Sweat. We all sweat at night, and over time sweat can seep through your pillowcase and onto your pillow. Eventually, this will cause your pillow to yellow. Sweat stains are the most common reason for pillow yellowing.
Pillows start to turn yellow due to a variety of factors, most of which involve the accumulation of moisture. Sweat, drool, wet hair, and even skincare products can contribute to yellow stains on a pillow. And these stains are more than just unsightly.
Signs it's time to replace your pillow
There are some other signs to look for if you're not sure. Stains or discolouration: If you've noticed your pillows start to yellow or a stain that just won't budge, it could be time to replace your pillows.
Your standard detergent may not be strong enough to rid your pillow of the yellow. To help it whiten up those pillows when washing them in a machine, add 1 cup (240 mL) of dishwasher soap, ¾ cup (6 oz) of washing soda, 0.5 cups (120 mL) of white vinegar, and 3 tbsps (44mL) of regular laundry detergent.
As a rule of thumb, if your pillow has a few yellow stains it is probably okay to keep sleeping on it. But if your pillow has turned completely yellow, or has developed some brown stains, it is probably time for a replacement.
Most experts recommend replacing pillows every 1 to 2 years. Doing so helps to ensure that you're using pillows that are supportive, clean, and free of allergens. It is also important to care for the pillows you use to ensure their longevity. Generally, you'll be able to tell when it's time to replace your pillows.
What are some common causes of yellowing on white pillowcases? Yellowing on white pillowcases can be caused by a buildup of sweat and oils, regular washing with hard water, and using too much detergent. Other factors such as smoking, body lotions, and certain medications can also contribute to yellowing.
Down or feather: Most down pillows can be put in the washing machine. But use cool water and a mild detergent, then dry on low heat. (High temperatures can damage the down.) Memory foam or latex: Washer agitation can break up foam, so these pillows will probably need to be hand-washed.
Yellowing sheets are primarily due to body sweat and oils, including lotions we put on to rejuvenate our skin overnight, according to textile engineer Vikki Martin, vice president of fiber competition for Cotton Incorporated.
Over time, all pillows slowly become packed with dust mites, dead skin cells, and mold. You can use a pillow protector to extend your pillow's life. However, you should replace older pillows at least every 18 months to keep your bedroom clean and healthy.
If you wake up to a wet patch on your pillow in the morning, that drool is what is left of any excess saliva that escaped your mouth while you slept. We all produce saliva regularly, including when we sleep. View Source . People sometimes drool as a result.
It's not just sweat that can cause that nasty yellow stain, other sources of moisture such as going to bed with wet hair or drooling throughout the night also contribute. Chemicals such as hair product, makeup and other types of skin products can also pillow discolouration.
If your pillow can be washed, it should be washed at least twice a year. If you eat in bed, have pets, or sweat a lot, you should wash pillows quarterly. Special pillows like body pillows or throw pillows should be cleaned every 3 to 6 months. This is dependent on how, where, and how often they are used.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) recommends that you replace your pillow every two years or sooner. This is because pillows can get pretty gross. Pillows can contain allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and even mold once they reach the end of their lifespan.
Soft, natural, and muted colors are best for sleep. Avoid dark shades and look for light complementary colors. Don't be afraid to add an accent — just make sure it's not too vibrant. Avoid eggshell and glossy finishes as these can reflect light.
White bedding is an excellent choice for sleep because the neutral tone doesn't stimulate the brain, unlike bright red and purple tones. White is neutral and has a relaxing effect, pairing well with other colors conducive to sleep, including blues and yellows.
As your mattress gets older, it starts to decay. The main reason for this decay is oxidation, which is caused by exposure to the oxygen in the air. This gradually gives your aging mattress a yellowish tinge. Yellow stains from oxidation don't have a smell and persist despite regular cleaning.
Take a clean cotton or terry towel, dip it into a baking soda and water paste, and spot clean any deep stains by dabbing the surface of the pillow. As an alternative to the baking soda paste, you can also use a stain removal spray.
What's the best way to clean a pillow? The key to preventing pillows from getting lumpy is washing two pillows at the same time since the two pillows will balance out in the washer. To keep your pillows from getting damaged, place them in the washer vertically and use a mild, liquid detergent.
Spray a light mist of vinegar over the pillow, then wipe it down with a mild dish soap solution and white cloth or a sponge. If spots remain, wipe them with rubbing alcohol on the tip of a cotton swab. Air out the affected pillow for a day or longer, if possible, in non-humid conditions to help remove lingering odors.