Pillows are an essential part of our daily lives, providing us with comfort and support while we sleep. However, over time, pillows can start to develop yellow stains, which can be unsightly and even unsanitary. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why pillows turn yellow and what you can do to prevent and treat the issue.
Why Do Pillows Turn Yellow
1.- Sweat
Sweat One of the most common reasons why pillows turn yellow is due to sweat. When we sleep, our bodies produce sweat, and if the pillow doesn’t have a protective cover, the sweat can seep into the pillow filling. This can lead to the development of yellowish stains that are difficult to remove.
The human body produces two types of sweat: eccrine and apocrine. Eccrine sweat is mostly made up of water and salt and is released from sweat glands located all over the body. This type of sweat is generally odorless and doesn’t contribute to yellow stains on pillows.
On the other hand, apocrine sweat is produced in areas of the body with higher concentrations of sweat glands, such as the armpits, groin, and scalp. This type of sweat is thicker and contains fats, proteins, and hormones, which can contribute to yellow stains on pillows.
To prevent sweat from staining your pillows, it’s a good idea to use a protective cover over your pillow. A pillow protector or pillowcase can help to absorb sweat and prevent it from seeping into the pillow filling. Additionally, it’s essential to wash your pillow regularly to remove any sweat or body oils that may have accumulated.
2.- Skin Oils
Skin oils Another reason why pillows turn yellow is due to the accumulation of skin oils. When we sleep, the natural oils from our skin can transfer to our pillows, which can lead to discoloration over time.
Skin oils are essential for maintaining healthy skin, but they can also contribute to yellow stains on pillows. Over time, the oils can build up on the surface of the pillow, leading to a yellowish discoloration that is difficult to remove.
To prevent skin oils from staining your pillows, it’s essential to wash your pillow regularly. Additionally, it’s a good idea to use a pillowcase made from a breathable material, such as cotton, which can help to absorb excess oils and prevent them from transferring to the pillow.
3.- Age
Age As with all textiles, pillows can yellow with age and exposure to light and air. Over time, the materials in the pillow filling can break down, leading to a yellowish discoloration.
Additionally, exposure to light and air can cause the materials in the pillow to oxidize, leading to a yellowing effect. This is more likely to happen with natural materials such as down or feather pillows, which can be more susceptible to oxidation.
To prevent pillows from yellowing due to age, it’s essential to replace them regularly. Most pillows have a lifespan of 1-2 years, depending on the quality and material. Additionally, it’s a good idea to store pillows in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat.
4.- Chemical reactions
Some laundry detergents, especially those with bleach or whitening agents, can react with sweat or other substances on your pillow, causing yellowing. Chlorine bleach, in particular, can cause yellowing on pillows, especially on synthetic materials.
To prevent chemical reactions from causing yellow stains on your pillows, it’s important to use a gentle detergent when washing them. Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals that can damage the pillow filling and cause discoloration. Additionally, it’s a good idea to read the care instructions for your pillow to ensure that you’re using the appropriate cleaning methods.
Treating Yellow Stains on Pillows
If your pillow has already turned yellow, there are a few options for treating the stains, depending on the cause and severity of the discoloration.
1.- Wash your pillow
If your pillow has developed yellow stains due to sweat or skin oils, the first step in treating the issue is to wash the pillow. To do this, remove any pillow protectors or pillowcases and wash the pillow in a washing machine using a gentle detergent. It’s essential to read the care label on your pillow to determine the appropriate washing temperature and drying method.
For down or feather pillows, it’s important to use a gentle detergent and a low heat setting when drying the pillow to prevent damage to the filling. Additionally, it’s a good idea to add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer to help fluff the pillow and prevent clumping.
2.-Use a pillow cleaner
If washing your pillow doesn’t remove the yellow stains, you may want to try using a specialized pillow cleaner. These products are designed to remove stains and odors from pillows and can be effective in treating yellow discoloration.
To use a pillow cleaner, follow the instructions on the packaging, and be sure to test the product on a small, inconspicuous area of the pillow first to ensure that it doesn’t cause any damage.
3.- Try natural remedies
If you prefer to use natural remedies, there are several options that can be effective in treating yellow stains on pillows. One popular method is to use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. To do this, sprinkle baking soda over the surface of the pillow and spray it with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, then rinse the pillow thoroughly and dry it in the sun or using a low heat setting.
Another natural remedy for treating yellow stains on pillows is to use lemon juice. To do this, mix lemon juice with a small amount of salt to create a paste, then apply the paste to the stained area of the pillow. Let the mixture sit for a few hours, then rinse the pillow thoroughly and dry it in the sun or using a low heat setting.
Conclusion
Pillows can turn yellow for a variety of reasons, including sweat, skin oils, age, and chemical reactions. To prevent yellow stains on pillows, it’s essential to use a protective cover, wash your pillow regularly, and avoid using harsh detergents or bleach. If your pillow has already turned yellow, there are several options for treating the issue, including washing the pillow, using a specialized pillow cleaner, or trying natural remedies. By taking steps to prevent and treat yellow stains on pillows, you can ensure that your bedding remains clean, comfortable, and free of unsightly discoloration.