How to Wash Throw Pillows

Throw Pillow Covers vs. Inserts: Wash Separately

Most throw pillows consist of two parts — a removable cover and an inner insert. Whenever possible, remove the cover and wash it separately from the insert. This allows you to wash the cover more frequently (it's what contacts skin and absorbs oils) while washing the insert less often.

How to Wash Throw Pillow Covers

Cotton and Linen Covers

• Machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water
• Use mild liquid detergent
• Tumble dry on low or air dry — remove while slightly damp to prevent wrinkles
• Iron or steam while damp if needed

Velvet Covers

• Check the care label — many velvet covers are dry clean only
• If washable: hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent, or machine wash on delicate
• Never wring — press gently between towels
• Air dry away from direct sunlight — heat and sunlight crush velvet pile
• Brush gently with a soft brush while damp to restore the pile direction

Polyester and Synthetic Covers

• Machine wash on gentle with cold water
• Tumble dry on low or air dry
• Use Febreze Fabric Refresher between washes to keep them smelling fresh

How to Wash Throw Pillow Inserts

Polyester Fiberfill Inserts

• Machine wash on gentle with warm water
• Use a small amount of mild detergent
• Tumble dry on low with wool dryer balls to restore loft and prevent clumping
• Check for damp spots before storing — run additional drying cycles if needed

Down or Feather Inserts

• Machine wash on gentle with cool water and a down-safe detergent
• Run an extra rinse cycle
• Tumble dry on low with wool dryer balls — multiple cycles may be needed
• Break up clumps by hand between cycles

Foam Inserts

• Do not machine wash — agitation breaks down foam
• Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent
• Air dry completely before replacing the cover

How to Freshen Throw Pillows Between Washes

For a quick refresh without washing, spray lightly with Febreze Fabric Refresher and allow to air dry. This neutralizes odors from pets, cooking, and daily use. You can also place throw pillows in the dryer on air-only (no heat) for 15 minutes with a dryer ball to fluff them up and remove dust.

Quick Tips for Throw Pillow Care

• Wash covers every 2–4 weeks if used daily; inserts every 3–6 months
• Fluff throw pillows daily to maintain shape
• Rotate pillows to distribute wear evenly
• Store spare covers in a breathable bag to keep them dust-free

Recommended Products

• Febreze Fabric Refresher Spray — freshen throw pillows between washes
• Wool Dryer Balls — restore loft to pillow inserts during drying