The wool blanket is a domestic staple. Perfect for an extra layer of warmth on the bed during winter, and durable enough to be hauled onto the couch for family movie nights, or even used as a picnic blanket. But how often should you wash wool blankets?
Wool blankets are made from a natural fibre usually sourced from sheep, and as such, it’s naturally quite repellent to water and dirt. However, if it’s been on your bed for several months, been walked over my pets or suffered several spills, then it’s probably due for a wash.
How often do wool blankets need to be washed?
Always try airing your wool blanket to get rid of odours or other issues first. Try hanging it over a clothes like or rack outside in the sun and let the fresh do its work for 12 hours. However, if there are visible marks, try spot-cleaning on the problem areas with a very mild detergent, and try to avoid rubbing at the fabric relentlessly, as you may find it just ruins the finish of the blanket.
If your wool blanket is a mainstay on the bed then you should consider washing every season, or every three months, and if you pack it away for summer, give it a wash before you pack it away.
How do you wash wool blankets?
Wool blankets should only be washed according to their care instructions, so always check the label. If no label is present and it’s a reasonably robust weave. You can put the blanket in the washing machine on a ‘delicates’ setting, in cold water, with very mild wool-specific detergent. Keep the washing cycle as short as possible, and the spin to a minimum.
Try to avoid drying your blanket in a tumble dryer at all costs. The best way is to let it air dry in the sun over a clothes line or rack.
How do you store wool blankets?
Wool blankets should always be sealed in air-tight containers or bags when packed away for summer, and if pests are a common occurrence in your home, nestled some cedar balls in with your woollies.
