Easy Ways To Remove Perfume Scents From Your Pillow

Getting rid of perfume smells from pillows can be tricky, especially if they are made from delicate materials or filled with memory foam, which is known for trapping odours. To effectively remove perfume smells from pillows, you can try a few different methods, including: exposing them to direct sunlight for several hours, using baking soda, washing them with vinegar, or a combination of these techniques.

Use baking soda

To get rid of perfume smells from your pillows, one popular method is to use baking soda. This is an inexpensive and effective way to remove all kinds of unpleasant smells from pillows.

Firstly, remove your pillow from its protective cover. If you are dealing with a particularly strong smell, you can create a baking soda and water paste. The paste should be made with two parts baking soda and one part water. Using disposable gloves, apply the paste to the pillow with a cotton ball, being careful not to wet the pillow too much. Leave the paste to dry for up to 45 minutes, then vacuum the pillow to remove the dried paste.

If the smell is less intense, simply sprinkling a thin layer of baking soda over the pillow will be enough. Leave the baking soda for around 30 minutes to an hour, and then gently vacuum it off the pillow.

If you want to speed up the process, you can spray the pillow with vinegar after applying the baking soda. The vinegar will react with the baking soda, creating a fizzing effect that can help to lift dirt and odours from the fabric. After spraying with vinegar, rinse the pillow with water.

Put it in the sun

Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. It can help remove odours from pillows, especially those that are hard to wash. Place your pillow outside in direct sunlight for a few hours. The sun's ultraviolet rays will kill dust mites, mildew, and allergens, and will also absorb any dampness and odours.

It is best to do this on bright, hot, and breezy summer days. The heat, sunlight, and fresh breeze will help to deodorize, disinfect, and bleach natural fibres, restoring their splendour. The sun's ultraviolet rays will also help to lighten any stains.

Make sure to place your pillow in a spot that receives direct sunlight. This will ensure that the sun's rays can penetrate the fibres of the pillow and effectively remove any odours. If your pillow is made of delicate materials, be careful not to expose it to direct sunlight for too long, as the heat may damage the fabric.

After sunning, bring your pillow back inside and put a freshly laundered pillowcase on it. You can also spritz the pillow with a little water to create steam, which will help to further eliminate odours.

Wash it

If you want to get perfume smells out of your pillow, one of the most popular methods is to use baking soda. Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda evenly over both sides of the pillow, gently brush it in, and leave it for an hour or longer. Then, vacuum the baking soda off the pillow.

If you're dealing with a tougher odour, you can create a baking soda paste by mixing two parts baking soda with one part water. Put on some disposable gloves, dip your fingers into the paste, and scrub it into the pillow using a cotton ball, being careful not to wet the pillow too much. Allow the paste to dry for up to 45 minutes, and then vacuum it off.

You can also wash your pillow in the washing machine. Check the pillow's care label and follow the instructions. Some people recommend using cold water and adding vinegar to the wash to help eliminate odours. You can also add a scented laundry detergent or a scent booster to your wash. After washing, dry your pillow completely. While some people use a clothes dryer on low heat, it's recommended to air-dry whenever possible. Hang the pillow in a well-ventilated area or place it on a clean surface, flipping it occasionally to ensure thorough drying.

Vacuum

Begin by covering the upholstery attachment of your vacuum with a clean cloth or pillowcase. This will help to ensure that the vacuum doesn't get overwhelmed by the dust and dirt that might be present on the pillow's surface. Run the covered attachment gently over the pillow's surface, taking care not to damage the pillow.

If your pillow has absorbed strong scents or odors, you can combine vacuuming with other methods for more effective results. One popular method is to use baking soda. Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda evenly on both sides of the pillow, allowing it to sit for at least an hour or even overnight for stronger odors. The baking soda will absorb the odor molecules, and you can then vacuum it up, along with the unwanted smells and any remaining stains.

Another method is to use a vinegar solution. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and cool water, and lightly mist it over the pillow on both sides. Allow the pillow to air dry completely before putting the pillowcase back on. The vinegar scent will fade as the pillow dries, leaving it refreshed.

Additionally, activated charcoal is another effective odor absorber. Place charcoal air-purifying bags inside your pillowcases and leave them overnight. The charcoal will naturally pull out odors, oils, and moisture. Afterward, simply remove the charcoal bags—no vacuuming or washing is required.

By combining these methods with regular vacuuming, you can effectively remove unwanted perfume scents and keep your pillows fresh and clean.

Use isopropyl alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is an effective way to remove perfume smells from pillows. It is a powerful sterilizer, antimicrobial, and deodorizer.

To use isopropyl alcohol to remove perfume smells from pillows, follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Isopropyl Alcohol Solution

Mix a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol with a 1:2 water ratio. The water in the solution helps to open up bacteria, allowing the alcohol to penetrate and kill it. Place the mixture in a spray bottle and shake well to ensure the ingredients are combined.

Step 2: Apply the Solution to the Pillow

Lightly spray the affected areas of the pillow with the isopropyl alcohol solution. Ensure that you do not overspray to the point of saturating the pillow. A little goes a long way with isopropyl alcohol.

Step 3: Allow the Pillow to Dry

After spraying, leave the room and allow the pillow to air dry completely. It is important to avoid breathing in isopropyl alcohol vapors, so ensure proper ventilation during this process.

Step 4: Optional Scent Addition

Once the pillow is dry, you may choose to add a pleasant scent. You can do this by mixing 10-12 drops of your favorite essential oil(s) into the remaining isopropyl alcohol solution. Shake well, and then lightly spray the surface of the pillow.

Step 5: Sun Exposure (Optional)

If desired, you can place the pillow in direct sunlight for a few hours. Sun exposure can help to further eliminate odors and leave your pillow smelling fresh.

By following these steps, you can effectively use isopropyl alcohol to remove perfume smells from pillows, leaving them clean and deodorized.

Frequently asked questions