In most cases, yes, you can wash throw pillows that do not have removable covers. However, it is very important that you understand the type of material the pillow is made from in order to ensure that it won’t be damaged during the cleaning process.
For example, if your throw pillow is made of a fabric like wool or an engineered material like memory foam, it might not be best to put it in the washer as the heat of the wash can ruin the fabric. When washing non-removable throw pillow covers that are made out of cotton, linen or polyester, you can put it in the washer with a gentle detergent.
If the pillow is particularly large or heavy, it might be best to use the gentle cycle and the cool water setting, so that the fabric doesn’t tear or fray. Putting a small towel in the washer with your pillow can also help to protect it from getting damaged.
When the pillow has finished its cycle in the washer, be sure to immediately put it in the dryer on an appropriate setting, depending on the fabric or fill material. If the pillow is down-filled, it’s best to use the no-heat setting.
If the pillow is made from a fabric, you can use a low heat setting on your dryer. When the pillow is done drying, make sure to fluff it and ,if it needed, shake out the fill. Knowing the material of your throw pillow is crucial to caring for it.
Always check the tag on the pillow to get more information about how to properly care for it.
How do you wash throw pillows with stuffing?
When washing throw pillows with stuffing, you will want to make sure that you follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Generally, they can be machine-washed, although some may need to be washed by hand.
Remove the pillow cover and check the tag for any specific instructions. If it is not safe to machine-wash, you may need to take it to a dry cleaner or spot clean it instead.
If the throw pillow can be machine-washed, use cold water and a mild detergent. Add two to three pillows at a time to the washing machine and be sure to close any zippers before starting the cycle. When the cycle is finished, set the pillows in the dryer on a low-heat setting.
After they have finished tumbling, add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help maintain the shape and softness of the pillows.
Once the pillows are completely dry, fluff them to make sure the stuffing is evenly distributed. Before replacing the covers, check inside them to make sure all of the stuffing is intact. If not, add more stuffing and make sure the cover still fits snugly around the pillows.
Can you put throw pillows in the washing machine?
It is possible to put throw pillows in the washing machine, but it is usually not recommended. Depending on the type and size of the pillow, a washing machine may not be large enough or powerful enough to properly clean and rinse a pillow.
Furthermore, if the pillow contains stuffing, the stuffing can clump together, ruin the shape of the pillow and create lumps. Additionally, throw pillows of any material are at risk of fading and/or shrinking if washed in a machine, which could damage the pillow’s appearance.
To preserve the shape, color and fabric of a throw pillow, it is best to hand wash or spot-clean it instead.
Can throw pillows go in the dryer?
No, throw pillows should not go in the dryer. Most throw pillows are made of fabric that is sensitive to heat and may shrink, warp, or discolor when exposed to heat. Additionally, pillow stuffing can cause lint buildup in the dryer, which can be difficult to remove.
Instead, to dry throw pillows, you should hang-dry the pillow and its cover separately in the sun or hang-dry the pillow with its cover inside out until completely dry. If you must use a dryer, use the air-dry or no-heat cycle.
Be sure to check the labels of your throw pillows to see if they are machine-washable before exposing them to any heat.
Can you wash couch cushion stuffing?
Yes, couch cushion stuffing can technically be washed but it is not usually recommended because cleaning the stuffing is difficult and can damage the segments of stuffing, making it lumpy, uneven and uncomfortable to sit on.
It is usually best to opt for spot cleaning when it comes to couch stuffing. Spot cleaning involves applying a little bit of cleaning solution to a cloth and gently rubbing and blotting the stain. You can also use a vacuum to remove surface dust and pet hairs.
If you do decide to wash the stuffing, you should use only lukewarm water and a mild detergent and be aware that machine washing may damage the padding. Additionally, stuffing should be dried completely before replacing it on the couch, to prevent mold and mildew from forming.
How do you dry a pillow in the dryer without tennis balls?
You can dry a pillow in the dryer without tennis balls by following these steps:
1. Place the pillow in the dryer and set the temperature to low.
2. Add a couple of clean white socks filled with a few tablespoons of uncooked rice or water-absorbent silica gel crystals, like you use for drying flowers.
3. Add a dry towel to the dryer. This will help absorb the moisture.
4. Use a timer and don’t allow the pillow in the dryer for more than an hour, flipping the pillow every 15 minutes to prevent over-drying.
5. Once the pillow is dry and doesn’t feel damp anymore, remove it from the dryer immediately.
6. Place the pillow in its pillowcase and fluff it up to help it retain its shape.
7. Place the pillow in the sun or a warm place to help it fully dry, especially if it was very wet or left in the dryer too long.
How often should throw pillows be washed?
Throw pillows should be washed when they start to look and/or smell dirty. This may be once a month or less often, depending on how much use they get. Vacuuming or shaking the pillows regularly can help combat staining and maintain freshness.
If the pillows are made of natural fibers like cotton, then it is generally safe to machine wash them in cold water but check the care instructions before doing so. If the pillows are made from silk or contain delicate embellishments, it is better to spot clean them or take them to the dry cleaners.
It is also a good idea to replace the pillows every few years as the material can break down over time.
Can you machine dry throw pillows?
Yes, you can machine dry throw pillows. It is best to use a gentle cycle and a low temperature setting when drying the pillows in the machine. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific care instructions before washing or drying your throw pillows.
You may also want to use a dryer sheet for extra fabric softness and odor protection. Additionally, if a throw pillow is filled with down or feathers, it’s best to air-dry it because of the risk of clumping.
If you choose to air-dry your throw pillow, do so on an outdoor clothesline or drying rack in the sunshine. Make sure to fluff and reshape the pillow while it dries. Lastly, be sure to remove the pillow from the dryer as soon as it’s finished to reduce the risk of wrinkles.
Does putting pillows in the dryer fluff them?
Yes, putting pillows in the dryer can help to fluff them. Most pillows will become flat and lumpy over time as the filling materials compact and lose their structure. This can be fixed by putting them in the dryer on a low setting with a couple of clean tennis balls.
The high heat of the dryer will loosen up the materials, while the balls will help tumble and break up the clumps of material. Doing this periodically will help maintain the fluffiness of your pillows.
You should only do this with synthetic pillows that can handle the heat of the dryer, as putting down or feather pillows in the dryer could cause damage.
Why do my pillows turn yellow?
Yellowing pillows are a common issue and can affect any type of pillow, including down, memory foam, and synthetic. The three most likely causes for yellowing pillows are body oils, sweat, and dirt.
Body oils from your skin, hair and scalp can accumulate over time in your pillow, causing the pillow to turn yellow. The oils contain sebum, which attracts dust and dirt, making it difficult for it to be removed.
Additionally, as body oils accumulate, they can create an acidic environment in your pillows that can oxidize and yellow the fibers.
Sweat also causes pillows to yellow over time. Sweat contains salt, which can cling to your pillow, discoloring its surface. As the sweat dries and is absorbed by the pillow, it can oxidize and discolor the fibers.
Dirt and dust can also contribute to discoloration in your pillows. While you may launder your sheets regularly, dirt and dust can still accumulate in your pillow over time. The accumulation of dirt and dust can damage pillow fibers and cause discoloration.
To prevent yellowing, you should regularly wash your pillows to remove dirt, sweat, and body oils. Additionally, make sure to use a pillow protector to keep your pillow clean between washes. A pillow protector will help to protect your pillow from soiling and discoloration.
Finally, make sure not to store your pillows in direct sunlight, as exposure to the sun can also cause discoloration.
How do you get yellow stains out of pillows?
Removing yellow stains from pillows can be difficult as the fabric does not always allow for direct applications of laundry agents. You can try to first use a fabric stain remover and machine wash in cold water.
Another trick is to make a paste of equal parts baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and dish soap, then rub it onto the stained area. Rinse the pillow with cold water and then launder as directed on the care label.
For stubborn stains, you may want to consider spot treating with an oxygen-based bleach, such as OxiClean. To do this, mix one scoop of the OxiClean in two cups of hot water and over a sink, submerge the pillow in the solution.
Allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes, then launder as usual.
Can I wash pillows in my top load washer?
Yes, you can wash pillows in your top load washer, but there are some things to keep in mind. First, check the care instructions for the pillow, as some types of pillows cannot be washed in a top load washer.
You should also use the lowest water level setting and a cold and gentle cycle. Before you begin, spot clean the pillow with a mild detergent or a laundry pre-treatment spray to remove any surface stains.
Fill the washer with two pillows, if possible, to help balance the load. Once the cycle is done, avoid pressing or twisting the pillows during the final spin cycle to avoid damage. Afterward, hang the pillows up to air dry.
If you have any down filling in the pillows, you can also dry them on a no heat cycle to help fluff the feathers back up.
Can I tumble dry pillows?
No, it is not recommended to tumble dry pillows. Tumble drying pillows can break down the fibers and cause them to become lumpy and uncomfortable. Additionally, pillows are generally too large to tumble dry, so it can be difficult to fit them in the dryer.
Furthermore, some pillow materials should not be tumble dried, as it can cause damage. Materials such as feather, down, wool, and memory foam should not be tumble dried. It is best to air dry pillows and hang them outdoors in the sun or in a well-ventilated room.
Additionally, it may be helpful to place a tennis ball or two in the dryer to help fluff up the pillow during the drying period.