Pillows are often forgotten about when people are washing their bedding but they can easily harbour bacteria and develop unsightly yellow stains if neglected for too long. 

It is incredibly important to wash pillows as not only can they attract germs but can also become infused with dust mites and sweat which can make your bedroom smell. 

David Smith, a laundry expert from Down and Feather Company, has shared one big reason pillows become dirty in wintertime is due to the build-up of humidity from having the heating on. 

He said: “Moisture and humidity can destroy down causing it to lose its loft and its ability to insulate properly. Moisture and humidity will create yellow stains on pillowcases and your pillows will start to turn yellow.” 

Removing these stains is easy as you do not even need a washing machine since the best way to clean pillows is by using simple kitchen staples such as lemon juice and baking soda.

David said: “Create a paste using lemon juice and baking soda, then gently rub it onto the yellow stains. Let it sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly and allowing the pillow to dry.”

It may seem too strange but lemon juice contains citric acid as not only is it antibacterial but it is excellent at breaking down oily sweat stains. 

Baking soda is alkaline so can easily lift stains when mixed with lemon juice and water but also absorbs odours so your pillows will have a fresh smell after you are done treating them. 

All you have to mix lemon juice and baking soda with a little water until they form a paste, then apply to any stains you find on your pillows. 

Alternatively, you can soak pillows in a basin or in a bathtub and mix the paste into the water for a more thorough cleaning. 

Leave the solution or let the pillows soak for at least 30 minutes to allow time for the solution to break down the stains. 

After the time is up, the pillows should be clean and stain-free. If any stains remain then leave the solution on for longer or give them more time to soak. 

If you are hanging pillows up to dry then consider placing them outside in the morning as sunlight as the ultraviolet rays have a natural whitening effect which can kill bacteria as well as break down organic compounds such as sweat. 

David said: “Sunlight can help naturally bleach and freshen pillows. After spot treatment or washing, hang the pillows in direct sunlight to dry. 

“Rotate them occasionally for even exposure and ensure they are completely dry before using them again.”

Once the pillows are completely dry then they should be fully restored so you can stay cosy this winter with your bedding cleaned in time for Christmas.