Why Are My Pillows Turning Yellow?

Why Are My Pillows Turning Yellow? Causes and Solutions
Have you ever removed your pillowcase to find unsightly yellow stains on your pillow? You’re not alone. Over time, pillows can turn yellow due to various environmental and sleep-related factors, but this doesn’t necessarily mean the pillow is unusable In this blog, we’ll explore why your pillows may be turning yellow and how you can restore your favourites to their former glory.
Why do pillows go yellow?
Yellow pillow stains can appear for several different reasons. Most of these are related to the natural processes that occur when your body comes into contact with your pillow night after night. Here’s why your pillow could be taking a discoloured turn:
- Sweat and body oils: As you sleep, your body naturally produces sweat, which seeps into your pillow over time. The buildup of moisture and natural oils can create yellow stains that become more prominent with repeated use.
- Saliva and drooling: If you dribble while sleeping, the moisture can penetrate the pillowcase and reach the pillow itself. Saliva contains proteins and enzymes that can contribute to yellow discolouration over time.
- Dust and skin cells: Every night, your skin sheds dead cells and these, combined with dust and dirt, can accumulate in your pillow. This buildup can lead to discolouration and a grubby appearance.
- Exposure to moisture: If you live in a humid environment or have a habit of going to bed with damp hair, excess moisture can encourage bacterial and fungal growth. This can lead to stains and even unpleasant odours in your pillows.
- Improper cleaning or lack of washing: Regular washing helps maintain the cleanliness of your pillows. However, if pillows are not washed frequently or correctly, stains can become more pronounced and difficult to remove.

How to prevent pillows from turning yellow
There are plenty of things you can do to stop your pillows from taking on a yellow tinge. With a bit of extra care and cleanliness, they’ll stay as fresh as the day you bought them for years to come. Employ some of these tricks to help keep them clean:
- Use a pillow protector: A pillow protector acts as a barrier between your pillow and potential stains. It helps prevent sweat, saliva, and oils from seeping into the pillow itself, keeping it fresher for longer.
- Wash pillowcases frequently: Since pillowcases come in direct contact with your skin, washing them at least once a week can help prevent stains from settling into the pillow.
- Wash your pillows regularly: Many pillows can be machine-washed. Check the care label and aim to wash your pillows every 3 to 6 months to remove built-up oils, sweat, and dust.
- Keep your sleeping area clean: Regularly washing your sheets and pillowcases, showering before bed, and keeping your bedroom dust-free can all contribute to a cleaner pillow.
- Avoid going to bed with wet hair: Wet or damp hair introduces excess moisture to your pillow. This can lead to mould and mildew growth, which can contribute to yellowing. Dry your hair before bed and use a silk hair wrap to keep it protected whilst you sleep. Not only is this great for your pillows, but it will prevent friction and keep frizz at bay too.
How to remove yellow stains from pillows
If your pillows have already developed yellow stains, here’s how to restore them to their former glory:
- Machine wash with baking soda and vinegar: A mixture of baking soda and white vinegar can help break down stains and odours.
- Use hydrogen peroxide and dish soap: These ingredients can help lift stubborn stains when applied directly to affected areas before washing.
- Sun-drying: Drying pillows in the sun can naturally bleach out some of the stains and kill bacteria.
By understanding why pillows turn yellow and taking these preventive measures against it, you can extend their lifespan and keep them looking and smelling fresh for years to come. If you’ve tried all of our tricks and still need a refresh, browse our collection of luxury pillows to find your perfect upgrade.