There’s nothing quite like the comfort of snuggling up in a soft, warm blanket after a long day. Whether it's a cosy fleece, a luxurious wool throw, or a family heirloom quilt, blankets are a staple of comfort in our homes.
However, like any fabric, blankets require proper care to maintain their softness and ensure they last for years. With the right techniques, you can keep your favourite blankets feeling plush and looking new. Here are some essential tips on how to care for your blankets to ensure they remain soft and cosy for as long as possible.
Before diving into maintenance tips, it's essential to recognize that different types of blankets require different care routines. The first step in ensuring the longevity of your blanket is knowing its material. Here's a quick rundown of common blanket materials and their unique care requirements:
Cotton Blankets: Lightweight and breathable, cotton blankets are easy to care for. They can usually be machine-washed in cold or warm water and tumble-dried on low heat. Avoid using high heat, as it can cause shrinkage and wear out the fibres.
Wool Blankets: Wool is a natural fibre known for its warmth, but it requires more delicate care. Most wool blankets need to be hand-washed or washed on a gentle cycle with cold water to prevent shrinking. It’s best to air-dry wool blankets by laying them flat to maintain their shape.
Fleece Blankets: Fleece is soft, durable, and resistant to pilling, but it can lose its softness over time if washed improperly. Wash fleece blankets in cold water and avoid fabric softeners, which can leave a residue and reduce softness.
Down or Feather Blankets: These blankets provide excellent warmth but are best cared for with occasional dry cleaning. If you opt for home washing, use a front-loading washer on a gentle cycle and tumble dry with dryer balls to prevent clumping.
Synthetic Fibre Blankets (e.g., Polyester or Microfiber): These are often the easiest to care for. They can typically be machine-washed on a cold cycle and tumble-dried on low heat. However, avoid using high temperatures to maintain their softness.
Use Gentle Detergents: Regular detergents can be harsh on delicate fibres, causing them to break down over time. Opt for a mild detergent, preferably one designed for delicate fabrics, to protect your blanket’s texture. Additionally, avoid using too much detergent; a small amount goes a long way and prevents residue build-up.
Skip the Fabric Softener: It may seem counterintuitive, but fabric softeners can actually make blankets feel less soft over time. The chemicals in fabric softeners can coat the fibres, causing them to stiffen. Instead, add a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle, which helps remove detergent residue and keeps blankets soft.
Cold Water is Your Friend: Washing your blankets in cold water not only preserves their softness but also reduces the risk of shrinking or fading. Hot water can cause fabric fibres to lose their elasticity and plushness over time.
Wash Blankets Separately: Blankets are bulky and need plenty of space to move around in the washing machine. Washing them with other items, especially towels, can cause friction and lead to pilling or rough patches. Always wash blankets on their own to ensure even cleaning and less wear on the fabric.
Air-Drying is Ideal: For most blankets, air-drying is the gentlest option. Lay your blanket flat on a clean surface, such as a drying rack or over a clothesline, to preserve its shape and softness. This method works especially well for wool and other delicate materials.
Use the Low Heat Setting for Tumble Drying: If you prefer using the dryer, always use the lowest heat setting. High heat can damage fibres, cause shrinkage, and make your blanket feel stiff. Add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer to fluff the blanket and keep it from clumping.
Don’t Overdry: Overdrying blankets, especially on high heat, can break down the fibres and reduce their softness. Keep an eye on your dryer’s cycle and remove the blanket while it’s still slightly damp to avoid overheating.
Shake it Out: After drying, give your blanket a good shake to fluff the fibres and help restore its softness. This simple step can make a big difference in maintaining the plush feel of your favourite blankets.
Blankets offer warmth, comfort, and a sense of cosiness that we all cherish, but maintaining that softness and longevity requires a bit of care. Whether you have a beloved throw that’s been passed down through generations or a new purchase, caring for your blankets properly ensures they remain your go-to source of comfort for years to come. So, next time you wrap yourself up, you’ll know that a little extra care goes a long way in maintaining that snug, cosy feeling.
