Blankets are more than just a source of warmth – they add comfort and style to your home. Whether it’s a soft fleece blanket, a cozy wool one, or a decorative throw, taking good care of your blankets will help them last longer and stay looking great. Here’s a simple guide on how to keep your blankets as good as new.
Read the Care Label
Before washing or cleaning your blanket, always check the care label. Different materials require different types of care, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some blankets are machine washable, while others may need hand washing or dry cleaning. The care label will also tell you what temperature to wash the blanket at and if it can be tumble-dried or not.
Wash Blankets Gently
For machine-washable blankets, it’s important to use a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the fabric. Here are a few tips for washing different types of blankets:
- Cotton Blankets: Wash in cold or warm water on a gentle cycle to prevent shrinking.
- Fleece Blankets: Use cold water and avoid fabric softeners, as they can make the fleece less soft over time.
- Wool Blankets: Wash in cold water on a delicate cycle or hand wash. Use a mild detergent made for wool to protect the fibers.
Always avoid using bleach, which can weaken the fabric and fade colors over time.
Use Mild Detergent
Using a mild, gentle detergent is key to keeping your blanket soft and fresh. Harsh detergents can damage the fibers, especially in more delicate materials like wool or fleece. Choose a detergent that’s free of strong chemicals and dyes to avoid irritation and keep your blanket in top condition.
Dry Your Blanket Carefully
How you dry your blanket is just as important as how you wash it. Some blankets can be tumble-dried, while others need to air dry. Here’s how to dry different types of blankets:
- Machine Drying: If your blanket is machine-washable, use a low heat setting to prevent shrinkage and maintain softness. Overheating can damage the fabric and make it less cozy.
- Air Drying: For blankets made from delicate fabrics, air drying is the best option. Lay the blanket flat on a clean surface or hang it to dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade the colors.
If you’re tumble drying, tossing in a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls can help keep the blanket fluffy by preventing it from clumping.
Avoid Over-Washing
While it’s important to keep your blanket clean, over-washing can wear down the fabric over time. Most blankets don’t need to be washed frequently unless they’re used daily. Washing your blanket once every few months (or as needed) is usually enough to keep it fresh.
For throw blankets or blankets used less often, you can simply shake them out or give them a quick spot clean between washes to maintain their quality.
Store Blankets Properly
When you’re not using your blankets, storing them properly will help keep them in good condition. Make sure they’re clean and completely dry before storing them to avoid mildew or odors. Here are some tips for storage:
- Fold neatly: Fold your blankets to avoid creases and wrinkles.
- Use breathable storage bags: Store blankets in cotton or canvas storage bags to protect them from dust while allowing the fabric to breathe.
- Avoid plastic bags: Plastic bags can trap moisture and lead to mildew, so it’s best to avoid them when storing blankets for long periods.
If you store your blankets in a closet, place them on a shelf rather than hanging them, as hanging can stretch out the fabric over time.
Spot Clean When Needed
For small stains or spills, spot cleaning your blanket can prevent you from having to wash the whole thing. Use a mild detergent or fabric cleaner, and gently dab the stain with a soft cloth. Avoid scrubbing, as it can damage the fabric. Once the stain is removed, allow the area to air dry completely.
Maintain Softness
To keep your blankets soft and fluffy, avoid using harsh chemicals or high heat when cleaning. For fleece and wool blankets, a fabric conditioner can help maintain softness, but use it sparingly to avoid buildup. If your blanket starts to feel a little stiff after washing, a quick shake or fluff can help restore its cozy feel.
Taking proper care of your blankets is simple and can keep them looking and feeling great for years to come. By washing them gently, drying them carefully, and storing them properly, you can maintain their softness, color, and quality. With these tips, your blankets will stay as good as new, ready to provide comfort whenever you need them!