Faux fur pillows add cozy texture to couches and beds, but keeping them clean requires gentle methods to preserve the fabric’s softness and fluff. This guide provides practical, at-home steps to refresh faux fur pillows without damaging their appearance or integrity.
With the right tools and a simple routine, you can remove dust, light stains, and everyday grime. The methods below focus on safe cleaning that suits most synthetic faux fur fabrics used in decorative pillows.
Quick Answer
Brush loose dust with a soft bristle brush, spot-clean stains with a mild detergent solution or stain remover spray, and air-dry thoroughly. For added lift, use a faux fur lint brush after cleaning and store in a delicate laundry bag between washes.
What You’ll Need
- faux fur pillow lint brush
- soft bristle brush for faux fur cleaning
- delicate laundry bag for faux fur pillows
- mild detergent for synthetic faux fur pillows
- stain remover spray for faux fur pillows
Before You Start
Test any cleaner on a hidden seam or corner to ensure colorfastness. Remove decorative pillow covers if possible and work on a flat, clean surface. Allow extra time for air drying to prevent musty odors. Important: avoid hot water, high heat in dryers, and aggressive scrubbing which can mat the fibers.
Check care labels for any manufacturer-specific instructions. If a pillow contains authentic down or wool blends, or if the fabric is labeled dry-clean only, skip the water-based methods and consult a professional.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Faux Fur Pillows
- Place the pillow on a clean, flat surface in a well-ventilated area and remove any loose debris by gently brushing with the soft bristle brush.
- Lightly shake the pillow to dislodge surface dust, then run the faux fur pillow lint brush along the nap to lift lint and hair.
- If there are small stains, apply a small amount of mild detergent for synthetic faux fur pillows diluted in water to a clean cloth and blot, never rub, the stain.
- For tougher spots, use a stain remover spray for faux fur pillows following the product’s directions and blot with a clean cloth.
- Rinse the treated area with a damp cloth to remove soap residue, then gently blot with a dry towel to remove excess moisture.
- Fill a bucket with cool or lukewarm water and, inside a delicate laundry bag for faux fur pillows, hand-wash the pillow if the care label permits; otherwise, spot-clean only.
- Let the pillow air-dry completely in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent fiber damage.
- Once dry, fluff the nap with the soft bristle brush and finish with the faux fur pillow lint brush to restore its look.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nap looks flat after cleaning | Fibers compressed during washing | Gently brush in the direction of the nap to lift fibers | Avoid soaking; use minimal water |
| Stubborn stain remains | Stain penetration or improper product use | Re-treat with a stain remover spray following label instructions | Spot-clean promptly; test first |
| Color fading or bleeding | Harsh detergent or hot water | Switch to mild detergent and cool water | Check colorfastness in an inconspicuous area |
| Fur shedding after wash | Over-wetting or aggressive agitation | Only blot and air-dry; avoid machine agitation | Use gentle cleaning steps |
Common Mistakes
- Using hot water or high heat, which can damage synthetic fibers
- Scrubbing vigorously, which can mat or fray the nap
- Neglecting to test cleaners on hidden areas, risking color bleed
- Over-wetting the pillow, leading to long drying times or odor
Tips For Best Results
- Regularly dust and brush faux fur pillows to prevent buildup between deeper cleanings.
- Store pillows in a breathable bag or cover to minimize dust accumulation.
- Airing out the pillow after cleaning helps restore softness and fluffiness.
- Match cleaners to the fiber type and always follow product instructions for synthetic faux fur.
Call A Professional
Contact a pro if the pillow has large stains, persistent odors, mold, or if the fabric is delicate or labeled dry-clean-only. Seek immediate help for any signs of staining that may indicate dye transfer, or if the pillow contains special fillings that could be damaged by water. If you notice color loss after attempting home cleaning, a professional can advise safe restoration options.
FAQ
Can I machine wash faux fur pillows?
Only if the care label specifically allows it and the pillow is designed for machine washing. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent, and place the pillow inside a delicate laundry bag.
Should I dry clean faux fur pillows?
Dry cleaning is an option for certain fabrics or sensitive blends, but many faux fur pillows are machine- or hand-cleanable with mild methods. Always check the label first.
How can I remove pet hair from faux fur pillows?
Use a soft bristle brush or a lint brush designed for fur to lift hair without tangling fibers.
How often should I clean faux fur pillows?
Dust and spot-clean as needed; perform a deeper clean every few months depending on usage and exposure to dirt.
Buying Guide
When selecting new faux fur pillows, consider size, pile length, and backing fabric to ensure it complements your space and lifestyle. Look for pillows with dense but soft nap and a durable backing that holds up to regular brushing and occasional cleaning. Consider a colorfast, machine-washable fabric if you anticipate frequent refreshes. Noise, energy, and placement concerns are typically not relevant for static decorative pillows, but ensure the pillow maintains shape and loft after cleaning. For households with pets or children, choose lower maintenance piles and opt for easy-care fabrics that resist matting and shedding. If shopping for a set, coordinate sizes and textures to create depth without overwhelming the room.