Can You Machine Wash Cushion Covers?
Most cotton, polyester and linen-blend cushion and sofa covers can be machine washed — but check the care label first. Covers with delicate embroidery, sequins, velvet or a dry-clean-only tag need different care. The biggest risks are shrinking and colour loss, both of which you avoid with cold water and a gentle cycle.
What You Need
- Mild liquid detergent
- A mesh laundry bag for zips and trims
- Cold water setting
Step-by-Step
- Remove the covers from the cushions and close all zips.
- Check the label and test colourfastness on dark or bright covers.
- Turn covers inside out to protect prints; place embellished ones in a mesh bag.
- Wash similar colours together on a cold, gentle cycle with a low spin.
- Use a small amount of liquid detergent — skip fabric softener on textured fabrics.
- Remove promptly to prevent creases and stretching.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t use hot water — cotton and linen covers shrink, making them impossible to refit.
- Don’t machine wash velvet, sequinned or dry-clean-only covers.
- Don’t overload the drum; covers need room to clean evenly.
- Don’t tumble dry on high heat, which shrinks the fit.
Drying Tips
Air dry cushion covers in the shade to protect the colour. For the easiest refitting, put the cover back on the cushion while it’s still very slightly damp — it stretches on smoothly and dries to a neat fit. Iron on the reverse if needed, and avoid wringing, which sets in stubborn creases.
Useful Reads & Where to Shop
The same gentle, cold-wash method applies to washing curtains. Large covers can fill the drum quickly, so check our capacity guide to load the right amount.