Can You Wash Decorative Pillows : Lindakendall

Can You Wash Decorative Pillows?

Decorative pillows add a touch of style and comfort to any room, but they can quickly accumulate dirt, dust, and spills. Keeping them clean is essential for maintaining a healthy and inviting living space. The good news is that many decorative pillows can be washed, either by hand or in a washing machine. However, it is important to check the care label first, as some materials require special cleaning methods.

Types of Decorative Pillow Covers

Knowing the type of material your pillow covers are made of will help you determine how to wash them. Common materials include:

Cotton: Durable and easy to wash, both by hand and machine.
Linen: Similar to cotton, but more prone to wrinkles.
Silk: Delicate and requires gentle hand washing.
Velvet: Can be washed by hand or in a washing machine on a delicate cycle.
Leather: Requires special care and should only be spot cleaned or professionally cleaned.

Hand Washing Decorative Pillows

For delicate materials like silk or velvet, hand washing is the preferred method. Here's how:

Fill a large sink or tub with cold water and a mild liquid detergent.
Submerge the pillow in the water and gently agitate it.
Rinse thoroughly with cold water until there is no detergent residue.
Gently squeeze out excess water without wringing.
Lay the pillow flat on a towel to air dry.

Machine Washing Decorative Pillows

Cotton, linen, and synthetic materials can usually be washed in a machine, but follow these guidelines:

Check the care label for specific washing instructions.
Turn pillow covers inside out to protect the fabric.
Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.
Add a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle to remove any remaining detergent.
Remove the pillows from the washer immediately after the cycle ends to prevent wrinkles.

Drying Decorative Pillows

Air drying is the best way to preserve the quality of decorative pillows. Here's how to do it:

Lay the pillows flat on a clean towel.
Reshape them occasionally to ensure even drying.
Avoid direct sunlight, as it can damage the fabric.
For machine-washed pillows, use a low heat setting in the dryer if the care label permits, but check frequently to prevent overdrying.