How to Wash Throw Pillows the Right Way

Throw pillows add extra comfort to your sofa and up its wow factor. But just like your couch, your pillows experience regular wear and tear, too. Over time, pet dander, stains, and even dust mites can build up on and inside the pillows you keep on your couch, which is why regular maintenance is key. Luckily, restoring these decorative pieces to their former glory can be accomplished with just a few basic household supplies. 

How Often to Wash Throw Pillows

How frequently you clean your throw pillows depends on how often they are used and how high traffic the room is. Generally, it's recommended to deep clean throw pillows once a month, but you should spot clean more regularly as needed. Throw pillow inserts also need to be washed regularly, at least once every other month.

How to Wash Throw Pillows

Before choosing a cleaning method for your throw pillows, be sure to check the care tag for more detailed instructions.

Materials Needed

• Gentle detergent
  
• Bucket
• Soft cloth
• Water

How to Machine Wash Throw Pillows

Most throw pillows have removable covers that can be washed in the washing machine, but it's important to follow the laundering instructions on the care tag before doing so, says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations of Two Maids. Fabrics that can generally be washed in the washing machine include cotton, acrylic, and polyester.

1. Remove the cover from the pillow, if applicable. 
2. Pre-treat any stains. 
3. Shake out the pillow and cover to loosen any debris or hair. 
4. Wash both in the most gentle cycle with warm water and gentle detergent. 

How to Hand Wash Throw Pillows

Fabrics like silk, satin, wool, or pillows with an abundance of embellishments should be hand-washed to prevent damage. If your pillows can't be washed in the washing machine, try cleaning them by hand instead.  

1. Remove the cover from the pillow, if applicable. 
2. Pre-treat any stains. 
3. Shake out the pillow and cover to loosen any debris or hair. 
4. Fill a utility sink or clean bucket with lukewarm water and a few drops of gentle detergent. 
5. Making sure they're fully submerged, allow the pillow and cover to soak for up to 10 minutes.
6. Gently scrub any stains or spots in circular motions using a soft cloth.
7. Drain the sink and rinse the pillows with lukewarm water. 
8. Squeeze out the excess moisture. 

How to Dry Throw Pillows

Most throw pillows can be put in the dryer on low heat, check the laundering tag first. "If the tag says it's safe, toss a few tennis balls in with the pillow to help fluff and loosen any clumped-up stuffing," says Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly company.

"If the pillow is not dryer-safe, you can wrap the wet pillow in a dry towel and give it a big hug to squeeze out any excess moisture." Once all of the excess moisture is removed, allow the pillows to air dry.

How to Treat Stains on Throw Pillows

If your throw pillows have stains, you can treat them using hot water and OxiClean. "Be sure to wash pillows regularly to avoid fully set-in stains or permanent damage and always color test your pillows before using any cleaning products or methods," says Cohoon. 

Materials Needed

• OxiClean (or similar product)
• Bucket
  
• Water

Instructions

1. Remove the cover from the pillow, if applicable. 
2. Shake out the pillow and cover to loosen any debris or hair. 
3. Mix hot water and a scoop of OxiClean (or a similar product) in a large bucket or utility sink. 
4. Soak the pillow in this solution for eight to 10 hours. 
5. Remove from the solution and squeeze out excess liquid. 
6. Wash and dry following the instructions above. Repeat if needed. 

How to Wash Throw Pillow Inserts

The inserts of your throw pillows are also susceptible to collecting dust and dander and should be cleaned regularly along with the covers. For throw pillows with non-removable covers, you will need to determine the material the insert is made of to figure out the best cleaning method for the pillow. If you can, it is best to separate the pillow insert from the pillow cover.

Polyester Insert

Polyester or polyester blend inserts can be washed in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold to warm water.

Down Insert

Wash down inserts in the washing machine in a gentle cycle on cool. Then, dry the insert in the dryer, letting it run for at least two cycles. Even if the pillow feels dry after one run-through, you'll want to dry it again to ensure the feathers inside are completely dry to prevent mold and mildew growth. Fluff the pillow between cycles.

Foam Insert

Foam inserts are unable to go in the washing machine as the heat and movement could cause them to lose their shape. Start by shaking out the insert to remove any loose debris. Then, spot-clean the insert with mild soap and warm water and allow it to completely air dry before replacing the cover.

How to Maintain Throw Pillows 

Cleaning your throw pillows regularly will keep them fresher for longer. "When cleaning your living room or area where your throws reside, make sure to shake them out and vacuum the surface if possible," says Cohoon. "Treat all stains and marks as soon as you notice them to avoid deep-setting dirt ruining pillows."

You should also get into a weekly habit of spraying them down with vinegar and tossing them into your dryer. "This helps keep them smelling fresh and removes all sorts of dust mites and allergens," says Kadi Dulude, the owner of Wizard of Homes. 

Keep in mind that throw pillows won't last forever—even with proper upkeep. "If there are rips and the seams are falling apart, then it's likely time to get a fresh piece—unless you know a great seamstress who can fix it for you," Dulude says.