From Dust to Dazzling How to Clean and Revive Your Throw Pillows

Throw pillows enhance comfort and style in any setting, from homes to hospitality spaces. However, these decorative items can quickly gather dust, stains, and allergens, diminishing their appeal and hygiene. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to clean throw pillows effectively—whether they have removable covers or not. This article will also cover special cleaning techniques for different materials and tips for businesses managing bulk orders.

For high-quality throw pillows suitable for commercial use, check out MU Custom Textile, which offers durable, customizable options designed for both style and easy maintenance.

Can You Wash Throw Pillows?

Understanding how to wash throw pillows is essential for proper care. Whether or not a throw pillow can be washed depends on its fabric, filling, and construction.

1. Machine-Washable vs. Non-Machine-Washable:

• Many throw pillows are made from machine-washable fabrics like cotton, polyester, and acrylic. These materials are easy to clean and resilient, making them ideal for everyday use

• Non-machine-washable pillows often feature delicate materials like silk, wool, or down, which require gentler care to avoid damage

  
  

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2. Label Check:

• Before attempting to clean any throw pillow, read its care label to confirm the recommended cleaning method. The label provides crucial information on whether the pillow is safe for machine washing, hand washing, or requires professional dry cleaning.

3. Commercial Settings:

• For businesses purchasing bulk throw pillows, it’s advantageous to choose pillows designed for frequent washing and durability. For instance, MU Custom Textile offers options tailored to high-traffic environments where cleanliness and resilience are key.

By following these guidelines, you can safely clean throw pillows without compromising their appearance or comfort.

How to Wash Throw Pillow Covers

Throw pillow covers are generally easier to clean than entire pillows, especially if they’re removable. Let’s look at the methods best suited for different materials.

Preparing Pillow Covers for Washing

• Separate Colors: Separate dark and light colors to prevent color bleeding. This is particularly important for bright or deeply colored pillows often seen in decorative and seasonal designs

• Material-Specific Considerations: Cotton and polyester covers are typically safe for machine washing, while linen and velvet require a gentler approach.

Machine Washing Throw Pillow Covers

• Step 1: Turn the cover inside-out to protect the fabric’s outer surface and place it in a mesh laundry bag.

• Step 2: Set the washer to a gentle cycle with cold water, and add a mild detergent to avoid fading or fabric damage.

• Step 3: Use an extra rinse cycle to remove all soap residue, which helps keep the material soft and residue-free

• Step 4: Air dry for best results, but if using a dryer, choose a low-heat setting to maintain the cover’s fit and prevent shrinkage.

Hand Washing Delicate Covers

• For materials like silk, velvet, or linen, hand washing is the safer route.

• Step 1: Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a few drops of mild detergent.

• Step 2: Gently agitate the fabric, paying close attention to soiled areas.

• Step 3: Rinse thoroughly, press out excess water, and lay flat to air dry to prevent fabric distortion.

By regularly washing pillow covers, you can maintain a fresh, clean look that enhances your decor without constant replacements.

How to Clean Throw Pillows with Non-Removable Covers

Some throw pillows are made without removable covers, which can make cleaning more challenging. Here’s how to keep them fresh and spotless.

Spot Cleaning Techniques

• Spot cleaning is ideal for minor stains and soil buildup. Here’s how to approach common issues:

• Stains: Use a damp cloth with mild detergent to dab the stain, moving from the outside in to avoid spreading. For oil-based stains, sprinkle baking soda to absorb the oil, then vacuum after a few hours

• Rinsing: Avoid over-saturating the fabric. Use a clean cloth to gently blot the area, removing any remaining soap to prevent water spots.

Deep Cleaning with Baking Soda or Steam

• For pillows that need a deeper refresh:

• Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda over the pillow to absorb odors, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly.

• Steam Cleaning: Steam cleaning is effective for sanitizing and refreshing fabric without immersing it in water

  
  

For settings like hospitality and commercial spaces, choosing pillows that support quick refresh techniques (like steam cleaning) can save time and resources, especially with bulk purchases. MU Custom Textile offers pillow materials that are resilient and easy to clean.

Special Tips for Cleaning Different Types of Throw Pillows

Throw pillows come in various materials and fillings, each requiring specific care to ensure they remain in excellent condition.

Memory Foam and Down-Filled Pillows

• Avoid submerging memory foam and down pillows in water, as they can lose their structure. Instead, opt for spot cleaning, and consider using washable covers to protect these fillings.

Outdoor Throw Pillows

• Outdoor pillows are often made of weather-resistant materials, but they still benefit from regular cleaning. Use a mild, outdoor-safe detergent and store pillows indoors during the off-season to prevent mildew

Decorative and Textured Pillows

• Textured fabrics, embroidery, or sequins require special care to avoid damage. Vacuuming with a soft brush attachment helps remove dust without impacting the fabric’s texture.

By following these material-specific guidelines, you can enjoy well-maintained pillows that retain their comfort and appearance.

How Often Should You Clean Throw Pillows?

The frequency of cleaning depends on usage and environment. Here are some general recommendations:

• Monthly: For high-use areas (like living rooms), consider spot cleaning or a full wash each month to keep pillows looking fresh and dust-free.

• Seasonally: For less frequently used pillows, a seasonal deep clean is often sufficient.

• Special Considerations: Homes with pets or allergy sufferers may need to clean throw pillows more often to control allergens

Following these timelines helps ensure that throw pillows maintain both their cleanliness and longevity, especially in high-traffic areas.

Conclusion

Properly cleaning throw pillows doesn’t have to be complicated. With these tips, you can maintain a fresh, inviting space while extending the lifespan of your pillows. For businesses, selecting high-quality, easy-to-maintain options is especially crucial. MU Custom Textile offers durable throw pillows ideal for both residential and commercial use, designed to withstand regular cleaning and provide lasting comfort.

To learn more about our selection, visit our About Us pages for customized pillow solutions.