Key Takeaways
- Learn how to get mildew smell out of pillows with simple, effective methods.
- Understand what causes that musty odor and how to prevent it.
- Discover natural remedies and cleaning products that eliminate mildew smells.
- Get guidance for different pillow types—memory foam, feather, polyester, and decorative.
We’ve all been there—you lean in to fluff a pillow and catch a whiff of that unmistakable musty smell.
Whether from a humid room, accidental spill, or improper storage, mildew odors are common—but definitely fixable.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to get mildew smell out of pillows, no matter what type of pillow you’re dealing with.
How to Get Mildew Out of Pillows
Mildew isn’t just an odor issue; it’s a fungal growth triggered by moisture. To get rid of it, you need to clean, disinfect, and dry your pillows thoroughly.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
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Inspect the pillow: Look for visible mildew spots or dampness. Press gently to check for inner moisture and sniff near the seams.
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Check the care label: Determine if the pillow is machine-washable or spot-clean only. Memory foam or decorative pillows often require gentler methods.
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Pretreat with vinegar: Spray white vinegar on mildew spots and let it sit for 30 minutes. For deep odors, use a clean toothbrush to gently scrub the solution into the fabric.
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Wash with baking soda and detergent:
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For machine-washable pillows, add 1/2 cup of baking soda with your regular detergent.
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Use a hot water cycle, if safe for your pillow, to kill remaining mildew spores.
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For extra deodorizing, add a few drops of essential oil (like tea tree or lavender) to the detergent drawer.
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Rinse thoroughly: Run an extra rinse cycle to remove all product residue, especially if you’ve used vinegar or essential oils.
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Dry completely: Use a dryer with dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help break up clumps and restore loft. Alternatively, air-dry in full sun for several hours—UV light helps eliminate remaining bacteria and lingering odors.
After washing a set of throw pillows from our entryway bench, I laid them out in the sun and was amazed how fresh they smelled by dinner. Just like we trust our Puffy Lux Mattress to stay cool and odor-free, regular pillow care pays off in a fresher home.
How to Get Mildew Smell Out of Pillows
Even after washing, mildew odors can stick around. Here’s how to deodorize effectively:
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Sunlight: Place pillows outside for several hours. UV rays naturally kill mildew and freshen fabric. Flip them halfway through to ensure even exposure and drying.
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Baking soda soak: Dissolve 1 cup of baking soda in warm water, soak pillow for 30–60 minutes, then rinse and dry. This helps neutralize stubborn odors and break down mildew buildup inside the fibers.
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Essential oils: Add a few drops of tea tree or eucalyptus oil to your wash to boost antimicrobial power. These oils not only kill mildew-causing bacteria but leave a refreshing scent.
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Vinegar rinse: Add 1 cup of white vinegar to your rinse cycle to help neutralize lingering odors. For spot treatments, use a vinegar and water solution (1:1 ratio) sprayed directly onto affected areas before rinsing.
How to Clean Different Pillow Types
Not all pillows can handle the same treatments. Here’s how to deal with various types:
| Pillow Type | Can Be Washed? | Mildew Removal Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Feather/Down | Yes (delicate) | Use mild detergent; air-dry thoroughly |
| Memory Foam | No (spot-clean) | Use vinegar spray, air dry in sunlight |
| Polyester Fiber | Yes | Machine wash hot with baking soda + vinegar |
| Decorative | Varies | Spot clean or hand wash; check covers/inserts |
Our guest room has a mix of polyester and feather pillows, and they get their fair share of use (and spills). Keeping them fresh between washes feels effortless when paired with the clean, breathable layers of our Puffy Royal Mattress.
How to Prevent Mildew in the Future
It’s one thing to remove mildew smells—but stopping them from returning is even better.
Prevention Tips:
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Dry pillows completely after every wash.
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Use breathable covers to reduce moisture buildup.
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Store in dry, cool places with air circulation.
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Avoid plastic storage bags unless vacuum-sealed.
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Air out decorative pillows weekly, especially in humid climates.
Natural Deodorizers to Keep on Hand
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Activated charcoal bags: Absorb moisture and odor from the air.
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Lavender sachets: Pleasant-smelling and antimicrobial.
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Baking soda jars: Place nearby in closets or drawers to neutralize smells.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to get mildew smell out of pillows keeps your spaces cleaner and more inviting.
With regular care, the right cleaning agents, and smart storage, you can extend the life of your pillows—and never worry about a musty odor again.
A clean home starts with small habits, and fresh, fluffy pillows are just as rewarding as a restful night on your Puffy mattress that stays as cool and breathable as day one.
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