How to Strip Pillows: A Deep-Cleaning Guide for Better Sleep

Even freshly laundered pillows can harbor hidden dirt, body oils, sweat, and leftover detergent.

If your pillows still look dingy or smell musty even after washing, it might be time for something more powerful: pillow stripping.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to strip pillows using both classic and borax-free methods, whether in your tub or machine.

It’s a simple routine that can make your pillows look, smell, and feel brand new.

Can You Strip Pillows?

Yes—many types of pillows can be stripped safely at home. Pillow stripping is especially helpful for synthetic and down pillows, which absorb more buildup than you might think.

Benefits of Pillow Stripping:

• Removes deep grime, sweat, and body oils

• Eliminates detergent and fabric softener buildup

• Restores fluffiness and freshness

• Extends pillow life and improves comfort

However, foam and latex pillows should not be submerged in water. For those, stick with surface cleaning methods.

How to Strip Your Pillows

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the traditional pillow stripping method using a large storage bin or plastic tote.

What You Need:

• 1/4 cup borax

• 1/4 cup washing soda

• 1/2 cup free-and-clear laundry detergent

• Hot water

• Large plastic tote or storage bin

Instructions:

1. Fill the bin with hot water—enough to submerge your pillows.

2. Add the borax, washing soda, and detergent. Stir until fully dissolved.

3. Submerge up to two pillows completely.

4. Soak for 4 to 6 hours, flipping halfway through.

5. Stir occasionally to help release buildup.

6. Drain the bin and rinse pillows thoroughly.

7. Run a rinse cycle in your washing machine if desired.

8. Dry on low heat or air dry completely.

Now it’s a regular part of my quarterly cleaning checklist—especially when we’re fluffing the beds for weekend guests. And when paired with a Puffy Lux Mattress designed to stay breathable and allergen-resistant, the difference in sleep quality is clear.

How Long to Strip Pillows

The soaking time is key to effective pillow stripping.

• Minimum soak time: 4 hours

• Recommended: 6 hours (flip halfway through)

• Do not exceed: 8 hours, especially for delicate fabrics or down fill

Pro Tips:

• Stir every hour or so to loosen buildup

• Make sure pillows are completely submerged for even cleaning

• Always dry thoroughly to avoid mildew

How to Strip Pillows Without Borax

If you prefer a more natural solution, you can still strip your pillows without using borax.

Borax-Free Stripping Mix:

• 1/2 cup baking soda

• 1/2 cup washing soda

• 1/2 cup gentle laundry detergent

Steps:

1. Fill the bathtub with hot water and add ingredients.

2. Stir well until everything is dissolved.

3. Soak 1–2 pillows for up to 6 hours.

4. Flip halfway and stir periodically.

5. Rinse well and dry thoroughly.

This method works great for families sensitive to harsher chemicals. We use it on the pillows our kids use for lounging or reading—especially the ones that get dragged all over the house. They pair beautifully with the Puffy Cloud Mattress, which naturally stays cool and resists moisture buildup.

How to Strip Pillows in Washing Machine

Don’t have a tub or want a quicker option? You can strip pillows in a top-loading washer (front-loaders typically don’t hold enough water for soaking).

What to Do:

1. Fill the washer drum with hot water (pause the cycle).

2. Add the stripping mixture (borax or borax-free).

3. Add pillows and submerge fully.

4. Soak for 4–6 hours, flipping halfway.

5. Resume cycle with an extra rinse.

6. Dry thoroughly with dryer balls or air dry.

Important:

Only use this method with a washer that allows you to pause and soak. Check your manual first.

What Kinds of Pillows Can You Strip?

Drying Tips After Stripping

Once the pillows are clean, make sure to dry them fully to avoid mildew.

• Tumble dry on low or no heat with wool dryer balls

• Stop and fluff every 30 minutes to redistribute fill

• Let air dry near a fan or sunny window for added freshness

• Test for dampness in the corners before putting on cases or storing

Final Thoughts

Learning how to strip pillows is one of those game-changing cleaning routines that brings serious results.

Whether you go the borax route or opt for a gentler solution, your pillows will look better, smell fresher, and feel like new.

Just be sure to match your method to your pillow type, follow up with a thorough drying, and enjoy the comfort of a cleaner bed.