Blankets can easily harbor dirt especially fluffy blankets such as spilled popcorn or pet hair. When it comes to washing blankets, many people choose to use a washing machine, which saves time and effort.

However, if you don't wash your blankets properly, the life of your sheets will be shortened. This guide will show you how to clean sheets in a washing machine.

What is a Blanket

A blanket is a versatile household item that comes in a variety of materials such as wool, fleece, cotton, and synthetic fibers.

Blankets are usually large enough to cover an entire bed, ranging from a single bed to a king-size bed. Commonly measuring approximately 59 inches x 79 inches (150 cm x 200 cm)

Blankets are made from a variety of materials, including wool, cotton, fleece and down, ensuring a cozy and comfortable experience during the colder months. Functional blankets are usually simple in design and solid in color, with the main purpose being to keep the user warm and comfortable.

Throw blankets are smaller than traditional blankets and are typically used on a single sofa or chair, commonly measuring about 51x63 inches (about 130x160 cm).

Made of cotton, polyester, and other materials, blankets provide extra warmth for resting or napping. Blankets come in a variety of patterns, colors, and decorative elements to set the mood of a room while providing convenience and comfort.

Preparation Before Cleaning

Before you wash your blanket, you need to do some preparation.

Read The Care Label

Before washing your blanket, you need to read the care label. Each manufacturer will provide specific instructions, such as whether it can be machine washed, recommended water temperature, whether it can be bleached, and drying instructions. Following the care instructions can extend the life of your blanket.

Inspect and Pretreat Your Blanket

Blankets collect dirt, pet hair, food crumbs, spilled drinks, and body oils from everyday use. Always inspect your blanket for stains and spots before washing. Pretreat visible stains with a mild detergent or stain remover. Use a lint roller to remove excess lint and pet hair.

Choose The Right Detergent

Choose a mild detergent that doesn't contain harsh chemicals.

Avoid using fabric softeners, which can leave a residue and reduce the fluffiness of your blanket.

White vinegar is a natural fabric softener that you can add about a half cup to the rinse cycle. It helps break down residual detergent and restore the softness of your blanket without leaving a residue.

If you're using powder detergent, try using liquid detergent. Powder detergents often don't rinse well and can leave a residue on the fibers of the blanket that affects its softness. Liquid detergents dissolve better and rinse more thoroughly.

Check The Capacity of Your Washing Machine

Fluffy blankets are usually large. You need to make sure your washing machine has enough space. If your washing machine is not big enough, you can go to a nearby laundromat and find a washing machine with a larger capacity.

How to Wash a Blanket and Keep It Soft

Adding Detergent

Before placing the blanket in the machine, add a mild liquid detergent to the washing machine and stir well to distribute the detergent evenly in the water.

Placing Blankets

Evenly distribute the blankets in the washing machine and do not overfill. This allows the water and detergent to circulate properly, ensuring effective cleaning.

Adjusting The Water Temperature

Water Temperature: Wash blankets in cold or warm water (about 30-40°C or 86-104°F). Hot water can cause shrinkage and damage fibers, especially for materials such as wool or synthetic blends. Using water at the right temperature can preserve the integrity and color of the blanket.

Adjusting The Spin Speed

Use a low to medium spin speed, about 600-800 RPM. A gentle spin reduces stress on the fibers, preventing stretching and damage.

Washing Time

Set the washing machine to a gentle or delicate wash cycle, which usually lasts 30 to 40 minutes. Use an extended rinse time to ensure that the detergent is completely rinsed out. Avoid detergent residue, which can make the blanket stiff and irritate the skin.

Drying vs Tumble Drying

It is also important to dry your blanket after washing it, as improper handling of the process can affect the softness of the blanket:

Use a low setting to dry your blanket. High temperatures can damage the fibers and reduce the fluffiness of the blanket. Adding dryer balls can help to make the blanket fluffy and speed up the drying process by improving air circulation within the dryer.

Drying time will vary depending on the thickness and material of the blanket, but it usually takes about 1-2 hours on low. Check regularly to ensure that it is not over-dried.

Lay the blanket flat on a drying rack or hang it on a clothesline. Make sure the blanket is evenly spread out. It is beneficial to dry your blanket in the sun, as the sun's ultraviolet rays help kill bacteria and dust mites, which will leave the blanket smelling fresh. 

Air drying may take longer, usually 24-48 hours, depending on the weather and the thickness of the blanket. Make sure the blanket is completely dry before bringing it back indoors to avoid mold growth.

Storing Blankets

If you have washed your blanket but don't need it for a while, remember to store it properly to avoid damage and extend its life.

• Fold Neatly: Folding your blanket neatly saves space and prevents wrinkles. But don't fold it too tightly to avoid stressing the fibers.
• Use Breathable Storage Bags: Store your blanket in a breathable cotton bag. Avoid plastic bags, as they absorb moisture and cause mold.
• Add Moisture Absorbers: Place silica gel bags or other moisture absorbers in the storage area to keep your blanket dry and prevent mold.
• Lavender Sachets or Cedar Blocks: Use lavender sachets or cedar blocks to naturally repel moths and other pests. They will also add a pleasant scent to your stored blankets.

How Often Should You Wash a Fluffy Blanket?

If you use your blanket regularly, washing it once or twice a month is usually recommended. This helps keep the blanket clean and prevents dirt and grease buildup.

Or you can clean stains. This can extend the time between washes.

If the blanket is used primarily for decorative purposes, washing it once or twice per season is usually sufficient.

How to Restore Fluffiness to a Blanket

There are many types of blankets, from thin ones to thick ones for winter such as fleece blankets, faux fur blankets, and coral fleece blankets.

Of course, these fluffy blankets are more difficult to clean than regular blankets because of their size and fluffiness. If you want to make it fluffy again after cleaning, you can do the following.

Find a clean surface and spread the blanket out evenly.

Use a soft-bristle brush or pet brush. These types of brushes are gentle on fabrics and can effectively lift the fibers without damaging them.

Start at one end of the blanket and gently brush the fibers in one direction. Avoid back-and-forth motions.

Repeating the motion can untangle tangled fibers and restore the blanket's natural fluffiness and softness.

Summary

Knowing some washing tips can help you clean blankets and other household items more effectively, keeping them clean, soft, and durable. We offer a wide range of household items such as blankets and quilts. Visit Ownkoti bedding choose your favorite products, and enhance the comfort of your home.