Brilio.net - Pillows are one of the items used every day, so they are very easy to get dirty. Dust, dirt from hair, to high humidity can be the main causes of pillows getting stained and even growing mold.
Unfortunately, many people only wash pillowcases regularly, while the inside is often neglected. In fact, pillows that are rarely cleaned can become a nest for bacteria and fungi that cause stubborn stains.
White pillows are more prone to looking dull and stained if not properly cared for. Pillows that are damp and never dried in the sun are also at risk of black spot mold.
TikTok/@inem_laundry
Usually, people will soak moldy pillows in hot water to remove stains. However, a TikTok user with the account @inem_laundry shared a trick to clean pillows without having to soak them in hot water.
Tricks to Clean Moldy PillowsIn her video, @inem_laundry shows how to remove mold stains from white pillows with just two simple ingredients. She only uses bleach and dish soap as the main cleaning ingredients.
"Today we washed a customer's pillow that had black spots of mold and also island stains," he explained.
The first step, mix the bleach with dish soap in sufficient quantities. After that, the mixture is applied evenly to the entire surface of the pillow using a brush.
"Why did I say on the entire surface and not just on the stain? Because this uses bleach, if you only spot on the stained area, I'm afraid the color will be uneven, become bumpy, become tinea versicolor," he said.
TikTok/@inem_laundry
After being applied evenly, the mold stains began to fade without the need for a long soak. However, the pillow still needs to be soaked in a mixture of bleach and dish soap to ensure the color is even.
At this stage, the pillow is soaked while being brushed gently to remove any remaining stains. The parts that are still dirty need to be brushed so that the results are cleaner and more even.
"So we soak it while brushing the areas where the stains haven't disappeared, because we only brushed it, so if there are dirty stains that stick, well, those need to be brushed too," he continued.
TikTok/@inem_laundry
How to Keep Pillows Clean and Not YellowingCleaning pillows with bleach can indeed make them white again, but there is a risk of yellowing if not properly neutralized. To avoid this, pillows need to be soaked in water that has been mixed with an acid such as citric, vinegar, or oxalic acid.
"Because if you use bleach, it can actually turn yellow if it is not neutralized. Just neutralize it for a while, then rinse it again once and soak it with softener, so that the smell of bleach is gone," he explained.
All washing processes must be done until they are completely clean before the pillow is dried. The drying process can be done with a washing machine or drained manually before being dried in the sun until completely dry.
"And this is the result of washing it, it's actually not completely dry yet, it hasn't been dried in the sun, but I can't wait to show you the result, it's clean and white again like new," he concluded.
TikTok/@inem_laundry
Keeping Pillows and Rooms Clean to Keep Them Free of FungusMaintaining the cleanliness of the pillow can be done by drying it regularly, at least once a week. This process helps reduce moisture which is the main cause of mold. Using a cotton pillowcase is also better because it can absorb sweat and is not easily damp.
The condition of the bedroom also affects the cleanliness of the pillows and bolsters. Good air circulation can prevent the growth of mold and bacteria in the bed.
Windows should be opened every morning so that the air in the room remains fresh and not stuffy. With proper care, pillows remain clean, free of mold, and more comfortable to use every day.
(brl/far)
