How to wash a sofa throw effectively and without damaging it ?

Introduction

You love your sofa throw which brings a decorative and comfortable touch to your living room. But over time and use, it inevitably ends up getting dirty. Stains, odors, dust... Don't panic!

With the professional advice that we are revealing to you, you will know how to clean your throw or your sofa cover thoroughly, without making any mistakes. No more washing hassle, make way for a sparkling clean throw!

Why it is important to wash your sofa throw properly

A clean and well-maintained sofa throw is first and foremost a question of hygiene and health. Indeed, this textile in direct contact with the skin can quickly become a nest for bacteria, mites and other allergens if it is neglected. This is particularly true if it is made of natural material such as wool or cotton.

But regularly cleaning your throw is also an essential gesture to preserve its quality, its softness and its brilliance over the long term. The fibers are damaged less, the colors remain bright. Your sofa will thus keep a second youth for longer!

Also read: How to choose a sofa throw ?

Preparations before washing

Check washing instructions

First of all, make a point of consulting the care label sewn onto your throw.This is where you can find the manufacturer's valuable washing instructions, adapted to the type of textile:

• Temperature maximum
• Cycle recommended
• Products to use or avoid
• Drying recommended...

Follow these instructions to the letter. This is the key to washing your throw without damaging it!

Choose the right products

The choice of detergent is crucial for effective and fiber-safe washing. Ban aggressive products and opt instead for gentle liquid detergent, special for delicate laundry.

You can also rely on natural products such as Marseille soap, bicarbonate of soda or white vinegar. Ecological and economical, they clean and remove stains thoroughly, while respecting the textile.

Common products and methods

• Mild liquid detergent
• Textile stain remover
• Softener

Natural products and methods

• Marseille soap grated (in flakes)
• Baking soda (powder)
• White vinegar (in solution)

Preprocess tasks

If your throw has stains, it is better to pre-treat before washing to optimize their removal. Apply a little commercial stain remover or Marseille soap directly to the stained area. Leave to act for a few minutes before putting in the machine.

For stubborn stains like wine, coffee or blood, first dab the excess with a clean cloth, then apply some white vinegar or bicarbonate. Leave on for an hour before rinsing.

At The Oversized Hoodie®, we attach great importance to the quality and lifespan of our products. This is why we always recommend that our customers carefully check the care labels before starting to clean their sofa throw. This is the key to avoiding any unpleasant surprises!
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

Also read: What size sofa throw to choose ?

Washing techniques

Machine wash

If the label allows it, you can machine wash your throwaway. But be careful to respect these golden rules:

• Choose a delicate program suitable for the textile (wool, silk, synthetic, etc.)
• Select a low temperature (30°C max, except cotton)
• Reduce the spin speed to 600 rpm
• Use a special detergent for delicate laundry
• Place your throw in a protective net

Hand wash

Hand washing is ideal for fragile textiles such as wool, silk or certain synthetics. Here's how to do it:

• Soak your throw for 30 minutes in lukewarm water with a little mild detergent or Marseille soap.
• Gently stir the material without rubbing.
• Rinse with clean water until there is no more foam.
• Wring gently without twisting then spread on a towel.

Drying

For an impeccable result or for very delicate materials, you can entrust your throw to a dry cleaner. Professional dry cleaning guarantees perfect removal of stains and dirt, without altering the fibers. It is also the best option for non-washable throws such as certain velvets or woolens.

Washing methods depending on the material of the throw

Material	Washing method	Water temperature	Drying
Wool	Hand wash or machine wash on wool program	30°C maximum	Dry flat on a towel
Cotton	Machine wash	30 to 40°C	Air dry or tumble dry at low temperature
Lin	Machine wash	30°C	Air dry
Polyester	Machine wash	30°C	Air dry or tumble dry at low temperature
Velvet	Hand wash or machine wash on delicate program	30°C maximum	Air dry
Fur	Dry cleaning recommended	-	Air dry
Mohair	Hand wash	Cold water	Dry flat on a towel
Cashmere	Hand wash or machine wash on wool program	30°C maximum	Dry flat on a towel

With our experience in the textile field, we have noticed at The Oversized Hoodie® that each material requires specific care. Whether your throw is cotton, linen or fleece, it is essential to adapt your washing method accordingly.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

Also read: What sofa throw material to choose ?

What are the mistakes to avoid when washing a sofa throw ?

Here are the pitfalls to absolutely avoid so as not to ruin your throw when washing it:

• Temperature too high: it risks shrinking or discoloring the fabric. Do not exceed 30°C, except for cotton.
• Spinning too strong: it can irreversibly deform the textile. Limit to 600 rpm.
• Drying in a machine at high temperature: it damages the fibers. Prefer drying in the open air or at low temperature.
• Chlorine and bleaching agents: to be banned because they are far too aggressive! They alter colors and attack fibers.
• Soft softener in excess: it leaves a film on the fabric which can make it rough and dull over time. Use sparingly.

How to treat the most common stains on a sofa throw ?

Here is a short practical guide to tackling the most common stains on your throw:

• Coffee, tea, chocolate: dab with sparkling water, then apply stain remover before washing.
• Red wine: sprinkle with salt, then rinse with cold water before machine washing.
• Blood: Soak in cold water with salt, then machine wash.
• Urine, vomit: dab with white vinegar, then wash with an enzymatic stain remover.
• Fat (sauce, oil, etc.): sprinkle with Sommières soil, leave to sit then brush. Then wash with a stain remover.
• Felt, ink: soak in 90° alcohol, then rinse and machine wash.
• Mold: brush with a solution of water and white vinegar. Rinse then machine wash.

Also read: How to attach a sofa throw ?

Drying and maintenance

Adapted drying techniques

Once clean, your throw must be dried properly to avoid bad odors and deformation. The best option is air drying, if possible in the shade and flat on a towel. You can also use a tumble dryer, but at a low temperature and adding dryer balls to prevent damage to the fabric.

Tips for maintaining fabric quality

To keep your throw soft and vibrant for longer, it is better to give it regular maintenance in addition to washing:

• Brush it from time to time with a soft brush to remove hair and dust.
• Air it in the fresh air once a month to get rid of bad odors.
• Remove any stain immediately, before it becomes embedded in the fibers.
• Store it folded, in a dry, ventilated place, away from direct light.

Recommended washing frequency

In general, it is recommended to wash your throw every 3 to 6 months, depending on how you use it. If you have pets or young children, more frequent washing may be necessary. Conversely, a purely decorative throw can only be washed once a year.

Also read: Sofa throw or plaid ?

Conclusion

You are an expert on the art of washing your sofa throw without making any mistakes! By following these tips, you are sure to restore its cleanliness and freshness to any test, while preserving its quality over time. Your cocooning evenings on the sofa will be even cozier!

Remember that the frequency of washing will depend on the use you make of your throwaway. On average, cleaning every 3 to 6 months is recommended. If there is a significant stain or dirt, do not wait to treat the fabric.

We hope that this comprehensive guide has given you all the keys to mastering the maintenance of your sofa throw in wool, cotton , linen, acrylic, polyester or any other material. You now have all the cards in hand to keep your furniture textiles like new, by pampering their fibers while preserving their vibrant colors.No more stubborn stains and persistent odors!

So, ready to take up the challenge of washing perfect ? Go ahead and give a second lease of life to your throw, for even more pleasant cocooning moments. Your sofa will thank you!

Sofa Throw Care FAQ

How to protect my sofa throw from future stains ?

To protect your sofa throw from stains, you can use a waterproofing spray adapted to the type of fabric. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully. You can also opt from the moment of purchase for naturally resistant materials such as polyester or microfiber. Dark and patterned fabrics are also easier to maintain.

What products should I use to wash my sofa throw without damaging it ?

Classic detergent is suitable in most cases. For difficult stains, a gentle stain remover like Marseille soap works wonders. baking soda is an effective natural alternative in diluted solution. Avoid products that are too aggressive, such as bleach, which risk damaging the fibers.

How to machine wash sofa covers ?

Remove the cover, close the zippers, then turn it inside out to wash inside out. Choose a delicate program at 30°C maximum with a gentle spin. Use a suitable detergent and dose it according to the level of dirt. Let dry in the open air. Iron on the reverse side to restore the original appearance.

How to wash a large ottoman with non-removable cover ?

For ottomans and cushions that do not have removable covers, opt for cleaning on the surface. Vacuum to remove dust. In case of stain, dab with a sponge soaked in lukewarm soapy water. Rinse by applying a clean damp towel. Allow to air dry before using again. A dry cleaner can handle bulky items.