DIY Cleaning Methods for Throw pillows

How to Freshen Throw Pillows with Baking Soda and a Vacuum

• Start with a dry pillow. Make sure your throw pillow is completely dry before you begin. Moisture and baking soda are not friends—unless you’re making a volcano for a science fair.

 

• Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the entire surface. Don’t be shy—cover both sides if you can. Baking soda is a fine powder that’s great at absorbing odors and helping loosen up dust and debris that might be hanging out in the fabric.

 

• Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This gives the baking soda time to do its thing. If your pillow has been through a lot (think: pets, snacks, or mystery stains), you can leave it on for up to an hour. Just keep it out of reach of curious kids or pets during this time.

 

• Vacuum thoroughly using an upholstery attachment. Go over the pillow slowly and from different angles to pick up as much baking soda and dust as possible. Pay extra attention to seams and crevices—crumbs love to hide there. If you don’t have an upholstery attachment, a clean brush attachment works too.

 

• Repeat on the other side. Flip the pillow and repeat the process if you want a full refresh. This helps make sure you’re not just moving dust from one side to the other.

 

• Check for leftover powder. Give the pillow a good shake outside or a gentle pat to remove any lingering baking soda. You don’t want a cloud of powder every time you plop down on the couch.

What’s Happening Here?

• Baking soda acts as a deodorizer and helps loosen dust. It doesn’t mask smells—it absorbs them, which is why it’s a go-to for musty or stale odors in soft furnishings.

 

• The vacuum removes the baking soda along with dust and debris. This is a surface-level clean, so it’s best for pillows that aren’t heavily soiled or stained.

How to Make and Use a Rubbing Alcohol & Essential Oil Spray for Throw Pillows

• Gather your supplies: You’ll need a clean spray bottle, rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol, ideally 70%), your favorite essential oil (like lavender or eucalyptus), and, of course, your throw pillows. Make sure your spray bottle is clean and free of any old product residue.

 

• Mix your solution: In your spray bottle, combine about 1 cup of rubbing alcohol with 10-15 drops of essential oil. The alcohol helps the spray dry quickly and can help freshen up the fabric, while the essential oil adds a pleasant scent. Give the bottle a good shake to mix everything together.

 

• Spot test first: Before you go wild, spray a small, hidden area of your throw pillow and let it dry. This helps you check for any color changes or fabric reactions. Not all fabrics play nice with alcohol or essential oils, so this step is worth the extra minute.

 

• Lightly mist the pillow: Hold the bottle about 8-12 inches away and give your pillow a light, even spritz. You’re aiming for a fine mist, not a soaking. Too much liquid can leave water spots or make the pillow take forever to dry.

 

• Let it air dry: Set your pillow somewhere with good airflow and let it dry completely before using it again. The alcohol evaporates quickly, but thicker or denser pillows might need a little extra time.

 

• Repeat as needed: This spray can help freshen up your throw pillows between deeper cleanings. If you use it regularly, keep an eye on your pillows for any buildup or changes in texture.

 

• Know your fabrics: This method works best on synthetic or cotton-blend pillow covers. Delicate fabrics like silk, velvet, or anything labeled “dry clean only” should be treated with extra caution—if at all. Always check the care label first.

 

• Ventilation is your friend: Rubbing alcohol has a strong smell and can be irritating if inhaled in large amounts. Open a window or turn on a fan while you spray and dry your pillows.