A wool blanket stays warm and soft when washed gently in cool water and dried flat. This shows you how to hand wash a large wool blanket without shrinking or matting it, so it keeps its size and loft.
What you'll need
- A wool-safe or gentle detergent
- Cool water
- A bathtub or large basin
- Large towels
- A drying rack or flat space
Step by step
- Check the care labelRead the tag first. Many wool blankets are hand-wash only, while some are machine washable on a wool cycle and a few need dry cleaning.
- Shake it out and spot-treatTake the blanket outside and shake off dust. Dab any stains with a little diluted wool detergent before the full wash.
- Fill a tub with cool waterUse a bathtub for room to move, filling it with cool water and a small amount of wool-safe detergent. Hot water shrinks and felts wool.
- Soak and press gentlySubmerge the blanket and press the water through it by hand for several minutes. Do not scrub, twist, or agitate the fibers.
- Rinse and press out waterDrain, refill with clean cool water, and press to rinse until the water runs clear. Press the blanket against the tub to squeeze out water without wringing.
- Dry flat and reshapeLay the blanket over towels on a flat surface or a rack, reshape it to size, and let it air-dry away from direct heat and sun. Turn it partway through.
Handy tips
- Wet wool is heavy, so lift the blanket with both hands supporting its weight to avoid stretching it.
- Roll the blanket in towels first to remove much of the water and shorten drying time.
- Wash wool blankets only once or twice a year, airing them outside between washes to freshen them.
Heads up
- Avoid hot water, wringing, and hot tumble drying, all of which can shrink, felt, or mat wool permanently. Do not hang a soaked blanket, since the weight distorts its shape.
FAQ
Can I put a wool blanket in the washing machine?
Only if the label allows it. Use a wool or delicate cycle with cool water, gentle detergent, and low spin. When unsure, hand wash to be safe.
How do I dry a large wool blanket?
Dry it flat over towels or a rack, reshaping it to size and flipping it periodically. Avoid high heat and direct sun, which can shrink or fade it.
How can I refresh a wool blanket without washing it?
Hang it outdoors on a dry, breezy day to air out, and spot-clean small marks. This removes odors and keeps full washes to a minimum.