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Care & Cleaning Tips for Bolsters & Cushions

Your bolsters and meditation cushions are there for every supported backbend, every quiet sit, and every deep exhale. A little regular care keeps them comfy, supportive, and looking beautiful for years.

Below you’ll find simple care tips to keep your Hugger Mugger bolsters and cushions fresh, clean, and ready for practice.

General Care Guidelines

  • Use a clean surface: Place your bolster or cushion on a mat or rug rather than directly on dirty or rough floors.

  • Rotate regularly: Turn or flip your props now and then to help the fill wear evenly.

  • Let them breathe: After a sweaty or intense practice, allow your bolsters and cushions to air out before storing.

  • Know your covers:

    • Bolster covers are not recommended to be removed.

    • Meditation cushion covers can be removed and washed following the care instructions below.

Bolster Care & Cleaning

Our bolsters are designed to be durable and supportive. With simple surface care, they’ll stay firm and comfortable for many years.

Important: Hugger Mugger bolster covers are not designed for regular removal or machine washing. Please keep covers on when cleaning your bolsters.

Day-to-Day Maintenance

  • Shake it out: Gently shake or pat your bolster after use to redistribute the fill.

  • Air it out: Stand your bolster on end or lay it on a clean, dry surface in a well-ventilated area.

  • Extra protection: If desired, place a thin towel or scarf over the bolster during hot or sweaty practices.

Surface Cleaning (Without Removing the Cover)

  1. Dust regularly: Use a lint roller, soft brush, or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust, lint, and pet hair.

  2. Spot clean stains:

    • Mix a small amount of mild detergent with cool water.

    • Dip a clean cloth in the solution, wring it out well so it’s just slightly damp.

    • Gently blot the stained area—avoid scrubbing hard.

    • Follow with a cloth dampened with clean water to remove any soap residue.

    • Blot dry with a clean towel.

  3. Dry thoroughly: Allow the bolster to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area before using or storing.

Tip: Test any cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t affect the color or fabric.

Freshen with Refresh Mist

For a quick post-practice refresh, lightly mist the fabric with our Refresh Mist and allow it to air dry completely. This helps keep your bolsters smelling clean between deeper spot cleanings.

Meditation Cushion (Zafus & Zabutons) Care

Meditation cushions support long, comfortable sits. Gentle, regular care keeps them feeling good and looking tidy.

Daily & Weekly Care

  • Fluff the cushion: Give your zafu or zabuton a quick fluff, pat, or shake to keep the fill evenly distributed.

  • Rotate your cushion: Turn and flip occasionally to avoid compression in the same spot.

  • Air after long sessions: Let your cushion rest in a ventilated area after extended or warm meditations.

Washing Meditation Cushion Covers

Meditation cushion covers are designed to be removable and washable for easier care.

  1. Remove the cover: Unzip the cushion and carefully remove the outer cover from the inner cushion.

  2. Check the care tag: Follow the specific washing instructions listed on the tag.

  3. Wash:

    • Typically, a cold, gentle cycle works best.

    • Use a mild detergent.

    • Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals.

  4. Dry:

    • Air dry or tumble dry on low heat, as recommended on the care label.

    • Make sure the cover is completely dry before putting it back on the cushion.

  5. Reassemble: Once dry, slide the cover back over the inner cushion and zip it closed.

Tip: Wash covers with similar colors to avoid dye transfer.

Caring for the Inner Cushion

The inner cushion contains the fill that gives structure and support.

  • Spot clean only: Use a slightly damp cloth and mild soap to gently clean small marks.

  • Do not machine wash: Machine washing can damage or clump the fill.

  • Dry fully: If the inner cushion gets damp, allow it to dry completely in a well-ventilated area before replacing the cover.

Light Refresh Between Washes

Between full washes, you can lightly spritz the fabric of your meditation cushion (with the cover on) using Refresh Mist and let it air dry. Use a light hand - just enough to freshen, not soak, the fabric.

Dealing with Spills, Sweat & Odors

Spills & Stains

  • Act quickly: Blot spills right away with a clean, absorbent cloth or towel.

  • Blot—don’t rub: Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fabric.

  • Use mild soap: Follow up with a lightly damp cloth and a small amount of mild detergent, then blot with clean water and dry.

Freshening & Odor Control

  • Air in fresh air: Place your bolster or cushion in a dry, shaded, well-ventilated area.

  • Baking soda refresher: Lightly sprinkle baking soda over the fabric, let sit for 15–30 minutes, then gently brush or vacuum it off.

  • Refresh Mist boost: After airing and spot cleaning, a light mist of Refresh Mist can give your props a subtle, clean scent.

Storage Tips

Proper storage keeps your props clean and supportive.

  • Keep them dry: Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and humidity.

  • Avoid direct sunlight: Prolonged sun exposure can fade colors over time.

  • Don’t compress long-term: Avoid stacking heavy items on top of bolsters or cushions to prevent flattening.

  • Store off the floor: Use shelves, cubbies, or baskets to help minimize dust and pet hair.

When to Refresh or Replace

With regular care, Hugger Mugger bolsters and cushions are made to last. Over time, you may notice:

  • The bolster or cushion feels less supportive or doesn’t spring back.

  • There are deep, lasting impressions that don’t smooth out with fluffing.

  • The fabric shows significant wear, thinning, or permanent stains.

If this happens, it may be time to refresh your props so they can fully support your practice.

Caring for Your Props, Caring for Your Practice

A few simple habits - regular airing, gentle spot cleaning, washing removable meditation covers as needed, a spritz of Refresh Mist, and mindful storage - will keep your Hugger Mugger bolsters and cushions feeling welcoming every time you unroll your mat.

If you have questions about caring for a specific Hugger Mugger product, our team is happy to help - contact us anytime, and we’ll support you in caring for the props that support you.