So washing a new cotton or linen blanket in cold water before using it and then drying it on low heat should reduce the amount of shrinkage later on, if you need to use hot water. I do this at least once (and sometimes two or three times) before I use any new blanket, in case I need to disinfect it after testing.
Dust and Allergens: Blankets can accumulate dust, allergens, and other particles during packaging and shipping. Washing helps eliminate these. Softness and Freshness: Washing a new blanket can enhance its softness and make it smell fresher, making it more comfortable to use.
Yes, always wash clothing and linens before use. Manufacturers use a fabric finish that is loaded with chemicals. These chemicals are not healthy for humans or animals.
There might be bedbugs, mites, dust & dirt on the bedding. So it's always best to wash your bedding before you place it on your bed. Read the tag for care instructions. In my experience comforters hold up best when washed in cold water.
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.
High heat can damage materials. Tumbling can damage blankets.
The time it takes to dry a blanket depends on the material it's made of. Most will take anywhere from one to three hours in the dryer on low heat, depending on how big the blanket is. For some blankets, like wool ones, you may need to air dry them, which (depending on the climate) can take up to 24 hours.
Should you wash new bedding? While it might be tempting to put your new sheets straight on the bed, it's advised you wash them before you use them. New sheets can often harbour unwelcome particles like dust and dirt and may feel stiff, scratchy, and starched.
You can wash most blankets weighing up to 20 pounds in your household washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach, which can damage the blanket's fibers over time, and fabric softeners, which may create a buildup that gives your blanket a scratchy feel.
Tiny dust mites love to feed on the shed cells. The critters and their droppings can trigger allergies, asthma, and cause your itchy eczema to flare. If you're allergic to dust mites, wash bedding every week in hot water.
So yes, you should wash a comforter before using it! Ever notice that new sheets or other textiles have a stiffness out of the packaging? That's the chemical residue from the manufacturing process, and it can cause itchiness and irritation even if you don't suffer from allergies.
You can wash blankets in a washing machine as long as its fabric care label indicates that it is safe to do. Some materials should not be washed in a machine and should be dry-cleaned instead. If you are unsure how to care for your blanket, consult the manufacturer's instructions before washing it.
How can you get rid of that musty smell in old clothing and blankets without washing them first? Hang them outside in the sun and brisk breeze (hopefully not too strong). They will refresh naturally. If 1 day isn't sufficient, go for more - or toss in a cool dryer with a dryer sheet or two for a bit.
It depends on how often you use them. Aim to clean regularly-used blankets once a week, casually-used ones every few weeks, and rarely-touched throws every couple of months. Always follow care instructions on your garment's tag to ensure your blanket stays clean and cozy for a long, long time.
A throw blanket is smaller than most blankets and also more versatile. The main difference is that a throw blanket is not sized for mattresses like bedspreads, quilts and duvet covers are. This is because throw blankets aren't just for beds. They're meant to accessorize — and keep you warm — in any room.
Whether it's for curling up on the sofa during a movie night or adding extra warmth to your bed, a new blanket is a welcome addition. However, like any new textile, it often comes with manufacturing residues that you might want to wash off before its first use.
Ideally, all new bedding should be washed before being placed on your bed. Sheets, pillowcases, and blankets are particularly important to wash because they come in direct contact with your skin.
Hang dry. No fabric softener or sheets. When it's dry, do an air only fluff in the dryer with a few wool dryer balls. This is how I keep my unhide blankets as good as the first day.
Mechanical Agitation: The agitation and tumbling during a washing cycle can put stress on the fibers, causing them to break loose from the weave or knit of the blanket. Water Temperature and Chemicals: Using hot water or harsh detergents can weaken fibers, making them more likely to shed.
While washing bedding before use is a personal choice, experts recommend washing bedding before use, and this includes bedspreads. It's an excellent way to eliminate dust, debris, and other allergens before the bedspread comes in contact with your body.
Failure to wash bedsheets regularly can leave skin exposed to dirt, sebum, cosmetic products, and debris which will not only cause dust mites to accumulate, but can result in outbreaks of conditions such as acne, rashes, as well as cause irritation and itching, and flare-ups or eczema.”
It's also possible that chemicals used in manufacturing-while ultimately not dangerous to your health-may trigger allergies for some folks. So it's a good idea to give your pillow a scrub first. New pillows may also come with a distinct scent due to the materials they're made with.
If you decide to dry your blanket with an electric dryer, be sure to choose a low heat setting. For a wool blanket, avoid the tumble dryer and opt for air-drying, being mindful to keep it out of direct sunlight. Now that you know how to wash a blanket, you're ready to add them into your regular laundry day rotation.
Throws – Every Three To Six Months
Throws and blankets are another ideal home for dust mites and dirt – something you might not have considered when you're snuggling down on the sofa at night. Washing or dry cleaning them every three to six months will keep any nasties at bay.
Here's why this happens and how to prevent it: Hard Water: Washing blankets in hard water can cause mineral buildup, leaving the fibers stiff and rough. To counter this, add a water softener or vinegar during the rinse cycle.