How to Wash Blankets

How Often Should You Wash Blankets?

Blankets used daily on a bed or couch should be washed every 2–4 weeks. Decorative blankets used occasionally can be washed every 1–3 months. Blankets used by pets or during illness should be washed immediately. Regular washing removes dust mites, pet dander, body oils, and bacteria that accumulate even when blankets look clean.

Washing by Blanket Type

Fleece Blankets

• Machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold water
• Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent — avoid fabric softener which reduces fleece's softness over time
• Tumble dry on low heat or air dry — high heat melts fleece fibers and causes pilling
• Wash separately from items with zippers or velcro that can snag the fleece surface

Wool Blankets

• Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent like Eucalan Fine Fabric Wash, or machine wash on a wool/delicate cycle with cold water
• Never wring — press gently between towels to remove excess water
• Lay flat to dry — never hang wet wool, which causes stretching
• Reshape while damp

Cotton Blankets

• Machine wash on a normal or gentle cycle with warm water
• Use regular liquid detergent
• Tumble dry on medium heat or air dry
• Add wool dryer balls to keep the blanket soft and reduce drying time

Knit and Chunky Blankets

• Hand wash in cool water with gentle detergent — machine washing can stretch and distort the knit structure
• Support the full weight of the blanket when lifting from the water — never hold by one end
• Lay flat to dry on a clean surface, reshaping while damp

Electric Blankets

See our dedicated guide on washing electric blankets for specific safety instructions.

How to Remove Stains from Blankets

• Treat stains immediately — blot liquid stains, don't rub
• Apply a small amount of mild detergent directly to the stain and let sit 10 minutes before washing
• For stubborn stains on white or light blankets, add Lysol Laundry Sanitizer to the rinse cycle

Quick Tips for Blanket Care

• Use a large-capacity machine for thick blankets — cramming causes poor rinsing and uneven washing
• Always check the care label before washing — some decorative blankets are dry clean only
• Store clean blankets in a breathable cotton bag or on an open shelf — avoid plastic storage bags
• Air blankets outside on a dry day between washes to freshen naturally

Recommended Products

• Eucalan Fine Fabric Wash — gentle formula for wool and delicate knit blankets
• Wool Dryer Balls — keep blankets soft and fluffy without fabric softener
• Lysol Laundry Sanitizer — eliminate bacteria and allergens from blankets used by pets or during illness