How to Wash Throw Pillows

How to Wash Throw Pillows with Removeable Covers

1. Treat for Stains

   If you’re trying to remove stubborn spots, remove the throw pillow covers and treat them with an enzyme-based stain remover before washing.

2. Wash the Cover

   Remove the cover from the pillow and place it in the washing machine. Use mild detergent and cold water on the gentle cycle.
   

3. Air Dry the Cover

   Once the wash cycle is done, remove the cover and hang it to dry. Don't toss it in the dryer because the heat can cause the fabric to shrink or become misshapen.

4. Clean the Pillow Insert

   While the cover is drying, throw the pillow insert into the dryer on the air-only cycle and add a few dryer balls to fluff the pillow.

   The cycle will help remove dust that has accumulated in the insert.

How to Hand-Wash Throw Pillow Covers

Use an enzyme-based stain remover or a dab of laundry detergent to pretreat any visible stains. Let it work for at least 10 minutes to begin breaking apart the stains.

Fill a clean sink with cold water, add one teaspoon of gentle liquid detergent, and stir it in to make sure it’s dissolved and dispersed well.

Add the pillow cover and let soak for at least five minutes, then swish the cover through the water.

Lift out the fabric, drain the sink, and refill it with fresh water to rinse the item. Swish and rinse the cover until no suds remain. Gently squeeze the fabric but don't wring or twist the cover. Hang to air dry. 

The pillow insert can be washed by hand but use only a few drops of detergent. Change the rinse water multiple times until you see absolutely no suds. Squeeze the pillow between two heavy towels to absorb excess water and place it on a drying rack to air dry. Fluff the pillow insert often as it dries to prevent clumps.

How to Spot Clean Throw Pillows

If the tag on your throw pillow says spot clean, grab a soft sponge or microfiber cloth and some mild soap. Mix a warm, soapy solution and dampen the sponge.

Gently rub the stained area starting at the outside edges of the stain working toward the center to keep the stained area from getting larger.

As the stain transfers to the cloth, move to a clean area to prevent redepositing the soil. Allow the dampened area to air dry.

The last possibility when it comes to cleaning your decorative and throw pillows is spot cleaning with a dry cleaning solvent.

Follow the directions on the label or take your pillow to a professional dry cleaner.

Tips For Keeping Throw Pillows Clean

• Vacuum pillows and upholstery regularly to remove dust and loose soil. For pillows with beads, loops, or sequins that can get ruined with a vacuum, take them outside and use your hands to shake loose the dust.
• Choose machine-washable pillow covers.
• Keep "fancy" or hard-to-clean pillows in spots that are far away from the hands of little ones or the paws of furry friends.