The best way to clean cushions with removable covers or wash stained or smelly sofa cushions is to do a spot cleaning unless the care instructions say they can be machine washed. If the pillows you're about to wash are on a thick sofa in the center of your living room or bedroom, you'll probably need to wash them at least once a month. While most pillows are machine washable, you still need to do it right to make sure you wash them properly. It is better not to take risks with vintage pillows, as bad washing can ruin them.
Do not machine wash pillows with covers made of materials other than cotton, linen, and polyester, as this may damage them. Before putting it in the washing machine, remove all pillowcases and read the labels on the pillows to make sure they are made of cotton, down, or synthetic materials. Each pillow should be carefully inspected before deciding to throw it in the washing machine, as many of them are not fully compatible with the roughness of the machine. If upholstery pillows aren't machine washable, scrub with a sponge and upholstery shampoo, or use dry cleaner only on dry fabrics.
Throw pillows with quilt covers made of delicate fabrics such as wool, silk or velvet are not washable as they only require dry cleaning. Pillowcases should be washed every two to four weeks, depending on how often you use them. If your pillow is heavily used, you should wash the comforter every few weeks.
Regular stain cleaning will prolong the freshness of your pillows and allow you to extend the time between full washes, which is why the expert recommends treating any stains as soon as you find them. Compliance with the cleaning rules will save you from having to wash your pillow frequently.
If your pillow has a wet stain that you are trying to remove, immediately rub the pillowcase and pillow with a stain remover before putting them in the wash. Fill a tub or sink with lukewarm water. Pour in a spoonful of your standard liquid detergent, preferably a low foam detergent. Turn on the water until it starts to bubble. If the pillows no longer show stains, set the pillows aside. Drain the sink or tub and then rinse it under cold running water. For example, you can wash stain-resistant fabric cushion covers in the washing machine, but only under certain conditions: put them in a laundry bag, use cold water and a mild detergent, and always select a gentle setting.