How to Clean Custom Printed Pillows Without Fading the Design

Custom printed pillows are a beautiful way to add personality to your space—whether it’s a cherished photo, your favorite quote, or a vibrant pattern, these pillows often hold sentimental or aesthetic value. But when it comes to cleaning them, many people hesitate. The fear? Fading the design or ruining the fabric.

Don’t worry—we’ve got your back (and your pillows). Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your custom printed pillows without fading the design, while keeping them looking fresh and fabulous for years to come.

Start with the Label

Before diving into cleaning mode, always check the care label first. Manufacturers include specific instructions based on the fabric, print method, and filling type. That sublimation-printed pillow might need different care than a screen-printed one. Some labels will clearly state “spot clean only,” which means you should avoid full immersion washing altogether.

These labels aren’t just suggestions—they’re your roadmap to keeping your pillows looking their best. If you’ve removed the label or bought a handmade pillow without one, err on the side of caution and opt for gentler cleaning methods.

Spot Cleaning: Your First Defense Against Dirt

For most day-to-day maintenance and minor stains, spot cleaning is your safest bet. It lets you target problem areas without risking the entire design.

What You’ll Need:

• A soft, white cloth (colored cloths might transfer dye)
• Mild detergent without optical brighteners
• Cold or lukewarm water
• A clean towel for drying

The Gentle Touch Method:

1. Mix a tiny amount of mild detergent with cold water—think just a few drops in a small bowl.
2. Dampen your cloth with the solution, then wring it out until it’s barely wet.
3. Test on an inconspicuous corner first to ensure the detergent doesn’t affect the colors.
4. Using light, dabbing motions, work from the outside of the stain toward the center—this prevents the stain from spreading.
5. Resist the urge to scrub! Circular or aggressive motions can wear down printed designs faster.
6. Once the stain is gone, “rinse” by dabbing with a clean cloth dampened with plain water.
7. Gently press (don’t rub) a dry towel against the damp area to absorb moisture.
8. Allow it to air dry completely before using again.

For particularly stubborn stains, you might need to repeat the process, but patience is key. Better to work slowly than to damage your lovely pillow with harsh treatments.

When You Need a Full Wash

Sometimes spot cleaning just won’t cut it. If your pillow needs a more thorough clean and the care label permits machine washing, follow these steps to protect your design:

For Removable Covers:

These are much easier to clean safely, which is why many custom pillows come with zippered covers.

1. Turn the cover inside out—this simple step creates a protective barrier for your print.
2. Place it in a mesh laundry bag to reduce friction during washing.
3. Set your machine to the gentlest cycle with cold water only.
4. Use a mild, color-safe detergent formulated for delicates.
5. Skip fabric softeners and bleach completely—these chemicals can break down the print adhesion over time.
6. Once the cycle finishes, remove immediately to prevent wrinkling and color transfer.

For Non-Removable Pillows:

This is trickier and riskier, but sometimes necessary.

1. Place the entire pillow in a pillowcase or large mesh bag.
2. Follow the same gentle cycle and cold water instructions.
3. Use minimal detergent—excess soap can be difficult to rinse completely from the filling.
4. Consider adding an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed.
5. Be prepared for longer drying times since the filling will retain moisture.

Drying Without Damage

The dryer is where many beautiful printed pillows meet their demise. High heat can cause prints to crack, peel, or fade dramatically. Instead:

• Lay your pillow or cover flat on a clean white towel in a well-ventilated area.
• Flip occasionally to ensure even drying.
• Keep away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading even faster than washing.
• For pillow inserts, fluff and reshape while damp to prevent clumping.
• Allow plenty of time—rushing the drying process with heat is never worth the risk.

Complete drying is crucial before using your pillows again. Lingering moisture inside can lead to mildew and musty odors that are even harder to remove than the original stains!

The Wrinkle Dilemma

Once dry, your pillow cover might look a bit wrinkled. Here’s how to safely smooth things out:

• Turn the cover inside out and iron on a low setting.
• If you must iron the printed side, place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and your pillow cover.
• Consider using a handheld steamer instead—the gentle steam can release wrinkles without direct contact.
• Or try the bathroom steam trick: hang your pillow cover in the bathroom while you shower, letting the steam naturally release the wrinkles.

Preventative Care: Keeping Your Pillows Fresh Longer

The best cleaning method is the one you have to use least often! These preventative measures can extend the time between cleanings:

• Rotate your decorative pillows regularly to distribute wear evenly.
• Keep food and drinks away from custom pillows—prevention is simpler than cleaning.
• If you have pets, consider keeping special pillows in pet-free zones or using a throw blanket as a protective layer.
• For outdoor custom pillows, bring them inside during inclement weather and harsh sun exposure.
• Vacuum pillows regularly with a soft brush attachment to prevent dust and dirt from settling into fibers.

Special Cases: Different Prints, Different Care

Not all custom prints are created equal—some printing methods are more durable than others:

• Sublimation printing tends to be the most colorfast and can withstand more frequent washing.
• Direct-to-fabric digital printing may require more delicate handling, especially in the first few washes.
• Heat transfer vinyl prints can crack or peel if exposed to high temperatures.
• Hand-painted elements often need the gentlest care of all—usually spot cleaning only.

When in doubt about your specific print type, contact the maker or company where you purchased the pillow. They’ll likely have specific care recommendations based on their printing process.

When to Call in the Professionals

Some high-end custom pillows or those with embellishments like sequins, beading, or embroidery might benefit from professional cleaning. Dry cleaning can be suitable for certain materials but always inform the cleaner about the custom print so they can use appropriate methods.

The Bottom Line

Caring for your custom printed pillows doesn’t require specialized equipment or complex techniques—just patience and attention to detail. By treating your pillows gently and addressing spills promptly, you’ll keep those personalized designs looking vibrant for years to come.

Remember that each cleaning, no matter how gentle, will cause some minimal wear. The goal isn’t to clean your custom pillows frequently but to clean them correctly when necessary.

Your custom pillows tell a story—whether they showcase your children’s artwork, commemorate a special event, or simply express your design aesthetic. With proper care, these fabric storytellers will continue brightening your space and sharing those memories for many seasons to come.