As temperatures rise and the sweltering heat of summer nights intensify, many people find solace in their fresh, white linen sheets. The sleep may be rejuvenating, but the aftermath on the pillows is far from pleasant. If you too have found the yellowed stains on your once-pristine pillows a constant irritant, fear not. The solution may be cheaper and easier than you’ve ever thought possible.
Why Do We Get Yellow Stains on Our Pillows
The discoloration or yellowing of pillows is primarily due to perspiration. This issue is more relatable for those who tend to be “hot sleepers,” but it’s a universal problem that can occur unnoticed.
Primary reasons our pillows turn yellow:
Perspiration
The primary culprit behind these stains is a chemical component found in our sweat known as urea. Urea is a harmless metabolic byproduct that our bodies also excrete in much larger volumes in our urine. Over time, urea decomposes and reverts into ammonia. For those who want a deeper understanding, it’s technically the resultant ammonia that triggers the appearance of these yellow stains on pillows.
Damp Hair
Night-time shower enthusiasts who retire to bed with wet hair can inadvertently cause their pillows to turn yellow. The moisture from your hair seeps into the pillow, gradually causing yellow discoloration over time. If you use hair care products like leave-in conditioners, they might exacerbate pillow stains as they transfer from your hair onto the pillow.
Saliva
Although it might be uncomfortable to admit, most of us drool to some extent during sleep. Over time, saliva can also lead to the yellowing of your pillow. While it may not be the primary factor, saliva, in combination with sweat and other forms of moisture, can contribute to discoloration.
Natural Body Oils and Dead Skin Cells
Your body’s natural oils and the dead skin cells that we all shed can add to the yellowing process. Similar to sweat, these oils eventually pass through your pillowcase and settle on your pillow.
Topical Beauty and Skin Care Products
Lastly, lotions, face creams, and other beauty products applied before bedtime stand as the second major cause of pillow yellowing. Like sweat, these products tend to transfer onto pillows relatively quickly. Applying these products an hour or two before bedtime allows for better absorption, thus minimizing the amount transferred onto your pillow.
Before delving into our pillow-cleaning solution, it’s worth noting that regular washing is crucial. Experts suggest washing pillows at least twice a year. However, if you’re pressed for time or have persistent, stubborn stains, you’re going to love our efficient solution.
Is It Okay to Sleep on a Pillow with Yellow Stains?
While having a pillow with a few yellow stains might not be aesthetically pleasing, it’s generally acceptable to continue using it if the pillow still provides proper support and comfort. However, if you’ve never washed your pillow, fail to use a pillow protector, or notice that your pillow has flattened or has a mildew smell, it might be time to consider replacing it. Accumulation of dust mites, allergens, and other types of bacteria over time is another good reason to renew your pillow every one to two years.
As a general guideline, if your pillow only has a few yellow stains, you can likely keep using it without concern. However, if your pillow has turned entirely yellow or has developed brown stains, it’s a strong indicator that it’s time to invest in a new one.
Pillow Cleaning Hack: A New Lease of Life for Your Yellow Pillows!
First off, it’s crucial to identify a stain early before you attempt to clean it off. This is because the longer a stain sits, the tougher it becomes to remove.
Now, onto our hack:
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First, start by mixing a few tablespoons of lemon juice with a cup of water in a large bowl. Dip a clean, white cloth into the mixture and use it to gently scrub the yellowed areas of the pillow. Be sure to avoid saturating the pillow, as this can cause it to become waterlogged and lose its shape.2. Next, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto the yellowed areas of the pillow and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help to absorb any remaining stains and odors.3. Finally, rinse the pillow thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue, and then place it in a well-ventilated area to air dry. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause the pillow to fade or shrink.
While this hack is convenient, don’t forget to adhere to the regular cleaning routine of washing pillows twice a year. And, of course, always remember to follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for your washing machine to ensure its longevity and optimum performance.
How to Prevent Yellow Stains on Pillows
While some degree of yellowing is inevitable due to nightly perspiration, there are steps you can take to reduce its severity. One effective preventative measure is to use a pillow protector. This extra layer, placed between your pillowcase and pillow, can absorb a significant portion of your sweat before it reaches your pillow, making it particularly beneficial for individuals who sweat excessively during sleep. For optimal hygiene, ensure that the protector is washed every time you launder your bedding. For guidance on the recommended frequency of washing your sheets, refer to our article on ‘How often you should wash your sheets.’
Besides employing a pillow protector and maintaining regular bedding hygiene, other measures to prevent pillow yellowing include going to bed with dry hair and applying your nighttime beauty products and lotions a few hours before sleep.
Signs That It’s Time for a New Pillow
If your efforts to cleanse your pillows of stains have been unsuccessful, it might be a signal to invest in new ones. It is generally advisable to replace your pillows every one to two years. However, if your pillow becomes uncomfortable, unsupportive, acquires a mildew odor, or develops brown stains within this period, it’s likely time for a replacement.
