It is important to wash a fleece blanket because if you don’t, the blanket will start to smell bad and look dirty. Also, if you don’t wash it, the blanket will start to shed and pill.
Fleece is a delicate fabric and needs to be washed carefully to avoid damage. Incorrect washing can cause pilling, shrinkage, and color bleeding.
Our guide will tell you how to wash a fleece blanket correctly without losing its shape or color.
It is also important to use a small amount of detergent, as using too much detergent can cause the detergent to stick to the fibers of the blanket and make it less soft.
Avoid using bleach on a fleece blanket, as bleach can damage the fibers of the blanket and the blanket’s dye.
Can You Wash a Fleece Blanket?
Fleece blankets are often advertised as being able to be machine-washed and dried, but there are some additional care instructions you should follow to keep your blanket in good condition.
Before washing your fleece blanket for the first time, check the care label to see if there are any special instructions.
If the care label says to dry clean only, then you should take the blanket to a professional dry cleaner.
What Is the Best Way to Wash Fleece?
The best way to wash fleece is to machine wash it on a gentle cycle in cold water. You can also hand wash it in cold water, but be sure to use a gentle detergent and be careful not to agitate the fabric too much.
After washing, dry the fleece either in the air or in the dryer on low heat.
How to Wash a Fleece Blanket: Step-By-Step Instruction
Washing a fleece blanket is an easy process if you follow the instructions. Below we will tell you how to wash a fleece blanket in the washing machine and by hand.
Washing machine: washing instructions
Before you wash your fleece blanket, it is important to check the care label. The care label will have specific instructions on how to wash and care for your blanket. If the fleece blanket is machine washable, follow these steps.
Step 1: Choose the right washing cycle and water temperature
Once you have checked the care label, you can then choose the right washing cycle and water temperature. For most fleece blankets, the gentle or delicate cycle should be used. The water temperature should also be set to warm or cold.
Step 2: Add the right amount of detergent
Next, you will need to add the right amount of detergent to the washing machine. For most fleece blankets, you will only need to use a small amount of detergent.
Step 3: Wash the fleece blanket
After you have added the detergent, you can then wash the fleece blanket. Make sure to follow the care label instructions when washing the blanket.
Step 4: Dry the fleece blanket
Once the fleece blanket has been washed, you will need to dry it. Use the low heat setting or air dry. Avoid using the dryer on high heat, as this can cause the fabric to shrink.
Hand wash: washing instructions
If the blanket is not machine washable, or if you just want to wash it yourself, follow these steps:
- Fill a sink or basin with cold or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Submerge the fleece blanket in the water and swish it around gently to loosen any dirt or debris.
- Allow the blanket to soak for a few minutes before draining the sink or basin.
- Refill the sink or basin with clean, cold water and rinse the blanket thoroughly.
- Gently squeeze the water out of the blanket and transfer it to a clean, dry towel.
- Wrap the towel around the blanket and squeeze gently to remove any remaining water.
- Hang the blanket on a clothesline or drying rack and allow it to air dry completely.
How to Dry Fleece Blanket?
There are two ways to dry a fleece blanket – in the air and in the dryer. You can choose either one, but it is preferable, of course, not to use a dryer, as it shortens the life of the fleece blanket.
In the air
To dry your fleece blanket in the air, simply hang it over a clothesline or drying rack. If you’re using a clothesline, make sure to hang it in a shady spot, so the sun doesn’t fade the fabric.
If you’re using a drying rack, place it in a well-ventilated room so the air can circulate around the blanket.
Depending on the size of your blanket and the humidity in the air, it could take anywhere from a few hours to a day for the blanket to completely dry.
The dryer
To dry your fleece blanket in the dryer, set the dryer to the “air fluff” or “no heat” setting and add a clean tennis ball to the dryer. When the cycle is finished, your blanket should be soft and free of any lint.
How to Clean Fleece Blanket and Keep It Soft?
A fleece blanket is a great way to keep warm during the winter months. But how do you wash a fleece blanket and keep it soft?
Here are some tips:
- use a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh detergents as they can strip the fleece of its natural oils, making it stiff and uncomfortable;
- wash the blanket in cold water. Hot water can damage the fibers of the fleece, making it less soft and cozy;
- use the gentle cycle on your washing machine. This will help protect the blanket from damage;
- hang the blanket to dry. Do not put it in the dryer as the heat can damage the fibers. If you must use the dryer, use the lowest setting and remove the blanket as soon as it is dry;
- store the blanket in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in a humid environment as this can cause the blanket to mildew.
How to Wash a Fleece Blanket Without Pilling?
Washing a fleece blanket without pilling can be a difficult task. Pilling, in simple words, is the formation of small balls of fiber on the surface of the fabric. This can happen when the fibers are agitated during washing and cause them to break off and tangle together. There are a few things you can do to minimize pilling and keep your fleece blanket looking like new:
- Before washing, check the label for care instructions. If the blanket is machine-washable, choose a gentle cycle and cold water. Add a mild detergent and avoid using fabric softener, as this can cause pilling. If the blanket is dry clean only, take it to a professional.
- If possible, wash the blanket alone or with other items made from similar materials. This will minimize friction and prevent pilling. If you must wash it with other items, put them in a mesh laundry bag to reduce friction.
- Use a short, gentle cycle and avoid overloading the washing machine. This will minimize agitation and prevent the fibers from breaking and tangling.
- After washing, gently remove the blanket from the machine and shake it out. Lay it flat to dry, avoiding direct sunlight or heat, which can damage the fibers. Once it’s dry, fluff it up to restore the loft and prevent matting.
If pilling does occur, there are a few ways to remove it. Use a lint roller or tape to pick up the pills, or gently shave them off with a razor. You can also use a fabric shaver, which is a small handheld tool that will remove the pills without damaging the fabric.
Things to Avoid
Washing a fleece blanket is relatively easy, but there are a few things to avoid in order to keep the blanket in good condition.
One of the most important things to avoid is the use of heat. This applies to both washing the blanket in hot water and using the dryer on high heat.
High heat can damage the fibers and make the blanket less soft and comfortable. If you have to use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting possible.
Another thing to avoid is using bleach. The harsh chemicals in bleach can damage the delicate fibers of the blanket and increase the likelihood that it will fall apart. If you need to remove stains, use a mild stain remover or soak the blanket in a mixture of water and vinegar.
Finally, avoid using liquid fabric softener when washing a fleece blanket. The chemicals in fabric softeners can coat the fibers and make them less soft. Dryer sheets can be used, but be sure to use one or two to avoid overloading the blanket with chemicals.
What Should You Avoid When Washing a Fleece Blanket?
Washing a fleece blanket is a delicate process. You must be careful not to damage the fibers or ruin the fabric. Here are some tips to avoid common mistakes when washing a fleece blanket:
- Do not use hot water. Hot water will damage the fibers and cause the blanket to shrink.
- Do not use bleach. Bleach will damage the fibers and cause the blanket to lose its color.
- Do not use fabric softener. A fabric softener will coat the fibers and make the blanket less absorbent.
- Do not put the blanket in the dryer. The heat will damage the fibers and cause the blanket to shrink.
And don’t iron the blanket. The heat will damage the fibers and cause the blanket to lose its shape.
How to Store a Fleece Blanket?
If you have a fleece blanket that you need to store, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to keep it in good condition.
Here are a few tips on how to store a fleece blanket:
- Make sure the blanket is clean before you store it. If the blanket is dirty, it can attract pests or cause the fabric to break down over time. Be sure to wash the blanket according to the manufacturer’s instructions before you put it away.
- Try to store the blanket in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures can damage the fibers in a fleece blanket, so it’s best to avoid storing it in a hot attic or damp basement. A closet or dresser drawer is a good option.
- Protect the blanket from pests. Moths and other insects can damage a fleece blanket, so it’s important to keep them away. You can do this by storing the blanket in a sealed container or by using moth balls or cedar chips in the storage area.
- Don’t store the blanket for too long. Although fleece blankets are designed to last for many years, it’s best to not store them for longer than a year or two. This will help to keep the fabric in good condition.
Following these tips, you can be sure that your fleece blanket will stay in good condition for years to come.
FAQ
Is fleece easily washed?
Fleece is a fabric made from polyester, and it is easily washable. You can machine wash fleece in warm water on the delicate cycle, and you can also hand wash it. When washing fleece, you should use a mild detergent and avoid using bleach. You can dry fleece in the dryer on the low setting, or you can hang it to dry.
What setting to wash fleece blankets?
When it comes to washing a fleece blanket, it is best to use the delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine. You will also want to use cold water and mild detergent.
What temperature to wash the fleece blanket?
Fleece blankets are best washed in cool or warm water with a mild detergent. They can be washed in a washing machine on a gentle cycle or by hand. To prevent shrinkage, do not use hot water or put them in the dryer.
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Conclusion
If you’re looking to add a little extra warmth to your home, a fleece blanket is a great option. Fleece blankets are relatively easy to care for, and they can be machine-washed and dried. Just make sure to use a mild detergent and avoid using any fabric softeners.
If you still have questions about your fleece blanket, post them below in the comments.
References
- Fleece – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polar_fleece
- Specific instructions (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=4yelfzf74krpjvvqav7dfux2je77ndmi
- Bleach (bleach chemistry) – https://www.britannica.com/technology/bleach-chemistry
