Cotton blankets are a popular choice for bedding because they are soft, comfortable, and breathable. However, cotton blankets can also be a breeding ground for dust mites, which can trigger allergies. It is important to know how to wash a cotton blanket properly in order to remove dust mites and keep the blanket clean.
Cotton is also a delicate fiber and can shrink if not washed properly.
This step-by-step guide will help you wash your blanket so that it keeps its best looking.
Cotton blankets are a popular choice for bedding, but they require special care to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips on how to wash cotton blanket:
- choose the right detergent when washing a cotton blanket. A mild detergent is best so that it does not damage the fibers of the blanket;
- always wash the blanket on a gentle cycle with cool water. Hot water can damage the fibers of the blanket;
- do not use bleach when washing a cotton blanket as it can damage the fibers;
- it is important to dry the blanket properly after washing. Do not put it in the dryer on high heat as this can damage the fibers. Instead, air dry the blanket or on low heat.
Cotton Blanket Characteristics
Cotton is a type of soft, natural fiber that is grown around the world.
Cotton blankets are known for their breathability and softness, making them a comfortable choice for bedding. They are also durable and can be washed frequently without losing their shape or quality.
Cotton blankets are available in a variety of weights, making them suitable for use in all seasons.
Caring For Your Cotton Blankets
Caring for blankets doesn’t have to be complicated. Just follow a few simple tips and you can keep your blankets in great condition for years to come.
First, it is important to use cold water when washing your blanket. This will help protect the fabric from wear and tear.
Always choose a machine large enough to support the weight of the blanket after it has absorbed twice as much water.
This will ensure that the blanket is evenly distributed in the washer. If the blanket is unevenly placed in the machine, the spin can be very rough on the fabric and can damage the machine.
Use gentle detergents and fabric softeners when washing the blanket. You can also pre-dilute them so that you do not concentrate a large amount of detergent on one area of the blanket.
Dry the blanket on the medium/low setting and remove it from the machine as soon as it is dry. Try not to leave it wet in the machine, always dry it completely.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your cotton blankets looking great for years to come.
Tumble Dry
It’s easy to keep your cotton blankets looking and feeling great with a little care. Here are some tips on tumble drying your cotton blanket in the dryer:
- use a low or moderate heat setting. High heat can cause shrinkage and damage the fibers;
- don’t over-dry. Take them out of the dryer while they’re still slightly damp to prevent wrinkles;
- use a fabric softener sheet to reduce static and keep the blanket feeling soft;
- fluff the blanket periodically during drying to help prevent lumps from forming.
The Best Storage For Your Cotton Blanket
Cotton blankets are a great way to keep warm in the winter months. However, storing them can be a challenge. Here are some tips for storing your cotton blanket:
- Choose a cool, dry place to store your blanket.
- Fold your blanket neatly and place it in a storage bag.
- Stick a label on the storage bag indicating what it contains.
- Check on your blanket periodically to make sure it is staying dry and free of pests.
- When you are ready to use your blanket again, wash it in cold water and air dry it.
How To Wash Cotton Blanket: Tips and Step-by-Step Instruction
Cotton blankets are prone to shrinkage if not washed correctly. Shrinkage can occur if the blanket is washed in hot water or placed in the dryer on high heat. To avoid shrinkage, read our step-by-step guide.
How to wash 100 cotton blankets?
If your cotton blanket is starting to look a little worse for wear, it’s time to give it a good wash. Here are some tips and step-by-step instructions for washing a cotton blanket in the washing machine.
Step 1. Start by checking the label on the blanket for specific washing instructions. If there are none, you can assume the blanket is machine washable.
Step 2. Shake the blanket well to remove dirt and debris. If your blanket is heavily soiled, you may want to pre-treat the stains with a stain remover before washing them.
Step 3. Place the blanket in the washing machine in gentle mode in cold water.
Add mild detergent to the machine. Leave the washer for the entire cycle.
Step 4. At the end of the cycle, remove the blanket from the machine and shake it to fluff out the fibers.
Step 5. Hang the blanket to dry or place it in the dryer on low heat.
Step 6. When the blanket is dry, fold it up and put it away.
Few washing tips
To keep your cotton blanket looking its best, follow these simple washing tips:
- for best results, wash your cotton blanket in cold water;
- you can wash it frequently without worrying about wear and tear;
- if there are noticeable stains, selectively hand wash the area with warm water and diluted detergent;
- Always make sure that the blanket is placed in the washing machine with the ability to move during the wash cycle;
- use gentle washing detergent and diluted fabric softeners;
- dry the blanket in the dryer on the lowest heat setting;
- If the blanket is only slightly damp, air dry it by laying it flat on an elevated drying platform.
Hand Washing a Cotton Blanket: Tips and Step-By-Step Instruction
Some benefits of hand washing a cotton blanket include:
- it is a more gentle way to clean the blanket, which can help to prolong its life;
- hand washing will not damage the delicate fibers of the cotton blanket like machine washing can;
- the blanket will retain its shape better if it is hand washed;
- hand washing will not cause the blanket to shrink as machine washing can.
Given the benefits of washing cotton blankets by hand, we’ve compiled a step-by-step guide for you and highlighted a few helpful tips. How to wash 100 percent cotton blanket
How to hand wash 100 percent cotton blanket?
Hand washing your 100 percent cotton blanket may seem like a daunting task, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll have it clean in no time.
Step 1. Fill a bathtub with lukewarm water to a third of its capacity. Add a gentle detergent and stir to dissolve.
Step 2. Take your blanket outside and give it a good shake to remove any loose dust particles.
Step 3. Gently lower your blanket into the water and begin pressing down and lifting, folding as you go. Be careful not to rub too vigorously, as this could damage the fabric.
Step 4. Continue until you’ve gone through the whole blanket a few times. Then fold it up in the far corner of the tub and let the soapy water drain.
Step 5. Push down on the blanket to remove excess water. Fill the tub with clean, cold water and rinse the blanket. It’s best to repeat this process to make sure all the detergent is removed.
Step 6. Press firmly down on the blanket to remove as much water as possible. Do not wring the blanket, as this could damage the fabric.
Step 7. Place your blanket in a portable tub and lay it flat on a raised drying platform to air dry.
By following these simple steps, you can hand wash your 100 percent cotton blanket with ease.
Few helpful tips
These simple but effective tips will keep your cotton blanket looking its best:
- be sure to read the instructions before washing;
- use a mild detergent. A mild detergent will be less likely to damage the fabric of your blanket;
- do not wring the cotton blanket too hard so as not to damage the fabric;
- wash the blanket in lukewarm water. Hot water can shrink cotton fabrics;
- hang the blanket to dry. Do not put the blanket in the dryer.
Washing Your Blended Cotton Blankets
Blended cotton blankets are made of a blend of natural and synthetic fibers, usually cotton and polyester. They are soft and durable, making them a popular choice for many people.
To keep your blended cotton blankets looking and feeling their best, it’s important to wash them properly. Here are some tips on how to do this:
- wash blankets in cold water on a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the fabric;
- use a mild detergent without bleach;
- dry blankets on a rack or in a dryer on low heat;
- iron the blankets on a low setting if approved by the manufacturer.
Additional Tips
If you have sensitive skin, you should follow a few rules when washing a cotton blanket.
Be sure to use a hypoallergenic detergent and rinse the quilt thoroughly to remove the detergent residue.
You may also choose not to use fabric softener, as it may cause irritation.
FAQ
Can you dry 100 cotton?
Yes, you can dry 100% cotton in your dryer. Simply use a low-heat or permanent press setting, as too much heat can shrink your clothing. Cotton wrinkles easily when over-dried, so using a permanent press setting will help to avoid this issue.
How to wash a 100 cotton blanket?
To wash a 100% cotton blanket, start by checking the care label for specific instructions. If the blanket is machine-washable, add it to your washing machine with a small amount of laundry detergent. Use a delicate or gentle cycle and cold water to avoid damaging the fabric.
You may also want to add a fabric softener to the wash cycle to keep the blanket soft.
Once the cycle is complete, remove the blanket from the machine and hang it up to dry.
If the blanket is not machine-washable, it can be washed by hand.
What temperature to wash cotton?
The best temperature to wash cotton is cold or 30°C (86°F). Cool water prevents shrinkage and loss of color in the fabric. In addition, it is more economical to use cold water.
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Conclusion
Cotton blankets can be difficult to wash because they can shrink and fade. It is important to read the care label before washing and to follow the instructions carefully. It is best to wash cotton blankets in cool or warm water on a gentle cycle.
Use low to moderate heat when drying in the dryer. Strong heat can cause shrinkage and damage the fibers.
If you still have questions or know secrets about washing cotton blankets that we haven’t written about, leave a comment below.
References
- Cotton – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cotton
- Washing (How to Clean Bed Sheets and Comforters) – https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/household-hints-tips/cleaning-organizing/how-to-clean-bed-sheets-and-comforters.htm?srch_tag=a52oaqgi4dywpjkgdwhjin7ixvkuuo6h
- Polyester (Polyester chemical compound) – https://www.britannica.com/science/polyester
