The best time to tackle stains is always when you first notice them. If you’re able to get to them right away, cleaning the cushion becomes much easier. You can also vacuum cushions to remove solid debris like dirt or dust. Try using an upholstery vacuum to eliminate more debris.
If you’re unable to remove the cover, wash it by hand. You can also hand wash removable covers alongside cushions. On cushion cover tags, a W means you can spot clean with water-based cleaners. S stands for water-free dry cleaning. X is vacuum-only. [3] X Research source
For example, avoid detergents made to cut through grease, since these ones can be a little too strong. If you don’t have a good dish soap available, use a mild laundry detergent instead. Another option is to use an upholstery cleaner. It works very well on cushion covers, but it can also clean the cushions themselves.
You can let the soap soak in for about 15 minutes before rinsing the pillow. [7] X Research source
You could also hose the entire cushion down with a garden hose or showerhead for a more thorough cleaning. If you do this, spend some extra time drying off excess moisture with towels before leaving the cushion to dry.
Use a hair dryer to dry out the cushion at a faster rate. Hold it at least 6 in (15 cm) away and move it around steadily so it doesn’t damage the cushion.
For example, you could mix 1 cup (240 mL) of hydrogen peroxide, 1 teaspoon (4. 9 mL) of white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons (28. 80 g) of baking soda into a paste. Leave it on the cushion overnight, then wash it off the next day. You may need to clean the cushion several times to remove really tough or old stains and odors.
Baking soda is great for sucking up unpleasant smells, but it can also help absorb tough stains. If you notice strong odors coming from a cushion even after cleaning, wash it and apply baking soda several times.
Cleaning cushions outdoors is great for avoiding messes in your home, but you can get the foam dirtier if you aren’t careful with it.
Mild laundry detergents are sometimes labeled as free and clear. As long as it works on delicate clothing, it will most likely be fine on cushions, too.
Deal with stubborn stains by scrubbing them out with a scrub brush. If you don’t mind getting your feet wet, you could step on top of the cushion. Press it down with your feet like you’re crushing a bunch of grapes. If you’re unable to compress a cushion or afraid of damaging it this way, apply the soapy water with a sponge, then let the cushion soak for 15 minutes.
Draining out the dirty water prevents it from lingering on and staining your cushion. If you’re cleaning multiple cushions, you most likely will need to change out the water at least once.
If you’re outside, use a hose to clear soap from the cushion. Squeeze it to press out any remaining soap or debris inside of it.
Take your time. Make sure you squeeze the cushion all over. When you are unable to get more water out of it, you can let it dry on its own. Removing water now helps the cushion to dry faster. It also means you won’t have to try carrying a heavy, waterlogged cushion to a good drying spot.
Dirty towels will only get cushions dirty again. If your towels become soaked, swap them out for fresh ones. Try to remove as much moisture by hand as you can. It will enable cushions to dry out at the fastest possible rate, making them less likely to attract mildew.
If you’re trying to dry your cushion off indoors, open nearby doors and windows to let more air into the room. Fans can also help. If you’re trying to speed things up, use a hair dryer. The cushion has to be completely dry to prevent mildew growth. Don’t leave the cushion in a cool, dark place, since it won’t dry out fast enough there.
