Remove pet hair, bacteria, and stains in a few simple steps. Throw pillows add extra comfort to your sofa and up its wow factor. But just like your couch, your pillows experience regular wear and tear, too. Over time, pet dander, stains, and even dust mites can build up on and inside the pillows you keep on your couch, which is why regular maintenance is key. Luckily, restoring these decorative pieces to their former glory can be accomplished with just a few basic household supplies. Kathy Cohoon is the director of franchise operations of Two Maids. Marla Mock is the president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly company. Kadi Dulude is the owner of Wizard of Homes, a professional cleaning and organizing business. How frequently you clean your throw pillows depends on how often they are used and how high traffic the room is. Generally, it's recommended to deep clean throw pillows once a month, but you should spot clean more regularly as needed.

Throw pillow inserts also need to be washed regularly, at least once every other month. Before choosing a cleaning method for your throw pillows, be sure to check the care tag for more detailed instructions. Most throw pillows have removable covers that can be washed in the washing machine, but it's important to follow the laundering instructions on the care tag before doing so, says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations of Two Maids. Fabrics that can generally be washed in the washing machine include cotton, acrylic, and polyester. 1. Remove the cover from the pillow, if applicable. 2. Pre-treat any stains. 3. Shake out the pillow and cover to loosen any debris or hair. 4. Wash both in the most gentle cycle with warm water and gentle detergent. Fabrics like silk, satin, wool, or pillows with an abundance of embellishments should be hand-washed to prevent damage. If your pillows can't be washed in the washing machine, try cleaning them by hand instead.