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#### Step-by-Step Guide:
**Step 1: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution**
1. If you’re using a bathtub or a large basin, fill it with hot water. You want enough water to completely submerge your pillows.
2. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda into the water. Baking soda helps to neutralize odors, break down stains, and freshen up fabrics.
3. Pour in 1 cup of white vinegar. The vinegar works as a natural disinfectant, killing bacteria and germs, while also helping to break down oils and grime.
4. Add 1/2 cup of liquid detergent. Choose a gentle detergent that can remove oil and dirt without damaging the fabric.
**Step 2: Soak the Pillows**
1. Place your yellowed pillows into the water. Gently push them under the surface so that they are fully soaked in the cleaning solution. Let them sit in the water for at least 30 minutes.
2. For more stubborn stains or yellowing, let the pillows soak for 1-2 hours. This will give the cleaning solution time to work its magic and loosen any trapped oils or dirt.
**Step 3: Agitate and Clean**
1. After soaking, gently scrub the pillows with your hands to help lift any remaining stains. You can use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) for tough spots. Avoid using harsh scrubbing, as it could damage the fabric.
2. If you’re using a washing machine, toss the soaked pillows in and run them through a gentle wash cycle with hot water.
**Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly**
1. Whether you’re using a bathtub, basin, or washing machine, it’s crucial to rinse your pillows thoroughly. You don’t want any detergent or vinegar left behind.
2. If using a bathtub or basin, drain the water and refill with clean water to rinse the pillows. Gently squeeze out excess water (don’t wring them).
3. If you’re using a washing machine, run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all residue is removed.
**Step 5: Dry the Pillows**
1. To achieve a truly snow-white pillow, air-drying is the best option. Lay the pillows flat on a clean surface in a well-ventilated area. If possible, hang them outside to dry in the sun.
2. If you’re in a hurry, use a dryer on a low heat setting. Adding a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer will help fluff the pillows as they dry, ensuring they don’t become lumpy.
### Extra Tips for Keeping Your Pillows Fresh:
– **Use Pillow Protectors**: Prevent further staining by using pillow protectors. These covers act as a barrier to oils, sweat, and dust.
– **Regular Pillow Fluffing**: Fluff your pillows regularly to keep the filling from clumping and to maintain their shape.
– **Wash Pillowcases Frequently**: Changing and washing pillowcases regularly can help reduce the buildup of oils and sweat on the pillow itself.
– **Avoid Over-Soaking**: While soaking can help with tough stains, avoid soaking pillows too frequently. Over-soaking can cause them to lose their shape or break down more quickly.
– **Use a Gentle Detergent**: Harsh detergents and bleach can damage pillow materials over time. Stick to a mild detergent to extend the life of your pillows.
### Conclusion
No need to toss out yellowed pillows when a simple trick can restore them to their former glory! With just a few household ingredients, you can make your pillows as white and fresh as the day you bought them. Not only does this trick remove stains and odors, but it also leaves your pillows feeling soft and rejuvenated.
By incorporating regular pillow care, such as washing pillowcases often and using pillow protectors, you can help prevent yellowing from happening in the future. With this easy, cost-effective solution, you’ll be able to enjoy comfortable, clean, and snow-white pillows for a long time to come!
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