How to Strip Pillows in Bathtub: Deep-Cleaning for a Fresher Sleep

Pillows can look clean on the surface, but over time they harbor a lot more than meets the eye—sweat, skin cells, oils, and even detergent residue can build up inside the fibers.

If your pillows are looking dingy or smelling musty no matter how many times you wash them, it might be time for a deeper cleanse.

This is where learning how to strip pillows in bathtub becomes a game-changer.

With just a few ingredients and a soak in warm water, you can revive those tired pillows and breathe new life into your bedtime routine.

How to Strip Pillows in the Bathtub

Stripping pillows is a form of deep cleaning that removes buildup that regular washing leaves behind.

It’s especially useful for pillows that have become yellowed or have a lingering odor.

What You’ll Need:

• 1/4 cup borax

• 1/4 cup washing soda (sodium carbonate)

• 1/2 cup laundry detergent (free from fabric softener)

• Hot water

• Clean bathtub

Instructions:

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

2. Add the stripping ingredients and stir until fully dissolved.

3. Add your pillows (2 at a time is best) and submerge them completely.

4. Let soak for 4–6 hours, flipping halfway through.

5. Stir occasionally to help loosen grime.

6. Drain the tub and rinse the pillows thoroughly.

7. Run a rinse cycle in the washing machine if needed.

8. Dry on low heat or air dry completely—you want to avoid clumps or mildew.

After stripping our guest room pillows, I couldn’t believe how much murky water came out. Now I do this every few months and finish them off in the guest bed made with our Puffy Lux Mattress. The combo of clean pillows and that cool-touch surface is such a win for visitors.

How to Strip Pillows in Bathtub Without Borax

Not everyone wants to use borax in their home—and that’s okay! You can still deep-clean your pillows with a borax-free alternative.

Borax-Free Recipe:

• 1/2 cup baking soda

• 1/2 cup washing soda

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

• Hot water

Process:

1. Fill the tub with hot water and dissolve the ingredients.

2. Submerge your pillows completely and soak for 4–6 hours.

3. Flip and agitate every 1–2 hours.

4. Drain, rinse, and spin in the washer.

5. Dry on low or air dry fully.

We’ve used this method on the pillows we keep in the kids’ room—and let’s just say between bedtime snacking and afternoon reading time, they needed it. Paired with our Puffy Cloud Mattress which helps regulate heat and prevent moisture buildup, the whole room smells fresher and feels cleaner.

What Types of Pillows Can Be Stripped

Not all pillows are safe for this method—so make sure to check before dunking them into the tub.

Pro Tip:

Always check the pillow tag for water-safe labeling before starting the stripping process.

How Often Should You Strip Your Pillows?

• Every 3–6 months for pillows in regular use.

• After sickness, allergies, or heavy sweating.

• Whenever you notice yellowing, odor, or loss of loft.

Bonus Maintenance Tip:

Use pillow protectors and wash them every 1–2 weeks to extend the time between deep cleans.

Drying and Fluffing After Stripping

Once you’ve stripped and rinsed your pillows, it’s important to dry them properly:

• Use a low-heat dryer cycle with dryer balls to prevent clumping.

• Fluff by hand between cycles.

• Air dry flat if your pillow type is heat-sensitive.

Check for full dryness in the corners and seams before storing or using them again.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to strip pillows in bathtub is a must for keeping your sleep space clean, comfortable, and allergen-free.

It’s a simple process with big results—especially for families juggling busy homes and messy sleepers.

Whether you use the classic borax method or opt for a gentler baking soda version, your pillows will feel lighter, smell fresher, and last longer.