How to Care for Decorative Pillows and Throws
There’s a moment of hesitation every owner of a luxury throw or pillow knows well: the first time it needs to be cleaned. Whether it’s a small coffee spill or just time for a refresh, the fear of causing shrinkage, fading, or ruining that perfect velvet texture can be paralyzing. But you shouldn’t have to treat your favorite cozy items like fragile museum pieces. The confidence to properly clean them is all you need. The question is, how do you care for our decorative pillows and throws to keep them looking pristine? This guide will walk you through everything, from reading care labels to tackling stains, so you can enjoy your beautiful textiles without worry.
Key Takeaways
- Always read the label first: Your item's care tag is the most important instruction manual you have. Following its guidance on washing, drying, and dry cleaning is the best way to prevent accidental damage to delicate fabrics and embellishments.
- Treat stains quickly and gently: For spills, always blot the area with a clean cloth instead of rubbing, which can set the stain. For small marks, spot cleaning is often enough, but remember to test any cleaning solution on a hidden area first.
- Incorporate daily care and smart storage: Simple habits like regular fluffing, rotating pieces to avoid uneven wear, and keeping them out of direct sunlight will preserve their beauty. For storage, use breathable containers in a cool, dry place to protect them from dust and moisture.
Why Is Proper Care for Luxury Pillows and Throws So Important?
Your decorative pillows and throws are more than just accessories; they are an investment in your home’s comfort and style. You chose them for their beautiful textures, rich colors, and the sense of warmth they bring to a room. Taking proper care of these pieces is the best way to protect that investment. Without the right cleaning methods, delicate fabrics can shrink, fade, or lose their softness, which can be heartbreaking after you’ve found the perfect items for your space. Following a few simple guidelines will help you maintain their beauty and longevity, ensuring they look as stunning as the day you brought them home.
Beyond aesthetics, proper care is also essential for creating a healthy living environment. Pillows and throws, especially those we cuddle up with on the sofa, can collect dust, pet dander, allergens, and germs over time. Regularly cleaning these items is a simple step toward a cleaner home, as it involves removing dirt, dust mites, and bacteria that can accumulate from daily use. This is particularly important for anyone in your household with allergies or sensitivities. By keeping your favorite textiles fresh, you ensure they remain a source of comfort and not a contributor to sniffles or skin irritation.
How Often Should You Clean Your Decorative Pillows and Throws?
Knowing how often to clean your decorative pillows and throws can feel like a guessing game, but it really comes down to one simple factor: how you use them. Items that are part of your daily life will need more attention than those that are purely for show. A regular cleaning schedule not only keeps your beautiful pieces looking their best but also helps maintain a fresh and healthy home environment. By tailoring your cleaning frequency to each item's role in your home, you can preserve their texture, color, and overall quality for years to come. Let’s break down a simple routine for your high-use items, occasional pieces, and those little spills that happen in between.
For High-Use Items
Think about the pillows on your family room sofa or the cozy throw you curl up with every evening. These high-use items collect dust, body oils, and allergens, so they need a consistent cleaning schedule. Plan to wash them every one to two months to keep them fresh and hygienic. If someone in your home has been sick, it’s a good idea to wash them right away. For washable pieces like our versatile coverlets, a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent will often do the trick. This regular care removes buildup and helps keep your everyday luxuries feeling, well, luxurious.
For Occasional or Display Pieces
Pillows and throws that are more for looks than for lounging don't require such frequent washing. This includes pieces on a guest bed or a throw elegantly draped over an accent chair. For these items, a full cleaning once or twice a year is usually enough, unless they get visibly soiled. Between washes, you can simply air them out outdoors on a dry, breezy day and give them a good fluff to refresh them. Always check the care label first, as many decorative pieces, like our Margaritaville Bedding, may have delicate trims or fabrics that require special handling.
When to Spot Clean Between Washes
For those inevitable little spills and smudges, spot cleaning is your best friend. It’s the perfect way to handle a small mark without committing to a full wash, which helps preserve the fabric's integrity over time. The most important rule is to act quickly and always blot the stain with a clean, dry cloth, never rub. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers and cause it to spread. For a simple spot treatment, you can often use a small amount of mild soap on a damp cloth. This quick response is key to stain removal and keeping your pillows and throws looking pristine.
How to Read the Care Labels on Your Pillows and Throws
Think of the care tag on your pillows and throws as the official instruction manual. Before you even think about reaching for a cleaning solution, taking a moment to read this label is the single most important thing you can do to protect your beautiful pieces. These tags use a universal language of symbols to tell you exactly what your item needs. While it might seem like a secret code at first, it’s actually quite simple to understand once you know what to look for. Following these instructions helps ensure your luxury textiles maintain their beauty and longevity for years to come. If a tag is missing or has faded, don't guess. Instead, identify the fabric type and follow the best practices for that specific material.
What Common Care Symbols Mean
The care tag is your roadmap to proper cleaning. A symbol that looks like a bucket of water tells you about washing, a triangle gives instructions on bleaching, and a square provides drying guidelines. For example, a bucket with a hand in it means hand wash only, while one with an "X" through it means do not wash. A simple circle is the universal symbol for dry cleaning. Some tags use letter codes, like "W" for water-based cleaning, which means it's safe to use a standard detergent. For a complete visual guide, you can find helpful charts that break down what each icon means, making it easy to decode your laundry tags at a glance.
When to Choose Dry Cleaning
For many luxury textiles, especially those with delicate embellishments, intricate weaves, or rich colors, dry cleaning is the safest option. We often recommend professional dry cleaning for high-end decorative pillows and throws to preserve their structure, texture, and vibrant look. This method avoids the agitation and water saturation of a washing machine, which can damage sensitive fibers like silk or velvet. If the care tag shows a circle, that’s your cue to take it to a professional. This is especially true for items like our intricately designed coverlets, where professional care ensures every detail remains pristine. Dry cleaning is an investment in the longevity of your favorite pieces.
How to Wash Pillows and Throws Based on Fabric Type
The material of your pillow or throw is the single most important factor in determining how to clean it. Using the wrong method on a delicate fabric can lead to shrinking, fading, or permanent damage to the texture. While the care tag is always your best guide, here is a breakdown of how to handle different materials to keep them looking beautiful.
Cotton and Linen
Cotton and linen are durable, natural fibers that can often withstand more handling than other fabrics. For our linen coverlets and pillows, we recommend a gentle approach to maintain their softness and shape. You can typically hand wash these items in cold water or use your machine’s delicate cycle with a mild detergent.
For small spills, spot cleaning with a damp cloth is usually effective. When it’s time to dry, avoid the machine, as high heat can cause shrinkage. Instead, lay the item flat on a clean, dry towel or a drying rack away from direct sunlight. This prevents the fibers from stretching out of shape and helps preserve the fabric’s integrity for years to come.
Velvet and Chenille
Velvet and chenille offer a rich, plush texture that requires a delicate touch. The raised pile that gives these fabrics their signature softness can easily be crushed or damaged if not cleaned correctly. For this reason, we generally recommend professional dry cleaning for high-quality velvet and chenille pieces, as it’s the safest way to protect your investment.
If you need to address a small spot, you can gently blot the area with a dry, absorbent cloth. If a bit of moisture is needed, use a slightly damp cloth with minimal pressure. Never rub or scrub, as this can ruin the pile. When in doubt, it’s always better to consult a professional cleaner for these luxurious textiles.
Silk and Satin
As some of the most delicate materials, silk and satin demand special attention. Their smooth, lustrous finish is prone to water spots and damage from agitation, so machine washing is almost always out of the question. The best and safest method for cleaning silk or satin pillows and throws is to have them professionally dry-cleaned.
For a very minor spill, you might be able to spot clean by gently dabbing the area with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid using water or any cleaning solutions, as these can leave permanent marks on the fabric. Handling these luxury items with care ensures they remain a stunning part of your bedding for a long time.
Faux Fur and Sherpa
Faux fur and sherpa bring a cozy, inviting feel to any room, but they can be prone to matting if washed improperly. To keep them soft and fluffy, wash them on a gentle cycle using cold water and a mild detergent. It’s a good idea to wash them alone or with similar items to prevent friction from other fabrics.
The most important step is drying. Never put faux fur or sherpa in the dryer, as the heat can melt the synthetic fibers and cause irreversible matting. Instead, lay the item flat to air dry. Once it’s completely dry, you can gently shake it out or brush it with a soft-bristled brush to restore its original fluffiness.
Down and Feather
Pillows filled with down and feathers can usually be washed in a machine, but it’s important to do it correctly to maintain their loft. Use a front-loading washing machine if possible, as the agitator in a top-loader can be too rough. Select a delicate cycle with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent. Adding an extra rinse cycle will help ensure all the soap is removed.
When it’s time to dry, use a low-heat setting. Tossing in a few wool dryer balls or clean tennis balls can help break up clumps and fluff the pillows as they dry. Make sure the pillows are completely dry before using them again to prevent mold or mildew.
Polyester and Blended Fabrics
Polyester and other synthetic blends are quite resilient and generally easy to care for. Most pillows and throws made from these materials can be machine washed without issue. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a standard detergent to get them clean.
However, because "blended fabric" can mean many different things, it is absolutely essential to read the care tag before you do anything. The tag will provide specific instructions based on the fabric's unique composition. Some blends may have special requirements, so taking a moment to check the label is the best way to avoid an unfortunate laundry mistake.
What Are the Best Ways to Clean Decorative Pillows and Throws?
Once you know your fabric type and have checked the care label, you can confidently choose the right cleaning method. Your beautiful decorative pillows and throws are designed for comfort and style, and keeping them clean is the best way to ensure they last. The four main approaches are machine washing, hand washing, spot cleaning, and dry cleaning. Each has its place, depending on the material and the type of cleaning needed. Let’s walk through the best way to handle each one.
Machine Washing
If the care tag gives you the green light, machine washing can be a convenient option, especially for items with removable covers. First, always separate the cover from the pillow insert. To give your cover extra protection from snags or damage, place it inside a mesh laundry bag before putting it in the washer. This is especially helpful for fabrics with delicate embroidery or embellishments. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent to preserve the fabric's color and texture. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, which can weaken fibers and cause discoloration.
Hand Washing
For your most delicate throws and pillow covers, hand washing is the safest route. Think of materials like silk, fine knits, or anything with intricate beadwork. Fill a clean basin or tub with cold water and add a small amount of gentle, pH-neutral soap. Submerge the item and gently swish it through the water; avoid any harsh scrubbing or twisting. Let it soak for a few minutes before draining the soapy water and rinsing with cool, clean water until all the soap is gone. To remove excess water, gently squeeze the item instead of wringing it out, which can stretch or damage the fabric.
Spot Cleaning
For small spills or stains, spot cleaning is your best friend. It allows you to treat the affected area without having to wash the entire item. The most important rule is to blot the stain gently with a clean, white cloth. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers and may even damage the fabric's weave. For a simple cleaning solution, you can use a damp cloth with a tiny drop of clear dish soap. For tougher spots, a paste of baking soda and water can be effective. Always test your cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't affect the color.
Dry Cleaning
When in doubt, trust a professional. If the care tag says "Dry Clean Only," it’s best to follow that instruction to protect your investment. This is often the case for materials like velvet, chenille, and certain silks, as water can permanently alter their texture and sheen. Dry cleaning is also the recommended method for pillows where the cover cannot be removed. Even if the tag doesn't explicitly forbid washing, dry cleaning is often the safest choice for high-end, luxury textiles to ensure they maintain their original beauty and feel for years to come.
How to Remove Common Stains from Your Pillows and Throws
That heart-sinking moment when a glass of red wine tips over or a drop of coffee lands on your favorite throw pillow is all too familiar. But a spill doesn’t have to mean a permanent blemish on your beautiful decor. With quick action and the right technique, you can tackle most common stains and keep your luxury textiles looking pristine. The key is to act fast, use the right tools, and always treat your fabrics with a gentle touch.
Whether you're trying to preserve a delicate velvet pillow or a crisp linen coverlet, knowing how to properly remove a stain is essential. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about preserving the color, texture, and integrity of the fabric you fell in love with. Before you grab the first cleaner you see, let’s walk through the best practices for stain removal, from the crucial first step of blotting to testing your cleaning solution and avoiding common mishaps. These simple steps will help you confidently care for your cherished pieces.
Why You Should Blot, Not Rub, Stains
When a spill happens, your first instinct might be to grab a cloth and start scrubbing frantically. Resist that urge! The most important rule of stain removal is to blot, not rub. Rubbing a fresh stain grinds the particles deeper into the fabric’s fibers, making it much harder to remove and potentially causing the stain to spread. It can also damage the fabric itself, leading to pilling or distortion.
Instead, take a clean, dry, white cloth (to prevent any color transfer) and gently press it onto the spill. This blotting motion helps absorb the liquid and lift it out of the material. Work from the outside of the stain inward to keep it from getting bigger. Repeat with fresh sections of the cloth until you’ve absorbed as much of the spill as possible.
How to Treat Common Types of Stains
After blotting, you can treat the remaining spot. For most water-based stains like wine, coffee, or juice, a simple solution of mild, clear dish soap and cool water is your best bet. For oil-based stains from food or makeup, try sprinkling a little cornstarch or baking soda on the spot first. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes to absorb the oil, then gently scrape it off before cleaning with a mild soap solution.
Always avoid using harsh chemical detergents on high-end fabrics. Powerful cleaning agents can destroy the fibers, strip color, and leave the material feeling dull and lifeless. A gentle approach is always the safest way to protect your investment.
Always Test Your Cleaning Solution First
Before you apply any cleaning solution to a visible stain, it’s critical to test it on a hidden spot first. Even mild soap or a product labeled "safe for upholstery" can react unexpectedly with certain dyes and fabrics. Using the wrong method can damage the fabric by causing it to shrink, fade, or bleed color.
Choose an inconspicuous area to test, like an inside seam or a small spot on the back of the pillow. Apply a small amount of your cleaning solution with a cotton swab and let it sit for a few minutes, then blot it with a clean, damp cloth. Wait for the area to dry completely and check for any changes in color or texture. If it looks good, you can proceed with treating the stain.
Stain Removal Mistakes to Avoid
Caring for decorative pillows and throws properly is easier than you think, but a few common missteps can lead to irreversible damage. In fact, many homeowners are accidentally ruining their decorative pillows with improper cleaning techniques. To keep your pieces looking their best, be sure to avoid these mistakes:
- Using hot water: Heat can permanently set many types of stains, especially protein-based ones like blood or egg. Always start with cool or lukewarm water.
- Waiting too long: The sooner you treat a stain, the better your chances of removing it completely.
- Using colored cloths: Dyes from a colored towel or sponge can transfer to your pillow or throw, creating a new stain.
- Applying cleaner directly: Never pour a cleaning solution directly onto the fabric. Always apply it to a clean cloth first.
How to Properly Dry and Finish Your Pillows and Throws
The journey to clean pillows and throws doesn't end when the wash cycle does. How you dry and finish your pieces is crucial for preserving their shape, texture, and luxurious feel. The right technique can prevent shrinkage, damage, and wrinkles, ensuring your favorite accents look just as beautiful as the day you brought them home. It’s the final step that makes all the difference, restoring that plush, polished look to your space and making your beautiful bedding truly shine. Taking a few extra minutes here will keep your investment looking pristine for years.
Air Drying vs. Machine Drying
When it comes to drying, air drying is almost always the safest bet, especially for delicate materials or pillow inserts. For foam pillows, allow them to air dry completely, away from intense, direct heat that can degrade the material. If your pillows have removable covers, you can often machine dry them, but always use a low-heat, gentle cycle to prevent shrinking or damage. A great tip for machine-drying pillows is to toss in a few wool dryer balls; this helps fluff them up and ensures they dry evenly. Always double-check the care tag on your coverlets and throws before tossing anything in the dryer.
Tips for Ironing and Steaming by Fabric
A few wrinkles can keep a beautiful throw from looking its best. Ironing and steaming are your go-to methods for a smooth, polished finish, but it’s essential to use the right tool for the job. Using the wrong method can damage the fabric, so always start by reading the care instructions. For delicate materials like velvet or silk, a steamer is the gentler choice. It removes wrinkles with steam, so you don't have to apply direct heat. For sturdier fabrics like cotton or linen, an iron on a low to medium setting usually works well. If you iron, consider doing it while the fabric is still slightly damp for the best results.
How Can You Prevent Damage and Wear?
The best way to keep your luxury pillows and throws looking brand new is to prevent damage before it happens. Think of it as protecting an investment in your home’s comfort and style. While accidents happen, a few simple, consistent habits can dramatically extend the life of your favorite pieces, keeping them vibrant and beautiful for years. It’s much easier to fluff a pillow daily than to try and revive one that’s become flat and lifeless. By being proactive, you can ensure your decorative accents remain a source of joy and elegance in your space, rather than a source of stress. These preventative steps will help you maintain the integrity, color, and texture of your cherished textiles.
Use Protective Pillow Covers
Using a high-quality cover is the single most effective way to protect your pillow inserts. A cover acts as a shield, guarding the inner pillow against dust, dirt, body oils, and accidental spills. This is especially important for delicate inserts like down or feathers. For your decorative pieces, think of the cover as part of the design. Our collection of luxury pillows includes beautifully crafted covers that serve this dual purpose of protection and style. When you want to change your decor for the season, you can simply switch out the covers and store the unused ones in a clean, dry place.
Rotate, Reposition, and Fluff Regularly
Just like the cushions on your sofa, your decorative pillows need regular attention to keep their shape. Make it a small daily ritual to fluff your pillows. This simple action redistributes the filling, prevents it from compacting, and keeps your pillows looking plump and inviting. It’s also a good idea to rotate your pillows and throws every week or so. If a pillow always sits in the same spot, it can lead to uneven wear. This is especially true for pieces that get touched by sunlight. Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your home feeling fresh and your textiles looking their best.
Protect from Sunlight and Humidity
Your home's environment plays a huge role in the longevity of your textiles. Direct sunlight is one of the biggest culprits of damage; its UV rays can cause vibrant colors to fade and can weaken delicate fibers over time. Try to position your most precious silk or velvet throws away from windows that get intense, direct sun. Similarly, high humidity can be a problem, as it can lead to mildew growth, especially in damp climates. To organize throw pillows and throws, ensure they are stored in a cool, dry area with good air circulation to keep them fresh and free from damage.
Avoid These Common Care Mistakes
Many beautiful pillows and throws are unintentionally ruined by improper care. One of the most common mistakes is not reading the care label before washing. Different fabrics have very different needs, and what works for cotton could destroy silk or velvet. Another frequent error is using harsh detergents or too much heat in the washer or dryer. These can cause colors to bleed and fibers to break down. Finally, avoid aggressively scrubbing at a stain, as this can damage the fabric and push the stain deeper. Knowing the right washing techniques is crucial for keeping your pieces in pristine condition.
How to Store Your Decorative Pillows and Throws
When you swap out your decor for the season or simply want to protect your extra pieces, storing your luxury pillows and throws correctly is key. Proper storage prevents dust, pests, and damage from humidity, ensuring your beautiful textiles look pristine the next time you bring them out. It’s the best way to protect your investment and keep your favorite accents ready for their moment in the spotlight. Taking a few extra steps now will save you from disappointment later.
Choose the Right Storage Containers and Materials
The right container makes all the difference in preserving your pillows and throws. Opt for breathable storage solutions like cotton garment bags, canvas bins, or acid-free archival boxes. These materials allow air to circulate, which helps prevent moisture buildup and mildew, especially for natural fibers like cotton and linen. While clear plastic bins seem convenient, they can trap humidity and cause discoloration over time, so it’s best to avoid them for long-term storage of delicate fabrics.
For short-term protection, even a clean, spare cotton pillowcase can work wonders. If you must use vacuum-sealed bags to save space, use them with caution. They are great for synthetic-fill pillows but can crush delicate down feathers or wrinkle fabrics like velvet. Always make sure your pillows are completely clean and dry before storing them, no matter which container you choose.
Should You Fold or Roll Throws for Storage?
How you prepare your throws for storage can prevent deep-set wrinkles and fabric stress. For most throws, especially those made from delicate materials like silk or chenille, rolling is the superior method. Rolling prevents the sharp creases that folding can create, which can become difficult to remove and may even weaken the fibers over time. Lay the throw flat, smooth out any wrinkles, and roll it gently but snugly.
For sturdier materials like thick wool or cotton, a loose fold is acceptable. Just be sure not to stack heavy items on top of the folded throw, as the pressure can set in permanent creases. Whether you fold or roll, placing a layer of acid-free tissue paper inside can add another layer of protection against wrinkles and moisture, keeping your beautiful throws looking their best.
Store Covers and Inserts Separately
One of the most effective ways to manage your pillow collection is to store the covers and inserts separately. This simple step is a game-changer for organization and preservation. Pillow inserts are often bulky, so storing them on their own in a large, breathable bag or bin in a closet or on a shelf is much more space-efficient. You can even use vacuum bags for synthetic inserts to compress them significantly.
Pillow covers, on the other hand, can be neatly folded and stored flat in a drawer, a linen closet, or a small box. This method not only saves an incredible amount of space but also protects your beautiful coverlets and covers from being stretched or misshapen. It also makes it much easier to find the exact cover you want when it’s time to switch up your decor.
Find the Right Place for Storage
Where you store your textiles is just as important as what you store them in. The ideal storage location is a cool, dry, and dark place with stable temperatures. A linen closet, a guest room closet, or a space under the bed are all excellent choices. Avoid storing your luxury pillows and throws in areas prone to extreme temperature fluctuations and humidity, such as basements, garages, or attics. These environments can lead to mildew, mold, and pest infestations.
Sunlight is another enemy of fine fabrics, as direct exposure can cause colors to fade permanently. Always choose a spot away from windows or direct light. Before you put everything away, give the storage area a quick clean to ensure it’s free of dust and pests. A well-chosen spot will keep your luxury bath linens and bedding safe and sound until you’re ready to use them again.
Explore Our Collection of Luxury Pillows and Throws
Now that you’re equipped with the best practices for maintaining beautiful home textiles, you can confidently choose pieces that you’ll love for years. Pillows and throws are more than just decorative accents; they add comfort, warmth, and a touch of personality to your most-loved spaces. At Lili Alessandra, we design each piece to help you create a home that feels both luxurious and uniquely yours. Our collections are crafted to help you re-imagine your space with high-fashion, opulent textiles that feel as good as they look.
From plush velvet pillows that invite you to lean back and relax to intricately designed throws that complete your bedding ensemble, our accessories are created with artistry and attention to detail. Layering different textures and styles is a simple way to refresh a room, and our versatile coverlets and throws make it easy to experiment. Whether your style is classic, modern, or somewhere in between, you’ll find pieces that seamlessly integrate with your vision.
We believe that luxury should extend to every corner of your home. That’s why we apply the same design principles and commitment to quality across all our collections, from our signature bedding to our sumptuous bath linens. Creating a cohesive and beautiful home is about curating items that speak to you. We invite you to explore our pillows, throws, and luxury bath collections to find the perfect finishing touches for your personal sanctuary.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the one thing I absolutely must do before cleaning a new pillow or throw? Before you do anything else, find and read the care tag. Think of it as the official instruction manual from the people who made your beautiful piece. It will tell you exactly what the fabric can and cannot handle, taking all the guesswork out of the process. Following those symbols is the single best way to protect your investment and ensure your textiles stay looking their best for years.
I spilled something on my favorite throw! What's the very first thing I should do? Don't panic, and whatever you do, don't scrub. Your immediate goal is to absorb as much of the spill as possible. Grab a clean, dry, white cloth and gently blot the stain, working from the outside edges inward. Rubbing will only push the stain deeper into the fibers and can damage the fabric's texture. Once you've blotted up the excess, you can decide on the best way to treat what's left.
How can I keep my decorative pillows looking plump and new instead of flat and sad? The secret is a little bit of daily attention. Make it a habit to fluff your pillows every day to redistribute the filling and keep them from getting compacted. It also helps to rotate them every week or so, especially if they sit in a sunny spot. This prevents uneven wear and fading, ensuring they maintain their inviting shape and vibrant color.
Is it better to hand wash or machine wash my delicate items? For truly delicate fabrics like silk, or items with fine details like beading, hand washing in cold water is always the safest choice. It gives you complete control and avoids the agitation of a machine. However, if the care tag on a durable fabric like cotton permits machine washing, you can certainly do so. Just be sure to use a gentle cycle with cold water and place the item in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection.
What's the best way to store my seasonal throws and pillow covers? To keep your textiles fresh, store them in breathable containers like cotton bags or canvas bins, and avoid plastic tubs which can trap moisture. For throws, rolling them is better than folding, as it prevents deep creases from setting in. It’s also a great idea to store your pillow covers separately from the inserts. You can fold the covers neatly in a drawer, which saves a ton of space and keeps them from getting stretched or misshapen.

