How to clean decorative pillows
August 25, 2024 by Numerousdesigns
Decorative pillows are the finishing touch to any room, adding style, comfort, and a touch of personality. However, these beloved home accessories can quickly become magnets for dust, dirt, and unsightly stains. To maintain their pristine appearance and ensure a healthy home environment, regular cleaning is essential. Therefore, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to clean decorative pillows, from understanding different fabrics to tackling stubborn stains.
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Steps How to clean decorative pillows and what to think about
Step 1: Remove the Covers
Cleaning pillow inserts is a bit more complex and depends on the filling material.
- Down or Feather Inserts: These inserts are typically dry cleaned due to their delicate nature. However, some high-quality down pillows can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with a specialized down detergent. Always check the care label for specific instructions.
- Synthetic Fill Inserts: Most synthetic fill inserts can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach.
- Air Drying: Thoroughly air dry synthetic fill inserts before reinserting them into the covers.
Begin by carefully removing the pillow covers. Keep in mind some covers are machine washable, so check the care label for specific instructions. If the covers are delicate or hand-washable only, follow the recommended method.
If you like this article so far check out our other articles on our Blog or about the Best Pillow For Neck Pain like the products below.
Donama Cervical pillow for neck and shoulder
Firstly this is a very different pillow, but also very good for neck pain. It is basically made of memory foam and is shaped so that your neck lay in the best position possible. With this in mind you can sleep in many different ways and still do it with a ergonomic way. Lastly you can also choose from many different sizes and colors.
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Zibroges sandwich cervical neck pillow
This pillow is also in a well ergonomic shape for your neck, but different from the previous pillow this one is rectangular shape. Furthermore, this one is also made of memory foam and in addition, you can also choose another size for your preference.
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- Total bought in past month: 900+.
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Dot&dot Twist memory foam travel pillow
This is also made of memory foam, but has a very different shape, because you can place it however you want for your convenience. Furthermore it is both breathable, washable and practical. Lastly you can choose from different colors for your preference.
- Colors: Choose between 6 different colors.
- Total bought in past month: 6,000+.
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Step 2: Vacuum the Pillows & Spot Clean Stains
Once the covers are off, use a handheld vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to thoroughly vacuum the pillows. Pay attention to the seams and corners where dust tends to accumulate. For particularly stubborn dirt or stains, use a small, soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the affected areas before vacuuming.
Moreover, for any stains on the pillow covers or the pillows themselves, gently dab them with a clean cloth dipped in a mild detergent solution. Furthermore, avoid rubbing vigorously, as it can damage the fabric. However, for tougher stains, you may need to repeat the process several times or use a specialized stain remover. Be sure to test any stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
Tackling Tough Stains
Different stains require specific treatments. Here are some common stains and how to address them:
- Oil-based stains: Use a mild dish soap solution and blot the stain gently. Avoid rubbing.
- Red wine stains: Act quickly by applying a mixture of white vinegar and water to the stain. Blot gently.
- Pet stains: Utilize an enzymatic cleaner specifically formulated for pet stains. Follow the product instructions carefully.
Step 3: Machine Wash (If Suitable) & Hand Wash (If Necessary)
If the pillow covers and pillows are machine washable, follow these guidelines:
- Separate Colors: Wash similar colors together to prevent color bleeding.
- Use a Gentle Detergent: Opt for a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics.
- Delicate Cycle: Use a gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine.
- Avoid Bleach: Bleach can damage the fabric and fade the colors.
- Air Dry: Hang the pillows to air dry completely. Avoid using a dryer, as high heat can shrink or damage the filling.
For delicate pillow covers or pillows that cannot be machine washed, follow these steps:
- Fill a Basin: Fill a basin with warm water and a mild detergent.
- Submerge the Pillow: Gently submerge the pillow in the soapy water and knead it to remove dirt. For stubborn stains, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the affected areas.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the pillow thoroughly with clean water until all the soap is removed.
- Squeeze Excess Water: Gently squeeze out the excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the pillow, as this can damage the filling.
- Air Dry: Hang the pillow to air dry completely, turning it occasionally for even drying. For faster drying, consider using a fan to circulate air around the pillow.
4. Additional Tips To Think About How To Clean Decorative Pillows
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your decorative pillows every 3-6 months to maintain their freshness.
- Pillow Protectors: Consider using pillow protectors to shield your pillows from dust, dirt, and allergens.
- Sun Exposure: Occasionally exposing your pillows to sunlight can help eliminate odors and freshen them up. However, excessive sun exposure can fade the colors of the fabric.
- Pillow Fillings: Different pillow fillings may require specific cleaning methods. For example, feather pillows may need to be aired out regularly to prevent musty odors. Check the care label for specific instructions.
- Allergen Prevention: If you suffer from allergies, consider using hypoallergenic pillow covers and fillings.
- Pillow Shape: Regularly plumping and shaping your pillows can help maintain their original form and prevent sagging.
Specific Pillow Materials:
- Down pillows: Use a gentle detergent specifically formulated for down. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener.
- Feather pillows: Air them out regularly to prevent musty odors. Use a gentle detergent and avoid using bleach.
- Synthetic pillows: These are generally easier to clean and can often be machine washed. Follow the care label instructions.
Pillow Fluffing:
- Regular fluffing: Fluff your pillows daily to help maintain their shape and prevent clumping.
- Sun exposure: Occasionally expose your pillows to sunlight to help eliminate odors and freshen them up.
Pillow Storage:
- Proper storage: When storing your pillows for extended periods, store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in plastic bags, as this can trap moisture.
Professional Cleaning:
- Consider professional cleaning: Lastly, for heavily soiled or stained pillows, consider professional cleaning services. They have specialized equipment and techniques to effectively clean your pillows.
In conclusion, by following these additional tips, you can ensure that your decorative pillows remain clean, fresh, and comfortable for years to come.