Rules and tips on how to wash a blanket so that it remains soft and fluffy

01.03.2017

How to wash a blanket to preserve its original beauty? This question is asked sooner or later by everyone who has a large fluffy blanket in their home. Initially, the blanket was a large warm scarf made of natural wool. Which was used as a raincoat, sleeping bag, disguise, table and even a saddle. Over time, the plaid has become an integral part of the interior, an element of furniture decor and cozy protection from drafts. In those distant times, no one racked their brains about caring for blankets. If a thing lost its appearance, it was simply disposed of. Today? Luxurious blankets are too expensive to use before the first wash, which means you need to take care in advance to ensure that the cleaning process does not end in property damage.

How to wash in a washing machine

To determine whether a blanket can be washed in a washing machine, first of all, pay attention to the label with recommendations.
It is on it that it is indicated what kind of cleaning the product will withstand without loss. Different types of fabrics have their own cleaning. For example, synthetics are perfectly machine washable.

For optimal washing of a blanket in the SMA, the drum capacity must be at least 4.5 kg. Check if the dry blanket fits in the drum. Large (for example, double) blankets can hardly be washed in a regular machine. If after loading dry, approximately 1/4 of the drum volume remains, feel free to start washing. But don't forget about preparation.

• Shake out the dust. It is better to do this outdoors - on a balcony or in the yard.
• If you have pets, it is better to clean the blanket from wool before washing - the washing result will be better. Wool can be removed with a vacuum cleaner or manually using a soft bristle brush. Wool can be easily removed if you wear regular rubber gloves. If there are very few hairs, you can use a sticky roller or tape.
• Remember that it is better to wash any blankets “alone”, even if there is still free space in the washing machine drum.

We wash blankets made of synthetics - fleece, acrylic, viscose, faux fur, microfiber

These are the most unpretentious materials in washing and general care.

1. Place the product in the drum of the washing machine.
2. Select a program for delicate fabrics. The water temperature should not exceed 30–40 degrees.
3. Recommended spin speed is 800–1000 rpm. Faux fur should not be wrung out; in extreme cases, set the spin mode to 400 rpm.

You can add fabric softener, but not for fleece. Fleece has the property of repelling water and dirt, and conditioning additives can disrupt the structure of the material. And for blankets with long pile, using conditioner will be very useful to soften the piles.

Drying. If after washing you decide not to use the spin cycle, then you need to remove excess water.

To do this, lightly wring the fabric without twisting it. Is the blanket too wet? Straighten it with one hand and use the palm of the other to gently drive off excess water. The less the blanket is curled, the smoother it will dry. After washing, a damp blanket made from artificial fabrics can be dried both vertically and horizontally. You can simply hang the blanket on a rope, but periodically change the fold location to avoid the formation of creases. Or place the blanket on a flat surface, such as a clothes dryer. A faux fur blanket is dried only in such a way that air flows to it in all directions. And don’t forget to periodically change the position of the blanket, otherwise a musty smell will appear.

Do not place wet products near radiators or other heating devices, or in direct sunlight, as this may lead to overdrying and sticking of the fibers. As for ironing, artificial fabrics dry quickly and do not need to be ironed.

Should I use machine drying? In no case! Synthetic fabrics may melt and the blanket will have to be thrown away.

Washing blankets made from natural fabrics in a washing machine

Manufacturers do not recommend machine washing for products made from natural fabrics. Even with wash programs for wool and delicate fabrics, the fibers of the items may be damaged.

Don't have the desire or time to do laundry?

1. Set the appropriate program “delicate wash”, “wool”, “fur wash”, “cashmere wash”. Recommended water temperature is 30 degrees.
2. Use special detergents for washing wool and delicate fabrics. It is not necessary to add conditioner, since wool detergents already contain softening additives.
3. It is better not to use the spin; in extreme cases, set it to 400 rpm.
4. The blanket must be allowed to drain. Place it horizontally away from heat sources.

Tips for caring for a blanket

Even the most careful washing negatively affects the quality of the bedspread and reduces its service life. To clean the product in an automatic machine less often, you need to follow the following care rules:

1. It is recommended to shake out the bedspread every week on the balcony or outside. This allows you to eliminate accumulated dust, but does not harm the product itself.
2. A homemade blanket accumulates not only dirt, but also unpleasant odors. To get rid of dust and odors, it is recommended to ventilate it more often, for example, by taking it out onto the balcony or simply hanging it in a room with good access to fresh air.
3. From time to time, the bedspread can be gently cleaned with a dry clothes brush. This will remove dust, hairs and fur from it.
4. If a stain has formed on the bedspread, you need to clean it immediately before the dirt is absorbed. It is not necessary to wash the entire item; you can simply treat the stained area with soapy water and dry it.

It is recommended to store the bedspread in a closet in a special breathable bag or in a roll of cotton fabric. In this case, it will retain its beautiful appearance and will not be damaged by moths.

Basic methods for washing a large blanket

There are 3 main strategies on how to wash a long-pile blanket - grass.

Manually

This method is the safest, most delicate - more suitable than others for blankets made from natural materials. Due to its large dimensions, it must be washed in the bathroom.

Fill the water, pay attention to the temperature: it should not exceed 35°. For artificial materials it may be higher, so the label (tag) is your main guide in this matter. Add a detergent to the bathroom, preferably a gel one, as it dissolves better in water and is easier to rinse off.

But(!): no stain removers, conditioners, bleaches or products containing chlorine, otherwise you will not refresh the product, but will ruin it. Soak: 10-60 minutes, longer is not recommended. Gently rinse the blanket in soapy water. Under no circumstances RUB as you would when washing regular laundry. Drain the water and detergent. Fill up with clean water and soak the blanket in it for a bit. To get rid of the product, the water will have to be changed at least three times. Drying is a completely different story. To prevent the product from becoming deformed, it should not be squeezed too hard, and should only be dried in a horizontal position. To speed up the process, you can place the washed item on a terry cloth or towel, where some of the moisture will be absorbed.

In the washing machine

Many modern machines are equipped with washing modes for natural fabrics: “delicate wash”, “hand wash”, “wool”, etc. But you can resort to them only if it is permitted by the manufacturer, which is always indicated on the tag. If you are not sure, then it is better not to take risks.

1. Your washing machine must completely accommodate a blanket (Loading laundry into the drum - from 5 kg).
2. It is recommended to roll the blanket like a snail, with the right side inward - this way it will fit easier in the drum and the wash will be more delicate.
3. Blankets with long pile are lovers of minimalism in everything: minimum spin speed, minimum washing time, lowest temperature.
4. Only natural drying of the product, technology - as when washing by hand.

Laundry/dry cleaning

This is the most optimal, reliable method that saves a lot of effort and time. Of course, it is not available to everyone and not every time. But if you have the means, or if your precious item has a serious, difficult-to-remove stain, it won’t hurt to use the services of specialists. They know exactly how to wash a fluffy blanket, how much, and have professional equipment for this.

The only recommendation: contact only a reliable, proven organization with a decent reputation, good reviews, or on the advice of friends.

Getting ready in advance

In order for a blanket with long pile to serve you for a long time and delight you with its bright color and fluffy softness for years, you need to take care of it right away - from the moment of purchase. How you care for it directly affects its quality and service life.

• Pay attention to the labels! They will tell you the most accurate information on caring for your particular product: washing mode, at what temperature to wash, what detergents are acceptable to use, etc.
• Buy a soft brush - this will reduce the number of washes (more on this below), which will allow the blanket to maintain its original appearance longer. Also, a combed blanket looks more presentable, more luxurious, and feels silkier to the touch.

There is no need to throw the blanket into the washing machine at the first slightest stain. Before washing, the product must go through several cleaning stages. And only if they don’t help, you need to start using heavy artillery.

1. If you just need to refresh the product, remove unpleasant odors (which products made from natural materials absorb very quickly), just hang it outside or on the balcony - natural freshness will be provided without spending on air conditioners and fussing with washing.
2. You can get rid of dust by adding a carpet clapper to the previous point, as well as the desire to relieve stress in order to properly chop off an insensitive piece of fabric.
3. If there are stains on the blanket, under no circumstances should you immediately resort to washing; they must first be removed. Often, an ordinary brush can do the job: gently rub the stained area with it. Did not help? Moisten it with vinegar mixed in water or soda. You can also use a carpet cleaner. For white items, when combing out a blanket, we recommend using lemon juice - a natural bleach + aromatic citrus conditioner, what a brilliant find?
4. Using the same brush you will get rid of fur, hair, and debris. An animal hair comb can also handle this task.

How to wash merino wool items

Various products are made from it - small and voluminous, long and short. The care process also depends on this, so we’ll tell you about the most popular items made from merino wool: how to wash it correctly.

Thermal underwear

How to wash merino wool thermal underwear:

1. At t 35°.
2. Better with your hands. If you want to machine wash, skip the spin and dry cycle.

You can iron thermal underwear, but set the iron to the minimum temperature. All other recommendations are the same. Do not forget to place slightly damp gauze or thin cloth between the iron and the item.

We have men's and women's thermal underwear, single-layer and double-layer (merino wool and coffee fibers). You can purchase a set or separately a sweatshirt with long johns and leggings. We sell environmentally friendly materials and constantly update our range.

Sweater

How to wash a merino wool sweater:

1. Manually.
2. At t 30°.
3. In soft water. Pre-boiling helps soften it. Don't forget to cool the water to the desired temperature.

If it is not possible to wash the sweater by hand, you can use a machine, but place the item in a special bag. Select the correct mode, but without spinning and drying. The rest of the advice is the same.

If possible, take your clothes to a dry cleaner, where they can dry clean the item.

Plaid

The preferred cleaning method is dry cleaning.

How to wash a merino blanket at home:

1. Hands in plenty of water.
2. At t 38°.
3. Okay, but wash the item carefully so that the detergent and water act on the entire thickness of the fibers.

Bobbin merino

Bobbin yarn can withstand load better and is not deformed when knitted by machine. But such material requires a special approach when washing, because it can be impregnated with special compounds to give the thread special mechanical properties.

When knitting with such yarn, measure the sample before and after bath and laundry procedures.

Tips on how to wash bobbin merino:

1. Before washing, steam the product to remove the wax from the yarn.
2. Wash at 30°.
3. Do not twist, there should be no friction.
4. You can soak for 5 minutes, periodically squeezing the knitting sample with your hands.
5. Dry according to the general rules for merino.
6. A sample or a product knitted from new bobbin yarn can be washed twice for the first time.

After washing, bobbin merino will fluff up, increase in size, and remove wax and other substances. Samples should be washed in the same way as finished products.

Merino with acrylic

Other fibers are rarely added to merino wool, not to improve quality (merino quality is impeccable), but to reduce cost. Acrylic is a polymer fiber. Even the addition of 20% acrylic significantly reduces the cost of the yarn produced, and therefore the finished product, and also makes it less difficult to care for.

When washing merino with acrylic, the temperature should also be 30-40°. You can soak the item for 10 minutes. The recommendations for the process of washing, drying and ironing are the same, but you can wash a merino product with acrylic more often and it will keep its shape longer and better. Much depends on how much acrylic is in the composition.

Dry cleaning a blanket

If it is not possible to organize wet cleaning of the blanket, you can try refreshing it using the dry method. This is the least time- and effort-consuming method. The algorithm of actions will be as follows:

• Shake the blanket well outside - this will help get rid of debris stuck between the lint;
• carry out local cleaning of stains using a soap solution or special household chemicals. You can use “folk” remedies, for example, clean oily areas with a solution of ammonia;
• “comb” the pile with a soft brush or comb for animal hair;
• hang a blanket on the balcony for ventilation. This way it will be saturated with oxygen and will smell fresh.

It is necessary to keep the bedspread clean, shake it out and comb it periodically. It is recommended to thoroughly wash the grass blanket no more than three to four times a year. Then the product will last much longer.

Hand wash blanket

Naturally, not every item can be tamped into a washing machine. This is mainly due to the large size or the material from which the item is made. Large blankets simply will not fit into the drum. There is only one way out of this difficult situation - hand washing.

You can clean any bulky blanket made from almost any fabric in this way. Cashmere or fur bedspreads made of natural or faux fur can be washed exclusively by hand.

Remember three basic processing rules.

• Wash at a temperature of no more than 35 degrees.
• Do not subject to mechanical stress: sagging, active spinning.
• Try not to dry in a vertical position.

Hand washing consists of the following parts:

Inspect the item carefully. If you see stains of any origin, you need to wash them in advance. Laundry soap or dishwashing detergent dissolved in water will help you. Apply, wait 15 minutes, rinse. Rinse the bathtub, fill it with water to the height of your palm. In this case, the water temperature does not exceed 35 degrees. Read the label and then follow it. A large woolen blanket or cashmere product can be washed exclusively with liquid preparations, depending on what material the item is made of. Pour some liquid detergent and lather it with your hands. Take a voluminous bedspread and place it in the bathroom so that it “sinks” completely. You can time it. Wait about 3 hours. At the same time, rinse the product every 30 minutes, gently scrunch it with your hands, but do not rub it

Pay special attention to the most contaminated areas. Some housewives have gotten the hang of it, and to wash they stand on the item with their feet, trample it, drain the dirty water and trample it again. As soon as the flowing water ceases to be dirty, fold the fabric into a pile, remove any remaining water, and again spread the product on the bottom of the bathroom along the entire perimeter

Rinse it by running it from the shower. Be patient. Add and remove the liquid again and again until it becomes completely clear. After the last drain of water, leave the blanket alone for 30 minutes. When the excess liquid has drained, begin to roll the blanket by the edge into a roll. This will be your wringer. If desired, simply leave the product folded in a stack or leaning against the wall. The water will go away in about an hour. Don't rush, wait until the whole process is completed. Now, without unrolling it, lean the still heavy blanket against the side of the bathroom and place it in the basin so that water does not spill onto the floor. Wait until the liquid stops dripping. Turn the blanket regularly or drain the water from the basin. To avoid creases when drying, spread the product on a clean horizontal surface: floor, table, etc. If drying in a horizontal position is not possible, then hang the laundry on several lines at the same time, come and periodically change the drying sides.

Let's clean the item in the traditional way

Hand washing is the most gentle way to care for a long-pile blanket. This makes it easier to control the process and be sure that the bedspread is not in danger of deformation. As with automatic cleaning, it is important to monitor the water temperature. It should not exceed 30°C.

If you wash a fluffy blanket in hot water, you can cause the pile to shrink and the product to deform.

The most convenient way to wash a voluminous bedspread is in the bath. If the dirt is heavy, you can pre-soak the blanket in soapy water for 20-30 minutes. It is important not to rub the fabric too much, otherwise the product will lose its fluffiness. After the main treatment, all that remains is to rinse the pile several times to remove any remaining detergent from the fibers.

You should not wring out a blanket with a high pile. You need to lay it out on a wire rack above the bathtub and let the water drain. Drying is also carried out in a horizontal position - this way the bedspread will retain its original shape.

The best means

In order for the product to wash well, you need to use the right detergent. The only recommendation is to choose a liquid powder or gel.

This form of release is good because the composition dissolves quickly, copes better with dirt, is activated in cool water and rinses well.

Bulk powders are not prohibited from use, but in this case you will have to rinse the item at least 2-3 times.

Most liquid concentrates are universal, that is, they are suitable for caring for ordinary and delicate fabrics, including natural wool and silk.

You definitely need to pay attention to the composition. It should not contain aggressive components such as chlorine bleach or acids

When washing duvets, it is recommended to use detergents containing lanolin. They prevent the formation of lumps, so the filler does not get lost.

Top 3

The range of liquid detergents is varied. When choosing, you need to focus on their price and features of use:

1. Washing gel “Weasel wool and silk”. This product is suitable for caring for blankets made of synthetic and natural fibers. It starts working at a temperature of 30 degrees. The harder the water, the greater the consumption of detergent. For 1 liter of gel you will need to pay about 250 rubles.
2. Universal washing gel “Synergetic”. The concentrate can be used to care for any products: cotton, synthetics, silk and natural wool. It is suitable for hand and machine washing, does not contain aggressive components, is dosed sparingly, and is used to care for children's bedding. The cost of 1 liter of gel is about 210 rubles.
3. Persil freshness washing gel from Vernel. It contains a stain remover, so it is suitable for washing light and white fabrics. The cost of a 1.95 liter package is about 450 rubles.

Do not exceed the dosage of detergent. This will not improve the quality of washing, but will only make it more difficult to rinse foam from fabrics.

Which product can be washed?

Cleaning any textile begins with reading the manufacturer's care information on the label. Not so long ago, the word “plaid” meant a thick blanket made of wool, cashmere or alpaca, knitted by hand, which could only be washed by hand. Today on sale you can find similar products made from cotton and linen, fleece and polyester, microfiber and bamboo. All of them are industrially manufactured using the latest technology and durable dyes and are easily machine washable.

The choice of cleaning method depends on the following factors:

• composition of the fabric from which the textiles are made;
• the presence of complex dirt and stains;
• dye fastness;
• product volume.

Usually, only thin small blankets made of lightweight materials are machine washed: nylon, polyester, fleece.
The main thing is that there is enough free space left in the drum after the item that needs cleaning is placed there. To wash a blanket as rarely as possible, it must be stored correctly:

• in a paper or fabric bag with good ventilation (not in a plastic bag);
• fold into a roll to avoid creases;
• protect from moths.

Usually such things are washed 2-3 times a year. It is better to clean local stains using a stain remover or by washing the stained area with laundry soap.

Preparing for washing

The blanket can be either small or voluminous, euro size. And if in the first case, care and washing do not cause any particular problems, then not all housewives can cope with a real giant.

The blanket needs to be washed regularly, once every 1.5-2 months or less, depending on the frequency of use. It happens that you can do without washing, removing dirt using the dry method.

Before washing any blanket at home, it is important not to skip the preparatory stage:

1. Study the composition of the fabric on the label. If it is lost, you can find information on the packaging or the factory website. You can wash a blanket without deformation or damage only taking into account the composition of the fabric.
2. Shake out dust and crumbs well or beat out the blanket in the fresh air. After these manipulations, it’s a good idea to ventilate it on the loggia or plot. Often it is dust and an unpleasant smell that makes you think about refreshing your favorite blanket. But if it is generally clean and free of stains, shaking it like this will solve the problem.
3. Spot stains can be removed without a full wash. A wet blanket soaked in water is very heavy (especially Euro-size), and it will be difficult to wring it out and dry it. Therefore, if you need to get rid of one or two stains, it is not necessary to wash the entire bedspread.

Preparatory activities

You can tidy up your blanket in different ways. However, no matter what cleaning method is chosen, it is first necessary to carry out preparatory measures:

1. Remove dust from the decorative blanket. To do this, lay it out on a wide bed or on a large table covered with an old sheet and clean it with a vacuum cleaner. You can remove dust accumulated in the product in another way: take it out into the fresh air, hang it on a bar and beat it out with a carpet beater. If you ignore this stage of preparation, during washing, dust will appear on the pile in the form of dirty stains, which will complicate an already labor-intensive job.
2. Using a sticky roller or soft brush, remove animal hair and debris stuck between the fibers from the surface of the product. During washing, all this will stick to the pile and remain there.
3. Inspect the item for stains and, if any are found, wipe them off locally. The best way to do this is to use a carpet cleaner. If you don’t have it on hand, an aqueous solution of vinegar will do, and for light-colored products, soda slurry or lemon juice.

Artificial materials

Budget options for artificial blankets are acrylic. Their advantages:

• Easy to care for. The product does not require delicate washing;
• Dries quickly;
• Does not lose its original shape.

Despite their excellent physical properties, acrylic blankets are only good as bedspreads. Covering yourself with such a product is highly not recommended, since there is no access of air to the skin.

Chenyl is a material made from synthetic fibers. It is much thinner and more delicate to the touch than acrylic. A distinctive feature is the beautiful appearance of the product and bright colors. However, such a blanket requires more careful handling.

Fur blankets. Despite the fact that it is preferable to use natural pile, such products are very rare and require very careful handling. As an alternative, manufacturers offer faux fur blankets. They are obtained by mixing natural and artificial fibers into knitted fabric. The advantages include ease of cleaning and affordable price.

Fleece is made from carefully crafted polyester fibres. In terms of visual and tactile sensations, it is more reminiscent of wool.

• Has low weight;
• It is durable;
• Easy to wash and dry quickly;
• Due to the fact that the fabric does not accumulate moisture, fleece blankets can be used as a blanket.

Cleaning and caring for artificial fabrics

Is it possible to wash a blanket in a washing machine? Yes, you can, if it is a blanket made of artificial fibers. Despite the fact that it is an artificial fabric, the blanket can be washed in a machine, but with a delicate wash or, in some models of washing machines, a soft wash.

Since they do not form a lot of foam and are easily washed out during the rinsing process. It is advisable to use fabric softener. It reduces static stress in artificial tissues. To avoid blade deformation, set the minimum number of revolutions. It is not recommended to use the “drying” function, since even the most elastic and durable product loses its shape.

Particular attention is paid to drying the blanket. The product is dried in a well-ventilated dark place, avoiding direct sunlight and radiation from heating devices.

The thing is that artificial fibers can melt or stick together and give the blanket a worn-out look.

Cleaning and caring for natural fabrics

How to wash a blanket made from natural fibers? Linen and cotton blankets are washed in the same way as products made from artificial fabrics, but the water temperature should not exceed 30 degrees.

Silk, wool and cashmere items are washed only by hand and in cool water. Shampoo is used for washing, as well as conditioner at the last rinsing stage. You cannot squeeze the products even by hand. Because of this, the original appearance is lost. After washing, the water is allowed to drain, and then the blanket is laid out on a horizontal surface. It should be constantly turned over so that the canvas can dry evenly. Otherwise, the blanket will acquire an unpleasant musty smell.

However, for cashmere and wool items, it is preferable to dry clean using a homemade solution. Ingredients: 1 teaspoon vinegar, 2 teaspoons shampoo, ½ cup warm water. All components are mixed well until foam forms.

Shake off the dust that has accumulated on the blanket. Using a soft brush for cleaning clothes, walk over the surface of the blanket on both sides, after moistening the brush in the resulting solution. After the blanket has dried, it should be shaken or vacuumed well again. Fur blankets cannot be cleaned at home. For this reason, it is better to take them to the dry cleaner, since the product is very delicate and does not tolerate high humidity.

Drying Features

The item has been washed, but that's only half the battle. Now it needs to be dried properly.

First of all, let the water drain. To do this, the blanket needs to be laid out (preferably in the fresh air) on a flat surface. There is no need to hang it, this can create creases and significantly stretch the item.

Blankets with long pile take a long time to dry, so you need to take this into account and plan for washing in the summer. The drying process can be speeded up a little by placing a fabric with increased absorbency, for example, terry cloth.

But what to do if the pile does roll up? Don't rush to throw away the item!

A big secret

The blanket can be restored to its original appearance using a regular cat slicker. You need to comb with short, jerky movements, as if fluffing up the pile.

You can also use a regular massage brush. If after this there are still problem areas (usually they are small), you can trim them with a razor. Do not use a machine to remove pellets as the lint is too high.

In this way, you can tidy up clothes and shoes trimmed with velsoft and faux fur, and after washing they will always be as good as new!

To prevent the product from losing its shape, it should only be dried in a horizontal position. How to do it right?

• The swollen linen in the bathroom is laid out on a flat surface, previously covered with oilcloth and well-absorbing natural material.
• When the fabric is saturated with water, it is replaced with dry material, and the decorative blanket is turned over. The procedure is repeated several times.
• If the product is thick, you can first wrap it in a terry towel and lightly knead it with your hands. And while drying unfolded items, turn on a fan next to the table. These measures will speed up the process of evaporation of liquid from the fibers.
• Products with long pile are combed when wet. The surface of the plush blanket is smoothed with a soft brush when it is completely dry.

If the decorative blanket will not be used after washing, it is rolled up and placed in a pillowcase or in a cotton bag.

Washing a blanket of any size and quality at home is a difficult task, but quite doable. If you strictly follow the recommendations, the decorative bedspread will retain its appearance and properties for a long time.

After washing, any blanket will be very heavy, so even if you have more than a dozen strength, it will be quite difficult for you to pull such a bulky and half-damp thing out of the bath in one go.

You will have to work hard: quietly lift the blanket, then throw it into the far corner, wait until most of the moisture comes out of it, and only then make active attempts.

After the water has drained from the blanket, roll it up, set it down and wait a few minutes until it becomes lighter and softer. After this, the blanket can be sent to dry on the balcony (don’t forget to use clothespins) or in a special dryer.

If pellets appear on the bedspread after washing, you can easily get rid of them using a simple combing brush, which is sold in pet stores.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEDxAiwavZc

After this procedure, the blanket will again acquire the desired shape, become soft and pleasant to the body.

Can it be processed by machine or by hand?

Hand wash applies to quilted and full-woven sheep's wool items. This method of processing is the most gentle, so it will not harm the products.

However, hand-washing a massive blanket, which increases its weight 5 times after contact with water, is quite difficult. Therefore, a completely reasonable question arises about whether machine washing is permissible.

To answer this, you need to understand exactly what technology was used to make the blanket. Depending on this, the method of caring for the product will differ.

Quilted

With this sewing method, the wool base is placed in a fabric cover and stitched around the perimeter and in the center. This reliable method of fixation helps prevent the filler from clumping into a lump and prevents it from moving in one direction or another.

This sheepskin quilt is machine washable without worry. It will not deform and will not lose its original shape.

Whole woven

A full woven blanket can only be washed by hand. It is a homogeneous fabric made from sheep wool.

Before you start caring for the product, you need to read the information on the label.

The composition of the bedding is of fundamental importance. If it is pure wool, without the addition of synthetic fibers, then the product cannot be loaded into the washing machine.

Fur

When making fur products, pile is woven into a solid woven base. This gives the blanket a soft feel. It looks very attractive. However, such items cannot be washed either by hand or by machine.

They can only be cleaned dry. If you cannot cope with the task on your own, you can contact a dry cleaner.

Is it possible to use a machine?

All recommendations regarding product care are presented on the label. If the symbols on the blanket's label allow automatic washing, then you can refresh the blanket in the machine. Typically, manufacturers do not prohibit such processing, but they advise choosing delicate programs and strictly observing the temperature regime (water should be heated to a maximum of 30°C).

Before loading into the drum, it is better to put the grass blanket in a special washing bag, this will protect the product from deformation and rolling.

As for detergents, preference should be given to gels for washing delicate fabrics and wool. Unlike dry powders, they quickly dissolve in cold water and are completely rinsed out of long piles. It is forbidden to use chlorine-containing household chemicals for cleaning - it can not only worsen the color of the blanket, but also damage the structure of the fibers, making them more dilapidated and fragile.

You also need to disable the automatic spin function, or set the minimum possible speed (up to 400 per minute). Otherwise, the pile will lose its softness and fluffiness, and the canvas itself will become deformed and stretch unevenly. It is better to remove the wet blanket from the drum, let the water drain and lay the product out to dry on a horizontal surface.

If a voluminous blanket of grass hardly fits into the drum, you should not try to compact it there. Washing will still not bring the desired result. You will have to hand wash the bedspread or take it to the dry cleaner.

Rules for performing the procedure

There are several options for washing a jacket. It is best to wash your jacket in a vertical position. This allows you to thoroughly clean the outer surface of the jacket, minimizing the penetration of detergent into the inside of the product.

It is also not advisable to use conditioners, which, like washing powders, can lead to white stains on the fabric.

Regular with soaking

To wash a bulky, heavily soiled down jacket, you will need a large basin or bath.

Fill the prepared container with water at a temperature of no more than 40ºС, preferably 30ºС. Add a mild detergent and dilute it thoroughly in water.

Soak the jacket for about half an hour. The duration of this stage depends on the degree of contamination of the item. Preliminarily heavily soiled areas (cuffs, pockets, collar, etc.) can be treated with a brush and laundry soap.

This washing option is more suitable for jackets with artificial rather than natural filling.

Vertical

In cases where the item is not very dirty and the insulation is feather and down, you can wash the down jacket by hand vertically.

Procedure:

Place the jacket on a hanger above the bathtub. Wet the outer surface by directing a stream of water (30ºC) from the shower hose at a downward angle. Lather the jacket with a brush, paying special attention to heavily soiled areas. Wipe the jacket with a brush. Rinse off the detergent under the shower stream, directing the water at a downward angle.

The vertical method is optimal for washing jackets with natural filling. It does not contribute to the intense impact of detergents on down and feathers, for which such contact is not desirable.

If there is a fur edge on a winter jacket

Many down jackets have fur trim. Washing fur can be done by hand or dry cleaning. To do this, use only liquid detergent.

If heavily soiled, the fur should be unfastened from the jacket and pre-soaked in lukewarm water with a detergent diluted in it. The fur edge should be rinsed in cold water.

You can’t wring out the fur; it’s enough to just shake it slightly, and after drying, comb it in two directions:

• against hair growth;
• by wool growth.

You can fasten the fur to the down jacket only after both it and the jacket have dried.

Stains on fabric: causes and options for eliminating the defect

The following circumstances can lead to whitish marks on fabric:

1. Not rinsing the jacket thoroughly enough.
2. Incorrect drying.
3. Using the wrong detergent.
4. Poor quality filling and outer material in the jacket.

Preventing divorces is much easier than dealing with them later. If stains have already appeared, then stains can be cleaned in several ways:

1. The item needs to be rinsed again.
   This must be done especially carefully, washing out any remaining detergent from the insulation. After this, the jacket is dried according to all the rules, shaking occasionally.
2. You can avoid over-washing by using hydrogen peroxide.
   A sponge moistened with this product is carefully rubbed over the white spots. This cleaning option is not suitable for white down jackets.
3. Stains on a jacket can be removed with a vinegar solution. It is diluted in equal proportions. Moisten a napkin with the solution and wipe the stains.
4. Grease stains and yellow stains on the surface of the down jacket can be removed using liquid dishwashing detergent. To do this, perform the following steps:
   apply detergent with a sponge to the stain;
5. stand for several minutes;
6. wash off the product with water;
7. dry the item.

Yellow stains may indicate poor quality processing of the filler. The natural fat remaining on the feathers and down settles on the fabric in the form of greasy stains.

Woolen blankets, capes and bedspreads

A wool blanket is a classic option. Warm, comfortable, durable, breathable. Sometimes, in order to refresh textiles made from natural wool, it is enough to air it for a while by hanging it outside or on the balcony. If the product is heavily soiled, it can be washed at home, although this is not an easy job. Despite the fact that many washing machines have a “Wool” mode, it is not advisable to use the machine. It is better to do a gentle hand wash.

First of all, you need to decide on a detergent. Experts advise using a special gel for washing woolen products. It washes clothes well in not too hot water and washes out well when rinsed. Instead of gel, you can use baby soap or regular hair shampoo. Soap is made into small shavings, which are thoroughly dissolved in water. The main thing is to achieve abundant foam. When rinsing the blanket, so that it remains soft and fluffy, add conditioner to the water.

Hand washing a wool blanket is carried out as follows:

1. fill a large container (basin or bath) with water whose temperature does not exceed 30°C;
2. add detergent and whip up rich foam;
3. soak the item for 15 minutes;
4. wash with light progressive movements, then pulling out, then plunging back into the liquid;
5. Rinse the item several times in cool water, adding conditioner during the last rinse.

In order not to damage the structure of the wool fiber, the product is not wrung out or twisted.

After washing, the blanket is removed from the water and laid out on a wire rack installed above the bathtub. When the water has drained, the product can be dried with a towel and then laid out to dry.

The drying area must be prepared in advance. A blanket is spread on the floor or a large table, on which the wet product is laid out. To prevent the blanket from warping and shrinking in size, it can be secured with pins around the perimeter.

Silk and cashmere products are also recommended to be washed only by hand, and not twisted or wrung out.

How to wash a blanket in an automatic machine

You need to wash bedspreads made of different materials in a machine using the same algorithm. But it is necessary to take into account that natural and synthetic bedspreads have their own characteristics.

How to wash a fleece blanket in the washing machine

Synthetic fleece is one of the most popular materials for making blankets. The fabric is very soft, pleasant to the touch, and has good warming properties. Since fleece is quite unpretentious, it can be washed in a machine. In this case it is necessary:

• set the temperature no higher than 30 °C;
• turn off the spin in the machine or set the minimum speed, fleece does not like strong mechanical stress and can stretch;
• pour liquid detergent into the tray of a household unit - powders are difficult to wash out of soft fleece fabric.

The fleece blanket can be washed at 30°C and with liquid gel

It is best to machine wash a fleece blanket separately from other items. Although the fabric remains quite light even after getting wet, a large blanket will still completely take up the free space of the drum.

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The great advantage of fleece is that during the washing process it does not wrinkle at all, and after that it dries very quickly.

How to wash a “Travka” blanket in a washing machine

“Grass” is a product with a very long pile, reminiscent of tall grass on a summer lawn. You can wash a fluffy blanket in a washing machine, but the process is associated with certain difficulties:

1. Fuzzy fiber does not tolerate hot water well, so “Travka” can only be washed at 30°C.
2. If you wash the bedspread incorrectly in the machine, the long pile may become frayed and the product will lose its attractiveness. Therefore, it is recommended to wash “Travka” in a special bag that allows water to pass through; it will prevent damage to the product.
3. Long pile bedspreads cannot be washed with powder detergents. Only liquid gels are poured into the machine tray, which are easily washed out of the pile. The detergent should not contain chlorine, otherwise both the structure of the fabric and the color will suffer.
4. When washing “Travka”, the spin cycle is set to no higher than 400 rpm, and it is better to disable this function altogether.

The “Grass” blanket has a long pile, so you need to machine wash the product in a special bag

Advice! Immediately after washing, it is recommended to shake the bedspread thoroughly to straighten the pile. Once the item is dry, you can gently brush it with a clothes brush to keep it fluffy.

How to wash a plush blanket in the washing machine

Soft plush bedspreads are machine washable and stand up well to automatic processing. You only need to follow the basic rules, namely:

• set the delicate mode and use water no hotter than 40 ° C;
• turn off the spin cycle or set it to the lowest speed so as not to damage the fabric structure;
• Use liquid gel for delicate items; powder particles may remain in the plush fabric even after rinsing.

The plush bedspread must be washed with liquid detergents

In order to properly rinse the product from detergent residues, you can set an additional rinse in the settings when washing in the machine. Plush fabric strongly absorbs water, which is why the blanket becomes much heavier than usual; before washing the product, you need to make sure that it does not overload household appliances.

Long pile blanket

With the onset of cold weather, we all want warmth, especially at home. This can be achieved in various ways - purchase an additional heater, dress warmly, or wrap yourself in a soft blanket with long pile. This piece of textile industry is very popular in winter and is perfect as a gift for the New Year holidays.

What is a long pile blanket made from?

Like all textile accessories for the home, blankets are made from natural and synthetic fibers. In the last few years, textiles made from bamboo fibers have become very popular, and bamboo blankets with long pile are no exception. Due to their antibacterial properties, good protection from the cold and attractive appearance, such products are considered the highest quality and in demand. A blanket made of bamboo fiber does not attract dust, does not electrify and does not cause allergies. It should be washed at a temperature of no more than 30°C with a mild detergent. The machine should be set to a gentle setting for delicate fabrics and dried without hanging it horizontally.

No less popular is a fur blanket with long pile, which is made from acrylic or polyamide. Since this material is synthetic, it tends to attract house dust, which means it requires careful care so as not to become a breeding ground for allergens.

To ensure that the blanket is charged with static electricity as little as possible, after washing it should be rinsed in conditioner, which will provide additional softness and eliminate static.

Children and adults prefer a blanket with a long pile called “grass”, which can be laid on the bed or covered with it in cold weather.

The original weave and long fluffy microfiber pile are an excellent choice for allergy sufferers and comfort lovers. Products made from this material are incredibly warm and light, and can withstand numerous washing cycles without losing color.

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Features of cleaning bedspreads made of various materials

The synthetic material can easily be machine washed - the blanket does not shrink and rarely sheds. When cleaning, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of each specific product. Natural fiber can shrink and become damaged. It is advisable not to risk expensive items and have them dry cleaned.

Synthetic products

Liquid dishwashing detergent can help remove stains on fluffy bedspreads.

In general, synthetics are not afraid of washing in an automatic machine. The exception is fleece, which does not withstand intense mechanical stress.

Natural materials

Products made from natural fibers are capricious, absorb foreign odors, and accumulate dust. Not everything is washed at home. For severe stains, it is better to go to dry cleaning.

Depending on the material used, there are several types of wool blankets:

• camel wool blanket. Practical, durable. Does not accumulate dust. Requires careful care - does not tolerate high temperatures, will lose shape when machine washed. You can't rub or stretch. To remove dirt at home, soaking in lukewarm water is suitable;
• sheep wool blanket. Deforms at high temperatures and mechanical stress. Washing a sheepskin blanket is permissible as a last resort when it is impossible to wash out the stain;
• merino wool blanket. Merino is a special breed of sheep; all washing recommendations are similar to those for sheep blankets.

Products made from merino yarn contain lanolin, which, when heated, can penetrate the human blood and have a therapeutic effect on joint diseases, improve blood circulation, and reduce swelling. Thanks to this property, blankets made from merino yarn have become firmly established in bedrooms.

Do I need to wash it after purchase?

There is no definite answer; each housewife makes her own decision

It is important to consider:

1. Blankets are produced at large enterprises, using equipment that is not sterile. Plus the hands of employees without gloves.
2. Consumables are stored in warehouses, first at the manufacturer, then at the factory, and are often transported without packaging.
3. In stores, customers select products by touch to make sure they are soft. As a result, dust accumulates and contaminants of various nature appear.

If the packaging has not been opened and does not have obvious signs of contamination, then it is enough to ventilate the blanket to get rid of the “factory” smell. Otherwise, it will have to be washed.

Children's blankets must be washed after purchase; they will come into contact with the baby's delicate skin. You should only use special products that do not contain aggressive substances or fragrances.

New handmade blankets do not require cleaning. The craftswomen wash each finished product.

How to dry?

Drying the blanket is an important stage. If you do not follow the rules, the product may not only lose its softness and attractiveness, but also become unusable as a result of deformation.

5 main “don’ts”:

• dry in a vertical position, with the exception of some synthetic blankets;
• use the drying mode in the washing machine;
• expose the product to direct exposure to ultraviolet rays;
• dry near heating and heating devices;
• use a hairdryer for these purposes.

If the blanket is not completely dry, it cannot be rolled or packed. This will lead to the appearance of mold, which is quite difficult to remove.

Products with long pile or blanket grass should be shaken well before drying so that the fibers take their natural position. A dry piece of furniture can be combed first with a large-toothed comb, then with a soft brush, being careful.

What types of blankets are there?

Everyone can find a bedspread to their liking

But, of course, you need to know the advantages of each type of material used for the production of blankets, and it is also important to pay attention to the disadvantages. Outwardly, they all look attractive and make you want to buy them, but their performance qualities will influence your feelings about the purchase in the future. Let's consider all types separately

Let's consider all types separately.

1. Synthetic blanket (acrylic, chenille, fleece). These materials will delight you with ease of care, making it possible to wash them virtually risk-free in an automatic machine. Such a blanket can remain like new for a long time. It does not form pellets. It also dries quickly. Fleece material is the most pleasant of all non-natural fabrics. The disadvantage is that some synthetic fabrics, when reacting with human sweat or even just moisture, acquire an unpleasant chemical odor that cannot be removed even when washed. You can avoid this if you don’t save too much on your purchase. The price in many cases is determined by the quality - the cheaper the bedspread, the worse it is. There is one more drawback - artificial blankets almost do not allow air to pass through, which is why it is better not to sleep under them.
2. Blanket made of mixed fabrics (acrylic/cotton, acrylic/viscose). These options are the most wear-resistant and pleasant to use. Washing in an automatic machine is tolerated well. The mid-level price range allows you to inexpensively buy a worthwhile item.
3. Natural plaid. It is made from the hair of an animal or from cotton. For example, cashmere is the down of a mountain goat. This material is extremely soft and gentle, it’s just a dream to have such a blanket in the cold. The classic version made from untreated sheep wool is also pleasant to the body and warms well even in strong winds and frosts. Camel wool is used less frequently, but feels no less cozy. Natural blankets also include cotton ones. They are only suitable for small heating in warm weather, but can be used for many years.

All types of blankets differ both in material and thermal properties, size and cost. Having made your choice, you need to find out how to do the washing so that your warm friend remains beautiful.

How to wash a down jacket or blanket correctly and cheaply

Washing pillows and blankets :))

Bonus tips:

• It is better to wash a blanket in the summer, in hot weather. The product will dry faster, which makes washing much more hygienic. Why? A large, fluffy blanket absorbs a huge amount of moisture. A humid environment, especially a dark one (direct sunlight for drying natural materials is contraindicated) is excellent for the growth of bacteria. When washing, we pursue the opposite goals: to make the blanket cleaner and safer.
• If it so happens that you don’t have a special detergent on hand, baby shampoo will do the job very well.
• There are small exceptions to the above cleaning and washing rules, which depend on the material from which the product is made. For example, some strict conditions can be relaxed in the case of synthetic fibers (polyester is the most common). Of course, if you are very concerned about the durability of the product, you can follow our universal instructions - it definitely won’t get any worse. But synthetics are not so strict and whimsical: their washing temperature can reach 60°, and such fabric can be dried on a line. Fleece products also stand out: this fabric does not absorb dirt, so you can simply shake the blanket to get rid of debris without having to do any serious cleaning before washing.
• An unusual way to clean a blanket: use a sticky roller, which you usually use to clean pet hair from clothes, it will pick up some of the debris. Of course, this procedure will not replace a full wash, but it is faster and easier. If you go over the blanket with a roller from time to time, your pet's hair, small debris, and crumbs will not accumulate in it. This will make your relationship with him more pleasant and gentle, and the process of thorough cleaning easier. Also, this approach will delay the “moment-X” - washing.

Conclusion

As you already understand, keeping a blanket in its original form and caring for it is very painstaking work. It is best to set aside a separate day for this – a day off. It will be great to involve family members in order to involve family members in joint work and mutual assistance, to pass on experience - and it’s much more fun together!

How to wash a fluffy blanket in a machine, by hand, how to properly clean it first - you now know all this. All that remains is to consider the requirements of your product and your personal capabilities. Remember that the main thing is morale and a positive attitude. You will definitely succeed, and the result will not make you regret the effort spent!

Large and voluminous

Washing a large, voluminous blanket is a difficult task for a fragile woman, so you definitely need an assistant with physical strength.

In a private home, you can wash a large item in the same way as for carpets. Necessary:

1. Hang a blanket outside.
2. Prepare a soap solution.
3. Apply the liquid with a brush, paying attention to the most contaminated areas.
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water from a hose.
5. Dry, avoiding direct sunlight.

If none of the methods is suitable, there is only one way out - professional dry cleaning.

This video will show you how to clean a large blanket:

The degree is important: at what temperature to wash a blanket

Have you decided to wash your blanket? The choice of temperature also plays an important role. The restrictions here can be quite strict.

For example:

• Fleece products can be washed at a temperature not exceeding 35 C;
• You can wash a synthetic blanket at temperatures ranging from 30C to 60C;
• microfiber is contraindicated in water hotter than 60C;
• Linen and cotton should be washed at a temperature no higher than 30C, otherwise they will shrink or become deformed;
• Cashmere products should not be washed in a washing machine at all - only by hand and only with shampoo;
• Are you unsure how to wash a wool blanket? Wool can be washed quite comfortably at temperatures from 30 to 40 degrees, just like fur.

How to keep it soft?

To keep the product soft, you need to choose the right detergents. Concentrated gels and special shampoos in combination with conditioners are ideal. They contain enzymes that can cope with dirt at low temperatures without damaging the fiber structure.

Treatment agent

For washing blankets with different compositions, the following are suitable:

1. Laundry concentrate Laska “Care and restoration” will provide gentle cleansing and prevent the formation of pellets, and add softness without the use of conditioner. For delicate fabrics, the “Wool and Silk” caress is suitable. Price from 180 to 250 rubles per 1 liter.
2. Organic washing gel Sinergetic removes dirt at a temperature of 20-60 degrees, cares for fibers. Suitable for delicate fabrics and children's items. Price 320-350 rubles per 1 liter.
3. Meine Liebe gel concentrate is designed for hand and machine washing of delicate fabrics. Protects against pilling, cares for natural fibers, and is effective in combating stains. Price from 280 to 330 rubles per 800 ml.

Air conditioner

Fabric softeners perform several functions:

• soften the fabric;
• remove static electricity;
• make ironing easier or eliminate the need for it.

Cotton and linen blankets

In summer and spring, blankets made of cotton and linen are especially in demand. Natural materials do not require special care, but failure to properly clean them can cause the product to fade or shrink in size.

Cotton and linen bedspreads are washed in machine mode at a water temperature of +40°C, setting the switch to “Cotton”. It is better to wring out at low speeds, otherwise strong creases will form on the fabric that are difficult to smooth out with an iron.

To wash white blankets, you can use powder with oxygen bleach. Products with bright colorful colors are best washed with enzyme powder.

Large fluffy blankets are easiest to take to the dry cleaner, where they will get them in order for a reasonable amount. If this is not possible, then you can wash the product at home. The main thing is to determine exactly what material the product is made of and follow the recommendations of specialists.

Content:

How to wash a blanket to preserve its original beauty? This question is asked sooner or later by everyone who has a large fluffy blanket in their home. Initially, the blanket was a large warm scarf made of natural wool. Which was used as a raincoat, sleeping bag, disguise, table and even a saddle. Over time, the plaid has become an integral part of the interior, an element of furniture decor and cozy protection from drafts. In those distant times, no one racked their brains about caring for blankets. If a thing lost its appearance, it was simply disposed of. Today? Luxurious blankets are too expensive to use before the first wash, which means you need to take care in advance to ensure that the cleaning process does not end in property damage.