Pillow stains – caused by body oils, sweat, spills, makeup, saliva, dirt and dust – are often quite stubborn and tricky to remove, especially given the gentle washing instructions provided for most quality pillows.

So, how can you remove stubborn pillow stains without ruining the composition of your fluffy pillow? We’ve got some hacks for you to try out!

Give it a pre-treatment 

Create a powerful stain-fighting solution by combining equal parts hydrogen peroxide, liquid dish soap, and baking soda – all items readily available at most shops or pharmacies. Apply this potent mixture to the stained areas and allow it to sit for at least 15-30 minutes before laundering as usual. This pre-treatment can effectively break down stubborn stains.

White vinegar

We all know about the remarkable acidic power of white vinegar. Mix white vinegar with water (in equal parts) to tackle those persistent stains. Spray this solution onto the affected areas and let it rest for a few minutes, then blot with a clean cloth before laundering. The vinegar’s acidity helps in breaking down the stains.

Lemon juice

Lemons to the rescue! Lemons have natural bleaching and stain-removing properties. Mix the juice of a lemon with water in equal parts. Apply this solution to the stain and ideally let it sit in sunlight, allowing the lemon’s citric acid to break down the stubborn marks before washing.

Baking soda paste

If all else fails, baking soda won’t. Craft a paste using baking soda and water, applying it directly to the affected area. This paste acts as a gentle abrasive, effectively lifting and absorbing the stains. Allow it to sit for at least 15-30 minutes before laundering to achieve optimal results.

Each of these methods can aid in removing stubborn stains from pillows, but always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the fabric!

ALSO SEE: 

How to get oil rid of oil stains using pantry staples

This article was originally written and published by Savanah Douglas for Woman&Home.

Feature image: Pexels