Couch cushion covers should be washed as and when it gets dusty and dirty with kids and pets playing on cushions or due to accidental spillage. You can have different designs and styles when there are guests coming over on special occasions like Thanksgiving. Covers protect the cushions from everyday wear and tear, as well as occasional spills, and enhance their visual appeal with beautiful cover designs.
Washing keeps the cushions clean and maintains its usage and functionality on the couch. Cushion covers are easy to clean and wash. Here are tips about washing couch cushion covers:
Basic Cleaning of Cushion Covers
If you don’t have time to wash cushion covers, opt for basic cleaning. Dust makes cushion covers look dirty and untidy. For quick and effective cleaning, use a vacuum cleaner on the cushions and the couch. You can use a handheld vacuum cleaner to remove the dust and debris, if any.
Spot Clean Stains
Sometimes children spill juices or tea by accident on the cushion covers. You can effectively remove the juice or tea stain by blotting it with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. You can also use a detergent diluted with water.
How to Wash Cushion Covers?
There are different ways you can wash the cushion covers. Here’s a simple way to clean the cushion covers:
Remove the Cushion Cover
Unzip or detach the covers from the cushions properly. Check to see if there are any stains. Remove stains, if any, with a clean cloth and cold water. For stubborn stains, it’s best to use an appropriate stain remover.
Wash
Check the care label for the washing process. See whether it can be washed in the washing machine or requires hand washing. For machine wash, use detergent and gentle cycle. If you are uncertain about the cushion cover’s fabric, it’s best to opt for professional laundry service.
Drying
Check the care label again to see whether you can use the dryer. If the label is against the dryer, then air dry the cushion cover.
Steps to Wash Cushion Covers in the Machine
Check the care labels to check whether your cushion covers can be washed in the washing machine. Here is a step-by-step process:
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Fill the washing machine with cold water.
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Pour mild detergent.
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Put the cushion covers into the washing machine.
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Select the delicate/gentle cycle.
Hand Wash Cushion Covers
It’s best to hand wash cushion covers to avoid damaging the fabric and delicate patterns. Here is a step-by-step guide for effective hand cleaning:
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Fill the laundry tub with lukewarm water.
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Add some mild detergent and mix it into the water.
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Put in the cushion covers.
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Press in the cushion covers, rub or knead them gently.
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Empty the laundry tub and fill it with clean water.
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Rinse the cushion covers squeeze gently to remove the water.
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Repeat the above step until all the detergent has been removed.
| Notes | Don’t wring the cushion covers, as doing so will give it an odd shape. |
Things to Consider When Washing Cushion Covers
When removing the cushion covers, avoid sharp edges and don’t pull on the fabric. Doing so will damage the fabric.
Consider these things before washing the covers:
Rips and Tears
Before washing, check for small rips and tears, loose threads and fix it. These can become bigger problems during the washing process, beyond repairable. Taking care of these minor issues helps extend the lifespan of the cushion covers.
Inside Out
It’s best to wash the cushion covers inside out. Doing so protects the fabric from being damaged during the wash. Moreover, it safeguards the color and texture of the cover. Washing the cover inside out helps you preserve its vibrant look and aesthetic.
Detergent
Use a mild detergent. These solutions don’t contain dyes, perfumes, and other harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric. Mild detergent cleans the cushion covers effectively.
Dryer
It’s better to skip the dryer because using it might shrink the cushion cover. As such, experts recommend air drying. Don’t expose the cushion covers to direct sunlight. The colors might fade.
How Often to Wash Cushion Covers?
Cushion covers should be washed at least twice a year but with small children and pets around, it has to be washed more often. However frequent washing can take a toll on the fabric. One has to take the right balance between full washes and minor spot-cleaning jobs.
Post-Wash Care of Cushion Covers
After washing and drying, fold the cushion covers properly - don’t scrunch. Doing so prevents creases and wrinkles from forming. Proper care and washing of couch cushion covers extends its lifespan. Furthermore, it lightens up your couch and gives you the plush support that you need.
