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Have an accidental spill on a throw pillow that you can’t even remove the cover of? Or, is it skin oils, sweat, dust, and dirt buildup over time? In any case, your throw pillows need cleaning for better appearance, hygiene, comfort, and longevity.
Unlike their counterparts, most throw pillows without removable covers don’t have complete access to cleaning, machine washability, and drying efficiency. There is also a risk of fabric damage and a challenge to maintain shape and fluffiness. But washing a throw pillow without a removable cover is definitely doable.
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The type of throw pillow and its washing method can vary greatly. Before you start washing, consider the fabric type, fill material, the type of stain you are removing, and the drying method you are considering. The response will be different based on the type of pillow and the method you are choosing.
Here are a few things you should consider before washing:
Your specific throw pillow sometimes requires a specific type of washing. It depends on how the pillow was made. The manufacturers always add instructions for cases like this.
Usually, the label contains if you should machine-wash, dry-wash, or hand-wash the pillow. Even if that’s not the case, the label states the fabric content and fill material which should help you make better decisions.
If there is advice for a specific washing method from the manufacturer, always follow that procedure. Otherwise, decide based on fabric and fill type.
Silk or velvet are delicate fabrics. Hand washing is better for these options. Meanwhile, sturdy fabrics like cotton or linen can be machine-washed with gentle cycling.
A spot test is testing a small area to check how a cleaning solution reacts with the fabric. Follow this process for a spot test of a throw pillow without a removable cover:
Select a small, hidden area of a pillow
Apply a small amount of cleaning solutions (detergent, soda, or other solutions)
Let the solution sink in for a few minutes
Check for discoloration, bleed, or fading.
If you don’t see any damage, you can proceed with the solution. Otherwise, you need to change the solution or choose a different cleaning method.
Mild detergent (non-bleach).
Baking soda (for odors).
White vinegar (optional for deep cleaning).
Soft brush or sponge.
Stain remover (optional).
A large basin or sink.
Towels for blotting.
Vacuum with an upholstery attachment (optional).
Washing throw pillows without removable covers makes it difficult to reach the deep stains. Maintaining the pillow’s shape is another challenge that you should look out for. With the right steps, you can make sure you get a cleaner pillow without harming the fabric or distorting the shape.
Spot-test your detergent solution before washing the throw pillow to know if it is safe for your fabric. Check for manufacturer labels if there are any.
Most throw pillows are better off hand cleaning. Because hand washing preserves fabric integrity, protects the filling, and prevents color fading. Besides, you can gently handle the pillow when you wash it by hand. So, there is less possibility to distort the shape.
To hand wash throw pillows without removable covers properly, follow these steps:
Prepare the cleaning solution with lukewarm water and mild detergent. Fill it in a basin.
Gently submerge the pillow in the cleaning solution.
Carefully agitate the fabric. Pay attention to soiled areas if there is any.
Rinse the pillow clean thoroughly preferably with clean water.
Gentry squeeze or press the excess water out of the pillow. Don’t wring or twist as it damages the pillow filling.
Not all pillows are allowed for a machine wash. Check the guidelines from the manufacturer first.
A general guideline is not to use delicate pillows. So, memory foam and latex pillows shouldn’t be machine-washed. You can use machines for polyester, down, and leather-filled pillows. But always confirm it with the manufacturer before damaging the pillow.
Follow these steps to machine wash throw pillows without any removable cover:
Use a front-loading washer, preferably without an agitator. Choose the right cycle to clean.
Use cold water with mild detergent.
Place the pillow in pairs or a mesh to balance the load and prevent agitation from the machine.
Avoid overloading and fabric softeners when you use machines to clean your throw pillows. Spot testing is always recommended regardless of the method you choose.
After you rinse your throw pillow thoroughly, use towels to absorb the moisture. You can also use two methods to dry throw pillows after washing:
Air Drying: Place pillows flat in a well-ventilated area. Gently reshape them to their original form and fluff them periodically. Rotate the pillows regularly. Avoid direct sunlight so it doesn’t fade the fabric.
Machine Drying: Use a low-heat tumble drying setting for throw pillows if machine drying is allowed. Add dryer balls to fluff the pillow. Monitor drying time to prevent overdrying.
Air drying is the best method to dry even after machine washing your throw pillows. Because it preserves the integrity more and reduces the shrinkage risk or overdrying.
There is no general rule as to how frequently you should wash your throw pillows. The recommendation range varies from 1-6 months. It completely depends on how frequently you use the pillows.
If your pillow gets soiled, you can wash it right away. However, avoid washing too frequently for routine cleaning. Take account of factors like allergies, pets, and sweating of the user before making a decision.
Regularly vacuum to remove dust and allergens.
Use pillow protectors to minimize stains.
Air out pillows every few weeks to prevent odors.
Rotate pillows regularly to distribute wear and tear evenly.
Cleaning throw pillows without removable covers doesn’t have to be hard. By following the right steps, you can easily remove dirt, stains, and odors. This keeps your pillows fresh, hygienic, and long-lasting. Start by checking the care labels, clean them gently, and dry them thoroughly. With regular care, your pillows will stay clean, cozy, and a lovely part of your home.
As principal at Maison Rose Interiors, Rose instills a bit of natural Canadian warmth where she was born and raised, and coastal California where she now lives. Rose’s culturally diverse background and travels abroad are seen in all her objects and ever evolving style. No matter what the style she is asked to create, each space designed by Rose is refined, collected, and unique.
