From the car to an impromptu picnic, your favorite throw blanket goes everywhere with you. Wrapped around your shoulders on movie night or draped on your lap while reading a book, these snuggly home items can fall victim to the occasional coffee spill or pizza sauce drop.
Like any other piece of fabric, throws need to be cleaned from time to time. Washing a throw blanket is easy, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure that your blanket comes out of the wash looking and feeling as good as new.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps of washing a throw blanket, so you can be sure your blanket stays clean and looks great for years to come. Let's get started!
How often should you wash your throw blankets?
As most of us know, throw blankets aren't just for decoration. They also serve an important function in keeping us warm and comfortable. But how often should you wash them? You should wash throw blankets at least once every two weeks and more often if used frequently.
This is because blankets can quickly become home to dust mites, pet hair, and other allergens. In addition, sweat and body oils can break down the fabric over time, leading to premature wear and tear.
By washing your blankets regularly, you can help to extend their lifespan and keep them looking and feeling their best. So the next time you cozy up with your favorite blanket, remember that it might be due for a trip to the laundry.
How to wash a throw blanket
Most throw blankets can be machine washed on a gentle cycle, but check the label for specific instructions. Once the blanket is washed, simply tumble it dry on low heat or air dry it flat. Similarly, you'll want to use a mild detergent and avoid bleaching or fabric softeners, as these can damage the fibers.
People use throw blankets for all sorts of activities, from cuddling on the couch to taking a nap. As a result, these blankets can quickly become stained and grimy. However, washing a throw blanket is easy, as long as you take a few simple precautions. With a bit of care, your throw blanket will look new for years to come.
How to dry a throw blanket
If you have a clothesline or drying rack, simply drape the blanket over it and let the air do its work. However, if you don't have access to an outdoor space, you can also dry your blanket indoors using a ceiling fan.
Throw the blanket over a chair or other piece of furniture and turn on the fan. The circulating air will help to speed up the drying process and prevent mold or mildew from forming.
If possible, remove the blanket from the dryer while it's still slightly damp and then finish air drying it. This will help to prevent wrinkles and keep your blanket looking its best. Using the dryer is also an option, but use the lowest heat setting to avoid damaging the fibers.
Additional tips to make sure your throw blanket doesn't pill or fuzz
Pilling and fuzzing are common problems with throw blankets, but there are a few things you can do to prevent these issues:
Avoid tumble dry
One of the best ways to keep your blanket looking new is to avoid tumble drying it. The dryer's high heat can cause the fibers in the blanket to break down, leading to pilling and fuzzing.
Once the drying cycle is complete, remove the blanket from the dryer promptly. Leaving the blanket in the dryer for too long can cause it to wrinkle and become misshapen. Instead, let your throw blankets hang dry. This gentle method will keep the fibers intact and help your blanket last longer.
Use a lower temperature setting
One of the best ways to prevent your blanket from pilling is to wash it in a lower temperature setting. This will minimize the amount of friction between the fabric and the washing machine, and it will also help to preserve the color and shape of the blanket. So next time you're doing laundry, set the dial to "cold" - your blanket will thank you for it!
Choose the right fabric
Pilling can happen to any fabric, but it's especially common in synthetic materials like polyester. Blankets made from these materials are often advertised as "fuzz-free," but that doesn't mean they're immune to pilling.
If you're looking for a blanket that doesn't pill or fuzz, choose one made that has less of this material and is tight overall. These fabrics are less likely to break down in the wash and will hold up better over time.
Use a fabric shaver
A fabric shaver is a great way to remove pilling and fuzz from your blanket. Simply run the shaver over the affected areas, and the pills will be lifted away. Be sure to use a light touch, as pressing too hard can damage the fabric.
The rotating blade will quickly remove any pills or fuzz, leaving the blanket looking smooth and new. Fabric shavers are inexpensive and can be found at most home goods stores.
Throw blankets that actually last
If you're looking for a cozy throw blanket that doesn't pill or fuzz, choose one of Thread Talk's machine-washable blankets. Our organic cotton blankets are durable fabrics that withstand multiple washes without pilling or fuzzing. Plus, they are available in various colors and styles, so you're sure to find the perfect one for your home.
What makes Thread Talk blankets different
Thread Talk blankets differ because we donate 10% of all proceeds to domestic violence shelters. This initiative is close to our founder's heart as a domestic violence survivor. We believe in giving back to our community and helping those who need it the most. So when you buy a Thread Talk blanket, not only will you get a high-quality product (like this Pink throw blanket), but you'll also be supporting a great cause.
Conclusion
Most people don't think about washing their blankets until they spill something on them or notice they've started to feel a little grungy. But even if your blanket looks clean, it's essential to wash it regularly to remove dust, dirt, and other allergens that can build up over time.
Now that you know how to wash a throw blanket, it's time to put this knowledge into practice! Always read the care instructions on your blanket's tag before washing. With these tips in mind, you can keep your blanket clean and look its best for years to come.
