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

If you’re cleaning your pillows and want to restore them to their original whiteness and freshness, follow these steps:

#### **Step 1: Remove Pillowcases and Covers**
Start by removing the pillowcases and any pillow protectors. These should be washed separately from the pillow itself. Pillowcases can be washed with regular laundry detergent.

#### **Step 2: Check for Care Instructions**
Before washing your pillows, check the care label for any special instructions. While most pillows can be machine washed, some might require specific care, such as dry cleaning.

#### **Step 3: Pre-Treat Stains**
If your pillows have any stains, pre-treat them before washing. Use a stain remover or make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the stained area and gently rub it in. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before washing.

#### **Step 4: Wash the Pillows**
– **Machine Wash**: Most pillows can be washed in a washing machine. If you have a **top-loading washer**, place two pillows in the drum to balance the load. For a **front-loading washer**, you can wash one pillow at a time.
– Use **warm water** and a gentle cycle to protect the fabric and filling.
– Add **mild detergent** to the wash. Avoid using too much detergent, as it can leave residue in the pillow filling.
– For extra whitening power, you can add **half a cup of baking soda** to the wash cycle to help remove odors and brighten your pillows.

#### **Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly**
Make sure to rinse the pillows thoroughly to remove any soap residue. If necessary, run an extra rinse cycle to ensure that all detergent is washed out.

#### **Step 6: Dry the Pillows**
– **Dry in the Dryer**: Most pillows can be dried in the dryer on a low or medium heat setting. Toss in a few **dryer balls** or **clean tennis balls** to help fluff the pillows and prevent clumping of the filling.
– **Air Drying**: For delicate pillows like down or memory foam, air drying is best. Lay the pillows flat on a drying rack or hang them to dry in a well-ventilated area.
– **Fluff as You Go**: Every 30 minutes, take the pillows out of the dryer or fluff them by hand if air drying. This will help them maintain their shape and prevent them from becoming flat or misshapen.

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### **Tips for Keeping Pillows Fresh Between Washes**

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