Decorative pillows are great additions to your home decor. They add color and style to your living room or bedroom.
But did you know they can also get dirty? If you want to clean them, you’ll need to take some precautions.
Decorative pillows come in various shapes, sizes, colors, patterns, and materials. Some are even machine washable.
Step-By-Step Guide
You don’t need to throw away your pillow because it got stained.
In fact, you can easily remove stains from your pillow using common household items. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your pillow.
Step 1: Wash the Pillow
Wash your pillow with mild soap and water. Make sure that there is no detergent residue on the pillow cover.
Step 2: Remove Stains
If the stain is still visible after washing, use a damp cloth to gently rub the stain. Use an old toothbrush if necessary.
Step 3: Dry Your Pillow
Dry your pillow thoroughly by hanging it over a towel rack or placing it under a fan for about 30 minutes. This will help dry out any remaining moisture.
Step 4: Store Your Pillow
Store your pillow in its original packaging until you’re ready to re-use it.
You may want to store your pillow in a plastic bag to protect it from dust mites.
How Often Should Throw Pillows Be Washed?
Decorative accent pillows are one of those items you don’t think about too much until something goes wrong.
But, like everything else in your house, these pillows require proper care.
After all, they serve as a focal point in your bedroom or living room.
And, just like anything else in your home, regular maintenance and care will help ensure these pillows look great for many years to come.
The Best Way To Clean Decorative Pillows
There are many kinds of pillows out there, including ones made from natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, and wool; synthetic fibers, such as polyester, rayon, nylon, and acrylic; and others made from faux fillings, such as latex, memory foam, feather, and fiberfill. Each material requires a slightly different approach to cleaning.
If you want to clean your throw pillows yourself, here’s how to do it.
First, take a look at the pillow itself to see what kind of filling it contains.
If it’s filled with feathers, you’ll want to avoid washing it unless you plan on doing some serious restoration work.
Instead, use a damp cloth to gently wipe away dirt and dust, and make sure that no feathers stick together.
For pillows stuffed with down, you can simply toss them into the washing machine without worrying about damaging the feathers.
Next, check the label inside the pillowcase to find out whether it says “dry-clean only” or something else.
Dry cleaning is usually recommended for pillows that contain synthetic fillings because the chemicals used in the process could potentially cause permanent discoloration.
You might also consider having your pillows professionally cleaned if you notice stains or odors coming from them.
How To Wash A Throw Pillow Insert In The Washing Machine?
Remove the cover or pillowcase/sham from your pillow. This step prevents the case from getting dirty and staining the pillow itself.
- Place the pillow insert inside a clean pillowcase. Make sure it fits snugly around the insert.
- Do not fold the fabric over the edge of the insert because this could cause damage.
- Wash the pillow insert in a washing machine that is front-loaded without an agitator.
- Choose a gentle cycle and add a small amount of detergent to help loosen dirt. Rinse the insert thoroughly under running water.
- Use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any excess moisture.
- If you are doing laundry regularly, consider purchasing a pillow protector that protects both sides of the insert.
- You can find these products online or at most department stores.
What Are The Best Tips For Cleaning Decorative Pillows At Home?
Decorative pillows can add beauty and comfort to your living room.
They come in many shapes and sizes. Some pillows can even double as seating furniture.
But just because they’re easy to move around doesn’t mean you don’t need to take proper care of them.
Follow these tips to keep your decorative pillows looking great.
1. Wash Your Pillow Properly
First, let us start with what you shouldn’t wash your pillows in.
You should never use soap or detergent on your throw pillow. This could damage the fabric and cause discoloration, shrinkage, or even tears. Instead, try washing your throw pillow with water and mild liquid dishwashing detergent.
2. Dry Your Pillow
Next, dry your throw pillow properly. A good rule of thumb is to hang your pillow on a clothesline or drying rack over the bathroom sink. Do not place your pillow directly on a radiator or heat vent.
This could lead to excessive moisture build-up inside your pillow and mold growth.
3. Store Your Pillow Correctly
Finally, store your throw pillow correctly. Make sure to wrap your pillow tightly in plastic wrap and store it away from sunlight.
Place your pillow flat in a box or bag and label it with the date you purchased it.
Don’t forget to label your pillow with the name of your throw pillow, too.
Final Thoughts
You may have heard people talk about “washing” pillows. But did you know that throwing some pillows in the washer and then putting them in the dryer can actually damage them?
That’s why we recommend using a pillow protector instead.
It will protect your pillows from being damaged by the washer and dryer. Plus, it keeps your pillows fresh and clean.
If you’d rather not use a pillow protector, try following these steps:
1. Remove pillow sham, pillowcase, or cover from your pillow.
2. Place the pillow insert inside a clean, new pillowcase.
3. Wash pillow insert in a front loading washing machine. Add some detergents to help loosen dirt.
4. Use a soft cloth to gently remove any excess moisture.
5. Wipe away any remaining moisture with a clean towel.
6. Once the pillow has been washed, place it on a flat surface-to-air dry.