How to Clean Blankets: Tips and Tricks for a Cozy Clean!

How to Clean Blankets: Tips and Tricks for a Cozy Clean!

Blankets are a comforting staple in every household, providing warmth and coziness during chilly nights or lazy days. However, over time, blankets accumulate dust, dirt, and even stains, which can affect their appearance and hygiene. Regular cleaning not only maintains the aesthetics of your blankets but also ensures they remain fresh and cozy. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into effective methods and essential tips for cleaning blankets of various materials, sizes, and types.

Understanding Your Blanket

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s crucial to understand the type of blanket you’re dealing with. Blankets come in a multitude of materials, including cotton, wool, fleece, acrylic, and more. Each material requires specific care to maintain its quality and longevity. Additionally, consider the blanket’s size, thickness, and construction, as these factors influence the cleaning method you’ll use.

Cleaning Blankets by Material

Cotton Blankets:

• Cotton blankets are durable and versatile, making them a popular choice for bedding. To clean cotton blankets:
• Machine wash in cold water with a gentle detergent to prevent shrinking.
• Use a mild bleach solution for stubborn stains, but always spot test first to avoid discoloration.
• Tumble dry on low heat or air dry to prevent excessive shrinkage.

Wool Blankets:

• Wool blankets are known for their warmth and softness but require gentle care to maintain their integrity.
• Dry clean wool blankets to avoid felting or shrinking.
• Spot clean small stains with a mixture of cold water and mild detergent.
• Air out wool blankets occasionally to refresh them and remove odors.

Fleece Blankets:

• Fleece blankets are lightweight, soft, and quick-drying, making them easy to care for.
• Machine wash fleece blankets in warm water with a gentle detergent.
• Avoid using fabric softeners as they can reduce the blanket’s softness and absorbency.
• Tumble dry on low heat or air dry to maintain the fabric’s texture.

Acrylic Blankets:

• Acrylic blankets are affordable and easy to care for, making them ideal for everyday use.
• Machine wash acrylic blankets in warm water with a mild detergent.
• Avoid high heat during drying to prevent melting or distortion of the fibers.
• Fluff acrylic blankets in the dryer on a low heat setting or air dry flat to maintain their shape.
  

How to wash cotton blankets?

Cotton and linen fabrics have a tendency to shrink slightly when washed, yet they can endure more rigorous cleaning compared to wool or synthetic materials like polyester fleece.

Fran Kozen, the director of Undergraduate Studies in Fiber Science & Apparel at Cornell University, noted in 2018 that these characteristics make cotton and linen ideal choices for individuals with allergies. “They can be washed easily in hot water to eliminate dust mites.”

Moreover, when someone has been unwell, a hot wash followed by a high-heat dryer cycle effectively disinfects bedding. The majority of shrinkage typically occurs within the initial washes, before the fibers settle. Therefore, subjecting a new cotton or linen blanket to a cold-water wash prior to use, and subsequently drying it on a low heat setting, can minimize future shrinkage if hot water is necessary. Personally, I make it a practice to do this at least once, and sometimes two or three times, before using any new blanket, anticipating potential disinfection needs.

For routine maintenance, I prefer washing blankets in cold water, or occasionally warm water if they appear particularly soiled, a few times annually.

When drying, I opt for low or medium heat settings, periodically removing the blanket to redistribute any folded areas that may retain moisture.

How to Clean Wool Blankets?

While many wool blankets are labeled as “dry clean only,” the ones we recommend can be safely washed in a washing machine. Opt for the coldest and gentlest setting available to minimize the risk of significant shrinking, as wool is prone to such changes when exposed to harsh agitation or heavy spin cycles.

Avoid using the dryer for wool blankets unless the fabric’s label explicitly states that it is safe to do so. Drying wool in the dryer can lead to felting, causing the fibers to shrink and mat together. Instead, lay the blanket out on a large surface area, unfolding it completely or adjusting it periodically to ensure all sections receive ample air exposure. Depending on the size of the blanket, it may take up to 24 hours or longer for it to fully dry. Practicing patience is crucial in preserving the quality and longevity of your wool blankets.

How to Clean Synthetic Blankets?

Synthetic blankets, such as fleece and plush types, are convenient for machine washing and drying, similar to cotton or linen counterparts. However, they are sensitive to higher temperatures, so it’s advisable to launder them on cold or warm settings. Although any damage from a few hot washes might not be immediately noticeable, Fran Kozen warned that over time, synthetic fibers tend to lose their shape, thickness, and integrity faster than natural fiber blankets. Hence, frequent washing in hot water or drying on high heat can hasten their decline.

The benefit of synthetic blankets lies in their lightweight quality and reduced water retention compared to natural fibers. Consequently, they require less drying time in the dryer for thorough drying. Typically, an hour on low heat should be adequate to dry synthetic blankets effectively.

Essential Tips for Cleaning Blankets:

Check the Care Label:

Always refer to the care label on your blanket for specific cleaning instructions and recommendations from the manufacturer.

Treat Stains Promptly:

Address stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting into the fabric. Use appropriate stain removers or gentle cleaning solutions based on the blanket’s material.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals:

Opt for mild detergents and cleaning agents to preserve the softness and color of your blankets. Harsh chemicals can damage delicate fabrics and cause fading or discoloration.

Use Gentle Cycle:

When machine washing blankets, choose the gentle or delicate cycle to minimize agitation and reduce the risk of damage to the fabric.

Dry Thoroughly:

Ensure blankets are completely dry before storing them to prevent mold and mildew growth. Air drying outdoors can also help freshen and sanitize blankets naturally.

Rotate and Store Properly:

Rotate your blankets regularly to prevent uneven wear and sun exposure. Store clean blankets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain their quality.

How to Clean Blankets? – Conclusion:

With proper care and maintenance, your blankets can remain soft, cozy, and inviting for years to come. By understanding the specific cleaning needs of different materials and following essential tips for care, you can keep your blankets looking and feeling their best. Whether it’s a cherished heirloom wool blanket or a beloved fleece throw, a little TLC goes a long way in preserving the comfort and beauty of your blankets. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your cleaning supplies, and give your blankets the refresh they deserve for countless cozy moments ahead.