Throw pillows are cozy and stylish, but over time they can get dusty and grubby. If you don’t have a washing machine, don’t despair! There are ways to clean them without one.
Sprinkle baking soda on the pillows and wait 30 minutes. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer. Vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove the residue.
Spot clean with a mild detergent solution. Mix a few drops of liquid detergent and warm water. Gently blot the stains with a cloth or sponge. Avoid vigorous scrubbing. Wipe the pillows with a damp cloth to remove soap residue.
For stubborn stains, use hydrogen peroxide. Test it on an area first. Dampen a white cloth with peroxide and dab at the stain until it lifts. Rinse with water.
Between cleanings, use fabric freshening sprays or odor neutralizers. These products work by eliminating odors.
Make sure the pillow covers can’t be removed for washing separately. Then try out these alternative cleaning methods! Regular maintenance and cleaning will help keep your throw pillows looking and smelling great.
Preparing the throw pillows
To clean your throw pillows, follow these steps:
- Take off any zippered covers or pillowcases. This allows for a deep clean.
- Check the care label to know if it’s safe to wash. Some may need dry cleaning, others washing by hand or machine.
- Fill a basin with warm water and mild detergent to create suds.
- Put the pillow in the soapy water and gently squeeze. No wringing; it could damage the shape.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all soap residue is gone. Squeeze out excess water, then reshape.
Extra tips:
- Spot clean any stains before a full clean.
- Test any products on a hidden area to check for colorfastness.
- Let pillows air dry before using them again.
- Fluff and plump up regularly to maintain shape.
- Use fabric fresheners or odor eliminators between cleanings.
These steps and tips help you keep your throw pillows clean and looking great, while contributing to a healthy living environment.
Choosing the appropriate cleaning method
When selecting a cleaning method for your throw pillows, several factors must be considered. Material, type of stains, and care labels are all important.
Material:
Different materials need different approaches. For example, delicate fabrics like silk or velvet need dry cleaning. Removable covers made of cotton or polyester can be machine washed.
Stains:
Common spills and dirt require spot cleaning with mild detergent or upholstery cleaner. But, tougher stains like wine or ink need more thorough cleaning.
Labels:
Care labels provide manufacturer instructions on how to clean safely. Following them will prevent damage or discoloration.
Some materials may need professional help or special treatments. Don’t let dirt and stains linger. Take action to preserve beauty and extend the lifespan of your cushions.
Step-by-step instructions for hand-washing the throw pillows
Cleaning throw pillows can be tricky! But, with the right techniques and some elbow grease, you can get them looking fresh and clean.
First, check the care instructions on the pillow tag to be sure it’s safe for hand-washing. Some fabrics may need professional cleaning or no water-based methods.
If you see any stains, spot clean them with a mild detergent or cleaner. Lightly blot the area with a cloth – no vigorous rubbing.
Fill a basin with warm water and a little detergent. Swirl to create suds. Submerge the pillows and gently agitate. Pay extra attention to stained areas.
Rinse the pillows in cool running water until all soap is gone. Squeeze out excess water, but don’t wring or twist too much.
Lay the pillows flat on a towel or hang them up to air-dry before putting them back.
Hand-washing requires more time and effort than a machine. But, it gives you better control over the process and ensures delicate fabrics are cared for.
Drying the throw pillows
- Gently squeeze the pillows to remove any excess moisture or cleaning solution. Don’t wring them as it might harm the fabric.
- Lay the pillows on a clean, dry towel and press down lightly to draw out more moisture. Turn them over and do the same on the other side.
- Find a well-ventilated area, preferably outside, to hang the pillows and let them air dry. Don’t put them in direct sunlight as it could fade or discolour the fabric.
- As they are drying, fluff and reshape the pillows every so often, so they don’t clump and keep their original shape.
- Rotate the pillows regularly to ensure even drying. The time it takes will depend on factors like humidity and pillow thickness. It could take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days for them to be fully dry.
- Check the manufacturer’s care instructions for throw pillows before starting the cleaning and drying process.
- To speed up the drying process, use an electric fan or a hairdryer on its lowest heat setting to blow air over the pillows while they hang or lay flat. Don’t use high heat though as it could cause shrinkage or damage the pillow filling.
Finishing touches
Want to finish cleaning your throw pillows without a washing machine? Here are some tips:
- Give them a shake – gentle shaking will fluff the filling and remove dust.
- Use fabric fresheners – sprays and sachets help keep pillows smelling fresh.
- Brush pet hair – use lint brush or sticky roller for pet hair.
- Spot clean stains – use a mild detergent and test on a small, hidden area first.
Follow these steps and your throw pillows will look and smell great, even without a washing machine!
Conclusion
Wrapping up our chat about how to clean throw pillows without a washing machine: there are several good methods. Spot cleaning, vacuuming, and steam cleaning will keep your pillows fresh and clean.
Spot cleaning is a good way to take out small stains or spills. Use a mild detergent and water, then dab the area with a cloth. Let the area air dry before putting the pillow back.
Vacuuming can help with dust, dirt, and allergens. Put the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner and go over both sides of the pillow. This is great for pet hair or dander.
If you need a deep clean, use steam cleaning. Steam cleaners use hot vaporized water to break down dirt. Follow the instructions and leave the pillow plenty of time to dry before using.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can throw pillows be cleaned without a washing machine?
Yes, throw pillows can be cleaned without a washing machine. There are alternative methods that you can use to clean them effectively.
2. How do I clean throw pillows without a washing machine?
One method is to spot-clean the pillows using a mild detergent and water. Gently scrub the stained areas with a soft brush or cloth, then rinse and allow the pillows to air dry.
3. Can I use baking soda to clean throw pillows?
Yes, baking soda is a great natural cleaner for throw pillows. Sprinkle baking soda on the pillows, let it sit for a few hours to absorb odors, then vacuum it off using a brush attachment.
4. How do I remove stains from throw pillows?
You can create a stain-removing solution using equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water. Apply the solution to the stained areas, let it sit for a few minutes, then blot it with a clean cloth. Repeat if necessary.
5. Can I use a fabric freshener spray on throw pillows?
Yes, fabric freshener sprays are safe to use on throw pillows. They help eliminate odors and give the pillows a fresh scent. Make sure to follow the instructions on the spray bottle and allow the pillows to dry completely before use.
6. How often should I clean my throw pillows?
It is recommended to clean throw pillows every 2-3 months, or as needed. Regular cleaning helps maintain their appearance and keeps them free from allergens.
