I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love throw pillows. They are the thing that completes the overall look of the sofa, bed, or armchair, and personally, I can’t do without at least four or five on the sofa at home. Not to mention they are super comfortable to lean on and read my favorite book on a quiet and peaceful afternoon. But, if you’re like me and have a bunch of decorative pillows that you use often, you should know that it’s important to take care of cleaning them in time so they can serve you for a long time.

So in this post, we’ll guide you through the cleaning process so you can keep your decorative fabrics looking as bright, colorful, and fresh as when you first brought them home. We’re also excited to share some amazing designs from The Cross Design shop, one of my top five favorite places to shop for throw pillows. Their super unique designs, which you won’t find anywhere else, are sure to inspire any space.

Here’s Exactly How to Wash Throw Pillows Properly

Understanding Your Throw Pillow

Before you begin the cleaning process, it’s important to know what material your throw pillows are made from. Check the care label for fabric content and washing instructions. Common materials include cotton, linen, polyester, and silk, each requiring different care methods.

When is the Right Time to Clean Your Throw Pillows?

The frequency at which you should clean your throw pillows can depend on a few factors, including how much use they get and whether they’re exposed to pets, children, or frequent spills. Here’s a general guideline:

• Daily Fluffing: Regular fluffing helps maintain the shape and comfort of the pillows.
• Weekly Dusting: Vacuum the pillows with an upholstery attachment to remove dust and pet hair. This is especially important for pillows on furniture that is used daily.
• Monthly Spot Cleaning:  Check for and treat any spots or stains. You can usually do this with a mild detergent and water, but always check the care label first.
• Deep Cleaning: To keep your throw pillows looking and feeling their best, it’s a good idea to give them a deep clean every three to six months If the pillows have removable covers, you can wash those more frequently depending on usage and exposure to dirt. For the pillow inserts, you can wash them twice a month but don’t forget to follow the care instructions carefully. Some may only require air drying, while others might be machine-washable.

How To Clean a Throw Pillow Insert

Step One: Check the Care Label
Always start by checking the care label for specific cleaning instructions. This will tell you whether the pillows can be machine washed, hand washed, or if they require professional cleaning.

Step Two: Remove Covers
If your throw pillows have removable covers, take them off. These can often be cleaned more frequently and differently than the pillow inserts.

Step Three: Pre-Treat Stains
Before washing, pre-treat any visible stains on the covers and the pillow itself if fabric-safe. Use a suitable stain remover or a mixture of water and mild detergent.

Step Four: Washing

• Machine Washing: If the care label permits, wash the covers (and potentially the pillows) in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. It’s a good idea to wash two pillows at a time to keep the machine balanced.
• Hand Washing: For more delicate materials, gently hand wash the pillows in a large basin with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Squeeze the soapy water through the pillow and rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Step Five: Rinsing
Ensure all soap residue is rinsed out, as leftover detergent can attract dirt.

Step Six: Drying

• Air Drying: Lay the pillows flat on a clean surface, ideally in a well-ventilated area or outdoors if the weather permits. Flip them periodically to ensure they dry evenly. Avoid direct sunlight which might fade colors.
• Machine Drying: If the label allows, use a dryer on a low heat setting. Place a few dryer balls or clean tennis balls in the dryer to help fluff the pillows as they dry. Remove pillows while slightly damp to avoid over-drying.

Step Seven: Fluffing After Drying
Once dry, fluff the pillows by hand or beat them gently against a clean surface to restore their shape and remove any clumped filling.

Now, just take a minute and look at their stunning design ideas! The wonderful team at The Cross Design shop really inspires people to make any room feel cozy, like a warm hug. Their patterns are my absolute favorites. I love the natural colors—so simple and beautiful, making everything look just right. It’s amazing how these little details can transform a plain space into a place where you’d love to relax and enjoy a quiet afternoon.

How To Clean a Throw Pillow Cover

Step One: Check the Care Label
Always read the care instructions on your pillow cover’s label to see if it can be machine-washed, hand-washed, or dry-cleaned.

Step Two: Remove and Shake Off the Dust
Take the cover off the pillow insert. Shake it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to remove dust and loose dirt. This step helps to minimize the amount of dirt washed into your laundry machine.

Step Three: Pre-Treat Stains
If there are any spots or stains, apply a stain remover or a small amount of mild detergent directly to the stained area. Gently rub it in with a soft cloth or a soft-bristled brush and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing.

Step Four: Machine Washing
If the care label permits machine washing:

• Use a gentle cycle with cold water to prevent shrinking and fading.
• Add a mild detergent that does not contain bleach.
• Consider washing the cover with similar fabrics and colors to avoid damage.

Step Five: Hand Washing
For covers that require hand washing:

• Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water and add a gentle detergent.
• Submerge the pillow cover and gently agitate the water with your hands.
• Allow the cover to soak for about 15-20 minutes, then gently scrub any particularly dirty areas.
• Rinse thoroughly under clean running water until all soap is removed.

Step 6: Drying

• Air Drying: Lay the pillow cover flat on a clean towel to air dry, or hang it on a drying rack. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources, which can cause shrinking and fading.
• Machine Drying: If the label says it’s safe, you can tumble dry the cover on a low heat setting. Remove it while it’s still slightly damp to prevent wrinkles and make it easier to iron if necessary.

Step 7: Ironing (if needed)
If the fabric is prone to wrinkling, iron the pillow cover on the appropriate setting for the material while it is still slightly damp to achieve the best results.

Tips for Cleaning Different Types of Throw Pillow Fillings

• Synthetic Fill (Polyester, Polyfiber)
  Synthetic fillings like polyester are durable and machine washable. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Ensure to dry thoroughly to prevent mildew.
• Foam
  Memory foam and other foam types should not be washed because they absorb water and break down when wet.
  Recommended Method: Spot clean only. Vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris. If necessary, air out to eliminate odors.
• Down and Feather
  Down and feather fillings can be washed but require careful handling to maintain their loft and comfort.
  Recommended Method: Machine wash on a gentle cycle with a down-specific detergent. It’s crucial to dry thoroughly, possibly with tennis balls to fluff the filling.
• Microbeads
  Needs Professional Attention: Microbeads are commonly found in smaller, therapeutic pillows and can be damaged by water.
  Recommended Method: Spot clean and air dry. Avoid submerging in water.
• Natural Fibers (Cotton, Wool)
  Natural fibers can absorb a lot of water, making them heavy and hard to dry.
  Recommended Method: Hand wash with mild detergent and air dry thoroughly to prevent mildew.
• Buckwheat
  Needs Professional Attention: Buckwheat hulls cannot be washed as they will deteriorate when wet.
  Recommended Method: Empty the hulls into a container, wash the empty shell/case as per fabric guidelines, and air dry the hulls separately.

Conclusion
We hope our guide will help you keep your throw pillows always clean and fresh, whether you choose to handle it yourself or seek professional care. We’d love to have you back for more helpful guides.
Got something to share or need some advice? Please leave us a comment in the box below to share your experiences, ask questions, or provide feedback. We’re always here to chat! 🙂

The post How to Properly Clean Throw Pillows for Long-Lasting Use appeared first on LSP.

As the weather warms up and spring arrives, it’s the perfect time to focus on deep cleaning our outdoor carpets. This way, we can fully enjoy our outdoor spaces, whether we’re relaxing in the sunshine or hosting gatherings.

Outdoor carpets quickly pick up dirt, especially the ones used both indoors and outdoors. They endure a lot of foot traffic and have to withstand weather too, which means they get dirty even faster than regular carpets.

To make sure your outdoor carpet stay clean, you need to wash them often. But you can’t just throw them in the washing machine. Cleaning these carpets the right way means vacuuming them often, giving them a deep clean now and then, and taking care of spots right when they happen. This might sound like a lot, but if you do it step by step, it’s not so hard.

As we go through the cleaning steps, I’ll also share this gorgeous porch design from Bria Hammel Interiors. Her style features a beautiful southern design on the porch that not only brings a sense of peace but also highlights how well-maintained carpets can improve outdoor living spaces. This visual inspiration is a perfect complement to our topic, illustrating the stunning impact of a clean and fresh carpet in a thoughtfully designed area.
Let`s get started!:)

How Often Should You Clean Your Outdoor Carpet?

Well, it really depends on a few things like how much foot traffic it gets and if it’s exposed to a lot of dirt or weather. Generally, a good rule of thumb is to give it a quick vacuum once a week to pick up any loose dirt. If it’s in a high-traffic area or gets dirty quickly, you might want to do this more often.

Every month or so, it’s a good idea to do a deeper clean, maybe with some mild soap and water for any tough spots. And don’t forget, if there’s a spill or stain, try to clean it up right away to keep your carpet looking nice and fresh!

Here’s What You Need / Cleaning Tools & Supplies

• Vacuum Cleaner: A good vacuum cleaner that can handle outdoor debris is essential for regular upkeep.
• Mild Detergent: For deeper cleaning, use a mild detergent or carpet cleaner that’s safe for the type of fabric your carpet is made of.
• Soft-Bristle Brush: This helps in gently scrubbing the carpet without damaging the fibers, especially useful for tackling stains.
• Garden Hose or Bucket: For rinsing your carpet after scrubbing, a garden hose is ideal. If you don’t have outdoor space, a bucket with clean water will do.
• Sponge or Cloth: Useful for blotting and gentle cleaning, especially on smaller stains.

Steps to Clean Your Outdoor Carpet

Carpets are excellent at trapping dirt, debris, and moisture, which can lead to stubborn stains and mildew growth. That’s why it’s best to have professionals deep clean your carpets every few months. However, if you prefer to do it yourself, that’s absolutely possible. Just follow these simple steps to ensure your carpet remains clean and fresh.

By the way, if you’re taken with this stunning design idea by Bria Hammel, make sure to visit her porch reveal for a detailed look at how she brings such spaces to life.

Step 1: Vacum Regularly
tart by vacuuming your carpet to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. This should be done weekly or more often if the carpet is in a high-traffic area.

Step 2: Spot Clean Stains
 As soon as spills or stains occur, address them immediately. Use a mixture of water and mild detergent, apply it to the stain, and gently blot with a cloth or sponge. Avoid rubbing as it can push the stain deeper into the fibers.

 Step 3: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Mix a gentle detergent with warm water in a bucket. You can also use a carpet cleaning solution designed for outdoor fabrics.

Step 4: Scrub the Carpet
Dip a soft-bristle brush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the carpet. Work in sections to ensure thorough cleaning, paying extra attention to heavily soiled areas.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
 If your carpet is small and manageable, you can rinse it off with a garden hose. For larger carpets, use a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.

Step 6: Repeat the Process if Necessary
For carpets that are extremely dirty, you might need to repeat the deep cleaning process to get them completely clean.

Step 7: Dry the Carpet
Allow the carpet to air dry completely before placing it back in use. If possible, hang it up to dry to prevent mold and mildew growth. If you can’t hang it, leave it flat in a well-ventilated area.

Tips to Keep Outdoor Carpet Clean Longer

• Keep Pet Wipes Handy: If you’ve got pets, it’s a great idea to keep some wipes by the door. After they come in from a muddy or snowy walk, give their paws a quick wipe. It’ll save your carpet from getting all dirty.
• Act Fast on Spills: Spilled something? No worries—just grab some paper towels or an old T-shirt and blot that spill quickly. The faster you act, the less chance there is for it to soak into the carpet and cause a real mess.
• Choose Stain-Resistant Carpets: Got kids or a bit clumsy with your drinks? Think about getting a stain-resistant outdoor carpet. It’s a lifesaver for keeping things looking neat without too much fuss.
• Use Seasonally: Try to keep your rug outdoors only during the warmer months, like from May through September. Cold weather can be tough on them, so when it’s chilly, roll them up and store them somewhere dry, like your basement or a well-sealed shed.
• Clean Before Storing: When it’s time to pack up your rug for the winter, give it a good clean first. This way, you’ll avoid any nasty surprises like mold or bugs when you roll it out next year.

And let’s take a moment to appreciate this amazing porch design created by Bria Hammel. I absolutely suggest visiting her blog to gather some inspiration for transforming your home into a space of comfort and style. The mix of soft blues and crisp whites, along with the natural wood tones and the vibrant greens from the plants, creates this welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for relaxing at the end of the day or for savoring a peaceful morning with your favorite drink.

Conclusion

The post How to Clean Outdoor Carpet in 7 Easy Steps appeared first on LSP.

 10 Habits to Keep Your Home Spotless

1. Make the bed every morning

The first thing on the list? Making the bed. People with clean homes make it a habit to start their day by tidying up their beds every morning as soon as they get up.
As you handle the morning rush—caring for the kids, grabbing moments for a quick shower, and brewing your first cup of coffee—making the bed might not be the top priority. I get it; Mornings can be a whirlwind. But here’s the thing: taking a minute to make your bed can genuinely simplify your life.
Just pull those sheets snug, tuck them in, straighten the comforter, arrange your pillows, and there you go. In less than a minute, your bed transforms into a neat, welcoming haven. The beauty lies in the simplicity of it. Trust me, starting your day with a well-made bed can bring a sense of accomplishment that sets a positive tone for what lies ahead.

2. One Laundry Load A Day

Making sure to get through at least one load of laundry every day is pretty much a non-negotiable for keeping things on track in our household. It’s all about maintaining a well-organized and clean home, especially with the hustle of daily life. Staying committed to this routine helps keep the dirty laundry from piling up and ensuring there’s always a stash of clean clothes for the family. And let’s be honest, it’s not just about cleanliness – it’s about creating a cosy and comfortable living space.
This routine has become essential and let’s be real, if my husband and I neglect the laundry, things can quickly spiral into chaos. It goes beyond just keeping things tidy; there’s a distinct sense of satisfaction in sticking to this routine, setting the tone for a positive atmosphere throughout the day.

3. Keep it Tudy on The Go

Keeping things in order as you go is the secret to avoiding a chaotic house. To be honest, people with clean homes follow this routine every day. When the kids finish playing with their toys, involve them in the cleanup process, or encourage them to tidy up their toys themselves. Similarly, when you grab the mail, take a moment to organize it right then and there, rather than letting it accumulate on the counter. Small actions can make a significant difference. Just a few minutes here and there to keep things in check.
Now, for people who are always juggling work, life, and everything in between, finding easy ways to stay organized and save time is very important. That’s where the idea of using a handy basket to stash different items comes in – a simple trick that keeps our spaces looking sharp without eating up too much of our precious time. Small actions can make a significant difference.

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4. Dust Your Home Weekly for a clean home

Tackling dust weekly is a must to have a clean home. Wiping down furniture, light fixtures, baseboards, doors, and kitchen appliances, and banishing those sneaky spider webs from the corners are just a few of the many things that those who keep clean homes prioritize. Using a microfiber cloth for dusting is ideal as its fine fibres effectively capture and trap dust, leaving surfaces cleaner and minimizing the risk of allergens becoming airborne.
Regular dusting isn’t just about avoiding breathing in unwanted dirt and dust buildups—it’s also about keeping your space looking consistently bright and beautiful.

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5. Clean Up After Cooking

Going for a minimalist vibe in the kitchen not only makes cleaning up faster but also less overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with fewer plates. It’s a time-saver and gives you that nice sense of accomplishment. When cooking turns the kitchen into a bit of a mess with pots, pans, and smudges everywhere, facing the cleanup can feel like a downer. But throw on some tunes or turn on the TV, and you’ll breeze through it. Before you know it, your kitchen will be spick and span, and you’ll be riding that wave of accomplishment.

6. Keep Floors Clean

Another important step for those who have clean homes is to keep the floors in check with a routine of sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping is the key to having consistently clean floors. It doesn’t matter if you’ve got pets leaving their fur everywhere or if you’re out in the countryside dealing with the inevitable dirt and dust buildup – staying on top of floor cleanliness ensures your home always looks fantastic!

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7. Clean The Fridge Once a Week for a clean home

Making sure your fridge stays tidy is a big deal since it speaks volumes about your lifestyle, being where you stash all your food. Toss those leftovers you forgot about, clear out stuff that’s been hiding in the back forever, and give it a good scrub to bid farewell to any stains and wilted veggies. Prioritize stocking it with the food you’ll actually eat – not only does this keep your fridge healthy, but it’s a win for your overall well-being.
And speaking of fresh living space, routinely taking out the trash and keeping your garbage disposal clean does more than just keep things smelling good. It stops any funky food smells from taking over your home, creating a clean and inviting atmosphere.

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8. Clean the Kitchen Before Bed

Cleaning the kitchen before bed is a key family habit that ensures a fresh start the next morning. Waking up to a spotless kitchen not only sets a positive tone for the day but also promotes a welcoming and organized space, making breakfast routines smoother and fostering a sense of accomplishment for the entire family.

9. If yYou Want a Clean Home – Get Others Involved

Another important tip from those with clean homes is to get the whole family involved in the daily cleanup routine brings a sense of togetherness and shared responsibility, transforming the task into a team effort. This collaborative approach not only keeps the house tidy but also reinforces a positive and cooperative atmosphere within the family.

10. Donate Items You Don`t Need

Donating items you no longer need, like clothes and other belongings, not only declutters your living space but also contributes to a positive habit of generosity. Embracing this practice not only helps others in need but also fosters a sense of fulfilment and a cleaner, more organized home.

The post 10 Essential Habits for a Consistently Clean Home appeared first on LSP.