Wool is a natural fiber that is very durable. It is also considered hypoallergenic and resistant to dirt, dust mites, and mildew. However, just like any other fabric, it will need to be taken care of in order to maintain its quality.
If you have a wool blanket that you love, here are some tips for washing it without compromising its appearance or quality.
1. Machine-washable?
If your wool blanket is not too large (ie. king size) and machine-washable (check the label), put it in the washer with cold water on gentle cycle. Use a washable detergent, NOT fabric softener.
2. Hand-wash or dry clean?
If your blanket is too large to fit in the washer (or you do not have access to either machine), use a bowl of lukewarm water and gentle laundry detergent that does not contain bleach or brighteners. If it has stains, scrub with a stain remover or soak it in the detergent. Rinse thoroughly and squeeze out excess water. Lay flat to dry, preferably on a rack or hanger to prevent mildewing. DO NOT WRING THOROUGHLY OR THE FIBERS WILL SHRINK AND STRETCH!
3. If you must use a dryer…
If your blanket cannot be washed by machine (or if you ignore the suggestion above to wash it in the washer), you should at least tumble-dry on low heat for five minutes or so. This will help to reduce mildewing and shrinking, but otherwise is not going to do much for cleaning the blanket. It will take a long time to dry and might not come out smelling very nice!
4. Approaches to difficult stains…
Remove any loose dirt or dust first with a feather duster, vacuum cleaner or lint brush (if your blanket is wool and you do not have pet hair, this step may be unnecessary). To remove stubborn stains, use a pre-soaked laundry stain remover (available at most grocery stores). Follow the directions on the package and rinse thoroughly. DO NOT OVERWASH OR THE FIBERS WILL SHRINK AND STRETCH!
5. How often should I wash my blanket?
You can wash your blanket as often as you would like. If you live in a particularly dusty environment, it should be washed more often and may need washing every month or two. You will know your blanket needs washing if it feels “dusty” to the touch, or if there are a lot of lint balls when you take it off the blanket rack at night.
6. To dry or not to dry?
If you have access to a clothesline, you can hang your blanket outside in the fresh air (even in winter) and let it drip dry. This method will help keep lint at a minimum, as well as preserving the natural fibers. You can also lay it out flat on a rack indoors and allow it to dry that way.
7. Keep it clean…
Once you have washed and dried your blanket, fold it neatly in a closet or under the bed. Wash when dirty, and be sure not to leave it on the couch or floor where people can accidentally step on or snag on it!
Conclusion
Wool is a durable fabric that requires washing with care. The 7 tips for properly washing your wool blanket should help you keep it clean and maintain its quality. Whether you choose to wash the blanket by hand or machine, make sure not to over-wash or wring out thoroughly as this will result in shrinking of the fibers and may lead to fuzz balls on the surface. You can also hang outside if possible so lint doesn’t build up (though do remember wool attracts animal hair!). Follow these suggestions and take good care of your favorite blankie!
