Refresh Your Pillows Without Washing Them
It’s no secret that pillows can get a little stinky over time. It can be a problem not only because they start to smell, but because of potential health issues especially if you have allergies or asthma. If you are hesitant to wash them because you’re afraid they’ll lose their shape or color but still want to refresh them, here are some tips and tricks on how to make pillows smell fresh without washing them.
Put the pillow in the freezer
When your pillows smell musty, a straightforward trick to address this is to put them in an old pillowcase and stick it in the freezer for a few hours. It will kill any bacteria or dust mites that might be causing the odor. Once frozen, take them out and give them a good shake.
Then put them back in a freshly washed pillowcase and fluff them up. Your pillows should smell fresh and clean, without any need for washing. If they do happen to get a little stinky again, just pop them back in the freezer for a quick refresh.
Use essential oils
Another excellent way to make your pillow smell good again without washing is by using essential oils. You can either add a few drops of oil to the pillowcase or directly onto the pillow itself.
Lavender is a good choice for its calming scent, while peppermint can help to clear congestion. Citrus oils are also effective at removing foul odors and you can use them in a diffuser if you don’t want to apply them directly to your pillows; the sunny citrus scent will naturally freshen up your bedroom.
Pure Lavender Essential Oil
- pure lavender essential which is one of the best essential oils for sleep time and shower aromatherapy also used as a nail oil and pleasing aroma for at home and on the go self care
- can be used for skin to help boost your anti aging skin care regimen as a facial cleansing oil with nutrients for clear skin or as a cuticle oil for nails
- try it for hair care and dry scalp care for a potent dry scalp oil that promotes healthier-looking hair from the source as a hair oil for all hair types
If you use essential oils on your pillows, be sure to test them on a small area first to ensure they don’t cause any irritation and/or stain. You should also keep the oils out of reach of children and pets.
Place your pillows in the sun
If you experience a musty smell in your bedroom, often your bed is the source of odors, therefore you need to change your bedding regularly. While it is easy to wash your sheets, pillows and duvets should be treated with attention, so you don’t damage them.
One of the quickest ways to refresh a pillow without washing it is to place it in the sun. UV rays are great for getting rid of bacteria and dust mites, two of the main culprits for pillow odor. Put your pillows in a spot where they’ll get plenty of direct sunlight, and flip them over every few hours, so both sides get exposed.
Depending on the sun’s strength, your pillows should be fresh and odor-free in just a few hours. This method is free, doesn’t require any unique ingredients or equipment, and can eliminate strong smells too. Just be sure to bring them inside before they get too hot, as this can damage the fabric.
Deodorize it with baking soda
Baking soda is a popular home remedy for many things that are a bit smelly in your bedroom: it can be used to deodorize carpets, to remove the smell from your mattress, and is especially good to clean pillows that can’t be washed.
To freshen up your pillows, sprinkle a generous amount on each and let it sit for several hours. It will absorb unpleasant odors, leaving your pillows smelling clean and fresh.
You can also add a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda for a pleasant scent. Vacuum it up and enjoy your fresh-smelling pillows once the solution has had time to work its magic.
Spray it with vinegar
Those who live in a high-humidity environment or have a bedroom where the air circulation is not so good might experience that the pillows get damp and start smelling like mildew. This should be treated immediately before mold (fungus) starts growing inside the pillow because it can lead to severe allergy and/or asthma.
Thankfully, there’s a quick and easy way to make your pillows smell fresh without washing them when you feel the are a bit musty. All you need is a spray bottle and some vinegar. Mix equal parts of them, spray generously on your pillows, and let them fully dry (in the sun or in the dryer). The vinegar will naturally neutralize any odors, and the pillows will be refreshed in no time.
Get some dryer sheets
Dryer sheets are a great option for instant refreshment. Just tuck one sheet into the pillowcase and leave it there for a few hours. It will absorb any bad smells and leave your pillows smelling clean. This method is super quick and easy, and you probably already have dryer sheets on hand.
Snuggle Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets Blue Sparkle
- original Blue Sparkle scent; fresh, clean blend of white floral and bright green citrus notes
- provides comforting, long-lasting freshness your family will love
- in addition to using in the dryer to make your clothes feel softer, fabric softener dryer sheets can also be used in a variety of places like closets, gym bags, suitcases, and cars to make them smell fresh
Extra tips to keep your pillows fresh and clean
There are several ways to make your pillows fresh without a washing machine. By following these tips, you will easily find the best way to get the smell out of them but let me give you some more tips so you can enjoy the comfort of fresh-smelling pillows for years to come.
First, make sure to fluff and rotate them regularly. It will help prevent them from becoming compressed and prevent the build-up of dust and dirt. Second, use a pillow protector. It will create a barrier between your pillow and any potential sources of odors. Third, keep your bedroom well-ventilated to allow for air circulation. Finally, consider using a pillow mist that will help keep your pillows smelling fresh as well as get a better night’s sleep.
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