Blankets provide warmth and comfort, but without proper care, they can lose their softness and accumulate dust, allergens, and odour over time. Whether it's a cosy winter blanket or a lightweight summer throw, knowing how to clean, store, and maintain your blankets ensures they stay fresh, fluffy, and comfortable for years.
UNDERSTANDING BLANKET MATERIALS
Different fabrics require different care methods. Understanding your blanket's material is the first step to proper maintenance.
- Cotton: Breathable and lightweight, cotton blankets are machine washable and easy to maintain.
- Wool: Known for its warmth, wool requires gentle washing or dry cleaning to prevent shrinkage.
- Fleece: Soft and insulating, fleece blankets should be washed in cold water to retain their plush feel.
- Down: Filled with feathers for extra warmth, down blankets need delicate washing and thorough drying.
- Synthetic Fibres: These are often easy to care for, but check the label for specific washing instructions.
HOW TO WASH YOUR BLANKETS PROPERLY
Regular washing helps prevent dust build-up and keeps your blankets feeling fresh. Follow these general washing tips:
Machine Washing
- Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water to prevent fabric damage.
- Choose a mild detergent to avoid residue build-up.
- Wash blankets separately to ensure a thorough clean and prevent tangling.
- For larger blankets, consider using a laundromat's industrial-sized machine.
Hand Washing
- Fill a bathtub or large basin with cold or lukewarm water.
- Add a mild detergent and gently agitate the water.
- Soak the blanket for 15-20 minutes then rinse thoroughly.
- Gently squeeze out excess water--never wring or twist the fabric.
Drying Your Blankets
- Air drying is ideal to maintain softness. Hang blankets on a drying rack or clothesline in a shaded area to prevent fading.
- If using a dryer, set it on a low-heat or air-fluff setting to prevent shrinkage.
- Toss in a few wool dryer balls to keep blankets fluffy and prevent clumping.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR BLANKETS FLUFFY
Fluffiness is key to a comfortable blanket. Here's how to maintain that soft, plush feel:
- Shake It Out: Regularly shake and fluff blankets to prevent them from becoming flat and compressed.
- Use the Right Detergent: Harsh detergents can strip away softness. Opt for a gentle or wool-friendly detergent.
- Avoid Overwashing: Frequent washing can wear down fibres. Wash only when necessary or spot-clean in between washes.
- Dry with Tennis Balls: When machine drying, add a couple of clean tennis balls or wool dryer balls to help fluff up the fibres.
PROPER STORAGE FOR LONG-LASTING FRESHNESS
How you store your blankets when not in use can impact their freshness.
- Use Breathable Storage Bags: Store blankets in cotton or mesh bags instead of plastic, which can trap moisture and lead to mould.
- Keep in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid humid areas to prevent mildew growth. A linen closet or storage trunk is ideal.
- Add Natural Fresheners: Place lavender sachets or cedar blocks with stored blankets to keep them smelling fresh and deter pests.
- Fold Neatly: Avoid overstuffing storage spaces to prevent blankets from getting misshapen.
WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR BLANKETS
Even with the best care, blankets won't last forever. Consider replacing them if:
- The fabric feels worn and thin.
- The blanket has persistent odours that won't wash out.
- It's no longer providing the same level of warmth or comfort.
Caring for your blankets doesn't have to be complicated. With the right washing, drying, and storage methods, you can keep them fresh, fluffy, and comfortable for years. Whether you're curling up on the couch or preparing for a cosy night's sleep, well-maintained blankets make all the difference.