How to Wash Fur Pillows
Discover how to wash fur pillows quickly and easily. Follow simple, proved useful tips to keep your pillows fresh, fluffy, and looking new.
Fur pillows add a touch of luxury and comfort to any room. They can make a couch look cozy and elegant, or add a warm, soft touch to a bedroom. However, to keep them looking and feeling their best, they need regular cleaning. Washing fur pillows might seem intimidating, but with the right approach, it’s quite manageable. This article will guide you through the steps to clean your fur pillows effectively.
First, it’s important to know what kind of fur you are dealing with. Fur pillows can be made from real fur or faux fur (synthetic materials designed to mimic real fur). The cleaning method will vary depending on the type of fur.
- Real Fur: Typically made from animal pelts like rabbit, mink, or sheepskin. These require delicate handling and specialized cleaning products.
- Faux Fur: Made from synthetic fibers like polyester or acrylic. These are generally more durable and easier to clean than real fur.
Preparation for Cleaning
Before you start cleaning, check the care label on your fur pillow. The manufacturer’s instructions will provide valuable information on how to clean the pillow without damaging it. If there’s no label, you can proceed with the following general guidelines.
1. Spot Cleaning
Sometimes, your fur pillow might only need spot cleaning rather than a full wash. Spot cleaning is useful for removing small stains or dirt.
- Shake and Brush: Shake the pillow gently to remove loose dirt and dust. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush the fur in the direction of the hair.
- Damp Cloth: Dampen a clean, white cloth with cold water. Gently blot the stained area. Avoid rubbing, as this can damage the fur.
- Mild Detergent: If water alone isn’t enough, mix a small amount of mild detergent with water. Dip the cloth into the soapy water and blot the stain again.
- Rinse: Dampen another cloth with plain water and blot the area to remove any soap residue.
- Drying: Allow the pillow to air dry completely. Avoid using a hairdryer or other heat sources, as they can damage the fur
2. Hand Washing
If your fur pillow needs a more thorough cleaning, hand washing is usually the safest method, especially for real fur.
- Remove Cover: If possible, remove the pillow cover. Most fur pillows have removable covers, which makes cleaning easier.
- Cool Water: Fill a sink or basin with cool water. Add a small amount of mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics.
- Soak and Swish: Submerge the fur cover in the water and gently swish it around. Do not scrub or wring the fur, as this can cause damage.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cool water. Swish the fur cover around to rinse out the detergent. Repeat until the water runs clear.
- Blot Dry: Gently press the fur between two clean towels to remove excess water. Do not twist or wring the fur.
- Air Dry: Lay the fur cover flat on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area. Reshape the fur as it dries to maintain its original appearance. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources.
3. Machine Washing
Machine washing is generally not recommended for real fur due to the risk of damage. However, some faux fur pillows can be safely machine washed if the care label allows it.
- Gentle Cycle: Use a front-loading washing machine on the gentle cycle. Top-loading machines with agitators can be too rough on the fur.
- Cold Water: Always use cold water to prevent the fibers from melting or warping.
- Mild Detergent: Add a small amount of mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics.
- Pillowcase Protection: Place the fur pillow cover inside a large pillowcase or laundry bag to protect it during the wash.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure all detergent is rinsed out completely.
- Air Dry: Remove the cover from the machine and blot excess water with towels. Lay it flat to air dry, reshaping the fur as needed.
Maintaining Your Fur Pillow
Regular maintenance can keep your fur pillow looking fresh and new. Here are some tips:
- Shake and Brush Regularly: Shake your fur pillow and brush it with a soft-bristled brush regularly to prevent dirt buildup and maintain its fluffiness.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep the pillow out of direct sunlight, which can cause fading and damage the fur.
- Spot Clean Spills Immediately: Address spills and stains as soon as they happen to prevent them from setting in.
- Use a Protective Cover: Consider using a removable cover over your fur pillow for added protection against dirt and stains.
When to Seek Professional Help
For expensive real fur pillows or if you’re unsure about cleaning them yourself, it’s best to seek professional cleaning services. A professional cleaner will have the right tools and knowledge to handle delicate fur materials without causing damage.
Final Words
Cleaning fur pillows might seem daunting, but with the right approach and gentle care, you can keep them looking luxurious and feeling soft. Whether you choose to spot clean, hand wash, or, for some faux furs, machine wash, following these guidelines will help you maintain the beauty and longevity of your fur pillows.By regularly maintaining your fur pillows and addressing any spills or stains promptly, you can enjoy their comfort and elegance for many years to come.What tips will you try first to clean your fur pillows? Do you have any other cleaning tips to share?
