Throw pillows are a great way to add a pop of color and personality to any room. However, they can quickly become dirty and stained, especially if they are used frequently. Washing throw pillows may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a simple and effective way to keep your pillows looking fresh and clean. Here is everything you need to know about how to wash throw pillows:
1. Check the Care Label
Before you start washing your throw pillows, it’s important to check the care label to see if there are any specific instructions or restrictions. Some pillows may be machine washable, while others may need to be dry cleaned or spot cleaned. Make sure to follow the instructions on the care label to avoid damaging or shrinking the pillow.
2. Remove the Pillow Cover
If your pillow has a removable cover, take it off and wash it separately from the pillow insert. This will help to prevent the colors from bleeding or fading, and it will also make it easier to clean the pillow itself.
3. Shake Out the Pillow
Before washing the pillow insert, give it a good shake to remove any loose dirt or debris. This will help to ensure that the pillow gets as clean as possible in the wash.
4. Use a Gentle Detergent
When washing your throw pillows, use a gentle detergent that is free from harsh chemicals or bleach. This will help to protect the fabric and keep the colors from fading. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can leave a residue on the pillow.
5. Wash on a Gentle Cycle
When washing your throw pillow, use a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the fabric or the pillow itself. Use cold water to help prevent shrinking or fading.
6. Use a Large Capacity Washer
If you have multiple throw pillows to wash, make sure to use a large capacity washer to avoid overcrowding. This will help to ensure that the pillows get clean without getting tangled or damaged in the wash.
7. Dry on a Low Heat Setting
After washing your throw pillows, dry them on a low heat setting to avoid shrinking or damaging the fabric. Make sure to fluff the pillows periodically during the drying process to help them maintain their shape.
8. Avoid Over-Drying
Be careful not to over-dry your throw pillows, as this can cause them to become brittle and stiff. Remove them from the dryer while they are still slightly damp and allow them to air dry the rest of the way.
9. Use Tennis Balls
To help fluff up your throw pillows after washing and drying, toss a few clean tennis balls into the dryer with them. The balls will help to distribute the filling evenly and prevent clumping.
10. Spot Clean as Needed
If your pillow has a stain or spot that won’t come out in the wash, try spot cleaning it with a gentle cleaner or soap. Make sure to test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric.
11. Don’t Bleach
Never use bleach on your throw pillows, as it can damage the fabric and cause discoloration.
12. Avoid Direct Sunlight
When drying your throw pillows, avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can cause the colors to fade and the fabric to become brittle.
13. Rotate Your Pillows
To help prevent your throw pillows from becoming flattened or misshapen, rotate them regularly and fluff them up as needed.
14. Use a Vacuum
If your throw pillows have become dusty or dirty but don’t necessarily need to be washed, you can use a vacuum to clean them. Use the upholstery attachment and go over the pillow gently to remove any dirt or debris.
15. Store Them Properly
When not in use, store your throw pillows in a cool, dry place to help prevent mildew or damage. Don’t store them in plastic bags, as this can trap moisture and cause mold to grow.
16. How often should you wash your throw pillows?
The frequency with which you should wash your throw pillows depends on how frequently they are used and how dirty they get. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to wash your pillows every 3-6 months to keep them clean and fresh.
17. Can you wash feather pillows?
Feather pillows can be washed, but they require special care to avoid damaging the feathers or the fabric. Make sure to use a gentle detergent, wash on a gentle cycle, and dry on a low heat setting with clean tennis balls to help fluff them up.
18. Can you wash down pillows?
Down pillows can also be washed, but they require special care to avoid damaging the feathers. Make sure to use a gentle detergent, wash on a gentle cycle, and dry on a low heat setting with clean tennis balls to help fluff them up.
19. Can you wash memory foam pillows?
Memory foam pillows should not be washed in a washing machine, as the agitation can damage the foam. Instead, spot clean them as needed with a gentle cleaner or soap.
20. Can you wash decorative pillows?
Decorative pillows can be washed, but it’s important to check the care label to see if there are any specific instructions or restrictions. Some decorative pillows may need to be dry cleaned or spot cleaned only.
21. How can you freshen up throw pillows between washes?
To freshen up your throw pillows between washes, you can sprinkle them with baking soda and let them sit for a few hours before vacuuming them off. You can also spritz them with a fabric refresher spray or essential oil spray.
22. Can you wash outdoor throw pillows?
Outdoor throw pillows can be washed, but they may require special care to remove dirt and stains. Make sure to check the care label and follow any instructions for washing or spot cleaning.
23. How can you remove pet hair from throw pillows?
To remove pet hair from your throw pillows, use a lint roller or a damp sponge to gently rub over the surface of the pillow. You can also try using a rubber glove or a dryer sheet to help pull the hair off.
24. Can you wash throw pillows in a front-loading washer?
Yes, you can wash throw pillows in a front-loading washer as long as you follow the care label instructions and use a gentle detergent on a gentle cycle with cold water.
25. Can you wash throw pillows in a top-loading washer?
Yes, you can wash throw pillows in a top-loading washer as long as you follow the care label instructions and use a gentle detergent on a gentle cycle with cold water.
26. Can you wash throw pillows with other laundry?
It’s best to wash your throw pillows separately from other laundry to avoid damage or tangling. If you do need to wash them with other items, make sure to use a large capacity washer and avoid overcrowding.
27. Can you put throw pillows in the dryer?
Yes, you can put throw pillows in the dryer, but make sure to use a low heat setting and remove them while they are still slightly damp to avoid over-drying.
28. Can you iron throw pillows?
Most throw pillows should not be ironed, as the heat can damage the fabric or filling. If you do need to iron your pillow, use a low heat setting and a pressing cloth to protect the fabric.
29. Can you dry clean throw pillows?
Some throw pillows may need to be dry cleaned instead of washed. Check the care label to see if this is recommended, and take the pillow to a professional cleaner if necessary.
30. In Summary
Washing throw pillows may seem intimidating, but with the right approach, it can be a simple and effective way to keep them clean and fresh. Follow the care label instructions, use a gentle detergent, and avoid over-drying or bleaching. With these tips, your throw pillows will look great and last for years to come.