Decorative pillows add a touch of personality and comfort to any space, but they can also accumulate dust and dirt over time. When it comes to cleaning them, the big question is: can you put decorative pillows in the dryer? The answer isn't a simple yes or no, as it depends on the pillow's material, filling, and embellishments. In this guide, we'll walk you through the best practices for drying your decorative pillows to keep them looking fresh and new.
First, Check the Care Label
Before you do anything else, the first and most crucial step is to check the care label on your decorative pillow. This label is your best friend when it comes to cleaning and drying instructions. Manufacturers provide specific guidelines based on the materials used in the pillow. If the label says "Do Not Tumble Dry" or "Air Dry Only," it's essential to follow those instructions to avoid damage.
Drying Methods for Different Pillow Types
The right drying method depends heavily on what your pillow is made of. Here’s a breakdown of common decorative pillow materials and the best way to dry them:
- Cotton and Synthetic Fills (Polyester): Most pillows with cotton or synthetic filling are durable enough to be machine dried. However, it's best to use a low heat or air-dry setting to prevent the fibers from clumping or melting.
- Down and Feather Fills: These natural fillings are more delicate. While some can be tumble-dried on a no-heat or very low-heat setting, air drying is often the safest option. If you use a dryer, add a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff the feathers and prevent them from clumping together.
- Memory Foam and Latex: Never put memory foam or latex pillows in the dryer. The high heat can cause the material to break down, crumble, and lose its supportive qualities. These pillows should always be air-dried away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Wool: Wool pillows should be air-dried to prevent shrinking and felting. Lay them flat on a clean, dry surface and flip them periodically to ensure they dry evenly.
- Pillows with Embellishments: If your decorative pillows have beads, sequins, embroidery, or other delicate details, it is always best to air-dry them. The tumbling action and heat of a dryer can damage or dislodge these embellishments.
Machine Drying vs. Air Drying
Machine Drying: This is the quickest method, but it comes with risks. To machine dry a pillow safely:
- Use a low heat or no-heat setting.
- Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help keep the pillow fluffy.
- Check the pillow every 20-30 minutes to make sure it’s not overheating and to manually fluff it.
- Ensure the pillow is completely dry to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Air Drying: This is the gentlest and safest method for most decorative pillows.
- After washing, gently squeeze out any excess water. Do not wring the pillow, as this can damage the filling and fabric.
- Lay the pillow flat on a clean, dry towel or on a drying rack.
- Place it in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, which can fade the colors.
- Flip the pillow every few hours to ensure it dries evenly on all sides.
Maintaining Pillow Shape and Fluffiness
One of the biggest challenges with washing and drying pillows is maintaining their shape and fluffiness. Here are some tips:
- Fluff Before and After: Fluff your pillows before you wash them and after they are dry. This helps to redistribute the filling and restore their shape.
- Don't Overcrowd the Dryer: If you're machine drying, give your pillows plenty of room to tumble freely. Drying one pillow at a time, or with a few light towels, is ideal.
- Use a Gentle Cycle: When washing, always use a gentle cycle to be kind to the fabric and filling.
Conclusion
So, can you put decorative pillows in the dryer? Sometimes, but not always. The key is to read the care label and understand the material of your pillow. When in doubt, air drying is the safest bet to keep your decorative pillows looking beautiful for years to come. With a little care and attention, you can keep your pillows fresh, fluffy, and clean without causing damage.