Cushions and throw pillows are precious decorative items that see a lot of wear and tear. In a messy world they’re right there on the frontlines, catching our drool from an afternoon nap or picking up stains from a late night tv dinner.
Our feathery and fluffy friends deserve our care and attention, so they can live a long and happy life on our beds, couches and sofas. Luckily, our grandmother knew a few useful cleaning tips that we’re happy to share with you!
- Wash the cushion covers by hand
Cushion covers can be fragile, depending on the material they’re made of. If you’re not sure of the material (e.g. if there’s no tag) then it’s always safer to wash your cushion covers by hand in a small tub or basin filled with lukewarm water and a mild detergent.
Full cotton cushion covers or throw pillows made from a durable linen and cotton blend, or a polyester combination, are usually machine washable. Follow the instructions on the label. If there’s no label, then you can opt for a gentle cycle in cold water.
Tip: Turn your covers inside out before putting them in the washing machine. Doing so will ensure that the outside surface will look as good as new for as long as possible.
2. Dry the covers in the sun
Cushion covers should preferably be dried outside in the sun. If you are unable to naturally dry your cushion covers, then you can slowly drip dry them in the shade or a cool spot inside your home.
If you want to dry the cushion covers as quickly as possible, then make sure to hang them in an open space with clear air flow. You can also point a fan at the cushions to speed up the process.
Tip: Remember that cushion covers should never be put in the dryer as the intense heat will shrink the fabric. Certain materials, such as polyester, can even melt under high temperatures.
3. Spot cleaning depends on the fabric
Cushion covers made of polyester are quite easy to take care of. You can use a small wet cloth or sponge to remove everyday stains. Simply apply the wet cloth to the affected spot and by gently pressing it from the edges towards the center.
For more delicate fabrics such as linen and cotton blends, we recommend a water and white vinegar mix applied with care on the surface. Make sure to add equal parts of vinegar and water to the mix and pour it in a spray bottle so you can directly apply it on the affected area.
The previous tips were just the basis to appropriate cushion care. For more information on how to properly take care of your scatter cushions and throw pillows, please have a look at our full blog post here.
