Sofa Throws Cleaning Guide

The throws add style and comfort to your space, but it is important to wash them correctly to maintain their freshness and quality. By following this washing guide, you can ensure that your throws remain durable and beautiful for many years.

Throw Washing and Care Guide

1. Read the Instructions:

Before starting the washing process, carefully read the washing instructions provided on the throws' label. Each fabric may have different requirements, and it is important to follow the instructions to avoid damaging it. Cotton or polyester fabrics are usually machine-washable, but there are also some delicate fabrics that require hand washing or dry cleaning. 

2. Sort by Material and Type:

Separate the throws according to their material, such as cotton, silk, fleece, etc. This will help prevent the mixing of fabrics that require different care, and will prevent the transfer of color and lint from one fabric to another. Also, it is good not to wash clothes together with throws. 

3. Check for Stains:

The truth is that throws are among the linens that get dirty often, as many people tend to wear dirty clothes, eat, or drink their coffee while sitting on the sofa. Faster stain treatment yields the best results. For coffee stains, first wipe with a paper towel and then rub with clean water, while for oil or wine stains you can rub with a mixture of vinegar and detergent. Try to remove them as best as possible before washing, and then place your throw in the washing machine. Use a gentle detergent or a special stain cleaner. 

4. Place them Carefully in the Drum:

Make sure you do not exceed the maximum load recommended by the washing machine. If the throws are very large, you may need to perform more washes. In addition, you should pay attention to any fringes or borders that may be at risk of fraying. In this case, you can use a mesh laundry bag.

5. Select Washing Program:

Select a washing program that is suitable for the throw fabric. Prefer the delicate fabrics program, always according to the manufacturer's instructions. The temperature should be around $40^\circ\text{C}$ for better disinfection, while synthetics, such as velvet, should be washed at $30^\circ\text{C}$ so they do not wear out from higher temperatures. After washing, you can either select a mild spin cycle or avoid it entirely, as excessive spinning may damage the fabric fibers. 

6. Yes to Detergent, No to Chlorine and Bleach:

Add the recommended amount of a mild or regular liquid detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics. Do not exceed the recommended amount to avoid detergent residue and fabric damage. It is good to limit fabric softener and avoid the use of bleaches and chlorine substances, as they cause damage to fabrics over time. 

7. Tumble Dry or Air Dry:

After the washing program is complete, you can let the throws air dry naturally. This is the recommended option as the dryer can shrink your throws. Spread them out on the reverse side on a flat surface, on top of a towel that will absorb the moisture. Make sure they dry in a warm and shaded place, as the sun can fade them. If you need to use a dryer and the manufacturer's instructions allow it, use the lowest temperature and the delicate fabrics drying program. In any case, make sure the throws are completely dry before you use or store them, as if they retain moisture, microbes and mold are likely to develop.

8. Ironing (If Required):

If the throw fabric can withstand ironing, set the iron to a low temperature and iron them on the reverse side. Be sure to consult the manufacturer's washing instructions. 

9. Storage:

Make sure to store your throws in a clean and dry place, using fabric cases that will protect them from any damage. To prevent the accumulation of unpleasant odors, you can use special closet fresheners.

How often should I wash throws?

Although most people omit frequent washing of throws, it is important to wash them regularly, as microbes, dust, and pollutants from daily use accumulate there. The recommended washing frequency is once or twice a month, but this guideline may change depending on whether you have pets, if you sleep on the sofa, if you eat there, and so on. Frequent washing will keep your throws clean, beautiful, and hygienic. 

Of course, we must not overlook the daily care of throws. Every one to two days, make sure to gently shake and air your throws to remove dust and debris and make them look fresher. Finally, you can use a lint remover to refresh your throw; this device will make the color more vivid and the feel of the throw more pleasant. 

What do the icons on the care instructions symbolize?

Most linens have instructions on how to wash, iron, and dry the products. Generally, you should know that the basin symbolizes washing with water, the circle symbolizes dry cleaning, the triangle symbolizes bleaching, and the iron symbolizes ironing. Some of the most common washing symbols are the following:

To choose the ideal throw for you, consult the corresponding throw buying guide from designdrops and visit our linens category to find quality throws and many other products!