Wool blankets are timeless—cosy, durable, and oh-so-chic! But they often leave us wondering: “how do you clean a wool blanket?” Don’t worry, our expert domestic cleaners are here to guide you step by step on how to clean your wool blankets properly. Whether they’re pure wool or a wool blend, follow this guide to keep them looking fresh and fabulous.
Preparing for washing
Before you dive into cleaning your wool blanket, preparation is key! Wool is delicate, so let’s do it right from the start.
Careful inspection
First things first, inspect your wool blanket thoroughly. Look for stains, tears, or loose threads. Spot any care labels? Don’t skip those—they’re like cheat sheets for perfect cleaning.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- New Wool Blankets: These often require gentler washing methods. Always check if it’s pre-shrunk or untreated.
- Recycled Wool Blankets: These might be more robust but could shrink if handled poorly. Take extra care with these eco-friendly gems!
Spot cleaning a wool blanket
Got a small stain? Don’t stress—spot cleaning is your secret weapon. This technique works wonders on minor spills without washing the whole blanket.
Pure wool blankets
For pure wool blankets, use a wool-specific detergent or mild soap. Gently dab the stain with a damp cloth—no scrubbing! Wool is like that one friend with sensitive skin; treat it kindly.
Wool-cotton blends
Blends are slightly more forgiving but still need care. Use lukewarm water and a gentle detergent. Dab, don’t rub, to avoid damaging the fibres.
How do you clean your wool blankets?
When the whole blanket needs a wash, it’s time to decide: hand wash or machine wash? Either way, it’s about treating your blanket with love.
Hand washing
Hand washing is the safest way to clean wool blankets. It’s a bit of extra effort, but your blanket will thank you.
- Using wool detergent: Always choose a detergent made for wool. Regular detergents can damage the fibres.
- Cold Water Wash: Wool and hot water? A recipe for disaster. Stick to cold or lukewarm water to prevent shrinking.
Steps for hand washing:
- Fill a tub or sink with cold water.
- Add a small amount of wool detergent.
- Submerge the blanket and gently swirl it for 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Machine washing
Yes, you can machine wash wool blankets—but only on the gentlest settings. Here’s how:
- Gentle cycle: Select the delicate or wool cycle on your machine. Avoid aggressive spins.
- Wool-friendly detergent: Use a detergent specifically designed for wool. Less is more when it comes to detergent.
Pro tip: Place your blanket in a large mesh laundry bag to reduce agitation.
Drying and caring for wool blankets
Drying is just as important as washing. Wool needs time and space to dry properly, so be patient!
Air drying your wool blanket
Always air-dry your wool blankets. Lay them flat on a clean surface, like a drying rack or a large towel. Avoid hanging them up; the weight of the water can stretch the fibres.
- Not using a dryer
Never—repeat, never—use a tumble dryer for wool. The heat will shrink your blanket faster than you can say “oops!”
- Maintaining shape
Reshape your blanket while it’s damp. Gently stretch it back to its original dimensions, ensuring it dries evenly.
How to store your clean blankets
Once your wool blanket is clean and dry, it’s time to store it properly. Good storage habits can make all the difference!
- Cotton storage bags
Opt for breathable cotton storage bags instead of plastic. Wool needs to breathe, even when it’s not in use.
- Avoid moths
Moths love wool—sad but true. Add cedar balls or lavender sachets to your storage space to keep these pesky intruders away.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to iron a wool blanket?
Ironing wool blankets? Proceed with caution! Wool can handle low heat, but always use a pressing cloth and a steam setting. If in doubt, skip the iron and let wrinkles settle naturally.
How often should I wash a wool blanket?
Wool blankets don’t need frequent washing. Typically, washing once every three to four months is enough if there are no visible stains. Between washes, airing them outside can help maintain freshness.
What should I do if my wool blanket smells musty?
If your blanket smells musty, air it out on a dry, sunny day. Sunlight helps to naturally deodorise wool. For stronger odours, sprinkle a bit of baking soda on the blanket, let it sit for a few hours, and then shake it off.
Can I use fabric softener on wool blankets?
No, fabric softeners can damage wool fibres and reduce the softness of the blanket. Wool is naturally soft, so it doesn’t need fabric softener. Stick to wool-friendly detergents.
What’s the best way to remove pet hair from wool blankets?
Pet hair can cling to wool, but a lint roller or a damp rubber glove works wonders to remove it. Gently brush the blanket to avoid pulling on the fibres.
Summary: Key wool blanket care tips
| Step | Do | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Inspection | Check care labels, inspect for damage | Skipping label instructions |
| Spot Cleaning | Use wool detergent, dab gently | Scrubbing or rubbing stains |
| Hand Washing | Use cold water, swirl gently | Using hot water, harsh detergents |
| Machine Washing | Use gentle cycle, wool detergent | Aggressive spins, too much detergent |
| Drying | Lay flat to dry, reshape damp | Using tumble dryers, hanging to dry |
| Storing | Use cotton bags, add moth repellents | Storing in plastic bags, ignoring moths |
Your wool blankets deserve a little pampering, and now you’ve got all the tools to give it to them. Remember, a well-cared-for blanket is a cosy friend for years to come. Ready to tackle your cleaning routine? Wecasa is always here for you—making life simpler, one chore at a time! Book a cleaning session now, sit back and watch the magic happen.
