Can You Wash a Designer Pillow? Care Guide
By Strangecat Toys - Designer Toy Store | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to safely clean and maintain your designer decorative pillow. Spot cleaning is often the best method, but here's exactly what to do.
Quick answer
Most designer decorative pillows should be spot cleaned, not machine washed. Always check the care tag first.
Why machine washing is risky
Designer pillows often use printed fabrics, special inks, and unique shapes that can be damaged by agitation or heat. The Birdmilk 18" Pillow, for example, features a full-color printed front with an avocado design in the artist's signature style—machine washing could fade or crack that print.
When hand washing might work
If the care tag says "hand wash only" (like the Birdmilk pillow), you can gently submerge it in cool water with mild detergent, but only as a last resort. For most decorative pillows, spot cleaning is safer and sufficient.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I machine wash my designer pillow?
- Only if the care tag explicitly says so. Most decorative pillows with printed designs should not go in a machine. The agitation and heat can ruin the print and shape.
- How do I spot clean a decorative pillow?
- Mix a small amount of mild detergent with cool water. Dampen a clean white cloth (not the pillow directly) and gently blot the stain. Avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain or damage the print. Blot with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture, then air dry flat. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
- What should I do if my pillow has a strong odor?
- Sprinkle baking soda over the pillow, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it off with an upholstery attachment. This freshens without moisture. Avoid fabric sprays that could stain the print. For persistent odors, consult a professional dry cleaner that handles decorative items.
- Can I use bleach or stain removers?
- No. Bleach and harsh stain removers will discolor the printed fabric and may damage the pillow's fibers. Stick to mild detergent or a specialized fabric cleaner designed for delicate prints.
- How do I dry my designer pillow after cleaning?
- Always air dry flat away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Never put a decorative pillow in the dryer—the heat can melt adhesives, shrink the fabric, or distort the shape. Fluff occasionally while drying to restore loft. Drying can take 24-48 hours depending on humidity.
Product care note
- Birdmilk 18" Pillow: Birdmilk 18" Pillow features a full color printed front depicting Birdmilk's avocado design in his signature style; back features Birdmilk's signature. Soft decorative pillow. HAND WASH ONLY. The printed design is delicate—machine washing would likely damage the artwork, so spot cleaning is the recommended method.
Birdmilk 18" Pillow
