How to Wash Throw Pillows

Nothing spices up a space like some vivid throw pillows but they can get dusty and dirty. How they should be cleaned depends on the pillow’s structure, fabric, and washing instructions.

Always check the care tags but here are the usual ways to clean throw pillows.

How Often to Wash Throw Pillows

How often decorative pillows should be washed depends on how often they are used. If the throw pillows are on an often-used couch in your living room or on your bed, then a monthly cleaning is needed. Seldom-used pillows can be cleaned seasonally.

How to Mix and Match Throw Pillows Like a Pro

What You’ll Need

Equipment / Tools

Cleaning Tools

• Washing machine
• Soft sponge

Materials

Cleaning Products

• Mild laundry detergent
• Mild dishwashing liquid
• Dry cleaning solution
• Enzyme-based stain remover

Instructions

How to Wash Throw Pillows with Removeable Covers

1. Treat for StainsIf 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 CoverRemove 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 CoverOnce 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 InsertWhile 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.

FAQ

• How do you machine wash a down, feather, or polyester-filled pillow insert?Always use the gentle cycle, a small amount of detergent, cold water, and add a second rinse cycle. Fluff and smooth the inset and place it in the dryer on low heat with several wool dryer balls to help break apart any clumps. Fluff the pillows by hand every 15 minutes during the drying process.
  Learn More: How to Wash and Care for Pillows Properly
• How do you clean throw pillows without a removable cover?If there’s no care label, choose a washing method based on the outer fabric. Cotton, linen, and polyester pillows can be machine-washed on the gentle cycle using cold water. Velvet, wool, and faux fur pillows can be spot-cleaned, hand-washed, or dry-cleaned.
• How do you wash throw pillows in a top-loading washing machine?Use the gentle cycle, cold water, a small amount of detergent, and add a second rinse cycle. If the washer has a center agitator, wash two pillows placed evenly around it to keep the washer in balance.