Buying a new blanket can be a delightful experience, adding a new layer of comfort and style to your home. Whether it’s for curling up on the sofa during a movie night or adding extra warmth to your bed, a new blanket is a welcome addition.
However, like any new textile, it often comes with manufacturing residues that you might want to wash off before its first use. Let’s dive into why washing a new blanket is a smart move and how to do it right.
Should I Wash a New Blanket Before Using?
When you purchase a new blanket, it often comes straight from the factory with remnants of the manufacturing process still lingering. These can include chemical residues used during dyeing and finishing, as well as dust accumulated from storage and shipping. Washing your new blanket before its first use is not just a recommendation—it’s a smart practice for several reasons:
Health and Safety
- Chemical Residues: Blankets, like other new textiles, may be treated with chemicals that improve texture, enhance color fidelity, or reduce shrinkage. These chemicals can irritate sensitive skin, particularly for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
- Remove Contaminants: During manufacture, storage, and transit, blankets can gather dust, mold spores, and other allergens. A thorough wash ensures that you’re not bringing these into your home.
Enhancing Comfort
- Softening Agents: Many blankets are coated with size or other finishes that make them feel stiffer when new. Washing removes these coatings, leaving the blanket softer and more pleasant to use.
- Fluffiness: Washing and drying can fluff up fibers, especially in materials like cotton and fleece, enhancing the cozy, soft feel of the blanket.
Long-Term Care
- Prevent Color Bleeding: Some blankets may have excess dye that could bleed onto other items. Washing it alone first prevents this color transfer, protecting the rest of your laundry.
- Fabric Preservation: Initial washing sets the fibers, reduces pilling over time, and extends the overall lifespan of the blanket by ensuring it performs well under regular use and cleaning.
In essence, washing a new blanket before using it can improve your health, comfort, and the longevity of the blanket. It prepares it for safe and enjoyable use in your living environment.
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How to Wash a New Blanket
Properly washing a new blanket can ensure it remains in excellent condition while becoming an inviting part of your home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to effectively wash your new purchase:
Machine Washing
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Read Care Labels: Always start by reading the care label. This will guide you on the recommended washing and drying instructions and highlight any specific needs related to the fabric type.
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Preparation:
- Shake Out: Gently shake the blanket to remove any loose fibers or debris.
- Spot Clean: Address any visible spots or stains with a mild detergent before washing.
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Washing Settings:
- Detergent: Use a mild, gentle detergent to avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the fabric.
- Cycle: Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with lukewarm water to prevent shrinking and excessive agitation.
- Load: Wash the blanket alone to prevent friction with other items that could lead to pilling or damage.
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Rinsing: Ensure the blanket is thoroughly rinsed to remove all soap residues, which could make the fabric stiff.
Hand Washing
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Fill a Basin: Use a large basin or a clean bathtub and fill it with lukewarm water and a capful of mild detergent.
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Submerge:
- Gently submerge the blanket in the water.
- Allow it to soak for about 15-30 minutes, swishing it around gently to ensure the detergent reaches all parts of the blanket.
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Rinse:
- Drain the soapy water and rinse the blanket with clean water until all detergent has been washed out.
- Carefully press out excess water, but avoid wringing, which can distort the fibers.
Drying
- Air Dry: Lay the blanket flat on a clean, dry surface, or hang it on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can cause fading and fiber damage.
- Low Heat in Dryer: If the care label permits, you can use a dryer on a low heat setting. Remove the blanket while it is still slightly damp to prevent over-drying, which can lead to shrinkage and static buildup.
Post-Wash Care
- Fluffing: Gently fluff the blanket by hand or put it in the dryer with a couple of dryer balls for a few minutes on the ‘no heat’ setting.
- Storage: Store the blanket in a dry, cool place, and avoid plastic bags or containers, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
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Maintaining Your New Blanket
To keep your new blanket in top condition, follow these tips:
- Regular Washing: Depending on use, wash your blanket regularly to keep it fresh and clean.
- Proper Storage: Store your blanket in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and moisture buildup.
As a parent, keeping everything clean and fresh for the family is a top priority, especially when it comes to bedding. The first time I brought home a new blanket for our Puffy Lux Mattress, I made sure to wash it before letting my kids cozy up with it. It turned out even softer and fluffier, which was a huge hit.
Conclusion
Washing your new blanket before its first use is a wise decision that enhances comfort, ensures hygiene, and maintains the quality of your bedding. By following the proper washing and care guidelines, you can enjoy your new blanket to the fullest, making those cozy moments even more delightful.
Enjoy cozy comfort with the Puffy Deluxe Blanket.
Sleep soothed with this ultra-soft, dual-feel blanket:
- Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 certified.
- Hypoallergenic.
- Lifetime warranty.
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