How to Clean Sofa Pillows: A Complete Guide

Cleaning sofa pillows might not top your weekend to-do list, but when you finally get around to it, it can make a surprisingly big difference.

Between kids, pets, snacks, and everyday lounging, sofa pillows collect everything from crumbs to odors.

The good news? Learning how to clean sofa pillows is easy and often only takes a little time and the right approach.

Can You Wash Sofa Pillows?

Yes, in many cases, you absolutely can. But it starts with knowing what kind of pillow you’re working with.

Check the Tags:

Before anything else, flip the pillow over and look for a care label. Most pillows fall into one of these categories:

• Machine washable: Includes removable covers or fully washable inserts.

• Spot clean only: Great for delicate fabrics or glued-in embellishments.

• Dry clean only: Often includes silk, velvet, or down-filled options.

Can You Wash Sofa Pillows in the Washing Machine?

If your pillow or its cover is machine washable, your job just got easier—and faster.

Machine Washing Tips:

1. Remove the cover, if possible, and turn it inside out to protect outer fabric.

2. Pre-treat any visible stains using a gentle detergent or fabric-safe stain remover.

3. Wash using a cold, gentle cycle to prevent shrinkage or fabric wear.

4. Use a mild, dye-free detergent to avoid residue or discoloration.

5. Zip all zippers and button closures before washing to prevent snagging.

6. Dry covers on low heat, or air dry flat to preserve shape and prevent shrinkage.

7. For inserts, only machine wash if the care label confirms it’s safe to do so.

When to Avoid the Machine:

• Inserts filled with feathers, memory foam, or shredded fill can clump, lose shape, or retain moisture.

• Pillows with delicate fabric, beading, embroidery, or tassels are best washed by hand or spot-cleaned.

• Oversized or overstuffed pillows may not agitate or rinse properly in a household machine.

When dealing with removable covers, the same care routine that keeps sofa pillows fresh can extend the life of your bedding, too—especially when paired with a hypoallergenic sleep setup like a Puffy Cloud Mattress.

How to Wash Sofa Pillows

Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Spot Cleaning (For Non-Machine Washable Pillows):

1. Mix a small amount of gentle detergent with warm water.

2. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and wring it out.

3. Blot the stained area gently—don’t rub.

4. Use a second damp cloth to remove soap residue.

5. Allow the pillow to air dry completely in a well-ventilated space, preferably under indirect sunlight.

Hand Washing:

1. Fill a basin or tub with lukewarm water.

2. Add a few drops of mild detergent and mix to create suds.

3. Submerge the pillow or cover and gently agitate by hand.

4. Let it soak for 10–15 minutes to break down embedded dirt.

5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all soap is removed.

6. Gently squeeze out excess water—never wring or twist.

7. Lay flat to dry on a towel or hang using a drying rack, flipping occasionally for even drying.

Drying Tips:

• Use dryer balls or clean tennis balls in the dryer to help re-fluff pillow inserts.

• Dry on low heat or no heat if using a dryer.

• Ensure pillows are 100% dry before use to prevent mildew and unpleasant odors.

• For natural-fiber pillows, consider air drying them outdoors on a dry, sunny day.

Removing Odors from Sofa Pillows

Sometimes you don’t need a full wash—just a quick refresh.

Try These Methods:

• Sprinkle baking soda over the pillow and let it sit for 15–20 minutes before vacuuming with an upholstery attachment.

• Lightly mist with a vinegar-water solution (equal parts) to neutralize odors without leaving a strong scent.

• Use essential oils (like lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree) in a diluted spray or diffuser nearby for a calming, clean-smelling boost.

• Leave the pillow out in the fresh air for a few hours to naturally eliminate trapped odors.

How Often Should You Clean Sofa Pillows?

It depends on how often you use them, but a general guideline is:

Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your pillows but also keeps your living room healthier.

How to Keep Sofa Pillows Clean Longer

• Use pillow protectors or slipcovers.

• Fluff daily to reduce dirt build-up.

• Keep pets off pillows (as best you can!).

• Avoid eating directly on pillows.

Freshly laundered pillows feel even better when you’re winding down for the night in a space that feels just as crisp—like sinking into a freshly dressed Puffy Lux Mattress at the end of a long day.

Final Thoughts

Sofa pillows work hard to keep you comfy—don’t let them become overlooked grime collectors.

Whether you toss them in the machine, refresh them with baking soda, or go full-on hand wash mode, keeping them clean is simple once you have the know-how.

Stick to a consistent routine, and your living space will feel fresher and more inviting for everyone who walks through the door.