Crochet blankets are a beautiful addition to any home, but they can also be a bit tricky to maintain. Whether you’ve made the blanket yourself or received it as a gift, you’ll need to know how to properly clean and care for it to keep it looking its best. Here’s everything you need to know about washing your crochet blanket.
Preparation
Before you even begin washing your crochet blanket, there are a few things you need to do to make sure it comes out looking great. Here’s what you should do before you start washing:
Check the Label
Most crochet blankets will come with a label that tells you how to care for it. Make sure you check this before you start washing. If there are any specific instructions or restrictions, you’ll want to know about them before you begin.
Inspect the Blanket
Before washing your crochet blanket, inspect it carefully for any spots or stains. If you notice any, try to remove them before washing. This will help prevent them from setting into the fabric and becoming more difficult to remove later on.
Choose the Right Detergent
Make sure you choose a mild detergent that’s appropriate for delicate fabrics. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as these can damage the fibers of the crochet blanket.
Hand Washing
If your crochet blanket is delicate or has intricate patterns, you’ll want to wash it by hand to avoid damaging it. Here’s how:
1. Fill a basin or sink with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
2. Gently agitate the water to create suds.
3. Place the blanket in the water and swish it around for a few minutes.
4. Drain the soapy water and rinse the blanket thoroughly with cool water until all the soap is removed.
5. Gently press the blanket to remove excess water. Do not wring or twist the blanket, as this can damage the fibers.
6. Lay the blanket flat on a clean towel and roll it up tightly to remove even more water.
7. Unroll the towel and lay the blanket flat to dry. Make sure you reshape it into its original shape.
Machine Washing
If your crochet blanket is less delicate, you may be able to wash it in a washing machine. Here’s how:
1. Place the blanket in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect it from snagging.
2. Choose a delicate cycle with cool water and a mild detergent.
3. Start the cycle and wait for the machine to finish washing.
4. Remove the blanket from the washing machine and gently press it to remove excess water. Do not wring or twist the blanket.
5. Lay the blanket flat on a clean towel and roll it up tightly to remove even more water.
6. Unroll the towel and lay the blanket flat to dry. Make sure you reshape it into its original shape.
Drying
When drying your crochet blanket, it’s important to be gentle and avoid high heat. Here’s what you should do:
1. Lay the blanket flat on a clean towel and roll it up tightly to remove as much water as possible.
2. Unroll the towel and place the blanket on a clean, dry towel.
3. Reshape the blanket into its original shape.
4. Place the towel with the blanket on a flat surface in a cool, dry area.
5. Turn the blanket over every few hours to ensure it dries evenly.
6. Do not hang or use high heat to dry the crochet blanket.
Conclusion
Taking care of your crochet blanket doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little bit of preparation and the right techniques, you can keep your blanket looking beautiful for years to come.
FAQ
1. How often should I wash my crochet blanket?
– It’s generally recommended that you wash your crochet blanket every 6-12 months, depending on how frequently you use it.
2. Can I use fabric softener on my crochet blanket?
– No, it’s best to avoid using fabric softener on crochet blankets, as it can damage the fibers.
3. What should I do if my crochet blanket shrinks in the wash?
– If your crochet blanket shrinks in the wash, there’s not much you can do to fix it. However, you can try stretching it gently while it’s still wet to help return it to its original size.
4. Can I iron my crochet blanket?
– No, it’s not recommended to iron crochet blankets, as the heat can damage the fibers.
5. How can I store my crochet blanket when it’s not in use?
– It’s best to fold your crochet blanket neatly and store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid hanging it, as this can cause it to stretch or become misshapen over time.
