balance the load in your washing machine.
Dry Properly
Proper drying is essential to prevent the growth of mold and mildew in your pillow. Place your pillow in the dryer on a low-heat setting, adding a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff it up as it dries. This will restore the pillow’s shape and prevent it from becoming flat.
If you don’t have a dryer, hang your pillow outside to dry in the sun. The sun’s natural UV rays can help further disinfect and brighten the pillow.
Should You Replace Your Pillows Regularly?
Even with proper care, pillows don’t last forever. Over time, they lose their comfort and accumulate allergens, which can affect the quality of your sleep. It’s important to know when it’s time to replace your pillow to maintain a clean and healthy sleep environment.
When to Replace Your Pillow
- Every 1 to 2 years for synthetic pillows. Synthetic pillows tend to lose their shape and support more quickly than natural options. After a couple of years, they may start to flatten out, affecting their ability to provide proper neck support.
- Every 2 to 3 years for feather or down pillows. These pillows tend to last longer but should still be replaced every couple of years as the natural filling breaks down over time.
- If the pillow remains flat or lumpy after washing. This is a sign that the filling inside has lost its structure and is no longer providing the support it once did.
Conclusion: Simple Maintenance for Healthy Sleep
Yellowing pillows are a natural consequence of regular use, but they don’t have to be a permanent issue. By adopting simple habits such as using a protective pillowcase, washing your pillow regularly, and maintaining a cool sleep environment, you can extend the lifespan of your pillow and keep it fresh.
Instead of tossing your pillow at the first sign of yellowing, try these tips to give it a second life. Proper care not only helps preserve the color and appearance of your pillow but also contributes to a healthier and more comfortable sleeping environment. Keep your pillows fresh and enjoy a good night’s sleep for years to come!
