Are you tired of dealing with unpleasant odors emanating from your pillows but don’t have the time or means to wash them? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we will explore effective methods to remove odor from your pillows without the need for washing. Pillows can absorb sweat, body oils, and other odor-causing substances over time, leaving them smelling less than fresh.
Luckily, there are several simple techniques you can employ to banish those unwanted smells. From using baking soda and essential oils to utilizing sunlight and fresh air, we will guide you through how to remove odor from pillows without washing. So, say goodbye to unpleasant pillow odors and hello to a rejuvenating and odor-free sleep experience!
Why Does My Pillow Smell Bad?
Pillows can become smelly for several reasons. If you don’t wash your pillows regularly, sweat, dust mites, and saliva may start to accumulate and cause a nasty smell. Pillowcases that are not made of breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, may also trap in moisture and bacteria over time. Other factors that contribute to a smelly pillow are pet dander, smoke, and dust buildup.
Fortunately, there are several ways to remove bad odors from pillows without washing them. Here are some tips for eliminating unwanted smells:
- Place the pillow in direct sunlight for a few hours. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and can help kill bacteria and odors.
- Sprinkle baking soda over the pillow and let it sit overnight. Baking soda is an effective way to absorb musty odors.
- Spray a light mist of white vinegar onto the surface of the pillow. The vinegar will neutralize any lingering smells.
- Place a few drops of essential oil on the pillowcase. Lavender and lemon are good choices for refreshing your pillows.
- Freeze the pillow in an air-tight bag for 24 hours. Cold temperatures help kill bacteria that can cause odors.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your pillows smelling fresh and free of bad odors. Remember to clean your pillowcases regularly and replace them as needed. If the smell persists, it may be time to buy a new pillow.
10 Methods How to Remove Odor from Pillows without Washing
1. Air Them Out
The first step is to take your pillows outside and give them a good airing out in the fresh air. This will help to remove any musty smells that may have developed over time. If you can, do this on a sunny day as the UV rays from the sun will also help to kill any bacteria that may be present.
Leave the pillows outside for a few hours and then bring them back inside. Although this may not always remove all odors, it can certainly help to freshen them up. Make sure to check the weather beforehand so that you don’t leave your pillows out in the rain.
2. Vacuum Them
Use your vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or dirt that may be on the surface of your pillows. Pay special attention to the seams and crevices where dust and dirt can accumulate. Also, be sure to use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner as it is designed to clean fabrics.
If your pillows are washable, you can also use the vacuum cleaner to remove any loose debris from inside the pillow. While vacuuming won’t remove odors, it will help to reduce the amount of dirt and dust particles that might be contributing to the odor.
3. Spot Clean Them
If there are any specific areas on your pillows that are stained or odorous, you can spot-clean them with a mild detergent. Be sure to test the detergent on an inconspicuous area of the pillow first to ensure that it does not damage the fabric. Use a small amount of the detergent and work it into the pillow with a soft brush.
Once you have scrubbed the affected area, rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow the pillow to air-dry. After it is dry, you should notice a dramatic reduction in odors. Although spot-cleaning is effective for small stains and odors, it will not be enough to thoroughly clean the entire pillow. For this, you may need to consider other options.
4. Place Them in the Freezer
This may seem like an odd method, but placing your pillows in the freezer for a few hours can actually help to remove bad smells. The cold temperature will kill any bacteria that may be present, freshening up your pillows in the process. Simply place the pillows in a sealed plastic bag and put them in the freezer for a few hours.
Then take them out to air dry before using them again. This method can help keep your pillows smelling fresh without having to wash them! Additionally, you can add a few dryer sheets to the plastic bag for an extra boost of freshness.
5. Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural odor absorber, so sprinkling some on your pillows can help to remove bad smells. Just be sure to vacuum it up after a few hours so that it does not damage the fabric of your pillow. To use, simply sprinkle some baking soda onto the pillow and leave it there for a few hours. Then, use a vacuum cleaner or lint roller to remove the baking soda.
Baking soda can be used on any type of pillow, from feather pillows to memory foam. It is a safe and effective way to remove bad odors without washing. However, it is important to remember that baking soda can only absorb odors, not eliminate them.
6. Use Charcoal Briquettes
Similar to baking soda, charcoal briquettes can also help to absorb bad smells from your pillows. Just place a few briquettes in a bag and place it near your pillows overnight. In the morning, be sure to remove the briquettes so that they do not damage your pillowcase. This method will help to neutralize odors and keep your pillows smelling fresh.
Although this method may not always remove all of the smell, it can be used as an effective way to reduce odors. However, be sure to use caution when using charcoal briquettes, as they are a fire hazard. Additionally, avoid placing them directly on your pillows so that they do not cause any damage.
7. Use White Vinegar
White vinegar is another natural odor absorber that can be used on your pillows. Simply soak a cloth in white vinegar and then place it over the affected area for an hour or two. The vinegar will help to neutralize any bad smells that may be present. After an hour or two, remove the cloth and vacuum your pillow to help it dry out. This method is especially beneficial for getting rid of musty smells.
8. Use Essential Oils
Essential oils not only smell great, but they can also help to remove bad odors from your pillows. Simply add a few drops of oil to a spray bottle filled with water and spritz it onto your pillows as needed. Some good essential oils to use for this purpose include lavender, lemon, and tea tree oil.
You can also add a few drops of the oil directly to the pillowcase, but make sure to test it first in an inconspicuous spot. Additionally, you should always closely follow the instructions on the oil label for proper safety guidelines.
9. Try Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets are not just for laundry anymore! Placing a dryer sheet on each side of your pillow can help to freshen it up and remove any bad smells that may be present. Just be sure to change out the sheets every few days so that they continue to work effectively.
And don’t forget to check if the dryer sheets are compatible with your pillow before use. With this easy trick, you can have a fresh-smelling pillow without needing to do any washing.
10. Wash Them Regularly
Of course, the best way to remove bad odors from your pillows is to wash them regularly according to their care instructions. Once a month is recommended for most pillows, but you should read the label to make sure you don’t accidentally damage your pillow by washing it too often.
Washing your pillows can help remove dust mites and other allergens, as well as any bad odors that may have built up over time. Just remember to use a mild detergent and the gentle cycle on your washing machine.
Conclusion
Overall, removing odor from pillows doesn’t have to be a time-consuming or difficult process. All you need is some simple ingredients and patience to see results. Dryer sheets are a great and affordable option while baking soda can offer deep cleaning with a bit of elbow grease.
Even leaving your pillows out in the sun can offer mild deodorizing effects, which makes it an easy choice for those strapped for time. From vinegar to tea tree oil, there are plenty of options when it comes to how to remove odor from pillows without washing them.
With just a little bit of trial and error, you’ll be able to find the method that provides the best results for your living space. So make sure to give these tricks a try next time you’re wondering how to remove odors from your lovely pillows!
