How to Wash Throw Pillows Without Removable Cover

Throw Pillows: Not Just for Looks

Throw pillows can turn a boring looking room into an absolutely stunning one.

Pillows without removable covers seem to be the one’s that come in the better designs (I think so anyway). I don’t know why that is.

In a busy household you’ll quickly find that your throw pillows are actually being used for everything except for their intended use.

From literally being “throw” pillows by the older kids or to build a princess’ den, a time will come when they’ll need some love too in the form of a good clean.

The fact that I’m letting out a long and deep sigh as I write this whilst shaking my head gives you an indication of what’s about to come in the rest of this article.

Why Should You Trust Me?

Now you might be wondering why you should listen to me ramble on about cleaning throw pillows.

Well, let me tell you a bit about myself.

My wife and I run this home and outdoor blog together. We’ve been married for 17 years and are raising five wonderful children in our London home.

Over the years, we’ve faced every possible household challenge.

From stubborn stains that refuse to budge (thanks to our artistic 9-year-old daughter) to managing the chaos that comes with 14 year old twin boys.

We’ve learned through trial and error how best to keep our home clean while juggling work and family life.

And it’s not just us.

Our team of writers are experts in their fields, each with a wealth of experience.

We’re all about providing value to our readers through actionable and achievable blog posts.

So when it comes to cleaning throw pillows without removable covers, you can trust that we’ve got your back!

What’s Coming Up

In this article, we’ll be covering everything you need to know about washing your throw pillows without removable covers.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming up:

Understanding why cleaning your throw pillows is a must.
Getting to know your pillow better – from the fabric to the inserts.
A step-by-step guide on how to hand wash and machine wash your throw pillows.
Tips on handling stubborn stains.
Answers to common concerns in our FAQ section.

So grab yourself a hot beverage, tea or coffee, sit back and learn how to get those throw pillows clean.

The Nitty-Gritty: Why Cleaning Your Throw Pillows is a Must

From Decor to Health: The Silent Threats Lurking in Dirty Pillows

I’m sure you love snuggling up with your favourite throw pillow after a long day right?

But have you ever stopped to think about what might be lurking within its soft, plush exterior?

It’s definitely not just fluff and feathers.

Microorganisms are uninvited guests that love making themselves at home in your beloved pillows.

Mildew and insects can also find their way into these cosy corners of comfort.

These silent threats pose risks that go beyond ruining the aesthetics of your decor.

They can affect your health too!

Unclean pillows can trigger allergies, cause skin irritations and even lead to respiratory issues.

I’m asthmatic and one of the kids has a severe allergy to dust mites so believe me we know the importance of getting those little buggers out.

That’s why it’s so important for us to regularly clean our throw pillows. Especially those without removable covers.

It might seem like a daunting task but it’s worth every bit of effort for the peace of mind it brings.

However with the right techniques it’s not as hard as you might think.

Taking the First Step: Knowing Your Pillow Better

A Quick Dive into Pillow Fabrics and Inserts

Before we dive headfirst into the washing process, let’s take a moment to get to know your pillows better.

Just like people, every pillow is unique from its fabric cover to what’s inside.

Understanding these elements will help you tailor your cleaning methods for effective results.

Fabrics: Acrylic to Wool

From acrylic to wool, throw pillows come in a variety of fabrics each with their own characteristics.

Let me share a bit about some of the most common ones:

Acrylic: This synthetic fabric is known for its softness and warmth. It’s also resistant to moths, oils and chemicals making it quite durable.
Cotton: Breathable and comfortable. Cotton is a popular choice for throw pillows. It’s easy to clean but can shrink if not handled properly.
Linen: Loved for its lightweight and crisp feel, linen adds an elegant touch to any decor. However, it wrinkles easily and requires gentle care.
Polyester: A versatile synthetic fabric that’s resistant to wrinkles and shrinking. It’s also quick-drying which makes it easier when washing.
Wool: Warm and cosy, wool adds a luxurious feel to your throw pillows. But be careful, it can shrink in hot water. I’ve experienced other items of clothing so beware.

Remember that knowing your fabric is half the battle.

Inserts: Down/Feather to Memory Foam

Let’s take a look inside those cushions.

The type of insert in your throw pillow not only determines how comfy it is but also how you should clean it.

Down/Feather: These inserts are incredibly soft and moldable making them perfect for snuggling up with on the couch! They’re usually machine washable but require special care when drying.
Polyester Fiberfill: This is a common choice for throw pillows due to its softness and durability. It’s also hypoallergenic and machine washable.
Memory Foam: Known for its ergonomic benefits, memory foam moulds your body providing excellent support. However, it’s not machine washable and requires spot cleaning.

Having a quick rundown of the different fabrics and inserts you might find in your throw pillows is really handy.

Now we’re ready to tackle the cleaning process head-on.

sunlit living room focusing on a single throw pillow placed on an armchair

Cleaning 101: Getting Your Throw Pillows Sparkling Clean Without a Hitch

Handwashing: The Gentle Approach

It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get down to business.

Handwashing is a gentle approach that works well for most throw pillows, especially those with delicate fabrics or intricate designs.

Let’s walk through the process together.

Preparing for the Cleanse

Before you start you’ll need to do some prep work.

Your first step is to check the care label on your pillow.

This little tag will provide you with a wealth of information and can guide you on how best to clean your pillow.

The next step is to whip up your cleaning concoction.

For most fabrics, a mild detergent mixed with warm water will do the trick.

If you’re dealing with stubborn stains then consider adding a bit of white vinegar to the mix.

You can thank me later.

Dive into Details: Spot-Cleaning Stains to Submerging and Rinsing

Time to tackle those stains.

Using a cloth dipped in your cleaning solution, gently dab at the stain until it lifts off.

Remember not to rub as this can damage the fabric.

Once you’ve dealt with any spots or stains, it’s time for a full cleanse.

Submerge your pillow in your cleaning solution and give it a good squeeze to ensure it soaks up all that soapy goodness.

After soaking for about 15 minutes (or according to your care label), rinse thoroughly under cool water until all soap suds are gone.

Make sure every last bit of detergent is out as any residue can attract dirt.

The Aftermath: Drying, Reshaping and Ensuring Long Pillow Life

Now comes an important step – drying.

Lay your pillow flat on an absorbent towel and roll it up like a burrito (yes, you read that right!).

This will help squeeze out excess water.

Then, reshape your pillow while it’s still damp to maintain its form.

Let it air dry away from direct sunlight which can cause colours to fade.

And voila!

You’ve successfully hand washed your throw pillow without a removable cover.

With regular cleaning, your pillows will not only look great but also last longer, making them a worthy addition to your home decor.

In the next section I’m going to talk about machine washing.

Machine Magic: When Machines do the Cleaning

Now, if you’re like me and love when machines do the heavy lifting (who doesn’t?), this section is for you.

Machine washing can be a real time-saver and works well for certain types of throw pillows.

But remember, not all pillows are machine-friendly so please always check your care label first.

The Preamble: Label-Checks, Spot Cleaning, and Setting the Stage

Before you toss your pillow into the machine, you’ll need to do some prep work again.

As I mentioned earlier, your care label will tell you whether your pillow is machine washable or not.

Next up is spot cleaning.

Just as I mentioned above, treat any visible stains with a stain remover or a bit of mild detergent.

This pre-treatment will help ensure those stubborn spots come out in the wash.

Finally, set the stage for a balanced wash by adding similar items to the load.

Washing one lonely pillow can make your machine off-balance which isn’t good for its lifespan (or noise levels).

If your household is like mine, then there’s absolutely no chance you’ll be washing just one throw pillow, it’s likely to be the whole lot of them.

The Washing Opera: Choosing Cycles, Using Mild Detergents, and Ensuring Balance

Now onto the main event – the washing opera.

Choose a gentle cycle on your machine to protect your pillow from harsh movements.

Cold or warm water works best as hot water can cause shrinkage or colour fading.

Add a small amount of mild detergent.

Less is more as too much soap can leave residue on your pillow which attracts dirt.

Remember that balance we talked about earlier?

Make sure your washing load is even to prevent any wild spins during the cycle.

Post-Wash Care: Drying Essentials, Fluffing Protocols and Quality Checks

Once your pillows have had their spin in the washer, it’s time for drying.

If possible (according to the care label), tumble dry on a low heat with dryer balls or clean tennis balls to fluff them up.

If tumble drying isn’t recommended then air dry your pillows flat away from direct sunlight.

Remember to reshape them while they’re still damp to maintain their form.

Once your pillows are dry, give them a good fluff and do a quick quality check for any remaining stains.

If they look good then congratulations, you’ve mastered the art of machine washing throw pillows without removable covers.

Stain Station: Handling Those Stubborn Marks

Ah, stains – the arch-nemesis of every throw pillow owner.

The one’s I particularly get worried about are the ones in the living room which are the first thing guests see when they walk into your home.

Hopefully I’ve got some handy tips to help you tackle those stubborn marks that refuse to budge.

Let’s dive in.

Sticky Situations: Dealing with Gums, Glues, and Adhesives

We’ve all been there, a piece of gum mysteriously finds its way onto your favourite throw pillow or a crafty afternoon ends with glue all over your cushions.

We all know the bubble gum monster made the mess, don’t we? I mean when you ask the kids they all say “it wasn’t me”.

When faced with these sticky situations, here’s what you should think about doing.

Firstly, try to remove as much of the substance as possible using a blunt knife or spoon.

Then apply some ice (in a plastic bag) to harden the residue and scrape off any excess.

Next, rub a bit of alcohol on a cloth and dab it onto the stain until it lifts off.

Remember not to rub as this can spread the stain further.

The Gourmet Spills: Handling Sauces, Blood Spots, and Oil Splotches

Now let’s move on to those gourmet spills, sauces from last night’s dinner party, blood spots from minor injuries or oil splotches from that pizza slice you savoured on the couch.

For these types of stains, start by blotting up as much of the spill as possible with an absorbent cloth.

Then apply a small amount of mild detergent mixed with cold water (warm water can set protein-based stains like blood) and gently dab until the stain disappears.

Artistic Accidents: Addressing Ink Spills and Making Your Pillow Ink-Free

Finally, let’s talk about artistic accidents – those dreaded ink spills.

Whether it’s from a leaking pen or an enthusiastic toddler with markers, ink stains can be quite stubborn.

Gosh we’ve had so many of these over the years.

But don’t despair.

Start by blotting up any wet ink then apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to the stain.

Dab gently with a cloth until the ink lifts off.

Hopefully we’ve given you some solutions for those stubborn stains that threaten to ruin your beautiful throw pillows.

With these tips, you’re well-equipped to keep your pillows looking their best.

FAQs: Addressing Common Concerns

In this journey of pillow cleaning, I’ve come across a few questions that pop up quite often.

So, let’s take a moment to address these common concerns and clear up any confusion.

Caring vs Replacing: How often should you change those pillows?

This is a tricky one as it really depends on the quality of your pillow and how well you care for it.

On average, throw pillows can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years.

Regular cleaning and fluffing can extend their lifespan but if your pillow has lost its shape or comfort, it might be time for a replacement.

Machine or Hand Wash: Which one suits your throw pillow?

Again, this depends on your specific pillow.

Some fabrics and inserts are machine-friendly while others require gentle handwashing.

When in doubt, always opt for handwashing to avoid any potential damage.

Do check the care label and never assume its machine washable.

Defining Decor: What exactly is a throw pillow and how does it differ from conventional ones?

Throw pillows are primarily decorative elements used to enhance the aesthetics of your space.

They’re usually smaller than conventional bed pillows and come in various shapes like square, rectangle or even round.

While they do provide some level of comfort, their main purpose is to add a splash of style to your decor.

Your Pillow Journey: From Drab to Fab

We’ve journeyed together through the world of throw pillows. We’ve understood their importance in our homes by learning how to keep them clean and fresh.

We’ve tackled stubborn stains and discovered the magic of both hand washing and machine washing.

Remember, a clean pillow is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about health.

Those pesky microorganisms don’t stand a chance when you’re armed with knowledge and a good cleaning routine.

But this isn’t just about me sharing my wisdom with you.

I’d love to hear your thoughts too.

Do you have any cleaning tips or tricks that work wonders on your throw pillows?

Or perhaps a funny cleaning mishap story to share?

If you’re interested to know the types of pillows used in 5 star hotels, you might be interested in reading our article.

The comments section is all yours, let’s make this a two-way conversation!

Now armed with your newfound knowledge you can transform those drab pillows into fab ones and bask in the glory of a cleaner, healthier home.