How to Wash Blankets?

While there are some blankets, like cotton blankets, that you can just throw into the washing machine, there are others that need to be hand-washed, dry cleaned, or spot cleaned.

The material and weave primarily affect the way you clean a blanket.

Whether you’re sprucing up on your housekeeping or had an accident on one of your beautiful throw blankets, you’ll find your answers here in our collection of “How To’s.”

When cleaning a blanket, you should follow the manufacturer’s directions before trying anything else.

The care instructions will direct you through the best way to clean your blanket without ruining the product.

If you don’t have access to the original manufacturer’s care instructions, you can follow the best practices outlined below.

As a general rule of thumb, never wash your blanket in hot water. Fabrics like cotton and wool can shrink in hot water, while synthetic fibers can become damaged by the heat.

How to Hand Wash Your Blanket?

Using the washing machine makes cleaning blankets easy. However, there are times when throwing them into the wash will ruin your nice blanket.

Colors can run, and certain fabrics can shrink or become damaged in the wash.

For times like those, follow the instructions below for hand washing.

1. Fill a plastic bin with cold water and add liquid detergent. Make sure the water and soap are combined well.
2. Submerge the material underwater and knead the fabric one section at a time.
3. When the fabric has been thoroughly cleaned, remove the blanket and press the excess water out without wringing the material as it will cause it to misshapen.
4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 using clean water until there is no trace of soap.
5. After pressing all the water from the fabric, place the fabric between two dry towels to draw out the water. This will speed up the drying process.
6. Then, hang dry to preserve its shape.

How to Wash Fleece Blankets?

Fleece blankets are made with the sort of fabric where you can tell if it’s high-quality over time. Low-quality fleece peels, losing its lusciously soft feel.

Meanwhile, high-quality fleece fibers, or ultra-plush fleece blankets, will not pill and remain soft for a very long time.

Either way, using the method below will help you keep your fleece blanket softer longer.

1. Using the proper amount of laundry detergent, load the washing machine as you would normally: soap first and then the blanket. Choose a mild detergent that is free of bleach and harsh chemicals, as these can damage fleece fibers. For extra protection, consider placing the blanket in a mesh laundry bag before washing.
2. Wash with cold water set on gentle cycle. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause shrinkage and damage the fibers. If your blanket is heavily soiled, pre-treat stains with a mild stain remover before washing.
3. During the rinse cycle, add liquid softener. Alternatively, you can use white vinegar as a natural fabric softener, which helps maintain the softness of fleece and removes any detergent residue.
4. After washing fleece blankets, hang them on a clothesline to air dry. This will prevent the pilling that often occurs in the dryer. Regardless of quality, proper care is essential to preserve the texture and lifespan of your fleece blanket. Following a careful washing routine can help ensure your blanket stays cozy and soft for years.
5. If air drying isn’t possible, use the dryer on a no-heat or air-fluff setting. Toss in a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help maintain the blanket’s fluffiness during the drying process.

Additional Tips:

• Avoid overloading the washing machine, as this can cause uneven cleaning and increase wear on the fabric.
• For long-term storage, ensure the blanket is completely dry to prevent mold or mildew. Store it in a breathable cotton bag instead of a plastic container to allow airflow and protect against dust.

How to Wash a Faux-Shearling Blanket?

Faux-shearling blankets are soft, warm, and perfect for cozying up on chilly days.

To maintain their texture and appearance, it’s important to wash them carefully using appropriate methods.

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Always begin by reading the care label on your faux-shearling blanket. The manufacturer’s instructions will specify whether the blanket is machine washable, hand washable, or requires professional cleaning.

Following these guidelines is crucial for preserving the blanket’s texture and lifespan.

Step 2: Shake and Inspect

Shake the blanket outside or over a clean surface to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. Inspect it for any stains or spills. Spot-treat stains with a mixture of mild detergent and cold water, gently dabbing the area with a clean cloth or sponge.

Step 3: Choose the Right Cleaning Method

• For Machine Washing: If the care label allows machine washing, use a front-loading washing machine to minimize agitation, which can damage the faux-shearling fibers. Avoid top-loading machines with central agitators as they can be too rough.
• For Hand Washing: If machine washing isn’t recommended, wash the blanket by hand in a large basin or bathtub.

Step 4: Use a Mild Detergent

Use a detergent specifically formulated for delicate fabrics or mild laundry detergent free of bleach, fabric softeners, or harsh chemicals. These substances can degrade the fibers and alter the blanket’s texture.

Step 5: Wash the Blanket

• Machine Washing: Place the blanket in the machine and select a gentle or delicate cycle. Use cold water to prevent shrinkage or damage to the faux-shearling material.
• Hand Washing: Fill a basin or tub with cold water and add the detergent. Submerge the blanket and gently agitate it to distribute the soap evenly. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, which can harm the fibers.

Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the blanket thoroughly to remove all detergent. For machine washing, run an extra rinse cycle if necessary. For hand washing, drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean water, repeating until no suds remain.

Step 7: Dry with Care

Drying faux-shearling blankets properly is essential to maintaining their softness and appearance. Avoid high heat, which can melt or stiffen the fibers.

• Air Drying: Lay the blanket flat on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area, reshaping it to its original form. Turn it periodically for even drying.
• Low-Heat Dryer: If the care label permits, use the dryer’s low-heat or air-dry setting. Add a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff the material as it dries.

Step 8: Restore the Texture

Once the blanket is completely dry, use a soft-bristle brush to gently fluff the faux-shearling surface. Brush in a circular motion to restore its softness and texture.

Additional Tips

• Wash faux-shearling blankets only when necessary to reduce wear and tear.
• Store the blanket in a dry, cool space when not in use to prevent moisture and odor buildup.
• For small spills or stains, spot-clean with a damp cloth instead of washing the entire blanket.

How to Wash Wool Blankets?

Before washing a wool blanket, check to make sure it isn’t dry-cleaned only. The most considerable risk of cleaning your own wool blanket is shrinkage. After all, no one wants to buy a blanket sized for their mattress only to shrink it in the wash.

In the next four steps, we’ll teach you how to wash your wool blanket without fear of damaging the material.

1. Make sure your blanket is machine washable. If it’s not, reference the “Hand Washing” section. If it is, place mild detergent at the bottom of the drum and then the fabric.
2. Set the machine to run on gentle cycle with cold water.
3. One minute into the spin cycle, stop the machine so the blanket does not stretch.
4. Hang dry on a rack or clothesline. Placing the wool in a heated dryer will shrink the material. It is often best to dry wool blankets away from direct sunlight, but check the laundry care symbols to be sure.

How to Wash Knitted Blankets?

Knitted blankets, whether hand-knit or machine-made, are cozy and stylish but can be prone to stretching and snagging. Cleaning them requires care to preserve their structure.

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Review the care label for washing instructions. Some knitted blankets are machine washable, while others require hand washing. Special fibers like wool or acrylic may have unique care requirements.

Step 2: Shake and Inspect

Shake the blanket gently to remove loose dirt or debris. Check for stains and treat them with a mild detergent or spot cleaner. Dab stains gently rather than rubbing them to avoid damaging the knit.

Step 3: Washing Method

• Machine Washing: If allowed, place the blanket in a mesh laundry bag to protect the knit from snagging. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners, as they can coat the fibers and reduce elasticity.
• Hand Washing: For more delicate or handmade knitted blankets, fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of detergent for delicates. Submerge the blanket and gently agitate it to clean, avoiding excessive stretching or twisting.

Step 4: Rinse Carefully

Rinse the blanket thoroughly to remove detergent residue. For hand washing, drain the soapy water, refill the basin with clean water, and repeat until the water runs clear.

Step 5: Dry Properly

• Air Drying: Lay the knitted blanket flat on a clean, dry towel or drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Reshape the blanket as needed to maintain its original dimensions. Avoid hanging it, as the weight of the water can stretch the knit.
• Machine Drying: If the label permits, use a low or no-heat setting. However, air drying is generally recommended to preserve the blanket’s shape and texture.

Step 6: Handle with Care

Once dry, check for any loose threads or snags. Gently tuck in loose ends rather than pulling on them. Avoid excessive brushing or handling, as this can cause pilling or wear over time.

How to Wash Crochet Blankets?

Washing a crochet blanket is similar to washing a knitted blanket. You have to be careful not to stretch the yarn and distort the blanket’s shape. We suggest hand washing these types of blankets using the hand-washing method.

However, if you want to clean your crochet or knit blanket in the washing machine, we suggest putting the material in a garment or mesh bag before placing it in the machine. The bag will protect the blanket.

Make sure the wash cycle is on a gentle or permanent-press cycle.

Lay the blanket flat and reshape the material after washing. Air drying is the best way to dry the knit blanket. Even though the drying time will be higher, it will ensure the fabric won’t shrink.

How to Wash Cashmere Blankets?

Cashmere blankets are luxurious and delicate, requiring special attention to maintain their softness and quality. Follow these steps to clean them properly:

Step 1: Read the Care Label

Check the care label on your cashmere blanket. Many cashmere blankets are labeled as “dry clean only,” but some can be gently hand washed. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Step 2: Use Cold Water and Gentle Detergent

For hand washing, fill a basin or sink with cold water and add a small amount of cashmere-specific detergent or a mild detergent designed for delicates. Avoid regular laundry detergents, as they can be too harsh for cashmere fibers.

Step 3: Gently Wash

Submerge the cashmere blanket in the water and gently swirl it to distribute the detergent. Avoid scrubbing, twisting, or wringing the fabric, as this can cause stretching or pilling.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cold water. Swish the blanket gently to rinse out the detergent. Repeat this process until the water runs clear and all soap is removed.

Step 5: Remove Excess Water

Do not wring the blanket. Instead, press it gently against the side of the basin or between clean towels to remove excess water. Roll the blanket in a dry towel and press down to absorb additional moisture.

Step 6: Dry Flat

Lay the cashmere blanket flat on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area, reshaping it to its original dimensions. Avoid hanging or draping the blanket, as this can stretch the fibers. Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Step 7: Fluff and Store

Once completely dry, gently fluff the blanket with your hands to restore its softness. Store it in a breathable fabric bag or box to protect it from dust and moths.

How to Wash Sherpa Blankets?

Sherpa blankets should be washed in a front-load washing machine –or a washing machine without the center agitator– with non-detergent soap. Detergents will damage the DWR – Durable Water Repellant – treatment that protects your blanket from allergens.

It’s also recommended to use cold water during the wash cycle to prevent shrinking or damaging the fibers. For best results, place your Sherpa blanket in a mesh laundry bag to reduce friction during the wash, which can cause pilling or wear.

Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can degrade the material and compromise its plush texture. Pre-treat any stains with a gentle, non-toxic stain remover before washing to ensure the blanket remains spotless.

Do not place your sherpa blanket in the dryer. Even low heat can cause damage or melt the fabric. We suggest you hang dry the blanket, but you can tumble dry on low to fluff the material.

If hanging the blanket, ensure it’s laid flat or draped over a wide surface to avoid stretching or misshaping. To maintain the softness and fluffiness of the Sherpa, gently brush the fibers with a pet or fabric brush once it is completely dry.

For storage, fold your blanket loosely to prevent creases and store it in a breathable fabric bag to protect it from dust, moisture, and pests. Keeping it away from direct sunlight and heat sources will also help maintain its vibrant color and durability.

How to Wash Chenille Blankets?

Chenille blankets are incredibly soft and luxurious but require special care to maintain their texture and prevent pilling. Follow these steps for cleaning chenille blankets:

Step 1: Read the Care Instructions

Chenille blankets often come with specific washing instructions. Check the label for guidance on whether the blanket can be machine washed or if hand washing is required.

Step 2: Shake and Inspect

Shake the blanket gently to remove loose dirt and debris. Check for stains and treat them with a small amount of mild detergent or a fabric-safe stain remover.

Step 3: Use the Right Washing Method

• Machine Washing: If the label allows, place the chenille blanket in the washing machine on a delicate cycle with cold water. Use a gentle detergent to preserve the fibers and avoid bleach or fabric softeners, which can degrade the material.
• Hand Washing: If the blanket is delicate or heavily textured, wash it by hand in cold water. Submerge the blanket in soapy water, gently agitate it, and let it soak for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly.

Step 4: Handle with Care During Drying

• Air Drying: Lay the blanket flat on a clean towel or drying rack to air dry. Reshape it as needed and avoid hanging it, as this can stretch the fibers and distort the shape.
• Tumble Drying: If machine drying is allowed, use a low or no-heat setting. Add a couple of dryer balls to help maintain the blanket’s fluffiness.

Step 5: Avoid Brushing

Chenille blankets can shed or pill if brushed. Instead, gently smooth the fibers by hand after drying to restore their appearance.

Additional Tips

• Wash chenille blankets sparingly to maintain their softness and reduce wear.
• Store them in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from moisture or pests.
• Avoid placing heavy objects on chenille blankets, as the pressure can flatten the fibers over time.
• With proper care, chenille blankets will remain cozy, stylish, and long-lasting!

How to Wash Electric Blankets?

Washing heated blankets can be tricky. The wires running through the fabric can be hazardous if the washing isn’t done the right way. Generally, we recommend spot cleaning this blanket. If the electric blanket is a cheap $20 department-store brand, you might consider just getting a new one.

Heated blankets can start fires or electrocute you if the wires aren’t handled delicately. However, there are some electric blankets that are far too expensive to get rid of at the end of every winter. If you have one of these blankets, follow the directions below to clean your blanket safely.

1. Before washing, disconnect the cord from the blanket –if you have a blanket that doesn’t detach from the blanket, make sure it isn’t plugged in– and check all the wiring in the fabric to make sure none of them have torn.
2. If the blanket has a detachable cord, you may place the fabric in the washing machine and pre-soak for 5 to 15 minutes. You can use cold or warm water.
3. If the blanket doesn’t have a detachable cord, you will have to hand wash the material without getting the control cord wet.
4. Wash the detachable cord blanket in a partial wash lasting no more than 3 minutes on the delicate cycle using a mild detergent.
5. Rinsing cycle should last no more than 1 minute.
6. Let the blanket tumble dry for 5 to 10 minutes and then hang dry the rest of the way.

Older heated blankets don’t have the detachable cords. Because of this, they present a problem when you need to clean them. You don’t want the cord control to get wet, and you want to agitate the electrical cords in the blanket as little as possible.

1. Soak the blanket in a tub of cool water combined with mild detergent for 15 minutes. Be careful not to let the electrical cord dip into the water.
2. Press the soapy water out and rinse in cool water.
3. Again, press the water out and hang until dry.

How to Wash a Faux-Fur Blanket?

Faux-fur blankets are a luxurious and cozy addition to any home, but they require special care to maintain their softness and appearance. Proper cleaning ensures they remain comfortable and durable over time.

Step 1: Read the Care Label

Before you begin, check the care label attached to your faux-fur blanket. This label provides essential instructions, such as whether the blanket is machine washable or requires hand washing. Some faux-fur blankets may also recommend dry cleaning, so it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid damage.

Step 2: Shake and Brush the Blanket

Give the blanket a good shake outdoors or over a clean surface to remove loose dirt, dust, or debris. You can also use a soft-bristle brush to gently detangle the fur and eliminate any embedded particles. This step helps prevent clumping and ensures a thorough cleaning later.

Step 3: Choose the Right Cleaning Method

If the care label permits machine washing, use a gentle cycle with cold water. Select a mild detergent free of bleach or fabric softeners, as these can damage the fibers and alter the texture. For hand washing, fill a large basin or bathtub with cold water, add a small amount of mild detergent, and gently agitate the blanket in the water.

Step 4: Wash the Blanket

• For Machine Washing: Place the blanket in the washing machine, ensuring it is evenly distributed to avoid unbalanced spinning. Use a delicate cycle to protect the fibers.
• For Hand Washing: Submerge the blanket completely and gently swish it in the water. Avoid scrubbing or wringing the fabric, as this can lead to matting.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

After washing, thoroughly rinse the blanket to remove all detergent. Residue can stiffen the fibers and affect the texture. If hand washing, drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean water, repeating until the water runs clear.

Step 6: Dry Carefully

Drying faux-fur blankets requires extra care to prevent heat damage or distortion. Avoid using a high-heat dryer, as the heat can melt or shrink the fibers. Instead, use the low-heat or air-dry setting on your dryer. Alternatively, lay the blanket flat on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area, reshaping it as needed. Turn the blanket occasionally to ensure even drying.

Step 7: Fluff and Restore Texture

Once dry, gently fluff the faux-fur blanket with your hands or a soft-bristle brush to restore its plush appearance. If the fur appears matted, a light brushing can help revive the texture and restore its softness.

Additional Tips

• Avoid ironing or steaming the blanket, as high heat can damage the faux-fur fibers.
• Store the blanket in a cool, dry place when not in use to prevent moisture buildup and maintain its quality.
• Spot clean small stains with a damp cloth and mild detergent to extend the time between full washes.
• With proper care, your faux-fur blanket will stay soft, clean, and inviting for years to come!

How to Wash Weighted Blankets?

Washing a weighted blanket isn’t recommended. The protective cover keeping the filling inside can rip, resulting in a damaged washing machine.

Additionally, the weight of the blanket can cause strain on the machine’s motor and drum, leading to costly repairs. Instead, it’s crucial to follow proper care instructions to maintain the blanket’s durability and cleanliness.

Spot cleaning with a wet cloth and mild detergent will help keep your weighted blanket clean and is suggested on a weekly basis.

Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to gently remove stains or dirt. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this may damage the fabric or stitching. For stubborn stains, let the detergent sit on the area for a few minutes before blotting it away.

There are some weighted blankets that have covers that detach from the weighted portion on the blanket. You can throw the cover right into the wash like you would bed sheets or pillowcases. When washing a removable cover, use cold water and a gentle cycle to prevent shrinking or damage. If the cover is made of delicate fabric, such as minky or bamboo, consider air-drying it or using a low-heat setting in the dryer.

Additional Tips:

• If your weighted blanket doesn’t have a removable cover, consider purchasing one to make cleaning easier and to protect the blanket’s integrity over time.
• For blankets filled with glass beads or plastic pellets, hand washing in a bathtub with cold water and mild detergent is sometimes an option. Be sure to check the care label before attempting this method.
• Store your weighted blanket in a clean, dry space when not in use. Use a breathable storage bag to protect it from dust and moisture.

How to Wash Cotton and Linen Blankets?

Cotton and linen blankets are popular for their breathability and durability, but they require gentle care to maintain their texture and prevent shrinkage. Here’s how to wash them:

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Always start by reading the care label on your blanket to understand specific washing and drying instructions. Some cotton and linen blankets may require hand washing or air drying, depending on their weave or decorative elements.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains

Inspect the blanket for stains. Use a mild detergent or a stain remover suitable for natural fibers, and dab the stained area gently with a clean cloth or sponge. Avoid rubbing, as it may damage the fibers or cause discoloration.

Step 3: Choose the Washing Method

• Machine Washing: Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water to prevent shrinking or weakening the fibers. Opt for a mild detergent free from bleach or fabric softeners, as these can damage natural fibers over time.
• Hand Washing: For delicate or loosely woven blankets, fill a large basin with cold or lukewarm water and mix in a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the blanket, gently agitate it, and let it soak for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Step 4: Rinse and Remove Excess Water

Rinse the blanket thoroughly to remove all detergent residue. For machine-washed blankets, consider running an additional rinse cycle. For hand-washed blankets, gently press out excess water—never wring or twist the blanket, as this can distort its shape.

Step 5: Dry Carefully

• Air Drying: Lay the blanket flat on a clean towel or drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading. Turn the blanket occasionally to ensure even drying.
• Tumble Drying: If the care label allows, use a low-heat or no-heat setting. Remove the blanket promptly to prevent wrinkles.

Step 6: Ironing (Optional)

For a crisp look, iron the blanket using a medium heat setting. Place a thin cloth between the iron and the blanket to avoid direct contact, especially for linen blankets.

How to Wash Large Comforters, Duvets, and Quilts?

Duvets come with detachable covers that protect the blanket from grime and can be placed in the washing machine. However, comforters and quilts are much too large to put in a washing machine.

While quilts should be taken to the dry cleaners to preserve their beauty and longevity, comforters can be placed in a commercial machine at the neighborhood laundromat.

1. The comforter should be washed on the gentle cycle using cool or warm water using a mild detergent.
2. Dry the blanket on low heat with several dryer balls or tennis balls. A dryer or tennis ball works as an agitator and will fluff the comforter while it dries.

Spot clean your comforter and quilt to minimize the amount of washing. This will lengthen the life of your blankets.

How Often Should Blankets Be Washed?

Typically, a blanket needs to be cleaned once every two weeks, though people with allergy sensitivies may benefit from washing them once a week with their sheets.

Even though blankets are considered part of basic bedding, they often need a minimal protector, such as bedsheets – they separate the skin from the blankets, so they don’t get dirty as quickly.

Thicker duvets and comforters can be slipped inside a duvet cover to stretch out the time between washings. You can wash the cover with your sheets and clean the comforter or duvet once a season.

Tips and Tricks to Washing Blankets

It’s critical to do the research before you wash your blanket. Simply throwing your blanket into the laundry machine without checking if the instructions say to machine wash it, clean it by hand or spot clean only, can destroy its feel.

While knowing the strategies to washing high-quality blankets is half the battle, some helpful tricks make up the other half and will extend the life of your purchases. If you can, it’s smart to find out how a blanket will need to cleaned before you purchase it, as upkeep costs can add up when it comes to traits like ‘dry-clean only.’

Don’t Completely Dry Your Blanket

As a general rule, don’t completely dry your blanket. It will shrink. There are also some blankets that may snag in the dryer, ruining the design of the fabric.

Check on the blanket once every 20 minutes and take it out of the dryer when it’s about 80% dry. Then, hang it up and let it finish air drying.

Depending on your local climate and how thick and absorbent the blanket is, you may also be able to let it drip dry outdoors or inside the house, such as in the shower. Just keep in mind that some colors will fade when hung to dry in direct sunlight.

Skip the Fabric Softener

Moderate use of fabric softener can condition your blankets so that they are softer, color fade- resistant, and pill-resistant. However, there are risks involving larger blankets, particularly with duvets and comforters. The liquid can be absorbed unevenly and cause spotting throughout the fabric.

Fabric softeners work by adding a waxy film that softens laundered items. With feathery-filled blankets, however, fabric softeners can destroy their feel with this film. Fabric softeners can also give other blankets a scratchy feel inside of the desired plushness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to wash blankets in washing machine?

Yes, many types of blankets that are under 20 pounds can be machine-washed. But it’s important to double-check the blanket’s attached care label can be thrown into a laundry machine. Some blankets are woven so delicately that they need handwashing, while others have material that must be dry-cleaned to stay in good condition.

What is the best way to prevent blankets from pilling?

To prevent pilling, always wash blankets on a gentle cycle with cold water and avoid overloading the washing machine. Use a mild detergent and skip fabric softeners, which can contribute to pilling. Air drying blankets instead of using a dryer can also reduce friction, which is a common cause of pilling.

Why do fleece blankets shed, and how can I stop it?

Fleece blankets may shed due to loose fibers or low-quality material. To minimize shedding, wash the blanket alone in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid fabric softeners, as they can break down fibers. A vinegar rinse during the wash cycle can help lock in fibers and reduce shedding. After washing, air dry or tumble dry on the lowest heat setting to prevent friction.

Can I wash an electric blanket?

Yes, many modern electric blankets are designed to be washable. However, it’s crucial to check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Typically, you’ll need to disconnect the power cord and control unit before washing. Use a gentle cycle with cold water, and do not wring or twist the blanket. Air drying is the safest option, but some electric blankets allow tumble drying on low heat.

How do I remove odors from blankets without washing them?

If your blanket has an unpleasant odor but doesn’t need a full wash, try sprinkling baking soda over the surface and letting it sit for 15–20 minutes before shaking it out. You can also hang the blanket outside in fresh air and sunlight for a few hours, as sunlight acts as a natural deodorizer. A fabric refresher spray can also be lightly applied to neutralize odors.

Why do people dry clean blankets?

Blankets that have a downy fill of feathers may be ‘dry clean only,’ such as classic white duvets. Similarly, blankets with silk or velvet fabric may not be machine-washable.

However, some blanket owners choose to dry clean bedding that can be machine-washed because dry cleaning can better preserve the bedding’s “new” look. The process of dry cleaning cleans a blanket down to the fiber level and avoids the damage from heat or water that traditional laundering can bring.

Can blankets go in the dryer?

It depends, as some machine-washable blankets can be damaged by a dryer and need to be hung up and air-dried. Too much heat can shrink or even fry the fibers, destroying it’s original comfort. Check the care label and make sure that if you use the dryer, you tumble dry the blanket on low heat.

How often should you wash blankets?

Ideally, you should wash blankets as often as you wash sheets, which is once a week. However, if the blanket is separated from you by a top sheet or another covering that keeps it from coming into contact with your body and absorbing oils and skin cells, you can stretch out the time between washings to every other week or even once a month.

For example, many cover a duvet or comforter with a duvet cover, which lets them wash or dry clean the duvet fill as infrequently as once a season. You can also place an unwashed blanket in the dryer on low heat for about 15 minutes to freshen up its feel.

How do I clean weighted blankets?

Weighted blankets typically cannot be machine washed in a home washer due to their heavy design. If you do wash your weighted blanket at home, you risk damaging your machine washer, not just the blanket itself.

Taking it to a laundromat can let you use a machine for heavier loads. Alternatively, a dry cleaner can clean it down to the fibers by using specialty chemicals, avoiding the damage that water can cause to a weighted blanket’s materials.

What is the best setting to wash blankets?

To wash blankets, use the following settings:

• Water Temperature: Warm or cold water is generally best, as hot water may shrink or damage certain materials.
• Wash Cycle: Use a gentle or delicate cycle to protect the fabric.
• Detergent: Use a mild detergent, and avoid bleach unless the care label specifies it’s safe.
• Load Size: Wash the blanket alone or with similar items to avoid overloading the machine.

Always check the care label on your blanket for specific instructions.

Did You Find Your Answer?

If you want your nice blankets to last, there’s more to cleaning than throwing them into the wash. Hand washing and spot cleaning can keep you from wrecking your blanket and extends its lifespan. Remember that most blankets only need mild detergent, and oftentimes hang drying will stop the material from stretching beyond its limits.

We are sure that if you follow the steps provided by this article, you’ll be able to wash your blankets while keeping their appearance.