Can you wash decorative pillows? If you are a decorative pillow user, you may wonder if washing your pillows and how to do it properly is safe. The answer is yes, you can wash decorative pillows, but it’s important to follow the care instructions for your specific pillow to avoid damaging it.
In this article, we’ll go over how to wash decorative pillows in a washing machine and by hand, make them fluffy again, and how often you should clean them.
We’ll also provide tips and tricks to help you keep your decorative pillows looking and feeling their best. Whether you have feather, down, cotton, or synthetic fiber pillows, we’ve got you covered.
So, if you’re ready to learn how to keep your decorative pillows clean and fresh, read on. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to safely and effectively wash your decorative pillows and keep them looking like new.
Key Takeaways
- Yes, you can wash decorative pillows, but it’s important to follow the care instructions for your specific pillow to avoid damage.
- You can wash decorative pillows in a washing machine or by hand, depending on the type of pillow and its care instructions.
- To keep your decorative pillows looking and feeling their best, cleaning them regularly and fluffing them up after washing is important.
Table of Contents
Can You Wash Decorative Pillows?
The answer to this question depends on the pillow’s type of fabric and fill. It is important to refer to the care label on the pillow or cover for specific instructions. Some common fabrics and fills and their recommended cleaning methods are listed below in a table for your convenience.
| Fabric | Fill | Cleaning Method |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Down | Machine wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent |
| Velvet | Polyester | Hand wash with warm water and mild soap |
| Silk | Memory foam | Dry clean or spot clean only |
If your decorative pillow is made of cotton and filled with down, it can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Velvet pillows filled with polyester should be hand-washed with warm water and mild soap.
However, if your decorative pillow is made of silk and filled with memory foam, it should be dry-cleaned or spot-cleaned only.
When washing your decorative pillow, it is important to use the appropriate cleaning method to avoid damaging the fabric or fill. Always check the care label for specific instructions and follow them carefully.
If your decorative pillow is a sofa accent, it may be subjected to more wear and tear. In this case, it may need to be washed more frequently to keep it looking fresh and clean.
Spot cleaning can be done with a damp cloth and mild soap, while machine or hand washing may be necessary for more thorough cleaning.
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How To Wash Decorative Pillows In A Washing Machine
Can you wash your decorative pillows in a washing machine? The answer is yes, you can! However, this method suits pillows with removable covers made from durable fabrics like cotton, denim, or polyester and fills that can withstand water like down or polyester.
Here are some step-by-step instructions on how to wash them in the washing machine:
Step 1: Remove the cover and check for stains. If you notice any stains, treat them with a natural stain remover or mild detergent before washing.
Step 2: Place the cover and the pillow in separate mesh bags to prevent damage. This will also help to keep the filling from clumping together during the wash.
Step 3: Use cold water and gentle cycle with mild detergent. Avoid using bleach, fabric softener, or dryer sheets as they may harm the fabric or fill.
Step 4: After the wash, remove the pillow and cover from the mesh bags and hang them to air dry. Please do not put them in the dryer, as the heat can damage the fabric and filling.
How To Hand Wash Decorative Pillows
If you have decorative pillows with non-removable covers made from delicate fabrics like silk, wool, or velvet or with fills that cannot be submerged in water like memory foam, hand washing is the best option for cleaning them. Here are the step-by-step instructions to follow:
Step 1: Mix a small amount of mild soap or upholstery shampoo with warm water in a large basin or bathtub. Make sure the soap is evenly distributed in the water.
Step 2: Submerge the pillow in the soapy water and gently squeeze and scrub it. Pay extra attention to any stains or dirt spots. Be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric or fill.
Step 3: Rinse the pillow with cold water until the soap is gone. Remove all soap residue, as it can damage the fabric over time.
Step 4: Gently squeeze out the excess water without wringing or twisting. Avoid putting too much pressure on the pillow, which can cause the fill to clump or shift.
Step 5: Lay the pillow flat on a clean towel and roll it up to remove any remaining water. Repeat this step with a dry towel if necessary.
Step 6: Allow the pillow to air dry completely before using it again. Avoid using a dryer or direct sunlight, which can damage the fabric or fill.
If your pillow has stubborn stains that won’t come out with soap and water, try using a stain remover or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. However, spot-test the solution on a small, inconspicuous pillow area first to avoid damaging the fabric.
How Do You Make Decorative Pillows Fluffy Again?
Due to dust, moisture, and compression, decorative pillows can lose shape and fluffiness over time. Fortunately, you can follow some simple tips to restore their fluffiness.
First, it’s important to dry the pillows in a well-ventilated area until they are completely dry. This will help prevent moisture from getting trapped inside and causing clumps or mildew.
Next, you can fluff the pillows by hand or use a dryer on low heat or air fluff cycle with dryer balls or tennis balls. Wool dryer balls are a great option as they are eco-friendly and help to reduce static.
Simply toss a few dryer balls or tennis balls into the dryer with the pillows and run on low heat or air fluff cycle for 15-20 minutes. This will help to redistribute the filling and restore the fluffiness of the pillows.
It’s important to note that you should avoid using high heat when drying decorative pillows, as this can damage the filling and cause clumping. Always use low heat or air fluff cycle and remove the pillows from the dryer as soon as they are dry.
Finally, when storing decorative pillows, it’s important to keep them in a dry and airy place and avoid stacking them too high. This will help to prevent compression and maintain the fluffiness of the pillows over time.
In summary, to make decorative pillows fluffy again, hang dry them in a well-ventilated area, fluff them by hand or use a dryer on low heat or air fluff cycle with dryer balls or tennis balls, and store them in a dry and airy place.
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How Often Should You Clean Your Decorative Pillows?
The frequency of cleaning your decorative pillows depends on how often they are used and exposed to dirt, dust, sweat, and oils from your skin. Here are some general guidelines on how often to clean them based on their usage and location:
- For pillows used daily on couches or beds, wash the cover every few weeks and the fill every few months. This will help remove dust mites, sweat, and hair accumulating on the pillow’s surface. Vacuuming the pillows regularly can also help remove dust and allergens.
- For pillows used occasionally on chairs or benches, wash the cover every few months and fill it once or twice a year. This will help keep the pillows clean and fresh without washing them too often.
- For pillows used rarely in guest rooms or storage rooms, wash the cover and fill once a year or as needed. Since these pillows are not used often, they accumulate less dirt and sweat than the ones used daily.
It is important to follow the cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid damaging the pillows. Some decorative pillows may require deep or dry cleaning, while others can be washed in a washing machine. Make sure to check the cleaning directions before washing your pillows.
In addition to removing dirt and sweat, cleaning your decorative pillows can help remove germs and allergens that can cause respiratory problems. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, cleaning your pillows regularly to reduce exposure to allergens is especially important. [1]
It is also important to replace your pillows every six months to a year, depending on their condition. Over time, pillows lose shape and support and can become a breeding ground for dust mites and allergens.
Frequently Asked Question
Can you bleach decorative pillows?
Avoid bleaching decorative pillows as they can damage the fabric or fill, cause discoloration, or weaken the fibers. To whiten and sanitize your pillows, you can use natural alternatives like vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide.
How do you get rid of odors from decorative pillows?
Use baking soda or essential oils to remove odors from decorative pillows. Sprinkle baking soda on the pillow and vacuum it off after a few hours. Alternatively, spray the pillow with water, essential oils solution, or vinegar and let it air dry.
How do you remove mold and mildew from decorative pillows?
To remove mold and mildew from decorative pillows, act quickly. Remove the pillow outside and remove any mold or mildew. Wash with hot water and mild detergent or vinegar. Soak in water, vinegar, or bleach solution for 15 minutes if not machine washable. Rinse well.
How do you prevent decorative pillows from fading?
To prevent fading, protect decorative pillows from sunlight with curtains, blinds, or shades. Regularly rotate or flip them and use a fabric protector spray for UV rays and stains.
How do you style decorative pillows on a couch or a bed?
Consider size, shape, color, pattern, and texture when styling decorative pillows: mix sizes and shapes for interest and comfort. Use complementary or contrasting colors. Add personality with different patterns and textures.
