If you’re anything like me, you love snuggling up in a soft, fuzzy blanket on a chilly day. But when it comes time to wash that cozy blanket, things can get a little tricky.
After all, you don’t want to ruin the delicate fibers or lose that softness that makes it so comforting.
In this article, I’ll share some tips and tricks for washing a fuzzy blanket without damaging it, so you can keep snuggling up in comfort.
First things first, it’s important to know what kind of material your fuzzy blanket is made of. Different materials require different care and maintenance. For example, faux fur blankets should be washed differently than alpaca or wool blankets. Once you know what kind of material you’re working with, you can start to plan your washing strategy.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when washing a fuzzy blanket is to use a gentle cycle on your washing machine. This will help prevent damage to the delicate fibers.
You’ll also want to use a mild detergent and avoid using hot water, which can cause shrinkage and damage to the fibers.
With these tips in mind, let’s dive into the specifics of how to wash a fuzzy blanket.
Gathering Supplies
Before washing your fuzzy blanket, it is important to gather all the necessary supplies. Here are the items you will need:
Choosing a Detergent
When choosing a detergent for your fuzzy blanket, it is important to select a mild detergent that is free of bleach and fabric softeners. Avoid using hot water as it can cause shrinkage and damage to the fibers. Some good options include:
- Tide Free and Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent
- Seventh Generation Natural Laundry Detergent
- All Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent
Preparing the Washing Machine
Before washing your fuzzy blanket, make sure to prepare your washing machine. Here are the steps to follow:
- Set the washing machine to a gentle cycle.
- Fill the washing machine with cool water.
- Add the mild detergent to the washing machine.
- Place the fuzzy blanket in the washing machine.
Make sure to wash the blanket by itself and not with other items. This will prevent any damage to the delicate fibers of the blanket. Once the cycle is complete, hang the blanket up to dry or lay it flat to dry. Avoid using a dryer as it can damage the fibers of the blanket.
Washing the Fuzzy Blanket
Washing a fuzzy blanket can be a bit tricky, but with the right steps, you can keep it looking and feeling soft and cozy for years to come. Here’s how I wash my fuzzy blankets:
Setting the Washing Machine
First, I make sure to set my washing machine to a gentle cycle with cool water. Hot water can damage the delicate fibers of the blanket, so it’s important to use cool water instead. I also set the machine to a low spin cycle to avoid damaging the fibers even further.
Adding the Fuzzy Blanket
Next, I add the fuzzy blanket to the washing machine. It’s important to wash the blanket by itself and not with other items to avoid any damage or tangling of fibers. I also make sure to evenly distribute the blanket in the machine to ensure an even wash.
Choosing the Right Cycle
When choosing the right cycle, I opt for a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. A harsh detergent can strip the fibers of their softness, so it’s important to use a mild one instead. I also avoid using fabric softener during the wash cycle as it can cause buildup and damage to the fibers.
Adding Fabric Softener
After the wash cycle is complete, I add fabric softener during the rinse cycle. This helps to keep the fibers soft and fluffy. I also make sure to follow the instructions on the fabric softener bottle to avoid using too much or too little.
Following these steps has helped me keep my fuzzy blankets soft and cozy for years. Remember to always check the care label on your blanket for any specific washing instructions and to avoid any damage to the fibers.
Drying the Fuzzy Blanket
After washing the fuzzy blanket, it’s important to dry it properly to avoid damaging the fibers. Here are some steps to follow when drying your fuzzy blanket:
Removing Excess Water
Before placing the fuzzy blanket in the dryer, it’s important to remove as much excess water as possible. You can do this by gently pressing the blanket between two towels or rolling it up in a towel and squeezing out the excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the blanket, as this can damage the fibers and cause the blanket to lose its softness.
Choosing the Right Drying Cycle
When drying your fuzzy blanket, it’s important to choose the right drying cycle to avoid damaging the fibers. Set your dryer to the low or delicate cycle, and avoid using high heat, as this can cause the fibers to melt or shrink. If your dryer has a no-heat or air-dry setting, this is the best option for drying your fuzzy blanket.
Adding Dryer Balls
Adding dryer balls to your dryer can help fluff up your fuzzy blanket and prevent it from clumping together. Dryer balls work by bouncing around in the dryer, separating the fibers and allowing air to circulate more freely. If you don’t have dryer balls, you can use clean tennis balls instead.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your fuzzy blanket stays soft, fluffy, and cozy for years to come.
2 Extra Tips
Avoiding Damage to the Fuzzy Blanket
If you want to keep your fuzzy blanket looking great, there are a few things you should avoid doing when washing it. First, avoid using hot water or high heat when drying it. This can cause the fibers to shrink and damage the blanket. Instead, use cool water and a gentle cycle when washing it, and air dry it or use a low heat setting when drying it.
Another thing to avoid is using fabric softener or bleach. These can damage the fibers and cause the blanket to lose its softness and color. Instead, use a mild detergent and avoid using too much of it. Too much detergent can leave residue on the blanket and make it feel stiff.
Storing the Fuzzy Blanket
When you’re not using your fuzzy blanket, it’s important to store it properly to keep it in good condition. First, make sure it’s clean and completely dry before storing it. Any moisture left in the fibers can cause mildew or mold to grow.
You can store your fuzzy blanket in a few different ways. One option is to fold it neatly and place it in a plastic storage container or vacuum-sealed bag. This will protect it from dust and pests. Another option is to hang it up on a hanger or hook, but be sure to use a padded hanger to avoid stretching the fibers.
Finally, avoid storing your fuzzy blanket in direct sunlight or in a damp area. This can cause the fibers to fade or become damaged. Instead, store it in a cool, dry place where it won’t be exposed to too much light or moisture.
