Throw Pillow Cleaning 101: Tips and Tricks for a Fresh Home

If you’ve spruced up your home with brightly colored throw pillows, it’s crucial that these pieces remain in pristine condition. Keeping up on the regular cleaning and maintenance of your throw pillows helps them look their best for years while maintaining the inviting atmosphere you created when you first filled your home with those perfect pops of color. To help keep things in order, we have compiled our top tips and tricks for cleaning all types of decorative accent pillows, so that you can maintain a clean and comfortable living space without any extra effort.        

How Often Should You Clean Your Throw Pillows?

Well, it all boils down to how much action they see. If your favorite decorative pillows reside on a well-loved couch in the heart of your living room or snuggle up with you in bed, it's a good idea to freshen them up about once a month.

On the other hand, if your pillows are tucked away in a less-trafficked corner of your home, you can be a bit more laid-back about your cleaning routine. Going for a wash every couple of months or whenever they start looking a bit tired should do the trick.

The Best Methods for Throw Pillow Cleaning

Machine Washing

Always choose the delicate cycle on the washing machine, match the water temperature to the fabric's needs, as shown on the care label, and use a small amount of mild detergent. When it's time for a wash, remove the cover from the pillows and separate them into small loads, grouping similar fabrics and colors to prevent any mishaps. After cleaning, keep the fabric in consideration when deciding whether to machine-dry or air-dry your covers; if in doubt, opt for air-drying in a well-ventilated spot but away from direct sunlight. Smooth out any wrinkles with a cold iron, and once everything is dry and wrinkle-free, carefully reassemble the pillow insert into its cover.

Dry Cleaning

Many dry cleaners are equipped to handle your upscale decorative pillows, and they possess professional-grade solutions to effectively eliminate even the toughest stains. This is particularly important when your pillows feature intricate decorations such as beading or embroidery. Attempting to spot-clean these delicate elements can risk damaging them.

Spot-Treatment

When dealing with delicate fabrics on throw pillow covers, opt for spot treatment. For oily stains, apply baking soda, let it sit, and then vacuum. For water-based spills, start by blotting the area to soak up excess liquid using a clean cloth or towel. Then, gently dab at the stain in circular motions. To remove any remaining residue, rinse the area with a clean, damp sponge or towel. To expedite the drying process, you can also use a blow dryer set to a cool setting. These methods help preserve fine fabrics without over-soaking.

Hand Washing

When in doubt about your pillow cover's fabric or its tolerance for machine washing, opt for a gentle hand-wash approach. Begin by treating any stains with an appropriate cleanser designed for the fabric. Then, take a basin and fill it halfway with cold water, adding a small amount of mild detergent or a specialized option like wool detergent. Submerge the pillow covers, let them soak briefly, and gently massage them with your fingertips to remove any remaining dirt. After a thorough rinse, allow them to air dry naturally without squeezing or wringing them out. This careful hand-washing method ensures your covers remain in top-notch condition.  

Maintaining Your Throw Pillows’ Freshness

• Opt for Pillow Covers You Can Machine Wash

Particularly in areas with high foot traffic, such as spaces frequented by children and pets, consider choosing pillow covers that are suitable for machine washing. This practical decision simplifies the cleaning process.

• Use High-Quality Pillows Prudently

Save your premium-quality pillows for spaces with less activity, such as the living room, rather than areas like the den or a bedroom where spills and mishaps are more commonplace. Consider the placement of your pillows carefully if you have childern or pets prone to making a mess.

• Address Spills Promptly

Whenever accidents occur, take immediate action to prevent dirt and stains from permanently affecting the fabric of your throw pillows. Swift responses can safeguard the appearance of your cushions.

• Incorporate Regular Vacuuming

Include throw pillows in your routine vacuuming sessions. As an additional measure, take them outdoors and shake them thoroughly to dislodge trapped dust, hair, or surface grime. This straightforward practice can assist in maintaining the freshness of your pillows in terms of both appearance and odor.

Maintaining the freshness and allure of your throw pillows is a simple yet rewarding endeavor. By following the valuable tips and tricks shared in this guide, you will not only keep your living spaces looking and feeling inviting but also extend the lifespan of these cherished decor pieces. So go ahead, embrace these practices, and let your throw pillows be a testament to your dedication to a clean and welcoming living environment. Here's to a home that's always fresh, cozy, and brimming with your unique style!