Handmade pillows, especially beautiful Moroccan ones, add a unique and personal touch to any home. But what happens when your favorite pillow gets a little dirty? The question, "Can you wash a handmade pillow?" is a common one, and the answer requires a bit of care. Unlike mass-produced items, handmade pillows often feature delicate fabrics, natural dyes, and intricate details that can be damaged by improper washing. This guide will walk you through the best ways to clean your cherished handmade pillow without ruining its charm.
The Golden Rule: Always Check for a Care Label
Before you even think about washing your handmade pillow, look for a care label. While many handmade items may not have one, it's always worth checking. If there is a label, it will provide the safest cleaning instructions directly from the artisan. If there's no label, you'll need to assess the materials yourself to decide on the best course of action.
How to Wash a Handmade Pillow
Your washing method will depend on the pillow's materials and construction. Here are the most common methods:
Hand Washing (The Safest Method)
Hand washing is the gentlest and most recommended method for handmade pillows, especially those made from delicate materials like wool, silk, or those with fine embroidery or embellishments.
- Prepare the Wash Basin: Fill a clean sink or bathtub with cool or lukewarm water. Hot water can cause fabrics to shrink or colors to bleed.
- Add a Mild Detergent: Use a small amount of a gentle, pH-neutral detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
- Submerge and Gently Clean: Submerge the pillow and gently agitate the water with your hands. You can lightly squeeze the pillow to work the soapy water through the filling. Avoid vigorous scrubbing.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill with clean, cool water. Gently press the pillow to rinse out the suds. Repeat until all the soap is gone.
- Remove Excess Water: Gently squeeze out as much water as possible. Do not wring or twist the pillow, as this can damage the fibers and filling. You can also press the pillow between two clean, dry towels.
Machine Washing (Proceed with Caution)
If you're confident that your pillow is made from a sturdy material like cotton or a synthetic blend and has no delicate embellishments, you may be able to machine wash it.
- Use a Gentle Cycle: Always select the delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine.
- Use Cold Water: Cold water is the safest choice to prevent shrinking and color bleeding.
- Use a Mild Detergent: Just as with hand washing, use a small amount of mild detergent.
- Protect the Pillow: Place the pillow in a mesh laundry bag to protect it during the wash cycle.
- Balance the Load: Wash the pillow with a few other light items, like towels, to balance the load and prevent the machine from agitating too aggressively.
Drying Your Handmade Pillow
Proper drying is just as important as washing. The wrong drying method can leave your pillow misshapen and lumpy.
Air Drying
Air drying is the best method for all handmade pillows. Lay the pillow flat on a clean, dry surface or on a drying rack. Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent the colors from fading. Flip it periodically to ensure it dries evenly. This may take a day or two, but it's the surest way to preserve your pillow's shape and quality.
Machine Drying
If you must use a dryer, do so with extreme care. Use a no-heat or low-heat setting. Toss in a few dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help fluff the pillow and prevent the filling from clumping. Check on it frequently and remove it while it's still slightly damp, allowing it to air dry the rest of the way.
Spot Cleaning for Minor Stains
For small spills or stains, spot cleaning is often the best solution. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with water and use a clean cloth to gently dab at the stain. Rinse the area with another clean, damp cloth and let it air dry.
Conclusion
Washing a handmade pillow is possible, but it requires a gentle touch. By following these guidelines, you can keep your beautiful pillows looking and smelling fresh without compromising their unique, handcrafted quality. When in doubt, always choose the most gentle method to ensure your pillow remains a treasured part of your home decor for years to come.