Vinegar works wonders to “break down odours and lift stains” on pillows(Image: (Image: Getty))

'I'm a laundry expert - clean your pillows perfectly in 30 mins without a washing machine'

by · BristolLive

Pillows, which gather dead skin cells, oils, and sweat from our bodies as we sleep, need to be cleaned regularly. A study by Amerisleep revealed that an unwashed pillowcase can harbour 17 times more bacteria than the average toilet seat after just one week of use, with up to three million colony-forming units (CFUs) per square inch.

However, not all pillows can be safely washed in a washing machine, particularly those made of delicate materials or filled with special stuffing. Plus, with the cost of living crisis, people are seeking budget-friendly cleaning hacks for their household items, many of which involve avoiding the use of washing machines due to their high running costs.

Fortunately, Allen Civlak, a laundry expert and owner of Mary's Kitchen Flour Sack Towels, claims there is an alternative method to effectively clean your pillows without washing them. This cleaning solution utilises two of the most affordable cleaning products available on supermarket shelves - baking soda and vinegar.

This cleaning hack will set you back less than 90p. The prices are based on supermarket-branded products, with a 200g packet of baking soda costing around 50p and a 500ml bottle of vinegar priced at 35p.

To clean pillows, start by removing any pillowcases, covers, or protectors before generously sprinkling baking soda on the pillows. Make sure both sides are covered, reports the Express.

Remove tough pillow stains in 30 minutes with expert’s 90p tip - no washing machine needed(Image: (Image: Getty))

The next step involves spritzing the baking soda with a vinegar solution. This is made by mixing equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.

Lightly coat your pillows with this acidic mixture. The combination of baking soda and vinegar works wonders to "break down odours and lift stains".

Then, leave the pillows for at least half an hour while the ingredients work their magic, neutralising unpleasant smells and refreshing them. Afterwards, either scrub them or use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery brush to remove the baking soda and any loosened dirt.

Ensure you clean both sides thoroughly. If the weather permits, air the pillows outside as UV rays have "natural disinfectant properties" and can eliminate stubborn odours.

Pillows don’t always need to be cleaned in the washing machine(Image: (Image: Getty))

Alternatively, place the pillow near a slightly open window for a similar effect. Follow up with a good fluffing and rotation of the pillows to ensure they are evenly clean and dry.

Allow them a few hours of fresh air before putting them back into clean pillowcases. Allen concluded by saying: "By using baking soda and vinegar, you can naturally clean and freshen your pillows, leaving them smelling clean and revitalised."