Wool blankets require gentle care to preserve their softness, warmth, and durability. Below is a step-by-step guide to cleaning them properly, along with key precautions.
### 1. Spot Cleaning for Minor Stains
For small, localized stains (like food crumbs or light spills), spot cleaning is the safest first step—no need for full washing.
- Blot the stain gently with a clean, dry cloth immediately to absorb excess liquid. Do not rub, as this can push the stain deeper into the wool fibers or cause pilling.
- Mix a small amount of wool-specific detergent with cold or lukewarm water (max 30°C) to make a mild soapy solution.
- Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the solution, wring out excess water (the cloth should be damp, not soaking), and dab the stained area gently.
- After removing the stain, dampen another clean cloth with plain water and blot the area to rinse off residual soap.
- Lay the blanket flat in a cool, ventilated place and let the spot dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight, which may fade the wool.
### 2. Hand Washing for Full Cleaning
Hand washing is the most recommended method for full cleaning, as it minimizes fiber damage compared to machine washing.
- Fill a large basin or tub with cold or lukewarm water (30°C or below). Never use hot water—high temperatures can shrink or felt the wool.
- Add a small amount of wool-specific detergent (follow the product’s dosage instructions) and stir gently to dissolve it. Avoid using regular laundry detergent, bleach, or fabric softener, as these contain harsh chemicals that can break down wool fibers.
- Submerge the wool blanket in the soapy water and gently press it to let the detergent penetrate. Do not twist, wring, or scrub the blanket, as this can distort its shape or cause felting.
- Let the blanket soak for 10–15 minutes (do not soak for longer than 20 minutes, as prolonged exposure to water may weaken fibers).
- Drain the soapy water and refill the tub with clean, cold/lukewarm water. Gently press the blanket to rinse off soap residue. Repeat this rinsing step 2–3 times until no soap suds remain.
- After the final rinse, press the blanket between two clean towels to remove excess water. Again, avoid twisting or wringing.
### 3. Machine Washing (Only If Recommended)
Not all wool blankets are machine-washable—always check the care label first. If machine washing is allowed:
- Use a front-loading washing machine (top-loading machines with agitators can agitate the wool too much, causing shrinkage).
- Select the “wool cycle” or “delicate cycle” with cold/lukewarm water (30°C max) and low spin speed (to prevent stretching).
- Add only wool-specific detergent. Do not use bleach, fabric softener, or bleach-based stain removers.
- Wash the blanket separately—do not mix it with other items, as friction from other fabrics can cause pilling or damage.
- Once the cycle ends, remove the blanket immediately to avoid sitting in dampness.
### 4. Drying After Cleaning
Proper drying is just as important as washing to keep the blanket in good shape.
- Lay the cleaned wool blanket flat on a clean, dry towel or a drying rack. Smooth out any wrinkles gently to restore its original shape.
- Place the drying area in a cool, well-ventilated spot. Keep the blanket away from direct sunlight, radiators, or heaters—extreme heat can shrink, harden, or fade the wool.
- Flip the blanket occasionally (every few hours) to ensure both sides dry evenly.
- Do not hang the blanket to dry, as the weight of the damp wool may stretch it out of shape.
### Key Precautions
- Never use hot water, bleach, or regular detergent—these are the main causes of wool shrinkage, felting, and fiber damage.
- Avoid over-washing. Wool has natural anti-microbial properties, so full cleaning is only needed every 3–6 months (or when visibly soiled). Regular airing can keep it fresh.
- If the blanket is heavily soiled or has large stains (like oil or red wine), consider professional dry cleaning—experts have the tools to clean wool safely without damage.