Why do soft blankets lose their softness?

08 Apr.,2024

 

If you are interested in learning the most effective method for washing fleece blankets, you have found the right page. In reality, there is a quick and secure way to accomplish this.

People love to be warm when they have colds and spend as much time as they can under blankets. Therefore, it is unsurprising that those who like frequent travel find fleece blankets highly useful.

Because of those plush, cosy blankets, you want to spend the entire day lounging in the sun with an excellent book. Unfortunately, when you wash them, they could pill up or develop other problems, including getting damaged.

Washing your fleece blankets may make you feel a little anxious. Fortunately, there are a few simple methods you can use to wash your fleece blankets to keep them looking and feeling fantastic!

Why Is It Necessary To Wash Them?

On a chilly day, fleece blankets are a toasty option. However, they are susceptible to spills, food, body oils, and hair products like any other bedding item. You must wash your fleece blankets in a manner designed especially for fleece fabric if you want to keep them in the most remarkable shape.

Fleece blankets will likely be harmed by being washed in the same manner as cotton blankets, leading to pilling and an immediate loss of shape.

How Should You Wash Them?

Compared to lower-quality fleece, higher-quality fleece will maintain softness better. However, there are many things we can do to maximise the softness when caring for fleece blankets.

Cleaning Up Spots On Fleece Fabric

The ideal pre-treatment for fleece fabric is a small amount of liquid dish soap or laundry detergent.

Apply minimal soap to the stain; use just enough to cover it.
Give it a rest for up to ten minutes before proceeding.

Blot the soap stain as much as possible with an old towel to remove it.
If required, repeat the process and wash your hands afterwards.

To avoid damaging the cloth, please refrain from rubbing. The stain will most likely become further embedded in the fabric; as a result, making removal even more challenging.

Are Fleece Blankets Safe To Wash In A Machine?

Yes, fleece blankets can be machine-washed. This method is preferable because of the substantial nature of the blankets. Who wants to hand wash and then wring out a big blanket?

It is advisable to wash fleece in cool or cold water, whether it is part of a blanket or not. Making sure that the fibres are not harmed requires using water that is the proper temperature.

Utilising a moderate or light detergent is another smart move. These detergents won't have any ingredients that might be too abrasive for fleece, and they won't make many suds or residue that might stay in the fibres if it isn't entirely washed away.

The delicate cycle is yet another suggestion. Less agitation from the washing machine on the delicate cycle can help maintain the softness and fluff of the fibres. It is advisable to air dry it or use the dryer's low-heat cycle to dry it after washing. Again, heat can damage fleece fibres, so drying fleece properly is just as crucial as washing it.

You may also like to check How To Choose The Ideal Throws And Blanket.

Fleece Blankets Should Be Dried Using A Gentle Cycle And Low Heat

The fleece blankets should be dried in the dryer on a gentle cycle at a moderate temperature. On fleece blankets, never use a high heat setting because doing so will harm the fabric.

As soon as the dryer stops, remove the blankets and fold them to avoid creases. Lay the blankets flat and press your palms down if they are too fluffy. Never iron a fleece blanket, please.

Irons cause the synthetic fabric to melt and damage the fleece. If you have the means and the weather is suitable, think about drying your fleece blankets outside to give them a fresh scent.

Keeping Blankets In Fleece

Fold your fleece blankets neatly and tuck a scented dryer sheet inside the final fold if you keep them after washing. The blanket will remain fresh while being kept in your linen closet as a result.

Also Read How To Choose The Right Fleece Blanket

How Can You Refresh the Look of Fleece?

If your fleece blanket is looking dull or clumpy because you need to learn how to wash fleece properly, you could restore its new appearance. Even though you might not be able to recreate the smooth texture fully, you can at least make it appear to be there.

  • A pet brush or similar brush with rugged, metal bristles is all you need. This works best when the fleece is moist. Therefore, you have two options:

  • Either brush it after you've washed and dried it or mist it with water first.

  • For practice, brush the blanket in a corner so that it is either less obvious or doesn't turn out as well as you had imagined it would.

  • After brushing the fibres to your satisfaction, move on to the next section of the blanket and continue working your way across it until all of the fibres have been brushed. When you are finished, the blanket ought to have a fluffier appearance.

The Best Way to Care For Fleece

  • Polyester, a form of plastic, makes up the majority of fleece. Therefore, intense heat can harm it.

  • If the fibres are washed in a full load, where other items are rubbing against them the entire time, they may also become matted or squashed.

  • Using too much soap can get stuck in the fibres and not thoroughly washed off, reducing the softness.

  • Fabric softeners can damage the water-resistant coating put on many fleece products. Avoid using dryer sheets and liquid softeners.

What is the best way to keep fleece soft even after using all the preceding laundry advice to wash it without damaging it? The fibres of fleece cluster together, which is why it doesn't feel as soft as it once did. Too much heat when drying or washing is the most frequent reason.

Fleece blankets are available in multiple colours including Black, Burgundy, Grey, Yellow, Coffee, Navy Blue, Sky Blue, Silver, Pink, Purple, Rust, Camel, Emerald green and Teal.

The fleece must be washed in cool or cold water and dried on low or no heat to maintain its softness. The most straightforward approach to prevent the synthetic fibres from melting and clumping together is to do it like this.

After trying to make some of your fleece items appear brand new again, if it is too late, at least you will know for the future.

Did you know? Natural fibers like cotton and linen often become softer with each wash, thanks to the breaking in of the fabric. This is why well-loved, older blankets can feel incredibly soft.

Steer clear from stiffness and pilling by using gentle detergents and cool water for washing.

From tips on washing and detergents to drying and storage, here we discuss how to make blankets soft again. Different blankets have different care instructions, ranging from the temperature to wash them in as well as what kind of fabric softeners to use.

Whether you're dealing with a pilling blanket or a blanket that has grown stiff over time, we have the right tips to help you understand what you can do to make it soft again. From washing techniques and tricks to proper storage, we’ll share valuable insights to rejuvenate your beloved blanket.

Why Is My Blanket So Stiff?

A stiff blanket can be quite uncomfortable, and there are several reasons why blankets lose softness over time. Here are some common factors that contribute to stiff blankets:

  1. Frequent washing, especially with harsh detergents.
  2. Using hard water with a high mineral content for washing.
  3. The quality and type of the fabric of your blanket may naturally feel stiffer over time.
  4. Not using quality fabric softeners.
  5. Lower-quality blankets go through fiber breakdown over time.
  6. Over-drying your blanket in a hot dryer may damage the fabric.
  7. Age and wear may naturally cause your blankets to lose their softness. 

To maintain the softness of your blanket, it’s essential to follow proper care and washing instructions tailored to your specific type of product.

How To Make Blankets Soft Again

Making your blankets soft and cozy again is an excellent way to ensure that they continue providing you with just the right degree of comfort and warmth. Below, are some effective steps to restore the softness of your blankets:

  1. Consider opting for a mild, liquid detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics.
  2. Incorporate an eco-friendly fabric softener during the rinse cycle.
  3. Ensure that your washing machine isn’t overloaded when cleaning your blanket.
  4. Select the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine.
  5. Unless specified otherwise, wash your blankets in cold or lukewarm water to prevent excessive shrinkage.
  6. Use a low heat setting when tumble-drying your blankets.
  7. Consider adding dryer balls in the dryer, as they can help fluff the blankets and prevent clumping.
  8. Be mindful of rough surfaces, like agitators in most top-loading machines, that may damage the fabric. 

Generally, after washing and drying your blanket, stretch it gently and fold it until you need to use it. When not in use, store your blankets in a cool, dry place to prevent dust and dirt buildup, which can affect their softness.

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How To Keep Sherpa Blankets From Matting

Are you looking for tips on how to make sherpa blankets fluffy again? The best way to achieve this, is to select a gentle washing machine cycle and use a mild liquid detergent when cleaning your blanket. This gentle approach minimizes friction and ensures your Sherpa blanket retains its softness. Also, washing it in cold water not only conserves energy but also prevents excessive shrinkage.

Generally, steer clear of overloading the washing machine, as this can lead to friction and potential matting issues. In your laundry routine for Sherpa blankets, skip fabric softeners, as they can compromise the texture of the fabric.

When it comes to drying your Sherpa blanket, consider using a low heat setting or, for a gentler touch, or opt for an air-dry setting. This prevents any damage to the fabric. To maintain its fluffiness, post-wash, give the Sherpa fabric a gentle brush with a soft-bristle brush or a lint roller.

How To Make Faux Fur Blankets Soft Again

Faux fur blankets are celebrated for their luxurious softness, but over time, they may lose some of their plushness. To bring back that delightful texture, follow these tips:

  1. Start by gently shaking the blanket outdoors to remove dirt and debris.
  2. Check the care label for washing instructions, usually recommending cold water, a gentle cycle, and a mild liquid detergent.
  3. Minimize agitation during the wash to prevent matting and ensure a thorough rinse to remove detergent residue.
  4. For drying, use a no-heat or air-dry setting, and include clean tennis balls or dryer balls to fluff the fur. 

After laundering, a gentle brush of your blanket with a wide-toothed comb or soft-bristle brush can restore its soft and fluffy feel. In general, consider steering clear from fabric softeners, and when not in use, you may store the blanket away from direct sunlight to prevent stiffness. Periodically, you can shake it out to keep dust and debris from settling, maintaining its softness.

How To Keep Fleece Blankets Soft

Fleece blankets are cherished for their soft and cozy texture. Washing your fleece blanket is crucial to prevent the buildup of oils, sweat, and dirt. To maintain the comfort of your fleece blanket, consider following the recommendations discussed below.

  1. Choose a mild liquid detergent and cold water to wash it gently.
  2. Consider opting for the delicate cycle while avoiding overloading the machine,
  3. Skip the fabric softener.
  4. Opt for low heat when drying and consider an air fluff cycle. 

In general, be cautious of sharp objects and periodically air out your fleece blanket to keep it fresh and soft.

The Best Way To Wash A Weighted Blanket

Washing a weighted blanket requires special care to maintain its integrity and the even distribution of the weight. Before washing your weighted blanket, it’s best to to first look at the care label on your blanket to see if it’s machine washable or if it needs dry cleaning.

Our Cotton Napper, for instance, is a machine-washable knitted weighted blanket that is made of 100% organic cotton.

After considering the care instructions of your specific blanket, follow these steps for washing a weighted blanket:

Check Machine Capacity: Make sure your washing machine and dryer can handle the weight of your wet blanket.

Treat Stains: Check and treat any stains on the blanket before washing.

Wash Your Blanket:

  • Wash separately in cold water to avoid overcrowding the machine.
  • Choose a delicate or permanent-press cycle.
  • Use a gentle detergent to maintain the integrity of the fabric quality.
  • Avoid using fabric softener or bleach. 

Opt for Air Drying or Low Heat Setting: To preserve the integrity of most weighted blankets by preventing damage to the fabric, consider air drying your blanket by laying it flat on a clean, dry surface. If you prefer using a dryer, set it to a low heat setting to prevent excessive stress on the blanket’s stitching and seams. Regularly check for any signs of overheating and remove the blanket promptly once it’s dry to the touch. Avoid high heat settings, as they may compromise the quality and effectiveness of the fabric.

By following these steps, you can keep your weighted blanket clean and cozy for many peaceful nights to come.

How To Deal With A Pilling Blanket

Pilling on a blanket can be frustrating, but it’s a common issue that can be addressed. Here’s how to deal with a pilling blanket:

  1. You may start by washing the blanket according to the care label instructions.
  2. Consider investing in a fabric shaver or sweater comb designed for removing pills.
  3. For more stubborn pills, you can carefully use small scissors or a razor blade.
  4. A lint roller can be used to pick up loose pills from the blanket.
  5. You may use a velcro strip attached to a handheld brush to rub over the pilled areas. 

To prevent future pilling, consider washing your blanket in cold water with a gentle detergent. And whenever possible, opt for air-drying your blanket rather than using a dryer because heat from the dryer can contribute to pilling

Choosing The Right Blanket Fabric Softener

Choosing the right fabric softener is important to maintain the softness and comfort of your blankets. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Choose between a fabric softener liquid, dryer sheets, and dryer balls based on your preferences and laundry needs.
  2. Opt for fragrance-free softeners, especially if you have sensitivities.
  3. Prioritize hypoallergenic fabric softeners if you or your family members have sensitive skin.
  4. It may also help to select concentrated formulas to reduce waste in the long run.
  5. Ensure the fabric softener is compatible with your washing machine type. 

Conclusion

When it comes to reviving the softness of your blankets, it’s all about tailored care and the right washing techniques. From using gentle detergents and delicate cycles to the choice of fabric softeners, the tips we share above offer a path to coziness restoration.

It helps to invest in blankets made of natural and sustainable materials as these typically maintain their softness much more easily. By understanding the unique requirements of different blanket types and adopting these practices, you can recover the original comfort and steer clear of stiffness and pilling.

Why do soft blankets lose their softness?

How To Make Blankets Soft Again (8 Top Tips)

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