How to Wash Crochet Blanket: Step-by-Step Guide

Crochet blankets are beautiful, unique, and often expensive. With proper care, they can last for many years. Washing a crochet throw blanket requires special care to avoid damage. Before washing your crochet blanket, check the care label.

If the care label says “dry clean only,” then take it to a professional dry cleaner.
If your blanket doesn’t need professional cleaning, read our article to learn how to wash a crochet blanket.

Can You Wash a Crochet Blanket?

A crochet blanket is a great addition to any home and can be used as a decorative piece or a functional item. But can you wash a crochet blanket?
The answer is yes if it is not prohibited by the manufacturer.

You can wash a crochet blanket, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

First, if your blanket is made with natural fibers like wool or cotton, it will shrink if you wash it in hot water or put it in the dryer. So, be sure to use cold water and air dry your crochet wool blanket.

Second, if your blanket is made with synthetic fibers like acrylic or polyester, it can be machine-washed and dried. Just be sure to use the gentle cycle and low heat setting.

Finally, if your blanket has any embellishments like beads or sequins, you’ll need to hand wash it to avoid damaging the decorations.

So, there you have it! You can wash a crochet blanket, but be sure to follow the care instructions to avoid damaging your blanket.

What You’ll Need for Laundry?

If you have a crochet blanket that needs washing, you’ll need a few supplies.
First, you’ll need a washbasin, bathtub, or bucket. You’ll also need a mild laundry detergent and some towels. If you have a washing machine, you can use that, but it’s not necessary.

You can also use a dryer if the manufacturer allows it.

How to Wash a Crochet Blanket in the Washing Machine: Step-By-Step Instruction

If your crochet blanket is starting to look a little bit worse for wear, it might be time to give it a wash. Washing a crochet blanket in the washing machine is actually quite simple, and it will help to keep your blanket looking its best.
Follow these steps to wash your crochet blanket in the washing machine.

Step 1: Check the blanket label

The first step is to check the label on the blanket. Depending on the material and brand of the yarn, the washing instructions may differ. If the yarn is acrylic-based, it is likely safe to put in the washing machine. However, if you have a specialty or artisan yarn that was recolored by hand, opt for hand washing instead.

Step 2: Put the blanket in a special bag

To machine wash your blanket, start by putting it in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect it from getting tangled in the washing machine.

Step 3: Choose the right cycle

Once you have checked the yarn label, you can select the appropriate cycle on your washing machine. For most crochet blankets, the delicate or gentle cycle will suffice. However, if the blanket is particularly dirty or delicate, you may need to hand wash it.

Step 4: Add detergent

After you have selected the appropriate cycle, you can add detergent to the washing machine. For most crochet blankets, a mild detergent will work just fine. However, if the blanket is particularly dirty, you may need to use a stronger detergent.

Step 5: Wash the blanket

Once you have added detergent to the washing machine, you can wash the blanket. Simply put the blanket in the washing machine and let it run through the cycle.

Step 6: Dry the blanket

After the blanket has been washed, you will need to dry it. You can either put the blanket in the dryer on a low setting or hang it up to dry. If you choose to hang the blanket up to dry, you should do so in a well-ventilated area.

How to Wash a Crochet Blanket by Hand: Step-By-Step Instruction

If your crochet blanket is made of delicate materials or if you simply want to take extra care of it, you can wash it by hand. This process is not difficult, but it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging your blanket.

Step 1: Find the manufacturer’s instructions on the label

It usually tells you how to wash and dry your crochet blanket properly. If the blanket requires dry cleaning, take it to a dry cleaner.

Step 2: Fill a sink or basin with cold or lukewarm water

You don’t want the water to be too hot, as this could damage the yarn.

Step 3: Add a gentle washing detergent

You can use a regular laundry detergent, but be sure to use a gentle or delicate cycle if you are washing your blanket in the washing machine.

Step 4: Submerge the blanket in the water

Immerse the blanket in the water and let it soak for a few minutes.

Step 5: Gently agitate the water

After a few minutes, gently agitate the water to help loosen any dirt or debris from the blanket.

Step 6: Drain the water

Once the blanket has soaked for a few minutes, drain the water from the sink or basin.

Step 7: Rinse the blanket

Rinse the blanket with clean, cold water, and be sure to wash off any soap residue well.

Step 8: Squeeze the water from the blanket

Squeeze the water from the blanket, being careful not to twist or wring it.

Step 9: Roll the blanket in a towel

Roll the blanket in a towel to help remove any excess water.

Step 10: Lay the blanket flat to dry

Once the blanket is no longer dripping wet, lay it flat to dry. Avoid hanging it to dry, as this could cause the blanket to stretch or warp.
Allow blanket to air dry completely before next use.

How to Dry a Crochet Blanket?

Drying a crochet blanket properly will ensure that it lasts for many years. Crochet blankets are typically made from natural fibers such as wool or cotton. These fibers can shrink and become misshapen if they are not dried correctly.
The first step is to gently shake the blanket to remove any excess water.

Next, roll the blanket in a clean towel and squeeze out as much water as possible. Do not wring or twist the blanket, as this can damage the fibers.

Once the blanket is no longer dripping wet, it can be laid flat to dry. If possible, lay the blanket in a sunny spot to speed up the drying process.

However, do not place the blanket in direct sunlight, as this can cause the colors to fade.

When the blanket is completely dry, it can be stored in a cool, dry place. Be sure to fold the blanket carefully, so it does not crumple or lose its shape.

How to Wash Handmade Crochet Blankets?

A handmade crochet blanket requires special care when washing to prevent shrinkage, felting, and other damage. The best way to wash a handmade crochet blanket is by hand, using cool water and mild soap or mild detergent.

Here are the steps on how to wash a handmade crochet blanket:

1. Fill a sink or basin with cool water and add a small amount of soap or mild detergent.
2. Submerge the blanket in the soapy water and swish around gently to clean it. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the fabric, as this can damage the delicate fibers.
3. Once the blanket is clean, rinse it thoroughly in cool water to remove all the soap. Again, avoid scrubbing or rubbing the fabric.
4. Gently squeeze the water out of the blanket, then roll it in a towel to remove any excess moisture.
5. Finally, lay the blanket out flat to air dry.

If you must wash your crochet blanket in the washing machine, follow these steps:

1. Use the gentle cycle and cool water.
2. Add a small amount of soap or mild detergent, then wash the blanket on its own to avoid damaging other items in the load.
3. Once the cycle is complete, rinse the blanket thoroughly in cool water to remove all the soap.
4. Gently squeeze the water out of the blanket, then roll it in a towel to remove any excess moisture.
5. Finally, lay the blanket out flat to air dry.

With proper care, your handmade crochet blanket will last for many years.

How Often Should You Wash a Crochet Blanket?

Washing a crochet blanket depends on how often it is used. Blankets that are used daily need to be washed more often than those that are used occasionally.

If your blanket is made with natural fibers, such as cotton or wool, it will need to be washed more frequently than one made with synthetic fibers. Natural fibers are more absorbent and will hold onto dirt, dust, and other allergens more easily.
On average, crochet blankets are washed every three to four months.

After-Cleaning Care

Once you have cleaned your crochet blanket, it is important to take care of it so that it will last for many years. Here are some tips on how to care for your crochet blanket:

1. Be sure to shake the blanket out well after washing to help loosen any knots or tangles.
2. Gently stretch the blanket back into shape if it has become misshapen.
3. Once the blanket is dry, give it a light brushing with a soft-bristled brush to restore the nap.
4. Store the blanket in a cool, dry place that is well-ventilated.
5. Avoid storing your blanket in direct sunlight, as this can cause the colors to fade.
6. If your blanket is made of wool, you may want to store it in a breathable bag to prevent moth damage.
7. When folding your blanket, be sure to fold it along the edges so that the stitches do not get stretched out.
8. If you spill something on your blanket, blot the area with a clean cloth to remove the spill. Do not rub the area, as this can cause the fibers to become damaged.

Repairs

Crochet blankets are often handed down through generations, so it’s important to know how to repair them. Here are some tips for repairing crochet blankets:

• small holes can be tightened by hand stitching with yarn or thread of appropriate color;
• if the break is significant, you may need to purchase a replacement or unravel the item and crochet again;
• be careful not to over-tighten the stitches, as this can cause the blanket to pucker;
• if you are unsure about how to make a repair, it’s best to seek professional help.

FAQ

How to wash an acrylic crochet blanket?

Acrylic crochet blankets can be machine-washed and dried, and it is best to use the gentle cycle and cool water. You may also hand-wash your blanket using cool water and mild detergent.

What is the best way to wash a crochet blanket?

The best way to wash a crochet blanket is to hand wash it in cold water with a mild detergent. You can also machine wash it on the gentle cycle, but be sure to use a laundry bag to protect the blanket.

Can crochet blankets be machine washed?

Yes, crocheted blankets can be washed in the machine if it is not prohibited by the manufacturer, but it is important to use a gentle mode and wash them separately from other things. In addition, it is recommended to use a mild detergent and avoid bleach. After washing, the blanket should be spread out to dry.

Also read:

• Standard Blanket Sizes
• How to Spot Clean a Weighted Blanket?
• How to Get Rid of Bad Smell From Blankets?

Conclusion

It can be difficult to wash a crochet blanket because the yarn can shrink or the blanket can become misshapen. It is best to wash it by hand in cool water with a mild detergent and to lay it flat to dry.
Have you ever had to wash crochet blankets? If so, has your experience been successful?

References

• Crochet – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crochet
• Laundry detergent (How Laundry Detergent Works) – https://home.howstuffworks.com/laundry-detergent.htm?srch_tag=odq7ehznxiilad3xoblpiypyvwgogrz6
• Label (Label Review Manual) – https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/label-review-manual