How to Wash Knitted Blankets

 

How to Wash Knitted Blankets

 

A handmade blanket is a wonderful item to have in your baby's nursery. However, for keeping it clean and safe for your infant. The blanket must then be washed thoroughly to remove all dirt and bacteria.

According to the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology, and Education, machine-washing your knitted blanket is crucial since it not only cleans the dirt but also removes the unwanted fuzz.

It means that you must exercise extreme caution when washing a knitted blanket. This complicates the situation. So, what is the best way to easily wash a crocheted blanket? That is why you must read the entire article.

Because I have included a step-by-step guidance on how to wash the knitted blanket in this article. That makes your job easier.

In addition, I discussed frequent mistakes made when washing knitted blankets. As a result, your knitted blanket will be safer and cleaner.

Let's get started!

Table of Contents Before Washing a Knitted Blanket
Read the instructions on the label of your crocheted blanket before beginning the washing process. Because it will provide you with all of the information you require while washing the blanket. So here are a few examples:

To keep the blanket from shrinking, wash it in cool or lukewarm water.
Bleach should not be used since it can harm the fibres.
Use a gentle detergent and avoid using fabric softener, which might harm the fibres.
Use a moderate cycle to wash the blanket.
If the label permits, use a drier. If not, use your iron on low heat to eliminate the wrinkles from your blanket.
How to Wash a Knitted Blanket Step by Step
If your crocheted blanket needs to be washed, take these simple procedures to get it clean and looking like new again.

1. Gather all necessary materials
A washing machine, laundry detergent, and a clean towel are required. But first, check the care label on your blanket to see if any special instructions are included.

Due to the sensitivity of some yarns and materials, you may need to hand-wash your blanket instead. So, before you begin, make sure you read the care label. Then take your materials and proceed to the washing machine.

2. Soak the blanket in cold water for a few minutes.
Fill a clean sink or bathtub halfway with cold water and add just enough laundry detergent to make suds. Swish the crocheted blanket about in the water to ensure that the entire blanket is covered.
Soak the blanket for 30 minutes, or as instructed on the care label. If your blanket is extremely soiled, soak it for a longer period of time.

But be careful not to soak it for too long, as this can harm the yarn. As a result, make sure to read the care label for detailed directions.

3. Mix a small amount of detergent into the water.
After 30 minutes, add a tiny amount of laundry detergent to the water and thoroughly mix it up. It's not necessary to use a lot of detergent—a little goes a long way! However, if your blanket is too unclean, you may need to apply a little more.

That is why it is critical to check the care label ahead of time so you know how much detergent to use. Because using too much detergent can cause damage to your blanket's fibres. So, use only what is really essential.

4. Gently wring the blanket in soapy water.
Swish the blanket about in the soapy water once the detergent has been stirred in. Scrubbing too vigorously might damage the yarn and distort the shape of your blanket.
Instead, use gentle movements to thoroughly wipe the entire blanket. Because crocheted blankets are frequently constructed of delicate materials, they must be washed with care.

However, if your blanket is extremely unclean, you may need to scrub it a little more to get it clean. Just be careful not to ruin the yarn in the process.

5. Thoroughly rinse the blanket under running water.
After swishing the blanket around in soapy water, thoroughly rinse it. This can be accomplished by running the blanket under a running faucet or by placing it in a clean sink or tub filled with clean water.
Rinse the blanket thoroughly until all of the soap has been removed. This is significant since soap residue can cause skin irritation and issues. But, once again, don't scrub too hard.

Set the washing machine to the gentle cycle and toss in the blanket. When hand-washing, however, employ delicate movements.

6. Remove as much excess water as possible.
After rinsing the blanket, wring out as much extra water as possible. This can be accomplished by rolling the blanket in a clean towel and pressing down.

Squeeze lightly so that you do not harm the yarn. Because dampness can damage the yarn and cause the shape of your blanket to distort.

It is critical to eliminate as much water as possible. It may take a few minutes to get all of the water out, but it is well worth the time to avoid damage.
7. Allow the blanket to air dry (Or Use A Dryer On Low Heat)
Hang the blanket to dry after wringing out the extra water. This can be accomplished by draping it over a clothesline or drying rack. If you're using a clothesline, make sure to knot the blanket to keep it from falling.
You can also dry the blanket on low heat in a dryer, but check the care label first. Because excessive heat might harm some yarns and materials, it is usually preferable to err on the side of caution.

If you followed the steps correctly, you should have learned how to wash a knitted blanket.
Common Washing Errors in Knitted Blankets
Knitted blankets are fragile goods that require great care, especially when washing. Although they may be machine washed, it's crucial to know how to do it correctly to avoid damaging the blanket.

Many typical blunders are made when washing knitted blankets. Here are some suggestions for avoiding them.

One common blunder is failing to use the proper sort of detergent. Regular laundry detergent should never be used on a crocheted blanket since it is too harsh. Instead, use a softer soap formulated exclusively for washing delicate things. These are available at most stores that offer washing supplies.
Another typical blunder is washing the blanket in overly hot water. Hot water can shrink and harm the blanket's fibres, so use cold or warm water instead.
People also frequently fail to read the care label before washing their blankets. The care label will have detailed directions for washing the blanket, so make sure to follow them carefully.
You may keep your knitted blanket looking new for years if you avoid these frequent blunders.
What Detergent Should I Use When Washing A Knitted Blanket?
A mild, wool-safe detergent is the best type to use when washing a knitted blanket.

Wool-safe detergents are gentle on delicate wool fibres and will keep your blanket looking its best.
Because wool is a natural textile, harsh detergents or bleach should be avoided as they might damage the fibres and cause the blanket to shrink.

Is it possible to wash a knitted blanket in the washing machine?
The ideal way to wash a crocheted blanket is by hand, but if you must use a washing machine, proceed with caution. Use the delicate or hand-wash cycle, and avoid using hot water.
Use a gentle detergent and avoid using fabric softener. Roll the blanket in a towel to remove excess water before laying it flat to dry. However, hand washing your knitted blanket is the best way to keep it looking its best.

How Should You Wash A Knitted Blanket?
Hand washing is the best way to care for a knitted blanket. Knitted blankets are delicate and should not be machine washed. Machine washing can damage the fibres and cause the blanket to shrink.

To wash a knitted blanket by hand, start by filling a sink or basin with lukewarm water and mild laundry detergent. Gently swish the blanket around in the water, being careful not to agitate it too much.

What Should I Do If My Knitted Blanket Gets Stained?
If your knitted blanket becomes stained, try spot cleaning the area with a damp cloth first. If the stain persists, wash the blanket in cold water on a gentle cycle.

If the stain persists, soak the blanket in a solution of cold water and dish soap for a few hours before washing it again.
Because knitted blankets are made of delicate materials, you should always handle them with care and avoid drying them.

How Can I Maintain the Appearance of My Knitted Blanket?
Washing your blanket regularly is the best way to keep it looking new. But how often should you wash it? And what’s the best way to wash it?
Here are some washing instructions for your knitted blanket:

Wash your blanket regularly. Depending on how often you use it, you should aim to wash your blanket every 1-3 months.
Use a mild detergent and lukewarm water.
Bleach and fabric softeners should be avoided.
Gently wash your blanket in a washing machine on a delicate cycle, or hand washes it if you’re worried about damaging it.
Lay your blanket flat to dry. Avoid hanging it to dry because it will stretch out of shape.
Once it’s dry, give your blanket a light brushing with a soft brush to restore its fluffiness.
With these simple tips, you can keep your knitted blanket looking new for years to come!

Should I tumble dry or air dry my knitted blanket?
It is always recommended to air dry your crocheted blanket because drier heat might cause the strands to shrink. If you must use the dryer, set the temperature to low and remove the blanket as soon as it is dry.

If you have a standard-size washing machine, fill it with cool water and a light detergent designed for delicate things.

If you are concerned about the colour bleeding, you can add a colour catcher to the wash. Set your machine to the delicate cycle and leave it to do its thing.

Finally, How To Wash A Knitted Blanket
So, these are the measures you must take in order to wash your crocheted blanket. If you want to keep your cherished blanket secure, make sure you don't skip any of these steps and avoid the common mistakes listed in this section.

We hope you found this blog post useful, and we'd love to know how it went for you!
If you have any issues with this article, please let us know in the comments section. We will make every effort to resolve your issue as soon as possible.

FAQ: How To Wash A Hand Knitted Blanket
It is critical to wash the knitted blanket correctly. However, many individuals are unaware of how to wash knitted blankets. Here I will answer some pertinent questions about this.

Q.1 How Should I Dry the Blanket?
Ans. To avoid shrinkage, it is advisable to air dry your blanket. Wool shrinks when exposed to high heat since it is a natural fibre. If you must use a dryer, set it to the lowest heat setting and protect your blanket with a mesh laundry bag.

Q.2 Should I hand wash or machine wash a knitted blanket?
Ans. Hand cleaning is the best method to protect your blanket from damage. If you must wash it in the machine, use the gentle cycle and cool water. Avoid using hot water or putting your blanket in the dryer.

Q.3 Is it necessary to iron the blanket?
Ans. No, you do not need to iron your blanket. Wool is a natural fibre that can be harmed by excessive heat. If you must remove creases, lay your blanket flat and use a steamer. However, don't get the steamer too close to the blanket or it will scorch it.