Let’s be honest, when was the last time you *really* washed your blankets? We often neglect these cozy companions, but blankets accumulate dust, allergens, dead skin cells, and who knows what else over time. This buildup can trigger allergies, irritate sensitive skin, and simply make your bedding feel less fresh and inviting. Properly washing your blankets not only improves hygiene, but also extends their lifespan, preserving their softness and warmth for years to come. A clean blanket is a happy blanket (and a happy you!).
Whether it’s a luxurious down comforter or a beloved fleece throw, each type of blanket requires specific care to avoid damage and ensure thorough cleaning. Ignoring these differences can lead to shrinking, fading, and a blanket that’s never quite the same. Investing a little time and effort in learning the proper washing techniques will keep your blankets clean, comfortable, and looking their best.
What temperature should I use, and how often should I wash my specific type of blanket?
How often should I wash my blankets?
Generally, you should wash your blankets every 2-3 months. However, this frequency depends heavily on your usage, lifestyle, and the type of blanket. Blankets used daily or those exposed to pets or food spills need more frequent washing, perhaps every 2 weeks to a month.
Washing blankets regularly removes dust mites, allergens, body oils, and odors that accumulate over time. Infrequent washing can lead to a buildup of these contaminants, potentially triggering allergies or skin irritations. Consider washing more frequently if you have pets that sleep on the blankets, if someone in your household has allergies or asthma, or if the blanket is visibly soiled. Also, remember that heavier use translates to more frequent cleaning needs. Beyond regular washing, it’s a good idea to freshen up your blankets occasionally by airing them out outdoors on a sunny day. This helps to remove odors and kill bacteria. When storing blankets for extended periods, ensure they are clean and completely dry to prevent mildew growth.
What temperature water should I use to wash blankets?
The best water temperature for washing blankets is generally cold water. Cold water is gentle on most blanket fibers, helps prevent fading and shrinking, and is more energy-efficient. However, always check the care label on your blanket first, as specific instructions may override this general recommendation.
Using cold water is particularly important for delicate materials like wool, cashmere, or certain synthetic blends. Hot water can damage these fibers, causing them to felt, shrink, or lose their softness. Even for more durable materials like cotton or fleece, cold water is still often preferred to prolong the life of the blanket and maintain its color vibrancy. A gentle cycle setting on your washing machine will further protect the blanket during the wash. If your blanket has stubborn stains or a strong odor, you might consider using warm water (never hot) as a compromise, but only if the care label allows it. Always pretreat stains before washing, and use a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics, if necessary. After washing, tumble dry on low heat or, better yet, air dry to prevent shrinking and maintain the blanket’s texture.
Can I put blankets in the dryer?
Yes, you can usually put blankets in the dryer, but always check the care label first. Most blankets made of cotton, fleece, or synthetic materials can be tumble dried on a low heat setting. Avoid high heat as it can shrink or damage the fabric, especially delicate or natural fibers like wool or down.
For most blankets, tumble drying on low is the best approach. This gentle heat helps to prevent shrinkage and excessive wear. It’s also wise to add dryer balls to help circulate air and prevent clumping, ensuring the blanket dries evenly. Regularly check the blanket during the drying cycle to make sure it’s not overheating. If the care label recommends air drying, it’s best to follow those instructions to maintain the blanket’s quality and lifespan. If you choose to air dry a blanket, lay it flat on a clean surface or hang it over a sturdy drying rack. Avoid hanging heavy, wet blankets on a clothesline, as this can stretch the fabric and distort its shape. Turn the blanket occasionally to ensure it dries evenly on both sides.
How do I wash a weighted blanket?
Washing a weighted blanket requires extra care due to its weight. Always check the manufacturer’s care label first. If machine washable, use a large-capacity washing machine without an agitator and wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. If hand washing, fill a bathtub with cold water and mild detergent, gently agitate the blanket, rinse thoroughly, and then carefully squeeze out excess water. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners.
Washing a weighted blanket in a machine that is too small can damage both the blanket and the machine. The weight can put undue stress on the machine’s motor and internal components. If you are unsure if your machine is large enough, consider using a commercial-sized machine at a laundromat. Furthermore, avoid washing the blanket with other items to prevent uneven weight distribution and potential damage. Drying a weighted blanket is equally important. Tumble drying is generally not recommended, as the high heat can damage the filling material (often glass beads or plastic pellets). Instead, air drying is the preferred method. Lay the blanket flat on a clean, dry surface, or hang it over multiple sturdy drying racks to distribute the weight evenly. Ensure the blanket is completely dry before using it to prevent mildew growth. Turning the blanket periodically will help it dry more evenly.
What type of detergent is best for washing blankets?
For washing blankets, a mild, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free liquid detergent is generally the best choice. These detergents are gentle on the fibers, less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, and won’t leave behind strong odors that can be difficult to remove from bulky blankets.
Blankets, especially those made from delicate materials like wool, down, or even some synthetics, can be easily damaged by harsh chemicals and excessive fragrances found in conventional detergents. Using a mild detergent helps to preserve the integrity of the fabric, prevent shrinkage, and maintain the blanket’s softness and fluffiness. Avoid detergents with bleach, enzymes, or brighteners, as these can fade colors and weaken fibers over time.
Liquid detergents are often preferred over powdered detergents for washing blankets because they dissolve more easily and completely, reducing the risk of residue buildup, especially in larger washing machines or when using cold water. Look for detergents specifically formulated for sensitive skin or baby clothes, as these tend to be milder. Always follow the care instructions on your blanket’s label for specific detergent recommendations and water temperature guidelines. If you are still unsure, test a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket with the detergent before washing the entire item.
How can I get rid of stains on a blanket?
Getting rid of stains on a blanket usually involves pre-treating the stain before washing the entire blanket according to its care label instructions. The specific method depends on the type of stain, but common techniques include using a stain remover, baking soda paste, vinegar solution, or enzyme detergent directly on the affected area.
Before you do anything, check the blanket’s care label for washing instructions. This will tell you the recommended water temperature and drying method. Then, identify the type of stain. Fresh stains are almost always easier to remove than old, set-in stains. For fresh stains, blot (don’t rub!) with a clean cloth to absorb as much of the stain as possible. For common stains like food spills, try a solution of mild dish soap and water, applying it gently to the affected area and blotting with a clean cloth. For tougher stains like blood or grease, a commercial stain remover or a paste of baking soda and water can be more effective. Let the pre-treatment sit for at least 30 minutes, or longer for stubborn stains, before washing.
Once you’ve pre-treated the stain, wash the blanket as directed on the care label. Use a gentle cycle and a mild detergent. After washing, check the blanket for any remaining traces of the stain *before* placing it in the dryer. Heat from the dryer can set the stain permanently. If the stain is still visible, repeat the pre-treatment and washing process. If the care label allows for it, hanging the blanket to air dry can be gentler and help prevent further setting of any residual stain. If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting.
How do I wash a delicate or handmade blanket?
Washing a delicate or handmade blanket requires extra care to preserve its integrity and appearance. Hand washing is generally the safest method, using cool water and a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicates. If hand washing is not feasible, use a washing machine on its gentlest cycle with cool water, placing the blanket inside a mesh laundry bag for added protection. Always air dry the blanket, avoiding direct sunlight or high heat from a dryer.
Delicate and handmade blankets often feature intricate stitching, delicate fibers like wool or silk, or embellishments that can be easily damaged during a regular wash cycle. Strong agitation and high temperatures can cause shrinkage, distortion, or color fading. Therefore, assessing the blanket’s care label is crucial. If there are specific instructions from the maker, adhere to those first. If the label is missing or unclear, err on the side of caution and proceed with hand washing. When hand washing, fill a clean tub or large sink with cool water and add a small amount of gentle detergent. Submerge the blanket and gently agitate the water to distribute the soap. Avoid scrubbing or twisting the fabric. Let it soak for 15-30 minutes. Drain the soapy water and rinse thoroughly with cool, clean water until all detergent is removed. Gently press out excess water – do *not* wring. Lay the blanket flat on a clean, dry towel and roll it up to absorb more water. Finally, lay it flat on a clean, dry surface or hang it over a clothesline (distributing the weight evenly) to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight. The entire drying process may take several days depending on the blanket’s size and thickness.
And that’s it! Hopefully, your blankets are now fresh, clean, and ready for snuggling. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back for more helpful tips and tricks to make life a little easier (and cozier!).