There’s nothing quite like the look (and feel) of crisp, white bed sheets. But despite your best efforts to keep them nice and white, it’s probably inevitable that, at some point, they start to turn an unwelcome shade of yellow. At this point, it’s time to learn how to whiten your sheets.
Before reaching for the bleach to return your pillowcases to their original glory, we’ve got some tips for you to try. After all, bleach can be harsh on your linen, or, worse, it can make it more yellow (depending on the bleach).
Why bed linen can turn yellow
There are a variety of reasons your bed sheets may be turning yellow, but don’t fret – discolouration doesn’t necessarily mean you’re dirty or unhygienic. It’s normal for sheets to become discoloured after frequent use. This can be caused by sweat, body oils or lotions and creams that build up in the material over time.
How to prevent white sheets from yellowing
Ensure you wash your sheets regularly and adequately. While this may not prevent your sheets from becoming white, it’ll likely slow the process. We also recommend avoiding bleach, as it can react with bodily fluids on the bedding and worsen the damage. Unluckily for anyone who tries, it’ll be even tougher to get the stains out (if not impossible!)
Fabric softeners can also cause discolouration of your bedsheets, especially if you’re adding too much. It’s best to avoid using it, even though it may be tempting; it’ll extend the lifetime of your sheets.
How do you get yellowed sheets white again?
Alice, a BHG reader, reached out after trying everything to remove the yellow from her pillowcases and wanted to share how she did it.
“I soaked them overnight in dishwashing liquid and bicarb soda. Then I put them in the washing machine with two cups of vinegar and dried them in the sun,” Alice says.
She added: “It was a bit of a process, but it worked.”
How to get yellow stains out of white sheets with 2 ingredients
What you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup dishwashing detergent (preferably clear)
- 1/2 cup bi-carb soda
Method:
- Fill a tub or bath with hot water. Add your bi-carb soda and dishwashing detergent. Once dissolved, add your pillow cases.
- Give them a good stir and a poke.
- Leave to soak overnight.
- Drain the tub or bath the following day, then transfer the sheets to the washing machine.
- Wash on a regular cycle with 2 cups of vinegar and your normal detergent.
- Dry in the sun.
How to remove yellow stains from white clothes by fabric type
Cotton
Cotton is durable and can handle stronger cleaning methods. You can usually treat yellow stains using oxygen bleach, baking soda paste, or enzyme laundry detergents. Avoid chlorine bleach, as it can actually worsen yellowing over time.
Linen
Linen fibres are more delicate, so gentler treatments work best. Try soaking in a solution of baking soda and warm water or using diluted white vinegar before washing.
Synthetic blends
Polyester and blended fabrics often retain body oils, which can cause yellowing. Enzyme detergents are especially effective at breaking down oil-based residues.
Natural vs chemical options
Natural options
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Lemon juice + sunlight
Best for: Light stains and delicate fabrics.
Chemical options
• Oxygen bleach
• Enzyme detergents
• Commercial stain removers
Best for: Heavy sweat or oil stains.
Here are some tips to help keep your sheets white:
- Wash them regularly.
- Try adding a small amount of washing soda to your washing cycle. Here’s how to use washing soda.
- Make sure you aren’t using too much detergent – here’s how much detergent you should use (it’s less than what it says on the packaging)
- Make sure you are using a filler-free washing detergent. Here’s how to tell if your detergent contains fillers.
- Don’t overfill your washing machine, otherwise soapy water won’t be able to run freely through and clean stains and odours
- Measure correct quantities for your detergent – too much will leave residue and decolour your sheets quicker
- Use the extra rinse cycle to make sure you’re getting rid of as much dirt and grime as possible
- Dry sheets in the sunlight to get rid of persistent germs and odours
How often should you wash your bed sheets?
Washing your bedsheets regularly helps reduce discolouration, and it’s recommended that you wash them at least once every two weeks. Doing so will reduce the risk of a deep stain and prevent excessive buildup of dust mites, bacteria, and even your own dead skin. If you live in a warmer climate or have pets sleeping in the same bed with you, we recommend washing your sheets at least once a week.
