How to Properly Wash and Store Throws for Longevity
A blanket that is used regularly will eventually need cleaning, but aggressive washing and high heat can shorten the life of a textile unnecessarily. A few simple habits can help woven and plush blankets stay looking good for longer.
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Always check the care instructions on the individual product first. Different materials and production methods may require different treatment.
How to wash a woven cotton blanket
For our woven cotton blankets and throws, use a gentle approach:
- Machine wash on a gentle or delicate cycle.
- Use cold water.
- Choose a mild, colour-safe detergent.
- Do not use bleach.
- Avoid high heat.
Woven textiles have visible threads and texture rather than a flat printed surface. Treating them gently helps preserve the structure and appearance of the weave.
Drying your blanket
Whenever possible, lay the blanket flat or hang it to dry.
Avoid high-temperature tumble drying, which can place unnecessary stress on fibres and may affect the shape or texture of the textile.
If ironing is needed and the individual product instructions allow it, use a low temperature and work from the reverse side.
Plush velveteen blankets are different
A plush velveteen blanket is not constructed in the same way as a woven cotton blanket. The design is printed rather than woven into the textile. The difference between woven and plush is worth understanding before you wash either one.
Follow the care information supplied with the specific product rather than assuming that every blanket should be treated identically.
Do not wash a blanket more often than necessary
Not every refresh requires a full wash.
If the blanket is clean but has been sitting folded or stored, airing it can sometimes be sufficient. Spot treatment may also be appropriate for a small mark if the product's care instructions permit it.
Reducing unnecessary washing also reduces unnecessary wear.
How to store blankets between seasons
Before storing a blanket for a long period, make sure it is completely clean and dry.
Fold it loosely and store it in a clean, dry area away from moisture and direct sunlight.
Avoid placing heavy objects on top of delicate woven textiles for long periods, particularly if doing so creates hard folds or compression.
Rotate the fold occasionally
If a special blanket remains stored for months at a time, refolding it differently occasionally prevents the same area from remaining under pressure indefinitely.
This is particularly useful for larger woven pieces that are also used as decorative wall textiles.
When your blanket is displayed as wall decor
A woven blanket can also be displayed as textile wall art. If you do this, use a hanging method that distributes the weight rather than concentrating all the pressure on a small section of the weave — hanging a tapestry without damaging the design covers the methods that work.
Keep the textile away from damp walls and prolonged strong sunlight where possible.
Simple care is usually best
Cold water, a gentle cycle, mild detergent and low or no heat are far safer choices than aggressive cleaning for most decorative textiles.
Most importantly, always follow the instructions for the particular product you purchased. Pillow covers take a slightly different approach.