How to Care for Throw Pillows and Blankets: Keep Them Looking New

Simple Care Tips to Make Your Home Textiles Last for Years

You've invested in beautiful throw pillows and cozy blankets to make your home comfortable and stylish. With proper care, these pieces can stay looking fresh and feeling soft for years to come. Here's everything you need to know about caring for your home textiles.

General Care Guidelines

Daily Maintenance

A little daily attention goes a long way in keeping your textiles looking their best:

• Fluff pillows daily: Give them a good shake and fluff to maintain their shape
• Fold blankets neatly: Prevents permanent creases and keeps them looking tidy
• Rotate regularly: Switch pillow positions weekly to ensure even wear
• Keep away from direct sunlight: Prevents fading and fabric degradation
• Spot clean immediately: Address spills right away before they set

Washing Your Throw Pillows

Check the Care Label First

Always read the care instructions on your pillow covers. Most decorative pillow covers can be machine washed, but some may require special care.

Machine Washing Pillow Covers

Step 1: Remove the Cover
If your pillows have removable covers with zippers, take them off before washing. This protects the insert and makes washing easier.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
Spot treat any stains with a gentle stain remover before washing. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Wash on Gentle Cycle
Use cold water and a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach that can damage colors and fabrics.

Step 4: Dry Properly
Air dry flat or tumble dry on low heat. Remove promptly to prevent wrinkles. Iron on low heat if needed, checking the fabric type first.

Spot Cleaning Pillows

For minor spills or between washes:

• Blot (don't rub) the stain immediately with a clean, damp cloth
• Use a mild soap solution for stubborn spots
• Rinse with clean water and blot dry
• Allow to air dry completely before using

Caring for Throw Blankets

Different Fabrics, Different Care

Minky and Fleece Blankets

• Machine wash cold on gentle cycle
• Use mild detergent, avoid fabric softener (it can reduce softness over time)
• Tumble dry low or air dry
• Shake out after drying to restore fluffiness

Woven Cotton Blankets

• Machine wash cold or warm on normal cycle
• Tumble dry low or line dry
• Iron on medium heat if desired for a crisp look
• Fringe can be gently combed after washing

Sherpa and Plush Blankets

• Wash separately to prevent lint transfer
• Use cold water and gentle cycle
• Air dry or tumble dry on lowest heat setting
• Brush gently with a soft brush to restore texture

Storage Tips

Seasonal Storage

When storing blankets and pillows seasonally:

• Clean first: Always wash before storing to prevent stains from setting
• Dry completely: Any moisture can lead to mildew
• Use breathable storage: Cotton bags or bins with ventilation holes
• Avoid plastic: Can trap moisture and cause yellowing
• Add cedar or lavender: Natural moth deterrents that smell lovely
• Store in cool, dry place: Away from direct sunlight and humidity

Everyday Storage

For items you use regularly:

• Fold blankets neatly and store in a basket or on a blanket ladder
• Keep extra pillow covers in a drawer or closet
• Rotate seasonal colors in and out of storage

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using too much detergent: Can leave residue and make fabrics stiff
• Washing in hot water: Can cause shrinking and fading
• Over-drying: High heat damages fibers and causes shrinkage
• Ignoring care labels: Different fabrics need different care
• Storing while damp: Leads to mildew and musty odors
• Using bleach on colors: Causes fading and weakens fabric

Extending the Life of Your Textiles

Preventive Care

• Use pillow protectors: Add an extra layer between the insert and decorative cover
• Keep pets off delicate items: Or use washable throws over furniture
• Vacuum regularly: Use the upholstery attachment to remove dust and pet hair
• Rotate seasonally: Gives pieces a rest and prevents wear

When to Replace

Even with great care, textiles don't last forever. Replace when you notice:

• Permanent stains that won't come out
• Fading that makes colors look dull
• Loss of shape or flattened filling
• Fabric pilling or thinning
• Tears or holes that can't be repaired

Quick Reference Care Guide

Weekly: Fluff pillows, shake out blankets, rotate positions
Monthly: Vacuum or brush to remove dust and pet hair
Seasonally: Wash pillow covers and blankets, rotate seasonal items
Annually: Deep clean, assess condition, replace worn items

Eco-Friendly Care Tips

• Wash full loads to save water and energy
• Use cold water whenever possible
• Air dry when weather permits
• Choose eco-friendly, biodegradable detergents
• Spot clean instead of washing the entire item when possible

With proper care, your beautiful throw pillows and cozy blankets will stay soft, vibrant, and inviting for years to come. Ready to refresh your collection? Shop our easy-care pillow collection and durable throw blankets designed to look beautiful wash after wash.