What will happen if I machine wash feather cushions?

[JeremyVile]

back cushions on sofa are feather and they stink! They always have since I bought the damn thing 3 years ago, it's a horrible stale, musty smell.

I take them outside fora good battering frequently and they're alright for a while, but I'm needing to do it more frequently and it's a pain in the arse tbh.

So if I bung them in the washing machine - maybe at launderette as theres five of them and they're big- will I ruin them?

Alternatively, anyone know where I could get non stinky replacements?

I have washed my feather pillows and cushions with no problem whatsoever but check the labels.

I have sent mine for a service wash at a local launderette and washed them at home - but be aware if you try to dry them at home in a domestic tumble dryer they take ages.

Also helps to throw a couple of tennis balls in the dryer as well to 'fluff' the pillows and stop the feathers 'clumping'.

They come out like new afterwards

Check the labels before you do anything though - they may be different to mine!

They will smell vile while wet but are fine once dry.
Mine say do not wash but I risked it after they got weed on and they were fine

You do need to tumble dry them, they look quite sad when they first come out of the machine, the air gets around and fluffs them back up and also removes any chance of mould setting in through prolonged dampness.

They come out very nicely though.

Oh, excellent news! Thanks.

Redrubyblue - how much did it cost to have them service washed?

It was a while ago but I think about £7 per cushion, but please don't quote me.

I know it was a lot cheaper than the dry cleaners.

I do mine regularly and always fine. Quick wash, with bio the tumble them to bring out to pooooof.

Yay! I am ridiculously excited to know I can wash these buggers

should be fine. I would do it at a laundrette (bigger drums) and fluff them up in the tumble dryer (cool setting).
do not use biological powder, use wool detergent or shampoo (a tablespoon full directly into the drum).

The washing of feathers is fine, but you should be careful what detergent you use. Try to stick to a natural detergent and don’t wash on too higher temperature.

The problem will be with the cover of the pad as some cambric and poly cotton can shrink when washed. As others have said always check the labels before doing anything and always make sure you thoroughly dry them before you reuse.