Throw pillows add comfort and character to any living space. Although often used for decorative purposes, they also have practical applications. They can be used to rest your neck, read books, or simply relax while watching TV. However, much like the sofa they rest on, throw pillows are also subject to regular wear and tear.
Over time, pet dander, dust mites, stains, and bacteria accumulate on both sides of the pillow and even within it. If the buildup goes unnoticed, they may become dull, develop an odor, and turn unhygienic. Therefore, cleaning and washing them are necessary to keep them germ-free. This article explains different ideal methods for washing throw pillows.
How Often Should Throw Pillows Be Washed?
It is ideal to wash throw pillows every one to two months. Several factors come together in deciding how often a specific pillow actually needs cleaning. It depends on whether it has been exposed to spills or stains, and if it has started to develop an unpleasant odor.
Location, or where they are kept, plays a significant role in setting the cleaning schedule. Pillows kept in the living room or bedroom should be washed at least once a month. Pillows kept in the area where they are barely used do not require frequent washing.
It is important to pay attention to visible dirt, stale smell, and a change in texture. Taken together, this indicates that the throw pillow should be washed. Regular washing and maintenance help keep throw pillows clean and hygienic.
How to Machine-Wash Throw Pillows?
Many throw pillows have removable covers that can be machine-washed. However, it is important to check the care tag first to understand the laundry instructions. Fabrics that generally hold up well in the wash include cotton, acrylic, and polyester. Here are a few steps to efficiently wash throw pillows in the machine:
- Before loading anything into the machine, remove the cover if it is detachable.
- The next important step is to pre-treat any stains on the fabric.
- Make sure to shake the pillow and cover to remove any debris or hair present.
- Lastly, it is best to wash the pillow and cover in a gentle cycle with warm water and mild detergent to avoid damage.
How to Hand-Wash Throw Pillows?
Hand washing is the better choice for delicate fabrics, as it helps maintain their condition. Below are the steps to approach hand washing throw pillows:
- Start by filling a basin with cool water and mixing in a small amount of a mild detergent or cleaner that suits your fabric best.
- Completely submerge the pillow cover in the water. If the cover cannot be removed, submerge the entire pillow in the water-filled basin.
- Softly rub the fabric with your hands. It is best to give extra attention to any soiled areas.
- Once it has been cleaned, rinse the pillow thoroughly with cool water until all traces of soap are gone.
- Press the water out without wringing or twisting the fabric, as that can damage the filling or distort the shape.
- Lay the pillow flat on a clean towel to air dry. Keep it away from direct sunlight.
How to Dry-Wash Throw Pillows?
Most throw pillows can be dried on a low heat setting, but it is best to check the laundering tag before doing so. For dryer-safe pillows, tossing in a few tennis balls alongside them helps fluff the filling and breaks up any clumps formed during the wash.
For pillows that are not dryer-safe, you can wrap them in a dry towel and press firmly to squeeze out excess moisture. Once most of the moisture has been squeezed out, allow the pillow to air dry fully before putting it back to use.
While airdrying, it is recommended to put the pillow in a sunny, well-ventilated place. The airflow and warmth from sunlight help speed up the drying process and reduce the risk of mold or mildew growth.
Tips to Keep Throw Pillows Cleaner for Longer
Washing pillows is undoubtedly one of the best ways to keep them clean and hygienic, but there are certain tips that can help keep them cleaner. This will reduce the frequency of washing them. Here are some tips:
Vacuum Them Regularly
Regular dusting or vacuuming is essential to keep throw pillows cleaner for longer. Running the vacuum over throw pillows while cleaning the rest of the upholstery helps prevent buildup and extends the time between full washes.
Use Washable Covers
Using removable pillow covers, particularly machine-washable ones in coordinating colors, makes the task easier. This way, you don’t have to worry about dark dyes bleeding into lighter fabrics during the wash.
Be Mindful of Placement
For difficult-to-clean pillows, placement matters. Keeping them on higher shelves or in less accessible areas reduces the risk of them getting dirty.
Conclusion
Washing throw pillows can be one such task that often gets pushed to the back of the list. However, consistent upkeep is highly important, and many homeowners don’t realize this. It is important to follow the right steps to keep the throw pillows clean, fresh, and in good shape for years to come.
