Throw pillows brighten living rooms and bedrooms, but they also attract dirt, spills, and pet hair. This guide provides practical, step-by-step methods to refresh common pillow fabrics while preserving color and texture. Readers will learn how to spot clean, deep clean, and maintain pillows using readily available tools and beginner-friendly techniques.
Quick Answer
Fast Method: For light stains and routine refresh, use a fabric stain remover spray on pillows, then wipe or blot with a clean cloth. Vacuum loose debris, brush with a scrub brush, and steam lightly to lift grime. For deeper cleaning, spot-clean stubborn marks, then launder if the fabric allows. Avoid soaking that can damage filling.
What You’ll Need
- Fabric stain remover spray for pillows
- Upholstery cleaning brush with scrub head
- Portable fabric steamer for throw pillows
- Handheld upholstery vacuum cleaner
- Lint roller for throw pillows
Before You Start
Before cleaning, check the pillow care label for fabric type and washing instructions. Remove pillow covers if they are removable. Test any cleaner on a hidden area to ensure colorfastness. Park the pillows in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Safety note: Do not use harsh solvents on silk or wool blends, and avoid saturating foam inserts. Time estimate: 20–60 minutes depending on the method and pillow type.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Throw Pillows
- Inspect the pillow and note any stains or odors. Remove any pillow covers if removable to treat separately.
- Vacuum the pillow surface with a handheld upholstery vacuum cleaner to remove loose dust, skin cells, and hair.
- Apply fabric stain remover spray to stained areas, following the product instructions. Let it sit briefly to dissolve soils.
- Gently scrub with an upholstery cleaning brush with scrub head in circular motions to lift dirt without damaging fibers.
- For light overall cleaning, use a portable fabric steamer to refresh the surface and loosen embedded particles. Keep the steamer moving to avoid soaking.
- Wipe away loosened dirt with a clean cloth or towel. If the fabric allows washing, launder according to care labels and air dry completely before reuse.
- Brush fibers after drying to restore nap and appearance. Replace inserts or covers once fully dry.
- Finish with a lint roller to remove any remaining fuzz or pet hair for a pristine look.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stains persist after cleaning | Stain was set or dye bleed | Pre-treat with stain remover; repeat step-by-step cleaning | Treat stains promptly; test cleaners first |
| Fabrics look dull after washing | Over-wetting or harsh cleaners | Rinse thoroughly and avoid bleach; air dry fully | Use gentle cleaners suitable for fabric |
| Filling clumps or shifts | Pillow fill is damaged or waterlogged | Replace filling or rotate pillows to distribute weight | Avoid soaking; blot excess moisture |
| Color transfer to other fabrics | Bleed from strong dyes | Spot clean with color-safe products; air dry away from sunlight | Wash colorfast textiles separately |
Common Mistakes
- Over-saturating pillows, especially foam inserts, which slows drying and can cause mold.
- Using harsh solvents or bleach on delicate fabrics like velvet or wool blends.
- Ignoring care labels, leading to color fading or fabric damage.
- Skipping a proper test patch for colorfastness before full application.
Tips For Best Results
- Regular light cleaning helps prevent stubborn stains and odor buildup.
- Use a lint roller between cleanings to keep surfaces crisp and hair-free.
- Adjust cleaning methods based on fabric type: cottons tolerate light washing; synthetics often respond well to spot cleaning.
- Dry pillows completely in a well-ventilated area to prevent mildew.
- Rotate pillows seasonally to maintain even wear and appearance.
Call A Professional
Consider professional cleaning if pillows are heavily soiled, contain delicate materials (like silk blends), or if stains persist after multiple attempts. Seek help for molds, persistent odors, or if the pillow filling appears degraded.
FAQ
Can I wash throw pillow covers in a washing machine?
Yes, removable covers labeled machine washable can be laundered on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, then air-dried or tumble-dried on low if the label allows.
What if the filling gets wet?
Wring out excess moisture and air dry completely. If odor or mold appears, replace the filling or seek professional cleaning.
Are steamers safe for all pillow fabrics?
Steamers are safe for many fabrics but avoid direct heat on delicate materials. Always test a small area first.
How often should I clean decorative pillows?
Light cleaning every 1–2 months helps maintain appearance; deep cleaning every 3–6 months, depending on use and environment.
Buying Guide
When selecting tools to keep throw pillows clean, consider size, weight, and ease of use. A compact handheld vacuum is ideal for quick picks, while a portable fabric steamer can refresh without soaking. Look for multi-surface compatibility on stain removers and brushes to cover different fabrics. For busy homes, combine a lint roller with a stain remover spray to address hair, dirt, and spills in one routine. Finally, ensure cleaners and tools are safe for common pillow fabrics used in American households.