How to Wash a Fleece Blanket: A Comprehensive Guide
Instructions
Fleece blankets are a popular choice for their warmth, comfort, and ease of care. However, if not washed properly, they can develop pilling, fuzzing, and other issues. Follow these instructions to keep your fleece blankets looking and feeling their best:
Machine-Washing
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Read the Care Label: Always check the care label before washing to ensure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most fleece blankets are machine-washable, but some may require dry cleaning.
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Pretreat Stains: If there are any stains on the blanket, pretreat them with an enzyme-based stain remover. Allow the stain remover to sit for at least 10 minutes before washing.
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Select Water Temperature and Cycle: Set the washing machine to cold or warm water and the gentle cycle. Avoid hot water and the permanent press cycle, as they can damage the fibers.
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Choose a Detergent: Use a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid chlorine bleach and fabric softeners.
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Separate Laundry: Do not wash fleece blankets with towels, sheets, or cotton clothes, as they can generate lint that can adhere to the fleece.
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Dry the Blanket: If possible, line dry the blanket on an indoor drying rack or outdoor clothesline to prevent static cling and pilling. If using a dryer, select the low heat setting and add a few wool dryer balls to keep the fibers fluffy.
Hand-Washing
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Use a Large Vessel: Choose a washing vessel that is large enough to accommodate the blanket and allow it to move around freely. A bathtub, laundry sink, or plastic storage tub is suitable.
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Follow Washing Guidelines: Fill the vessel with cool water and add the detergent. Submerge the blanket and gently squeeze it to remove air bubbles. Soak for 20 minutes, then gently squeeze again to remove excess water.
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Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the washing water and refill the vessel with clean water. Gently squeeze and lift the blanket in and out of the water to rinse the fibers. Repeat with a second rinse if necessary.
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Dry the Blanket: Hang the blanket to drip dry. Protect floors from excess water.
Ironing
Fleece blankets should not be ironed, as the fibers can become matted or burned. If there are excessive wrinkles, dampen the blanket and hang it to air-dry. You can also use a clothes steamer on low heat to remove wrinkles.
Storing
Always wash and dry fleece blankets thoroughly before storing them. Roll the blanket to prevent creases and store in a cool, dry location.
Care and Repairs
- Rips in fleece blankets can be stitched by hand or machine, but the repair will be visible.
- Holes or burns will not grow larger due to the structure of the fabric. If desired, they can be concealed with a decorative patch.
Additional Tips
- Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove lint and debris from the blanket when it is damp.
- If possible, use a front-loading washer or a top-loading washer without a center agitator to reduce friction that can cause pilling.
- Wash fleece blankets separately from lint-shedding fabrics.
- To prevent shrinkage, do not wring the blanket after washing. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water.
- If the fleece appears matted, dampen the blanket and gently brush it with a soft-bristled brush while it is still damp.
FAQ
- Can I put a fleece blanket in the dryer?
Yes, but it is best to line dry if possible. If using a dryer, select the low heat setting and add dryer balls.
- What cycle should you wash a fleece blanket on?
Use the gentle/delicate cycle to avoid damaging the fibers.
- How often should you wash a fleece blanket?
Wash your fleece blanket once or twice a month to keep it fresh. You can do so on a gentle cycle in the machine or by hand-washing.