Dealing with shedding blankets is a common challenge for many households. Whether it’s a new purchase that hasn’t settled yet or an older favorite that’s started to wear, shedding can significantly impact the cleanliness and aesthetic of your home environment. Fortunately, there are effective methods for washing these blankets to reduce shedding and extend their life.
Should You Wash a Blanket That Sheds?
Deciding whether to wash a shedding blanket involves understanding why it sheds and the effects of washing on its condition. Here’s a detailed look at the factors to consider:
Reasons for Shedding
- Natural Fiber Release: Some blankets, especially those made from natural fibers like wool or cotton, naturally release loose fibers. This is often due to the fibers settling or excess fibers coming loose from the manufacturing process.
- Wear and Tear: Over time, blankets can begin to shed more as they wear out. Washing might accelerate this if not done properly.
- Quality of the Fabric: Lower-quality blankets often shed more because they are not as tightly woven or the fibers are not as strongly integrated.
Considerations for Washing
- Pros of Washing: Washing a shedding blanket can actually help to remove loose fibers that are not securely attached to the blanket, potentially reducing the amount of shedding in the long run.
- Cons of Washing: Improper washing techniques can increase shedding, damage the fabric, or cause the blanket to lose its shape and feel.
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How to Wash a Blanket That Sheds
Washing a blanket that sheds requires specific steps to minimize damage and control fiber loss. Here’s how you can do it safely:
Preparation
- Check Care Labels: Always read the blanket’s care label for specific washing instructions. This will guide you on whether the blanket is machine washable or if it requires hand washing.
- Shake it Out: Before washing, take the blanket outside and give it a good shake to remove as many loose fibers as possible.
Washing Process
Machine Washing
- Use a Mesh Laundry Bag: Place the blanket in a large mesh laundry bag to contain fibers and prevent them from spreading throughout your washer.
- Select Gentle Cycle: Use the gentle cycle on your washing machine with cold water to reduce the risk of the fibers becoming loose due to agitation.
- Mild Detergent: Use a mild detergent that’s suitable for delicate items. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners, which can weaken the fibers further.
- Run the Washer: Wash the blanket alone or with other items that are similar in material and color to avoid damage and color transfer.
Hand Washing
- Fill a Tub: Fill a tub with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Submerge the Blanket: Gently place the blanket in the water and press it down to fully saturate it with the cleaning solution.
- Soak: Let the blanket soak for about 15-30 minutes, then gently agitate it with your hands.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and rinse the blanket with fresh cold water until all detergent is removed.
Drying
- Air Dry: Hang the blanket to dry in a shaded area or lay it flat on a drying rack. Avoid using a dryer as the intense heat and tumbling action can cause more shedding.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can degrade the fibers and cause fading, especially in natural fiber blankets.
Post-Washing Care
- Gently Brush: Once the blanket is dry, use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush the blanket. This can help align the fibers and reduce future shedding.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly shaking out and brushing the blanket between washes can also help minimize shedding.
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Maintaining Your Shedding Blanket
To keep shedding to a minimum over time, regular maintenance is key:
- Regular Grooming: Use a lint roller or a soft-bristled brush to gently collect loose fibers from the blanket between washes.
- Proper Storage: Store the blanket in a breathable cotton bag when not in use to protect it from dust and other contaminants that can embed in the fabric.
Benefits of Properly Washing Shedding Blankets
- Reduced Allergens: Keeping your blanket clean helps reduce the buildup of dust and allergens, which can be trapped in loose fibers.
- Enhanced Longevity: Gentle and proper washing techniques can extend the life of your blanket by keeping the fibers intact.
- Improved Home Cleanliness: Minimizing shedding helps keep the rest of your home cleaner and more inviting.
As a pet owner, dealing with shedding is a daily task, not just from our beloved family dog but also from various textiles around the house.
I’ve found that taking proactive steps to handle our most treasured woven and knitted blankets has dramatically reduced the amount of cleanup required on our furniture and floors, much like how choosing a Puffy Lux Mattress has helped manage our sleeping arrangements more effectively, ensuring comfort despite the chaos.
Conclusion
Washing a shedding blanket doesn’t have to be a chore. With these straightforward steps, you can significantly reduce shedding and maintain the beauty and functionality of your cozy home essentials. Remember, the key to success is in the preparation and gentle care.
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