Familiarizing yourself with the material your slipcover is made from and what its care and cleaning entails should really begin before you purchase your slipcover.
But, if not, I need to stress the importance of at least being familiar with your slipcover material before you toss it into the washing machine.
This first step is crucial to avoiding unwelcome surprises like shrinking, which (if you read slipcover reviews … and who doesn’t?) is not an uncommon complaint.
That doesn’t mean the that slipcovers are destined to shrink, however.
Slipcovers come in various materials, ranging from natural fibers, like cotton and linen, to synthetic blends. Fabric type determines not only how you’ll wash the slipcover – each material has its own set of care instructions – but also how it will behave in water. A cotton slipcover, for example, might handle water and heat differently than one made of a polyester microfiber.
Following are my tips for safely washing slipcovers … without shrinking.
Above all else, the without which nothing of these tips is the following:
Always, and I mean ALWAYS, look at the care labels and see what the manufacturer suggests for washing and drying. This is essential to preventing shrinking and preserving your slipcover’s fit and appearance.
Best Practices for Washing Slipcovers
To be perfectly candid, when shopping for ready-made slipcovers, I generally opt for covers made from durable, low maintenance fabrics like denim or heavy weight cotton duck.
But not all slipcovers are tanks, including a few that I own.
For example, my slipcovered IKEA Ektorp sofas came with the slipcovers they came with, which have been great! … but which are not suitable for warm water washing in the way that my denim SureFit slipcovers are.
On the other hand, I didn’t observe the care instructions of my SureFit heavyweight cotton duck slipcovers, and they shrank. Not much, thankfully, but a bit.
And I will be slipcovering a leather reclining sofa soon which will necessitate a fitted slipcover and most likely one made from a stretchy microfiber fabric, which will necessitate cold water washing.
Slipcovers come in a range of materials—from classic cotton to plush velvet, from tough denim to delicate linen. Certain materials are better suited to certain aesthetics as well as to certain pieces of furniture.
My own love of slipcovers is grounded in the ease with which they can be cleaned and if cleaning gets too fancy, that defeats the purpose … for me. But while I personally select slipcovers for this quality, simple maintenance is not everyone’s priority.
And I too must pay attention to their care instructions and take certain steps to ensure safe washing.
Steps for Safely Washing Slipcovers Without Shrinking
Before tossing your slipcover into the washing machine, it’s crucial to take certain steps to prevent damage, including unwanted size changes.
Here’s what to do to keep slipcovers looking as good as new.
Spot treat stains. Begin by spot treating any noticeable stains. Use a gentle stain remover that’s appropriate for the fabric type. Apply it directly to the stain and either let it sit for the amount of time specified on the product label or softly work it into the fabric. Avoid excessive scrubbing which can damage fibers.
Use a mild laundry detergent. Opt for a mild detergent that’s less likely to be harsh on fabric fibers. While this is especially true if your slipcover is made from a delicate fabric, there’s no harm in washing sturdier fabrics with a gentle laundry soap.
Forgo fabric softener. You can use a fabric softener if you like, unless prohibited by care instructions. There’s no real reason to do so, though. Myself, I prefer to forgo fabric softener on my denim and duck slipcovers so that they retain some crispness.
Why you might want to forgo fabric softener. It is the lubricating ingredients in fabric softeners that make the items in your laundry softer and smoother. But these lubricating ingredients also impair the breathability, absorbency, and wicking of fabrics, especially the moisture wicking fabrics found in towels, microfibers, and athletic wear. And while fabric softeners are generally considered safe for natural fibers, they do leave behind residues that can bind odor-causing bacteria to fibers leading to an unpleasant mildewy smell over time.
One of the biggest benefits of being able to remove and wash your slipcovers is that this helps you keep your furniture clean and hygienic, preventing the accumulation of dust, dirt, allergens, and odors.
Why ruin that?
Simple is often best.
Choose an appropriate washing cycle. Washing machine settings play a role in preserving the size and integrity of slipcovers.
Cold water cycles are typically safe (unless your slipcover is not machine washable period) and often recommended as they are less likely to cause shrinking compared to warm or hot cycles.
All but the smallest slipcovers are bulky. Unless I am dealing with an especially delicate fabric (which, as I have said, is not likely) I wash my slipcovers on a bulky or bedding setting. You can, of course, select a gentle or delicate wash setting to minimize agitation that can stress fabric, and this would absolutely be recommended for more delicate fabric types.
Balance the load. Don’t forget to evenly distribute the slipcover in the wash drum. A lopsided washer can spell trouble not just for the slipcover but for your machine as well. Carefully distributing the slipcover in the drum before washing ensures a balanced load and helps the fabric move freely, reducing the risk of excessive pulling or stretching … and of your washing machine “walking” across the floor.
When in doubt. If your slipcover is particularly delicate or you’re unsure about machine washing, hand washing is a safer alternative. Use a large basin or your tub, fill it with cold water, and add the recommended amount of detergent. Submerge your slipcover completely and gently agitate it with your hands. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
Of course, handwashing may not be feasible with especially large and bulky slipcovers, so be realistic.
Drying and Maintaining Your Slipcovers for Long-lasting Use
After carefully washing your slipcovers to avoid shrinking and other damage, don’t blow it when drying them.
Your basic choice is between air drying or using a machine dryer. And the choice you make can definitely affect the longevity, appearance, and, of course, the fit of your slipcover.
For the pragmatic, like me, machine drying is the likely choice. The irony of this is that same pragmatism typically leads me to favor slipcovers made of natural fibers like cotton, which are generally sturdy and eminently machine washable, but which pose the highest risk of shrinking.
While air drying is always the safer bet for size preservation, machine drying on a low or no-heat setting can work for many fabrics. Just be cautious and set your dryer on the lowest or “no-est” heat setting until you have gauged how your cover comes out of the dryer.
If using a dryer, tossing in a couple wool dryer balls can help keep the slipcover tumbling freely, preventing covers from folding in on themselves and contributing to an even dry. Plus, wool dryer balls serve as a natural, reusable alternative to liquid fabric softener (discussed above).
If you opt for air drying, spread the slipcover out flat, reshape it gently, and allow it to dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause some fabrics to fade. This option may not be practical for extremely bulky covers, however.
If you are willing to iron (care instructions permitting) and/or reshape your cover a bit, an old-fashioned clothesline is another option. Drying your slipcover on a clothesline allows air to circulate better than laying it out flat and may improve drying for heavier, bulkier covers. If ironing afterward, consider using a protective cloth between the iron and the slipcover to prevent scorching.
Some sources advise removing slipcovers from the dryer and/or fitting them back onto furniture while they are still slightly damp. While the dampness can help in stretching the fabric to fit and facilitate the cover forming to the contours of your furniture as it dries, I don’t relish the idea of putting damp fabric, even slightly damp fabric, on upholstery. This tip is not for me.
While I would dry carefully, following care labels, I would also dry completely.
Maintaining Your Slipcover Between Washes
To ensure that your slipcovers not only last but continue to look their best, regular maintenance is key. Simple steps like quick spot cleaning of spills and weekly vacuuming to remove dust can significantly extend the time between washes.
Between washes, consider a fabric refresh spray to keep them smelling fresh.
Investing in a fabric protection spray is wise, too. These sprays can repel stains and make spills easier to clean in the future. Apply it to your freshly cleaned slipcover, but remember, always do a spot test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor or damage your fabric.
Removing Stains and Spills
Slipcovers are a smart choice to protect furniture from stains and spills. When accidents inevitably occur, you can address them by removing your slipcover and, in most cases, tossing it into the washing machine.
However, you may not want to do a load of laundry every single time your slipcover suffers an unfortunate incident. Also, some spills require fast action to prevent them setting into your slipcover’s fabric.
To remove a fresh spill, start by gently blotting – never rubbing which can work the stain deeper into the fabric – with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much of the spill as possible.
Selecting the right stain remover is essential. Know the fabric you’re dealing with. Successful stain removal largely hinges on this knowledge. Start by reading the slipcover’s care label. This tiny tag spells out your fabric’s dos and don’ts, ensuring you won’t damage your slipcover during stain-removal.
Natural cleaning agents, like baking soda or vinegar, are great for simple, light stains and are safe for most fabrics. For more resistant stains, a specialized upholstery cleaner or a mild detergent solution may be necessary.
ALWAYS test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor or damage the material. A quick spot test can prevent a cleaning disaster. Apply a small amount to a hidden part of the slipcover, wait, and check for any adverse reactions.
Effective Stain Removal Strategies for Slipcovers First, apply your chosen cleaner to the stain and let it sit for a prescribed amount of time - usually a few minutes. Next, blot the stain with a soft cloth until the stain lifts. For tough stains, gentle brushing with a soft-bristled brush can help. Repeat the process if necessary, ensuring that the fabric doesn't become oversaturated. Again, ALWAYS reference your slipcover's care instructions when dealing with stains and do a spot test to ensure it doesn't discolor or damage your fabric.
To learn more about stain removal for specific types of fabrics check out my article, “What Is The Best Material For Slipcovers?”
Storing And Preserving Slipcovers When Not In Use
Storing your slipcovers properly when they’re not in use is also important.
Clean them thoroughly before storage. Any lingering dirt or stains can set in over time, and odors could turn into a permanent feature. So, give them a thorough wash according to the manufacturer’s instructions or take them to a professional cleaner if needed.
Make sure your slipcovers are completely dry before storing.
Fold them neatly and store them in a cool, dry place. Using breathable storage bags can prevent dust from settling and reduce the likelihood of mold or mildew growing on the fabric in more humid environments.
For those looking to save space, vacuum-seal bags are a good tip. They will compact your slipcovers and shield them from dust, insects, and moisture. Just be aware that long-term storage in such bags may affect the fabric’s elasticity, so it’s good practice to let them breathe every now and then.
If you are storing your slipcovers long-term, you may want to check on them occasionally, not just with vacuum-seal bags but in general. Regular checks on stored slipcovers can prevent unpleasant surprises. It’s best to inspect them every few months for any signs of damage or unwanted smells.
If you’re storing multiple sets of slipcovers, rotate them. (This is something I love to do!) This practice ensures that all slipcovers receive equal amounts of wear, helping maintain a consistent level of quality across your collection.
Slipcovers might require a quick refresh when you retrieve them from storage. A gentle cycle in the washer or a brisk air out on a sunny day should be sufficient to eliminate any mustiness and ready them for use.
How Often Should You Clean Your Slipcover?
Now, you might be wondering, “Ok, but how often should I actually clean these covers?”
Valid question.
The universally recommended baseline? Aim for laundering every six months.
"Aim to wash slipcovers ... once or twice a year," writes the USA Today network's Reviewed. "If you wash them too often, you’ll wear them out prematurely."
This schedule works well if you’re mainly dealing with natural wear and your slipcover isn’t subjected to heavy soiling or spills.
That said, establishing an ideal cleaning schedule is not a one-size-fits-all kind of answer—it depends on several factors.
- Heavy usage, expectedly, would necessitate a more regular cleaning schedule.
- Homes with children, pets, or allergy sufferers might need to clean their slipcovers as often as once a month. On the other hand, a seldom-used guest room’s slipcover could go longer between washes.
- Consider the season’s effect on your slipcovers as well. You might find you need to clean more often during summer when increased humidity and outdoor activities can expose your furniture to more dirt and allergens. As the seasons change, so may your cleaning timeline.
- Your slipcover ofttimes will tell its own story. If you notice discoloration, unpleasant odors, or visible dirt, it’s a clear signal it’s time for a wash, regardless of your schedule.
I appreciate a well-maintained home – and I know you do too – but creating a routine that keeps your slipcovers looking spotless does more than just please the eye. It eliminates dust mites and dander, which might otherwise stake a claim in your living space.
And keep in mind, regular maintenance extends the life of your slipcovers, helping your slipcover continue to protect your furniture for years to come.
Conclusion
Slipcovers are the first line of defense against accidental spills, pet hair, and crumbs. They endure the brunt of daily use so that the upholstery of your furniture doesn’t have to.
In turn, the longevity of your slipcovers is greatly influenced by how you care for them.
By following these washing, drying, maintenance, and storage tips, you’re paving the way for slipcovers that not only retain their size, but endure countless washes and stay looking impeccable through years of use.
Got any awesome slipcover washing tips? Please share them in the comments below.
