How To Wash Your Blanket The Right Way: Tips For Long-Lasting Softness
Who doesn’t love a super-soft, cozy blanket? Whether you’re curling up on the couch, adding a layer of warmth to your bed, or building a pillow fort for movie night, a fluffy, comfortable blanket is essential. But keeping that blanket feeling soft and snuggly for the long haul requires a little TLC.
Blankets go through a lot—pet hair, spilled drinks, everyday wear and tear—so understanding how to care for them can keep them looking and feeling their best. The secret to long-lasting softness? Regular care, the right techniques, and eco-friendly choices that are good for your blanket and the planet!
Let’s break down everything you need to know about keeping your favorite blankets in perfect condition.
Know Your Blanket Material
Blankets come in a variety of materials, and each one needs different care. Choosing the right washing method based on your blanket’s fabric is key to keeping it soft and in good shape. Let’s dive into the most common blanket materials:
Cotton Blankets: These are usually the most durable and easy to care for. Machine wash in cold water and air dry to avoid shrinkage. If you prefer the dryer, use low heat to protect the fibers and keep them from getting stiff.
Wool Blankets: Wool is all about coziness, but it’s also very delicate. Always use cold water and avoid the dryer at all costs. Air drying is a must to prevent shrinking and to maintain its shape.
Fleece/Polyester Blankets: Super popular for their warmth and softness, fleece blankets can go in the washing machine. However, make sure you wash them in cold water and tumble dry on low heat to avoid pilling or losing that cozy texture.
Weighted Blankets: These blankets, often filled with glass beads or plastic pellets, need extra attention. For small spills, spot cleaning works best. If it’s time for a full wash, follow the care label closely—most can handle a gentle cycle, but air drying is usually a safer bet to maintain their weight distribution.
Not sure how to handle a specific type of blanket? When in doubt, always check the care label. It’s your blanket’s best friend!
How Often Should You Wash Your Blanket?
Knowing when to wash your blanket can be tricky. Wash it too often, and it might wear out faster. Don’t wash it enough, and it could harbor dust, allergens, or just lose that fresh feeling. Here’s a general guide:
Lightly used blankets: If you’re using your blanket only occasionally (think guest room or decorative throw), washing every 2-3 months should be plenty.
Heavy-use or pet-friendly blankets: If your blanket gets a lot of love—whether from you or your furry friends—try to wash it once a month to keep it smelling fresh and clean.
Special cases: Have allergies? Spilled something? Dealing with a cold or flu? Go ahead and wash your blanket right away.
Washing less frequently not only helps extend the life of your blanket but also saves water and energy. Every wash takes a toll on fabrics, so avoid overwashing to keep your blankets soft and cozy for longer!
The Right Way to Wash Your Blanket
Ready to give your blanket a good wash? Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you do it right:
Prep Your Blanket: Before tossing it in the machine, shake out any loose dirt, hair, or debris. If you see any stains, treat them with a gentle, eco-friendly stain remover.
Choose the Right Detergent: Opt for a gentle, eco-friendly detergent that’s free of harsh chemicals. Standard detergents can be too strong and leave residue behind, which could make your blanket feel rough over time.
Water Temperature: For most blankets, cold water is your best bet. It reduces the risk of shrinking and color fading while still giving your blanket a thorough clean.
The Right Cycle: Use a gentle cycle to prevent unnecessary wear and tear. For weighted blankets or those with delicate materials, always go for the most delicate setting.
Keep in mind, using too much detergent or washing your blanket on a rough cycle can break down the fibers and leave it feeling less soft. Gentle is always better!
Drying Your Blanket Without Damaging It
The drying process is just as important as washing when it comes to maintaining that soft, fluffy feel. Different blankets need different drying methods:
Air Dry: Wool and delicate blankets should always be air-dried. Lay them flat on a clean surface (like a drying rack) to keep their shape intact. Avoid hanging, as this can stretch the fabric.
Low Heat Tumble Dry: For fleece, polyester, and other sturdier materials, you can tumble dry on low heat. Be cautious, though—too much heat can cause damage over time.
A quick eco-friendly tip: Skip the dryer sheets! Instead, use wool dryer balls to naturally reduce static and cut down drying time. They’re reusable and great for keeping your blankets soft without any harsh chemicals.
How to Keep Your Blanket Soft Between Washes
Want to keep that cozy, freshly washed feeling for longer? Here are a few simple tricks to maintain softness between washes:
Spot Clean Small Stains: Instead of throwing your blanket in the wash for every little spill, use a mild cleaner or a cloth with water to spot clean. This will reduce the frequency of full washes and help your blanket last longer.
Use a Lint Roller: Got pet hair or lint? A quick once-over with a lint roller is perfect for cleaning off debris without needing to wash.
Shake It Out Regularly: Give your blanket a good shake every now and then to fluff it up and prevent fibers from matting down. This helps keep it looking and feeling fresh.
By now, you’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to keep your blankets feeling soft, fluffy, and in top shape! From knowing how often to wash them to choosing the right water temperature, it’s all about gentle care.
Taking care of your blanket isn’t just about maintaining coziness—it’s also a great way to reduce waste and be more eco-friendly in your home.
And when life gets busy, or you want to make sure your blankets are getting the best possible treatment, we’ve got your back. We offer Los Angeles' only certified Green laundry service, specializing in eco-conscious cleaning and care for all your laundry needs. Whether it’s your favorite throw blanket or your go-to bedspread, we’re here to make sure it stays snuggly-soft while keeping things sustainable.
Want your blankets to feel brand new again? Schedule a pickup today, and let us handle the eco-friendly cleaning!
