How To Wash Outdoor Pillows: A Comprehensive Guide

Outdoor pillows are a great addition to any patio or backyard space. They add comfort and style to outdoor furniture, but they can also collect dirt and stains over time. It’s important to know how to properly clean and wash outdoor pillows to keep them looking fresh and new. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience and provide a step-by-step guide on how to wash outdoor pillows.

Step-by-Step Guide for Washing Outdoor Pillows

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Before washing your outdoor pillows, check the care label for any specific washing instructions. Some pillows may be machine washable, while others may need to be hand washed or spot cleaned. It’s important to follow the care instructions to avoid damaging the pillows.

Step 2: Remove the Pillow Covers

If your outdoor pillows have removable covers, remove them and wash them separately. This will ensure that the covers are thoroughly cleaned and any stains or dirt are removed.

Step 3: Pre-Treat Stains

If your outdoor pillows have any stains, pre-treat them before washing. You can use a stain remover or a mixture of water and vinegar to remove the stains. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before washing.

Step 4: Wash the Pillows

Wash the pillows in a washing machine on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softeners and bleach as they can damage the pillows. If your pillows are not machine washable, hand wash them using a gentle detergent and cold water.

Step 5: Dry the Pillows

Dry the pillows on a low heat setting in a dryer or air dry them. If using a dryer, add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff the pillows and prevent clumping. Make sure the pillows are completely dry before using them again.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Washing Outdoor Pillows

1. Check the care label before washing outdoor pillows.
2. Remove the pillow covers and wash them separately.
3. Pre-treat stains before washing.
4. Wash pillows on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent.
5. Avoid using fabric softeners and bleach.
6. Hand wash pillows if they are not machine washable.
7. Dry pillows on a low heat setting or air dry them.
8. Add tennis balls or dryer balls to fluff the pillows while drying.
9. Store outdoor pillows in a dry, cool place when not in use.
10. Wash outdoor pillows regularly to keep them looking clean and fresh.

Pros and Cons of Washing Outdoor Pillows

There are both pros and cons to washing outdoor pillows. The pros include:

• Removes dirt and stains
• Keeps pillows looking new
• Improves hygiene

The cons include:

• Pillows may lose their shape or fluffiness
• Washing may damage the fabric or filling
• May require special cleaning instructions

My Personal Review and Suggestion for Washing Outdoor Pillows

As someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, I have found that washing outdoor pillows is a necessary task to keep them looking clean and fresh. I have tried both machine washing and hand washing outdoor pillows, and have found that machine washing is more effective at removing dirt and stains. However, it’s important to follow the care label instructions and use a gentle detergent to avoid damaging the pillows.

Questions & Answers and FAQs

Q: Can I use bleach to wash outdoor pillows?

A: It’s not recommended to use bleach on outdoor pillows as it can damage the fabric and filling. Instead, use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners.

Q: How often should I wash my outdoor pillows?

A: It’s recommended to wash outdoor pillows every 3-6 months, or as needed if they become dirty or stained.

Q: Can I dry my outdoor pillows in the sun?

A: It’s not recommended to dry outdoor pillows in direct sunlight as it can cause the fabric to fade or shrink. Instead, air dry them in a shaded area or use a low heat setting in a dryer.