Quick Answer
For most plush pillows, spot cleaning and gentle hand washing are your safest options—always check the care label first and never machine wash unless explicitly allowed.
Why Hand Washing Beats Machine Washing
Plush pillows often have delicate printed designs and soft fillings that can be damaged by the agitation of a washing machine. Hand washing gives you control over water temperature and pressure, reducing the risk of fading, pilling, or misshaping.
If your pillow has a double-sided printed design, like the Blake Jones 18" Pillow, machine washing could cause the colors to bleed or the fabric to wear unevenly. That's why the care label says hand wash only—and it's a good rule for most decorative plush pillows.
Understanding Your Pillow's Care Label
Before you do anything, read the care label. It tells you whether the pillow can be machine washed, if bleach is safe, and how to dry it. Some plush pillows are spot clean only, which means you should avoid submerging them in water altogether.
If the label is missing or unreadable, err on the side of caution: spot clean first and only hand wash if the fabric seems sturdy and colorfast.
Step-by-Step Plush Pillow Care
- Check the care label: Read the manufacturer's instructions to see if the pillow is hand wash, spot clean, or machine wash safe. Follow those instructions exactly. If the label is missing, treat it as spot clean only.
- Remove loose dust and debris: Use a lint roller, a soft brush, or a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently remove surface dust and pet hair from the plush fabric. Do this weekly to prevent dirt from embedding deep into the fibers.
- Spot clean stains: Mix a small amount of mild detergent with cool water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution, wring it out well, and gently dab the stained area—don't rub. Test on an inconspicuous spot first to ensure the color doesn't bleed.
- Hand wash if needed: Fill a basin with cool water and a gentle detergent. Submerge the pillow and gently squeeze it—do not twist or wring. Rinse thoroughly until no soap remains. Avoid soaking for more than a few minutes to protect the filling and print.
- Dry properly: Press out excess water with a towel, then lay the pillow flat on a dry towel in a well-ventilated area. Reshape it while damp. Never use a dryer unless the label says it's safe. Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Fluff and maintain: Once dry, gently fluff the pillow by hand to restore its shape. Store it in a dry, dust-free place when not on display. Regular fluffing keeps the plush filling from clumping.
Plush Pillow Care Spotlight
-
Blake Jones 18" Pillow: The Blake Jones 18" Pillow features a double-sided full color printed design and is hand wash only. This means you should avoid machine washing to preserve the vibrant print and softness; gentle hand washing keeps it looking its best.
Blake Jones 18" Pillow
