There are two effective and proper ways on how to wash a knitted blanket – either to hand wash or machine wash them. Whichever method you use, it’s essential to know how to properly care for and maintain these handmade treasures if you want them to last for years.
There are other nagging questions about knitted blankets you might want to answer, like how often you should wash them and store them in the UK properly. Read on, and we will provide you with the answers you need to prevent damaging them!
How To Wash A Knitted Blanket
Before you jump towards the process of how to wash a knitted blanket, you might want to dwell on which method to use. There are two choices to consider: either go at it with your hands or use a washing machine. Take into account the blanket’s type of yarn to help you decide.
For blankets made of delicate material like wool, cashmere, or alpaca, you can do a hand washing method to prevent any damage. Meanwhile, use a washing machine to handle those with more robust material (polyester, cotton, or acrylic).
Hand Washing
Step #1. Use a detergent appropriate for hand washing
You need one that will be gentle, not just on the blanket but also on your hands. This will help you wash the blanket without damaging its texture, color, and shape.
If you are washing wool, pick a detergent with lanolin this oil aids in preserving wool fibers.
Step #2. Check the label on the blanket to know its material type
Delicate fibers need to be hand-washed. Checking the labels is necessary since most have laundering instructions in them – like fabric care labels.
Step #3. Soap it up
Fill a basin or bowl with cold water and mix detergent in it. Soak the blanket into water.
Swish it gently to help the blanket absorb the water. Don’t press nor agitate the blanket too much as it could stretch it out.
Step #4. Rinse the knitted blanket
Rinse it using cold water until it is soap-free. Don’t wring it out too much since that could lead to felting or stretching.
Step #5. Let it air-dry
You need to delicately dry cotton yarns and animal hair. Squeeze the blanket to remove the excess water and roll it up in a towel.
Machine Washing
Step #1: Choose the right detergent
Similar to hand-washing, you need to choose a gentle detergent. For cotton or synthetic fibers, use a mild detergent.
Step #2: Use a safety tool
If your blanket is acrylic, cotton, or polyester, put it inside a lingerie bag, then drop it inside the machine. Then, separate it from clothes or items with buttons or zippers.
Step #3: Add the detergent
Add a bit of detergent and turn the machine on. Select either a permanent or a delicate press cycle.
Step #4: Let it dry
Layout a shower curtain (or tarp) on a large surface and hold it. A bed or floor would be ideal. On top of it, lay a white sheet or dry towels.
Reshape the knitted blanket and place it flat on the sheet. The drying process takes about 24 hours. Turn it periodically for even drying.
Is Using A Dryer Advisable?
If the material is either synthetic linens, fiber, or cotton yarns, you can go ahead and use a tumble dryer. Keep note that you should only tumble-dry linens at low temperatures.
Be careful not to over-dry it! You may burn the fabric this way, so only settle for low to medium heat.
If you are unsure about the yarn or material type, it might be safer to air-dry the blanket.
How Often Should You Wash A Knitted Blanket?
Knitted blankets don’t require frequent washing. You can wash them once every season. That is unless in the UK you have messy roommates or pets.
If it’s the case of messy housemates, you can wash them if you deemed them dirty or smelly enough. Just keep in mind the proper way to clean and store these blankets so you wouldn’t damage them.
What Is The Proper Way Of Storing A Knitted Blanket?
If you are not using it, you can fold the knitted blanket and store them inside a closed plastic bag, plastic bin, or cotton bag to keep it dust and dirt-free. You can place it inside a cool corner inside the closet.
Don’t store them in the attic or basement in the UK. The humidity won’t be suitable for the fabric. Also, avoid placing them near buttons or zippers as they can potentially cause damage.
To prevent pests from feeding and making a home on your blanket, you can use cedar balls or dried herbs to keep them away. For keeping moths away, you can use essential oils like clove, cedarwood, lavender, and rosemary.
Conclusion
Knitted blankets are beloved and precious treasures that bring you infinite comfort and warmth. Being the treasures they are, you need to keep them in good condition. To do that, you need to know how to wash a knitted blanket and store them in the UK properly.