Table of content:
How Often You Should Clean Your Throw pillows
Consequences of Skipping Throw pillows Cleaning
DIY Methods to Clean Your Throw pillows
Keeping your throw pillows clean is essential for both comfort and style, but how often should you actually wash them? The ideal cleaning frequency depends on factors like how often the pillows are used, whether you have pets or allergies, and your home’s environment. Regular cleaning—typically every three to six months—helps prevent dust, odors, and stains from building up, while also preserving the pillows’ appearance and longevity. By making throw pillow care a routine part of your household cleaning schedule, you’ll keep your living space fresh, inviting, and looking its best.
Reviewed by Zac Kieffer
President at E-Cloth
Updated July, 26
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How Often You Should Clean Your Throw pillows
Frequency Overview
- General guideline: Aim to clean your throw pillows about every 3 to 6 months. This keeps them fresh and prevents buildup of dust and oils.
- Usage matters: If you use the pillows daily or they’re on a frequently used sofa or chair, consider leaning toward the 3‑month mark. Occasional use may allow for longer intervals.
- Pets and allergies: Homes with pets or occupants sensitive to airborne particles may benefit from more frequent cleaning, as these pillows can gather pet hair and body oils more quickly.
- Environmental factors: High-humidity areas or spaces with heavy dust accumulation might also require cleaning on the shorter end of the range to keep the pillows looking fresh.
- Maintenance tip: Regularly fluffing and airing out pillows in between deep cleans will slow the accumulation of dust and help maintain their shape.
Why This Frequency Works
- Prevents buildup: Frequent cleaning helps control the gradual buildup of sweat, skin oils, and dust, which over time can lead to fabric degradation and less vibrant colors.
- Enhances longevity: By keeping the pillows free of accumulated residue, you extend their lifespan and maintain their overall appearance.
- Aesthetics matter: In addition to the health and maintenance reasons, a clean pillow set keeps your space inviting and visually pleasing, complementing your overall décor.
- Easy routine integration: A seasonal cleaning routine (every few months) fits nicely into typical household cleaning schedules without feeling overwhelming.
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Consequences of Skipping Throw pillows Cleaning
Consequences of Skipping Throw Pillows Cleaning
- Odor Build-Up: Throw pillows are like sponges for smells. Sweat, body oils, pet fur, and even that popcorn you ate during movie night can all settle in. Skip cleaning, and you’ll notice your pillows start to smell less like “fresh linen” and more like “mystery funk.”
- Dust and Debris Accumulation: Every time you plop down on the couch, you’re sending a cloud of dust, skin flakes, and crumbs into your throw pillows. Over time, this debris builds up, making your pillows look dingy and feel gritty. Not exactly the cozy vibe you’re going for.
- Stains Set In: Spills and spots don’t just disappear on their own. The longer you wait, the more those stains become permanent residents. Some fabrics even get discolored or stiff if you let stains linger too long.
- Fabric Wear and Tear: Dirt and grit act like sandpaper on fabric fibers. When you skip cleaning, you’re letting those tiny particles grind away at your pillow covers every time you use them. This leads to thinning, fraying, and a much shorter pillow lifespan.
- Allergen Buildup: Dust and debris can contribute to a less comfortable environment, especially for those sensitive to dust. Regular cleaning helps keep your space feeling fresher and more inviting.
- Loss of Fluff and Shape: When pillows aren’t cleaned, the filling can clump together from moisture and oils. This means your once-plump pillows start to look flat and lumpy, and no amount of karate-chopping will bring them back to life.
- Uninviting Appearance: Dingy, stained, or misshapen throw pillows can make even the cleanest room look a little neglected. Clean pillows, on the other hand, instantly freshen up your space and make it more inviting for you and your guests.
DIY Methods to Clean Your Throw pillows
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Mild Detergent and Cold Water: Remove the pillow cover, mix mild detergent with cold water, gently hand wash the cover, rinse thoroughly, and air dry.
Remove the pillow cover and mix mild detergent with cold water. Gently hand wash the cover, rinse thoroughly, and air dry. This gentle method cleans throw pillow covers without damaging the fabric.
Baking Soda and Vacuum: Sprinkle baking soda over the pillow, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly to remove odors and dust.
Sprinkle baking soda evenly over the throw pillow and let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb odors and loosen dust. Vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda along with trapped dirt, leaving your pillow fresh and clean. This simple method naturally deodorizes and refreshes fabric surfaces.
White Vinegar and Sunlight: Lightly spray a mixture of white vinegar and water onto the pillow, place it outside in direct sunlight for several hours, then shake out and air dry.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the throw pillow, then place it outside in direct sunlight for several hours. Shake out the pillow and let it air dry completely. This method helps freshen and deodorize pillows naturally.
Rubbing Alcohol and Essential Oil Spray
Mix 1 cup of rubbing alcohol with 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the throw pillows, then let them air dry. This spray helps freshen fabrics and eliminate odors naturally.
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Deep Stains Persist
Some deep stains may not come out with mild detergent and cold water, as this gentle method is best for light soiling. Persistent stains may require stronger cleaners or professional treatment for complete removal.
Allergens Remain Embedded
Baking soda and vacuuming may not fully remove allergens, as particles like dust mites and pet dander can remain deep inside the pillow’s filling, beyond the reach of surface cleaning methods.
Odor Removal Incomplete
White vinegar and sunlight may not fully eliminate deep or stubborn odors trapped inside throw pillows, especially if the filling is dense or the odor source is strong, leaving some unpleasant smells behind after cleaning.
Surface Cleaning Only
This method only cleans the surface and does not penetrate deep into the pillow, leaving behind dirt, allergens, and potential odors trapped inside. It may not effectively sanitize or remove stains from the inner filling.
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