How To Wash Throw Blankets

Introduction

How To Wash Throw Blankets : Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to wash throw blankets! Throw blankets are not only stylish additions to your living space but also provide warmth and comfort during chilly evenings. However, just like any other household item, throw blankets require regular cleaning to maintain their softness and cleanliness.

In this guide, we will walk you through various methods and tips to ensure your throw blankets are properly washed without compromising their quality. We will cover different types of throw blankets, including wool, fleece, cotton, and more, and provide specific instructions for each material.

You’ll learn about pre-washing preparations, such as checking care labels, removing stains, and treating delicate fabrics. We’ll guide you through both hand-washing and machine-washing techniques, explaining the appropriate water temperature, detergent selection, and cycle settings for optimal results.

Do throw blankets need to be washed?

Every two weeks, to be safe. “The average person will need to clean their throws at least once a month,” Mahdessian explains. “But of course, your level of cleanliness also makes a difference.

Yes, throw blankets do need to be washed regularly to maintain their cleanliness and freshness. Over time, throw blankets accumulate dirt, body oils, sweat, pet hair, and other debris that can make them look and feel dirty. Regular washing helps remove these impurities, keeping your throw blankets hygienic and pleasant to use.

Factors such as frequency of use, exposure to spills or stains, and personal preferences will determine how often you should wash your throw blankets. As a general guideline, it is recommended to wash them every few weeks or whenever they become visibly soiled.

washing throw blankets also helps maintain their quality and lifespan. By removing built-up dirt and oils, you can prevent them from becoming embedded in the fabric and causing long-term damage. Regular washing also helps preserve the softness, color, and overall appearance of the throw blankets.

It’s important to note that different types of throw blankets may require specific care instructions. Always check the care label on your throw blanket for any manufacturer’s recommendations. Some blankets may be machine washable, while others may require hand washing or professional cleaning. By following the appropriate cleaning methods for your specific blanket, you can ensure it remains in excellent condition.

How do you wash throw blankets to keep them soft?

If “hand wash only,” use a fabric-appropriate detergent; work up some sudsy, lukewarm water; and gently press through the blanket. Rinse out in lukewarm water. If your blanket can be machine washed, simply wash in cold water using the gentle cycle. Of course, if the label says otherwise, always listen to the label.

Check the care label: Before washing, read the care instructions on the throw blanket. The label will provide specific guidance on washing temperature, detergent type, and any special care requirements.

Use a gentle detergent: Choose a mild detergent specifically formulated for delicate fabrics. Harsh detergents can strip away natural fibers and leave the blanket feeling rough. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners as they can also affect the softness of the blanket.

Select the right water temperature: Use lukewarm or cold water to wash your throw blanket. Hot water can cause shrinkage and damage certain materials. Follow the temperature recommendations on the care label.

Choose a gentle cycle: If using a washing machine, opt for a gentle or delicate cycle to minimize agitation. This will help prevent excessive friction that can lead to pilling or damage to the fibers.

Don’t overcrowd the machine: Avoid overloading the washing machine to allow the throw blanket to move freely. This will help ensure a thorough and even cleaning.

How do you wash throw blankets?

Wash in cold water on gentle, as stronger wash settings may cause knots to form. Use a small amount of detergent, as using too much can stick to fibers and make it less soft. Avoid bleach, as it damages fleece fibers and the blanket’s dye.

Spot treat stains: If there are any visible stains on the throw blanket, treat them before washing. Use a stain remover or a gentle detergent to target the affected areas. Follow the instructions provided by the stain remover or detergent.

Determine the washing method: Depending on the care label instructions and the type of throw blanket, you can choose between hand-washing and machine-washing. Delicate fabrics like wool or cashmere often require hand-washing, while sturdier materials like cotton or fleece can be machine-washed.

Hand-washing: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. Gently agitate the water to create suds. Submerge the throw blanket and swish it around, focusing on any soiled areas. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Machine-washing: If the throw blanket is machine-washable, place it in the washing machine. Use a gentle cycle and select a mild detergent. Follow the recommended water temperature and load size specified on the care label.

Drying: After washing, carefully squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the throw blanket. For air-drying, lay it flat on a clean surface or hang it over a drying rack. If using a dryer, select a low heat setting to prevent shrinking or damage.

Do throw blankets need to be washed?

 Every two weeks, to be safe. “The average person will need to clean their throws at least once a month,” Mahdessian explains. “But of course, your level of cleanliness also makes a difference.

Yes, throw blankets need to be washed periodically to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. Over time, throw blankets accumulate dust, dirt, body oils, pet dander, and other particles that can make them unclean and uninviting. Regular washing helps remove these contaminants, ensuring that your throw blankets stay fresh and pleasant to use.

The frequency of washing throw blankets depends on factors such as how often they are used, exposure to spills or stains, and personal preferences. As a general guideline, it is recommended to wash throw blankets every few weeks or whenever they become visibly dirty or odorous.

Aside from hygiene, washing throw blankets also helps maintain their quality and longevity. Built-up dirt and oils can affect the fabric’s softness, appearance, and even lead to unpleasant odors. Regular washing prevents these issues, keeping your throw blankets in optimal condition.

It’s important to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to wash throw blankets correctly. Some blankets can be machine-washed, while others may require hand-washing or specific cleaning methods. Checking the care label ensures that you choose the appropriate washing technique and temperature.

Can I wash my throw blanket with clothes?

You can put them directly into the machine with other cotton clothing. Add a mild liquid detergent and wash on a gentle cycle. Use the coldest water possible since this prevents the cotton from shrinking. Dry for half the time in the dryer with a low or normal heat.

In general, it is not recommended to wash your throw blanket with clothes, especially if the blanket is delicate or requires specific care. Washing a throw blanket with clothes can lead to potential issues such as tangling, damage to the fabric, or color transfer.

Throw blankets are often made from different materials and may have specific washing instructions. Mixing them with clothes in the same load can result in friction and agitation that may be too harsh for delicate fabrics. Additionally, throw blankets are typically larger and bulkier than clothes, and washing them together may not allow for proper water circulation and thorough cleaning.

To ensure the best care for your throw blanket, it is advisable to wash it separately or with other similar textiles of the same fabric type. This allows you to follow the specific washing instructions provided on the care label and ensure appropriate handling.

What is the best method for washing a wool throw blanket?

The best method for washing a wool throw blanket is typically hand-washing. Follow these steps:

Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water.Add a gentle wool detergent to the water and mix it well.Submerge the wool throw blanket in the water and gently agitate it.

Allow the blanket to soak for about 10 to 15 minutes, gently swishing it occasionally.

Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean lukewarm water.

Rinse the blanket thoroughly, gently squeezing out excess water without wringing or twisting.

If necessary, you can repeat the rinsing process to ensure all detergent is removed.

Gently press the blanket between towels to remove excess moisture.

Lay the blanket flat on a clean, dry towel or a drying rack to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources.

Reshape the blanket while it is drying to maintain its original size and shape.

Once completely dry, fluff the blanket gently to restore its softness and loftiness.

Remember to always check the care label and follow any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for washing wool throw blankets.

Is it safe to machine wash a throw blanket with delicate embroidery?

Machine washing a throw blanket with delicate embroidery can be risky, as the agitation and movement in the washing machine can potentially damage or loosen the embroidery threads. It is generally recommended to avoid machine washing such blankets and opt for hand-washing instead to ensure the safety of the delicate embroidery.

Check the care label: Read the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. If it explicitly states that the throw blanket with delicate embroidery is safe for machine washing, follow the guidelines mentioned.

Use a gentle cycle: Select the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine. This cycle minimizes agitation and reduces the risk of damaging the embroidery.

Protect the embroidery: Place the throw blanket in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to provide a protective barrier for the delicate embroidery. This will help prevent direct contact with the agitator or other items in the machine.

Use mild detergent: Choose a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Harsh detergents can be too abrasive and may cause damage to the embroidery.

Low-speed spin or no spin: Opt for a low-speed spin cycle or skip the spin altogether. Excessive spinning can pull on the delicate threads of the embroidery.

It’s important to note that hand-washing is generally the safest option for preserving the integrity of delicate embroidery on a throw blanket. If in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or consider professional cleaning to ensure the longevity of the embroidery.

Are there any specific drying instructions for a knitted throw blanket?

Pat excess moisture: After washing, gently squeeze the knitted throw blanket to remove excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can stretch or distort the knit.

Lay flat to dry: Lay the knitted throw blanket flat on a clean, dry surface, such as a clean towel or a drying rack. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds and reshape it to its original dimensions.

Avoid hanging: Hanging a wet knitted blanket can cause it to stretch and lose its shape. It is best to lay it flat instead.

Air dry: Allow the knitted throw blanket to air dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause fading or damage to the fibers.

Flip and rotate: During the drying process, periodically flip the blanket over and rotate it to ensure even drying. This helps prevent any moisture buildup or potential mold growth.

Be patient: Drying a knitted blanket may take some time, as the knit fabric can retain moisture. Allow ample drying time before using or storing the blanket.

By following these specific drying instructions, you can help preserve the shape, texture, and overall quality of your knitted throw blanket, ensuring that it remains cozy and beautiful for continued use.

Conclusion

Knowing how to properly wash throw blankets is essential for maintaining their cleanliness, softness, and overall quality. By following the appropriate washing techniques and considering the specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer, you can ensure that your throw blankets remain fresh, hygienic, and cozy for years to come.

Whether hand-washing or machine-washing, selecting the right water temperature, using gentle detergents, and following recommended cycle settings are key to preventing damage and preserving the integrity of the blankets. Additionally, taking extra care when dealing with delicate materials, stains, or blankets with embellishments like embroidery is crucial to avoid potential harm.

Proper drying techniques, such as air-drying or using low heat settings, further contribute to maintaining the softness and shape of the throw blankets. By allowing them to dry completely and fluffing them gently, you can restore their loftiness and ensure a comfortable cuddling experience.

Regular washing not only keeps throw blankets free from dirt, oils, and allergens but also helps extend their lifespan and preserve their appearance. So, with the knowledge and tips provided in this guide, you can confidently care for your throw blankets, ensuring they continue to provide warmth, comfort, and style to your living space.