Can you wash crochet blankets? As a user of crochet blankets, you might wonder if it’s safe to wash your beloved blanket without ruining it. The answer is yes, you can wash crochet blankets, but the process can be a bit tricky. Knowing how to wash your crochet blanket properly is crucial to maintaining its quality and longevity.
This article explores the washability of different yarn types, how often you should wash your crochet blanket, and the best ways to wash and dry it. Whether you prefer a washing machine or hand-wash your crochet blanket, we’ve got you covered.
By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to keep your crochet blanket clean and cozy for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- You can wash crochet blankets, but the process can be tricky.
- Different yarn types require different washing methods.
- To maintain the quality and longevity of your crochet blanket, it’s important to wash and dry it properly.
Table of Contents
Can You Wash Crochet Blankets?
Yes, you can wash crochet blankets, but it’s important to follow specific guidelines depending on the type of yarn used and the chosen washing method.
Before washing your crochet blanket, it’s essential to check the yarn label or care tag to avoid damaging or shrinking it. Most yarn brands specify the proper way to wash and dry an item made of yarn, so read the instructions carefully.
Some common types of yarn for crochet blankets and their general washability are:
Acrylic Yarn
Acrylic yarn is a popular choice for crochet blankets because it is durable, easy to maintain, and resistant to moths and mildew. Here are some things to keep in mind when washing acrylic yarn blankets:
- Machine wash on a gentle cycle with warm water and mild soap.
- Avoid exposing acrylic yarn to high heat or bleach, as it may melt or lose color.
- Dry flat or on low heat in a dryer.
>> See acrylic yarn on Amazon.
Wool Yarn
Wool yarn is a natural fiber that is warm, soft, and breathable. However, wool blankets require more delicate care than acrylic blankets. Here are some tips for washing wool blankets:
- Hand wash in cool water with wool-specific laundry detergent.
- Gently agitate the water and rinse, squeezing as much moisture as possible.
- Avoid wringing or twisting the blanket as it may cause felting or shrinkage.
- Dry flat on a towel or a drying rack away from direct sunlight or heat.
Cotton Yarn
Cotton yarn is breathable, absorbent, and versatile. It is a great choice for summer blankets or baby blankets. Here are some tips for washing cotton blankets:
- Machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild soap.
- Avoid exposing cotton blankets to high temperatures during washing or drying as they may shrink.
- Dry flat or on low heat in a dryer.
Blends Yarn
Blends yarn combines two or more types of fibers, such as acrylic and wool or cotton and silk. The care instructions for blending yarn may vary depending on the percentage and characteristics of each fiber. Here are some general tips for washing blends yarn blankets:
- Follow the gentlest recommended washing method for the fibers in the blend.
- If in doubt, wash in cold water with mild detergent and dry flat.
Different types of yarn can have different washability properties. Some yarns can be easily washed in a machine, while others require more delicate care. Cotton yarn is versatile, and blend yarn may have different care instructions depending on the fibers in the blend.
>> Check out blends yarn on Amazon.
Read: Can You Wash The Ruggable Pad?
How Often Do You Wash A Crochet Blanket?
Crochet blankets are beautiful and cozy and can last many years if you take good care of them. One question is how often you should wash a crochet blanket. The answer depends on several factors, but you don’t need to wash your crochet blanket frequently.
Crochet blankets are delicate and can lose their quality and appearance over time if you wash them too often. The fibers can become weak, and the colors can fade or bleed. Additionally, frequent washing can cause the blanket to lose shape and become distorted or stretched.
Factors that may influence how often to wash a crochet blanket include how often it is used, the type of fiber used, and the amount of dust or dirt buildup on it. If you use your crochet blanket daily, you may need to wash it more often than if you use it occasionally.
If the blanket is made of a delicate fiber like wool, you may need to wash it less often than if it is made of a more durable fiber like acrylic.
A general rule of thumb for washing crochet blankets is every three to four months. However, this may vary depending on your specific situation and needs. If your blanket is visibly dirty or has a strong odor, you may need to wash it sooner.
If you live in a dusty or humid environment, you may need to wash your blanket more often to prevent dust and mold buildup.
How To Wash Crochet Blanket In The Washing Machine
If you have a crochet blanket that can withstand machine washing, you can save time and effort by using your washing machine to clean it. Here are some steps to help you wash your crochet blanket safely and effectively in the washing machine:
Step 1: Place the blanket in a laundry bag or pillowcase to protect it from snagging or stretching. This will also help to keep the yarn from fraying or unraveling during the wash.
Step 2: Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent. This will help to prevent any damage to the yarn or the crochet stitches. Avoid using hot water, which can cause the yarn to shrink or become misshapen.
Step 3: Avoid using bleach, fabric softener, or dryer sheets, as they may damage the yarn or leave residue. Instead, use a mild detergent that is specifically designed for delicate items.
Step 4: Once the wash is complete, remove the blanket from the washing machine and gently squeeze out excess water. Do not twist or wring the blanket, which can damage the yarn.
Step 5: Lay the blanket flat on a clean, dry towel and roll it up to remove any remaining moisture. Then, unroll the blanket and lay it flat to air dry. Avoid hanging the blanket, as this can cause the weight of the water to stretch the yarn and ruin the blanket’s shape.
A video about how to wash crochet blankets.
How To Hand Wash Crochet Blanket
If you have a crochet blanket made of wool or blend yarn that may shrink or feel in the machine, it is necessary to hand wash it. Hand washing is a gentle way to clean your crochet blanket without damaging it. Here are some steps on how to hand wash a crochet blanket gently and thoroughly:
Step 1: Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water. Ensure the water is not too hot or cold, as this can damage the blanket’s fibers. Add a mild detergent or gentle shampoo to the water.
Step 2: Gently swish the blanket in the water to clean it. Avoid scrubbing or twisting the blanket, as this can cause damage to the fibers.
Step 3: Once the blanket is clean, rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Use cold water to rinse the blanket, as this helps to remove any remaining soap residue.
Step 4: Once the blanket is rinsed, squeeze out any excess water. Avoid wringing the blanket, as this can damage the fibers.
Step 5: Lay the blanket flat to dry. Avoid hanging the blanket to dry, as this can cause it to stretch out of shape.
How To Dry And Reshape Your Crochet Blanket After Washing
Properly drying and reshaping your crochet blanket after washing is crucial to prevent wrinkling, stretching, or losing shape. Here are some tips to help you dry and reshape your crochet blanket after washing:
- Avoid wringing out the blanket to remove the water. This can cause the fibers to stretch and damage the delicate crochet stitches.
- Instead, roll the blanket up in a towel and press down on the towel to squeeze out more water. This will help remove excess water without putting too much strain on the fibers.
- If you want to use a dryer, set it on low heat and put the blanket in a mesh laundry bag to prevent it from getting tangled or stretched. Adding a fabric softener sheet can help reduce static and make the blanket softer.
- Alternatively, lay the blanket flat on a clean towel or drying rack to air dry naturally. Make sure to reshape the blanket if necessary by gently pulling and smoothing the edges and corners.
- If your blanket has lost its shape or has become misshapen during washing, you can use the blocking method to reshape it. To do this, you will need a blocking board and rust-resistant pins. Soak the blanket in cold water, lay it flat on the blocking board, and pin it to the desired shape. Let it dry completely before removing the pins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove stains from my crochet blanket?
Before washing the blanket, try spot-cleaning the stain with a mild detergent and cold water. If the stain is stubborn, you can use a stain remover suitable for the type of yarn used. Always test the stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area first to check for any adverse reactions.
How do I prevent my crochet blanket from pilling or fuzzing?
To prevent fuzzing or pilling, wash your crochet blanket gently and infrequently, use a laundry bag or pillowcase when machine washing, avoid high heat or bleach, and use a lint roller or sweater shaver to remove any pills or fuzz.
How do I store my crochet blanket when not in use?
Store your crochet blanket in a cool, dry, dark place. Use a cotton bag or acid-free tissue paper to protect it from dust, moisture, insects, or sunlight. Avoid plastic bags or containers to prevent mold or mildew.
How do I make my crochet blanket softer?
To make your crochet blanket softer, wash it with mild detergent and fabric softener, add vinegar or baking soda to the rinse water, dry it on low heat with dryer balls or tennis balls, or brush it with a soft-bristled brush after drying. Additionally, you can massage and stretch the yarn fibers using your hands.
Can you wash an acrylic crochet blanket?
Yes, you can wash an acrylic crochet blanket in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with warm water and mild soap. You should avoid using bleach, fabric softener, or dryer sheets as they may damage the yarn or leave residue. It would be best if you also dried the blanket flat or on low heat in a dryer.
