How to get yellow stains out of pillows

Pillowcases are great for keeping bedding clean and fresh, but they also attract dirt and stains from the environment around them. How can you remove these stubborn stains?

Stains in pillows can be caused by anything from food to pets, but there are ways to deal with them. The first step is to identify the source of the stain. Then, you should wash the pillowcase or cover with soap and water. If the stain persists, try rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide on the area. Finally, apply a stain remover to the spot.

Use a damp cloth to gently rub the affected areas until the stain disappears.

Why the pillow can turn yellow

There are a few different reasons why a pillow may turn yellow:

1. Sweat: One common cause of yellow stains on pillows is sweat. Over time, sweat can seep into the pillowcase and onto the pillow, leaving behind yellow stains.
2. Oil: Oils from your skin and hair can also accumulate on the pillow over time, leading to yellow stains.
3. Detergent residue: If you use a detergent that contains a lot of additives or perfumes, it can leave a residue on your pillow that may yellow over time.
4. Age: Pillows can yellow with age due to the accumulation of dirt, oil, and other substances over time.
5. Water damage: If the pillow becomes wet and is not dried properly, it can yellow as a result of mold or mildew growth.

To prevent yellowing, it is important to wash your pillowcases regularly and to use a detergent that does not contain a lot of additives or perfumes. It is also a good idea to replace your pillows every 1-2 years to ensure that they remain fresh and clean.

What will you need

To remove yellow stains from a pillow, you will need a few supplies:

1. Detergent or stain remover: You will need a detergent or stain remover specifically designed to remove yellow stains. If you do not have a stain remover, you can try using a detergent or a mixture of water and vinegar.
2. Baking soda: Baking soda can also be used to remove yellow stains.
3. A cloth or sponge: You will need a cloth or sponge to apply the cleaning solution to the stain.
4. Water: You will need water to rinse the stain after applying the cleaning solution.
5. A washing machine: If the pillow is washable, you will need a washing machine to wash it.
6. An iron: If you are using a steam iron to remove the stain, you will need an iron.
7. A clean, dry towel: You will need a clean, dry towel to blot the pillow dry after cleaning it.

It is a good idea to test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the pillow before applying it to the stain to ensure that it does not damage the fabric.

Steps to remove

Here are the steps to remove yellow stains from a pillow:

1. Identify the source of the stain: Determine the cause of the yellow stain, as this will help you choose the most appropriate cleaning method.
2. Pretreat the stain: If the stain is fresh, pretreat it with a detergent or stain remover specifically designed to remove yellow stains. Follow the instructions on the product label to apply the solution to the stain.
3. Wash the pillow: If the pillow is washable, you can try washing it in the washing machine with a detergent and oxygen bleach. Be sure to follow the care instructions for the pillow to ensure that it does not get damaged in the wash.
4. Spot clean with a detergent: If the stain is small, you can try spot-cleaning it with a detergent solution. Mix a small amount of detergent with water and apply it to the stain with a cloth or sponge. Rub the solution into the stain, then rinse with water and blot dry.
5. Use a stain remover: There are various stain removers available that are specifically designed to remove yellow stains. Follow the instructions on the product label to apply the stain remover to the stain.
6. Use vinegar: Another option is to try using vinegar to remove the yellow stain. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and apply it to the stain with a cloth or sponge. Rub the solution into the stain, then rinse with water and blot dry.
7. Use baking soda: Baking soda is another effective way to remove yellow stains. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste, then apply the paste to the stain. Rub the paste into the stain, then rinse with water and blot dry.
8. Use a steam iron: If the stain persists after trying the above methods, you can try using a steam iron to remove it. Place a clean, dry towel over the stain, then press the steam iron over the towel for a few seconds. The heat and steam from the iron should help to lift the stain out of the fabric.
9. Repeat as needed: If the stain does not come out with the first treatment, you may need to repeat the process a few times until the stain is completely removed.

It may take a few tries to fully remove the yellow stain, so you may need to try a few different methods before you find one that works. Be sure to test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the pillow before applying it to the stain to ensure that it does not damage the fabric.

Tips for preventing yellow stains on pillows

To prevent yellow stains on pillows, you can try the following tips:

1. Wash your pillowcases regularly: One of the easiest ways to prevent yellow stains on your pillows is to wash your pillowcases regularly. This will help to remove any sweat, oil, or dirt that may accumulate on the pillow.
2. Use a good-quality detergent: Choose a detergent that is specifically designed to remove stains and is free of perfumes and additives. These types of detergents are less likely to leave a residue on your pillow that may yellow over time.
3. Avoid using too much detergent: Overuse of detergent can leave a residue on your pillow that may yellow over time. Be sure to follow the instructions on the detergent label to ensure that you are using the correct amount.
4. Wash your pillows regularly: Wash your pillows every 1-2 years to remove any dirt, oil, or sweat that may have accumulated over time.
5. Use a pillow protector: A pillow protector can help to protect your pillow from sweat, oil, and other substances that may cause yellowing.
6. Replace your pillows regularly: Over time, pillows can yellow due to the accumulation of dirt, oil, and other substances. It is a good idea to replace your pillows every 1-2 years to ensure that they remain fresh and clean.
7. Dry your pillows thoroughly: If your pillow becomes wet, be sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew growth, which can cause yellowing.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent yellow stains on your pillows and keep them looking fresh and clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about removing yellow stains from pillows:

Can I use bleach to remove yellow stains from my pillow?

Bleach can be effective at removing yellow stains, but it can also be harsh and may damage the fabric of your pillow. If you decide to use bleach, be sure to follow the instructions on the bleach label and test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the pillow first to ensure that it does not damage the fabric.

How do I remove yellow stains from a pillow that is not washable?

If the pillow is not washable, you can try spot-cleaning the stain with a detergent solution or a mixture of water and vinegar. Rub the solution into the stain, then rinse with water and blot dry. You can also try using a stain remover specifically designed to remove yellow stains, or a mixture of baking soda and water applied as a paste.

How do I remove yellow stains from a pillow that has become yellow with age?

To remove yellow stains that have accumulated over time, you may need to use a more powerful cleaning solution such as a stain remover or a mixture of water and bleach. Be sure to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the pillow first to ensure that it does not damage the fabric. You may also need to repeat the process a few times to fully remove the stain.

Can I use a steam iron to remove yellow stains from my pillow?

A steam iron can be effective at removing yellow stains, but it is important to be careful when using an iron on a pillow. Place a clean, dry towel over the stain, then press the steam iron over the towel for a few seconds. The heat and steam from the iron should help to lift the stain out of the fabric. Be sure to test the iron on a small, inconspicuous area of the pillow first to ensure that it does not damage the fabric.

Can I use a hair dryer to remove the yellow stains from my pillow?

A hairdryer can be used to help remove yellow stains from a pillow, but it is important to be careful when using a hair dryer on a pillow. Heat can damage the fabric of a pillow, so it is important to use the lowest heat setting possible and to keep the hair dryer moving to avoid overheating in any one area. Be sure to test the hair dryer on a small, inconspicuous area of the pillow first to ensure that it does not damage the fabric.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several methods you can try to remove yellow stains from a pillow. These include washing the pillow, spot cleaning with a detergent solution, using a stain remover, using vinegar, using baking soda, or using a steam iron. It may take a few tries to fully remove the yellow stain, so you may need to try a few different methods before you find one that works. To prevent yellow stains on your pillows, be sure to wash your pillowcases and pillows regularly, use a good-quality detergent, avoid using too much detergent, use a pillow protector, and replace your pillows every 1-2 years.