How To Get That Musty, Old Smell Out Of Your Pillows
Musty-smelling pillows are a common problem. It happens when moisture, sweat, oils, and even dust settle deep into the fabric and filling, which is bound to happen with how often we lay our heads on them. However, that stale smell doesn’t mean you need to toss them just yet. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do to refresh your pillows and keep them that way.
Deep Machine Wash
If your pillow is machine washable, that’s your best place to start. Use hot water, a bit of gentle detergent, and add a cup of white vinegar to help break down bacteria and odors. Don’t skip the rinse cycle either, running it twice helps remove any leftover soap and smells. Down or feather pillows need special care, so always check the label first.
For Non-Washable Pillows, Clean by Hand
For pillows that can’t go in the washer, surface cleaning is the next best option. Mix warm water with a little mild detergent and use a clean cloth to blot the pillow, focusing on the smelliest or most stained areas. Avoid soaking it. Rinse with a second cloth dampened with plain water, then blot dry with a towel. This won’t give you as deep a clean as the machine, but it’ll still help a lot!
Dry Thoroughly
Most people underestimate how long pillows take to dry. If they’re even slightly damp inside, they’ll start to smell musty again. Use a dryer on low heat with a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to fluff the filling. Be prepared to be patient, as a full dry can take over an hour, sometimes two. Let the pillow cool, then check for dampness deep in the center. If you don’t have a dryer, just skip to the next step.
Air It Out in the Sun
Sunlight works as a natural deodorizer and disinfectant. Lay your pillows, either still wet or out of the dryer, outside on a clean surface during a dry, sunny day. The heat will do any drying still needed while the UV rays kill bacteria and break down odors. Flip the pillows a few times throughout the day. If you’re putting wet pillows out, you’ll need to leave them for a few days, while pre-dried pillows can come inside at the end of the first day. If it’s winter or raining, placing them near a bright window with good airflow can still help a little, though it may take longer.
Sprinkle Baking Soda
If you don’t want to do a full deep clean, baking soda is one of the simplest ways to absorb odors. Sprinkle a light, even layer over the surface of a dry pillow, let it sit for about 30 minutes, then vacuum it off using the upholstery attachment. You can do this between washes to keep things fresh. For added scent, mix in a small amount of crushed dried lavender or a few drops of essential oil with the baking soda before applying.
Store and Maintain Properly
Once your pillow is all clean again, keeping it that way still takes a bit of effort. Always use a pillow protector under your pillowcase, and wash both regularly. Keep pillows in a dry, well-ventilated area and avoid piling them in closed containers. If you know you won’t use them for a while, store them in a breathable cotton bag, never plastic, to prevent dirtying them with any trapped moisture or odors.
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Pillows absorb a lot over time, and the smell is usually just a sign they need a little more care. With the right approach, most musty odors can be cleared without replacing the pillow. Regular washing, proper drying, and a few simple care habits go a long way in keeping them fresh and comfortable for years to come.
Daniel Mitchell
