How to Deodorize Pillows: Keep Your Sleep Space Fresh

Let’s face it—pillows get funky. Whether from sweat, drool, hair products, or our lovable pets, they absorb everything over time. The result?

That not-so-fresh scent no one wants to lay their head on. Thankfully, learning how to deodorize pillows can be simple, effective, and chemical-free.

With a few household ingredients and the right routine, you can refresh your pillows without tossing them in the wash every week.

How to Deodorize Feather Pillows

Feather pillows can trap odors more easily due to their natural materials and open structure. Since moisture can damage feathers, a dry approach is key.

Deodorizing Steps:

1. Sprinkle baking soda evenly over the entire pillow to absorb surface oils and neutralize odors.

2. Let it sit for at least one hour, or overnight for deeper odor removal—especially helpful for musty or pet-related smells.

3. Vacuum using an upholstery brush attachment to lift away the baking soda along with dirt and dander particles.

4. Air it out in direct sunlight for a few hours, flipping halfway through to expose both sides. Sunlight naturally helps kill odor-causing bacteria.

5. Optional: Mist lightly with a water-diluted essential oil spray (such as lavender or eucalyptus) to add a subtle, fresh scent. Be cautious not to oversaturate, especially with down or feather fill.

Extra Tip:

Use a pillow protector to reduce odor buildup and extend the life of your pillow.

Choose breathable, zippered protectors for easy removal and regular washing, and consider rotating between two to maintain freshness year-round.

We’ve used this method after family movie nights where snacks and snuggles on the feather pillows left behind a trail of buttery scent—it’s quick, easy, and a lifesaver when you need freshness fast. Plus, having our Puffy Lux Mattress nearby keeps everything else feeling clean and cozy too.

How to Deodorize Throw Pillows

Throw pillows aren’t just for show—they’re used for lounging, napping, and more. And that means they need freshening up too.

Options Depending on Material:

• Removable Covers:

  • Wash the cover according to label instructions, preferably using fragrance-free detergent for sensitive skin.

  • Deodorize the insert with baking soda and vacuuming, letting the baking soda sit for a few hours before removal.

  • Optional: Air out the insert in indirect sunlight to further freshen it naturally.

• Non-Removable Covers:

  • Sprinkle baking soda over the entire pillow surface to absorb oils and odors.

  • Let sit for an hour, or overnight for heavier buildup.

  • Vacuum thoroughly, paying attention to seams and corners.

  • Spot-clean any visible stains with a mild detergent and damp cloth.

  • Air-dry in sunlight if possible to help kill bacteria and revive freshness.

Fabric Spray Tip:

Create a DIY spray with:

• 1 cup water

• 1 tbsp white vinegar

• 10 drops essential oil (like lemon or lavender)

Mist lightly and allow to air dry completely. Use between deeper cleanings to maintain a consistently fresh scent without introducing excess moisture.

How to Deodorize Memory Foam Pillow

Memory foam requires special care because it’s sensitive to moisture and not machine washable. Here’s how to tackle smells safely:

Best Approach:

1. Remove any outer cover and wash it separately with a mild detergent to eliminate surface odor and allergens.

2. Sprinkle baking soda directly on the foam, ensuring full coverage on both sides.

3. Let it sit for several hours—ideally 6–8—to allow the baking soda to absorb moisture and neutralize odors.

4. Use a hand vacuum or brush attachment to remove residue thoroughly, paying special attention to crevices or seams.

5. Place the foam in a dry, sunny area with good airflow for at least a few hours. Sunlight helps kill odor-causing bacteria and refresh the foam.

What to Avoid:

• Don’t soak or spray memory foam—it traps moisture and can grow mold.

• Skip harsh cleaners or enzyme sprays that degrade the foam and damage its structural integrity.

We keep our guest room stocked with memory foam pillows, and this trick paired with our Puffy Cloud Mattress helps everyone wake up feeling refreshed—and not congested.

Best Natural Deodorizers for All Pillow Types

How Often Should You Deodorize?

• Weekly: Light refresh with essential oil spray or sunlight to prevent the buildup of odors from daily use, sweat, or pet hair.

• Monthly: Full baking soda and vacuum treatment for each pillow type to absorb embedded smells and maintain freshness.

• Seasonally: Deep deodorizing and laundering of pillow covers and protectors, plus extended airing or sun exposure for the pillows themselves. This is also a good time to rotate or replace older pillows showing signs of wear or persistent odor.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to deodorize pillows gives you an easy path to a cleaner, fresher bed without needing constant laundry cycles.

Whether you’re dealing with feather, memory foam, or your favorite throw pillow, the right method makes all the difference.

Incorporate these tips into your weekly routine and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a truly fresh sleep space—especially when paired with a supportive and breathable mattress that naturally helps reduce moisture and odor retention.