There are a few things in life that we can’t avoid: death, taxes, and dirty throw pillows. While we may not be able to prevent our throw pillows from getting dirty, we can certainly clean them with ease!
I’ll show you how to clean throw pillows in this blog post – step-by-step. So, whether your pillow is covered in dust, pet hair, or spilled coffee, read on for the best way to make it look good as new!
When Should You Clean Your Throw Pillows?
Before I walk you through the steps of how to clean your throw pillows, let’s first talk about when you should be cleaning them.
As a general rule of thumb, you should be washing your pillow covers at least once a week. But if you have kids or pets, you may need to wash them more often.
As for the actual pillow inserts, you should be spot cleaning them as needed and washing them about once a month. But again, if you have kids or pets, you may need to wash them more often.
Here are additional factors that should tell you when to clean your throw pillows:
- If they’re starting to look dingy or feel stiff
- If they have any stains on them
- If they begin to smell musty
- When you know that you’ll be having guests over, and you want your pillows to look as good as possible
These are some of the everyday situations that should tell you when to clean your throw pillows.
8 Best Throw Pillows Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
How you clean and maintain your throw pillows depends on the fabric they are made from.
Cotton, linen, silk, and other natural materials may be washed in cold water using mild detergents or gentle soaps.
Synthetic fabrics like polyester can survive being machine washed at the highest temperature on your washing machine’s setting. Dry cleaning is another option.
Once you’ve determined how to wash your throw pillows, it’s time to think about drying them.
For most materials, tumble drying on low is the best option. But if you’re worried about shrinkage or damage, hang them up to dry instead.
Cleaning and maintaining your throw pillows doesn’t have to be a chore.
By following these simple tips, you can keep them looking and smelling fresh for years to come. In summary, here are the eight best tips for cleaning and maintaining your throw pillows:
- Wash your throw pillows regularly.
- Vacuum regularly to remove dust and dirt.
- Spot clean them as needed.
- Use a mild detergent or soap when washing.
- Choose a suitable drying method for different materials.
- Consider using a protectant or spray to repel stains and dirt.
- Keep your throw pillows in good condition by rotating them regularly.
- Replace worn-out or damaged throw pillows as needed.
How to Wash Throw Pillows in 5 Easy Steps
With a clear understanding of how to clean throw pillows, you can maintain them in like-new condition for years to come.
The following steps will help you wash your throw pillows safely and effectively:
Step 1: Read Your Pillow’s Care Label
Reading the care label on your throw pillows is the first step in knowing how to clean them properly.
Different fabrics require different cleaning methods, so check the label before you start washing.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pillows for Washing
Remove any detachable covers from your throw pillows, and prepare them for washing by shaking off any loose dirt or debris.
Step 3: Choose the Right Washing Method
Once you’ve read the care label, it’s time to choose the suitable washing method for your throw pillows.
For most natural fabrics, hand washing or machine washing on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent is best.
On the other hand, you can typically wash synthetic fabrics safely at a high temperature.
Step 4: Dry Your Pillows
Once you’ve washed your throw pillows, it’s time to think about how to dry them.
For most materials, tumble drying on low is recommended. However, if you’re worried about shrinkage or damage, you can hang them up to dry instead.
Step 5: Store Your Pillows Properly
Once your throw pillows are clean and dry, it’s essential to store them properly to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating.
Keep them in a cool, dark place out of direct sunlight.
READ ALSO: How to Store Pillows?
How Often Should You Wash Throw Pillows?
In general, you should aim to wash your throw pillows once a season, or at least every few months. This will ensure that they stay fresh and clean while on display in your home.
Contrary to popular belief, throw pillows are not just for decoration. They can also add more comfort to a room and protect your furniture from stains and damage over time.
Throw pillow washing isn’t tricky, but it does require some planning and attention to detail to get the job done right.
Aside from regular cleaning routines, you can also do other things to keep your throw pillows looking good as new for longer.
- To begin with, it’s essential to store them properly when they are not in use. You can place the pillows into a storage bag or box covered with a breathable fabric.
- Next, you should clean your throw pillows based on their materials and construction. Some pillows can be machine-washed, while others need to be spot-cleaned by hand. Be sure to read the care label before cleaning so you don’t damage the pillow.
- Finally, it’s also good to invest in quality pillow covers. These can help protect your pillows from stains and everyday dust and dirt.
If you follow these simple tips, your throw pillows will continue to look great for years to come!
5 Ways to Keep Your Pillows Clean Longer
Now that you know how to clean your throw pillows, there are several steps you can take to keep them looking and smelling fresh for years to come. Here are five tips that will help:
1. Vacuum your throw pillows regularly
This will help remove any dust or dirt that has accumulated on them. If you have a pillow with a removable cover, you can take the cover off and vacuum it separately.
2. Spot treat any stains or soiled areas
If you notice any stains on your throw pillows, it’s essential to treat them as soon as possible. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to remove the stain gently.
3. Machine wash your throw pillows if they are washable
Most pillow covers can be machine-washed, but it’s always best to check the care label first. If you’re unsure, you can always hand wash your pillows in the sink.
4. Hang your throw pillows out to dry
Once your throw pillows are clean, it’s essential to hang your throw pillows out to dry completely. This will help prevent any mildew or mold from forming on the fabric.
5. Use a refresher spray to help keep your pillows smelling fresh
There are many great refresher sprays available on the market that you can use to keep your throw pillows smelling clean and fresh. Mist the spray onto your pads every few days, and you’ll enjoy a more pleasant aroma in your home.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your throw pillows looking and smelling great for years to come.
Conclusion
Learning how to clean throw pillows is just the first step in maintaining them in like-new condition.
To keep your pillows looking and smelling fresh, it’s important to vacuum them regularly, and spot treat any stains or soiled areas.
Cleaning your throw pillows regularly will help extend their life and keep them looking their best.