Why Pillows Turn Yellow and How to Clean Them

If your washing machine is big enough, you can wash small pillows in it. However, if you have queen or king-size pillows, head to the laundromat and take advantage of the extra-large front-loading washing machines. “What cleans is not the water, but the tumbling motion of the laundry in the washing machine,” Roberts says. “If you put pillows in the washing machine, they get wet, but they can’t be turned inside out.”

Use the delicate wash cycle.

Too much movement may cause the filling to break.
Use cold or lukewarm water.

Avoid hot water as it can destroy the fibers of your pillows.
Do not use too much detergent and avoid fabric softener.

Reduce the amount of detergent you normally use; say 1/4 cap full if you use a full cap on a regular load (too much is harder to rinse). Don’t use fabric softener, which can build up on cushions and cause a shine that attracts more dirt and oil.
Rinse well.
If possible, choose a second or deep option to completely remove any rinse residue.
Now it’s time to dry.