How To Wash A Knitted Blanket (The Complete Guide)

In this blog post, you will see how to wash a knitted blanket (the complete guide).

Whether you use your blanket every day or it’s in storage, dust, and grime are bound to collect, and you will eventually need to wash it.

This post will help you choose a washing method, learn how to choose a water temperature, and more.

Knitted items are treasures, and this guide will help you preserve them for a long time.

Understanding Yarn

In order to take proper care of your hand-knitted items, it’s highly important to understand the kind of yarn you are using.

The best way to do this is by reading the yarn label.

Which provides essential information such as fiber content, washing instructions, recommended care, and sometimes even suggested needle size and gauge.

Even if you no longer have the label, this information is typically available online through the yarn manufacturer’s website or databases like Ravelry.

Each type of fiber—whether it’s wool, cotton, synthetic, or a blend—has its own unique characteristics and care requirements.

Every kind of fiber needs a different kind of care; for example, synthetic yarns react differently from cotton yarns.

Learn about the different yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart}
Learn about yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers
Learn how to read a yarn label here – How To Read A Yarn Label – Step By Step

Washing Knitted Blankets FAQ

Below, you will find many answers to the most common questions asked when learning about how to wash a knitted blanket.

How do I wash a knitted blanket?

Washing a hand-knitted blanket requires gentle care to preserve its texture, shape, and longevity.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to washing a knitted blanket:

1. Check the yarn label:

Before washing, check the yarn label for specific care instructions.

Some yarns are machine-washable, while others require hand washing.

2. Prepare for washing:

If the blanket is machine-washable, place it in a large mesh laundry bag or a large lingerie bag so the blanket won’t snag or stretch.

Use a gentle cycle with cold water.

If the yarn care label recommends hand washing, fill a basin, bathtub, or sink with cool or lukewarm water.

Add a dash of mild detergent or a wool wash specifically designed for delicate fabrics.

3. Washing the blanket:

Hand washing: Submerge the blanket in the water and gently swish it around to clean.

Avoid scrubbing or agitating the fibers, as this can cause felting or stretching.

Let the blanket soak for about 10-15 minutes.

Machine washing: Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.

4. Rinsing:

After washing, rinse the blanket thoroughly in cool water to remove all soap or detergent.

If hand washing, gently press out the water without wringing or twisting the blanket.

How do I dry a big, thick blanket?

Drying a big, thick blanket, especially a knitted one, requires careful handling to avoid stretching, shrinking, or damaging the fibers.

Here’s how you can dry it effectively:

Press out excess water: After washing, gently press or squeeze out as much water as possible. Avoid wringing or twisting the blanket, as this can distort its shape.
Roll in towels: Lay the blanket flat on a large, dry towel. Roll the towel and blanket together, pressing down as you go to absorb additional moisture. You may need to repeat this with a second dry towel if the blanket is very wet.
Flat drying: Find a flat, clean surface like a bed, large table, or even the floor (protected by clean towels or a sheet). Spread the blanket out flat, reshaping it to its original dimensions. Make sure it is evenly spread out, with no parts hanging over the edges, to prevent stretching.
Air circulation: Ensure good air circulation in the drying area. If possible, place the blanket near a fan or in a well-ventilated room to speed up the drying process. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade colors or damage some fibers.
Patience: Allow the blanket to air dry completely. This may take a day or more, depending on its thickness and the humidity level in the room.
Flip if needed: For particularly thick blankets, you may want to flip it over or reposition it after several hours to ensure even drying on both sides.

How do I choose the right detergent for my hand-knitted blankets?

Choosing the right detergent for your hand-knitted blankets is crucial to preserving the quality, color, and texture of the fibers.

1. Check the fiber content:

Identify the type of yarn used in your knitted item.

Common fibers include wool, cotton, acrylic, polyester, alpaca, or blends.

The fiber content will guide your detergent choice.

2. Opt for gentle, mild detergents:

Choose a detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics.

Look for terms like “gentle detergent”, “mild,” or “sensitive” on the label.

Harsh detergents can damage delicate fibers or strip them of their natural oils.

3. Consider a wool wash for natural fibers:

If your blanket is made from wool, alpaca, or other animal fibers, consider using a wool wash.

These detergents are formulated to clean natural fibers without causing felting or shrinkage.

Many wool washes also contain lanolin, which helps to condition and protect the fibers.

4. Fragrance-free options:

If you have sensitive skin or allergies, or if babies or people use your blanket with sensitivities, choose a fragrance-free liquid detergent.

Fragrances can sometimes irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions.

5. Avoid harsh chemicals:

Steer clear of detergents with bleach, brighteners, or strong enzymes, as these can weaken the fibers, cause colors to fade, or damage the blanket’s texture.

6. Test on a small area first:

If you’re unsure how a detergent will affect your blanket, test it on an inconspicuous small piece of the blanket first.

This can help you avoid any potential damage or color bleeding.

7. Consider eco-friendly detergents:

Eco-friendly detergents are often gentler on fabrics and are free from harsh chemicals.

They are also better for the environment, making them a good choice if you’re looking for a sustainable option.

For most hand-knitted blankets, a PH-neutral detergent is ideal as it is less likely to cause any adverse reactions with the fibers.

Should I use a fabric softener when hand washing or machine washing a blanket?

It’s generally recommended to avoid using fabric softener when hand washing or machine washing a knitted blanket.

Fabric softeners can leave a residue on the fibers, which may reduce the breathability and natural softness of the yarn, particularly with natural fibers like wool or cotton.

Additionally, fabric softeners can sometimes cause the fibers to become overly soft, leading to a loss of structure and shape in the blanket over time.

If you want to enhance the softness of the blanket, consider adding a small amount of white vinegar to the rinse cycle, which can help remove any detergent residue and keep the fibers soft and supple.

Can I machine wash a knitted blanket?

Whether you can put a knitted blanket in the washing machine depends on the type of yarn used to create it.

If the blanket is made from machine-washable yarns, such as many acrylics, superwash wool, or blends specifically labeled as machine washable, then it is generally safe to machine wash the blanket.

However, you should use a delicate cycle with cold water to get the best results.

It’s also advisable to place the blanket in a mesh laundry bag to protect it further.

On the other hand, if the blanket is made from delicate or non-machine-washable fibers, such as regular wool, alpaca, or cashmere, it should be hand-washed and laid flat to dry to avoid shrinking or felting.

Always check the yarn label for specific care instructions before machine washing a knitted blanket.

Can I put a knit blanket in the dryer?

Whether you can put a knit blanket in the dryer depends on the type of yarn used.

If the blanket is made from machine-washable, synthetic yarns like acrylic or a superwash wool that specifically states it can be tumble dried, then you can use the dryer on a low or delicate setting.

However, it’s important to monitor the drying process closely to prevent overheating, which could cause the blanket to shrink or lose its shape.

For most other yarns, especially natural fibers like regular wool, alpaca, or cotton, it’s safer to air dry the blanket by laying it flat to maintain its shape and prevent felting or shrinkage.

Always refer to the care instructions on the yarn label to ensure the best care for your knit blanket.

Why is water temperature important when hand washing or machine washing a knitted blanket?

Water temperature is crucial when hand washing or machine washing a knitted blanket because it directly affects the fibers and overall integrity of the fabric.

Using hot water or too warm water can cause natural fibers like wool to shrink, felt, or lose their shape, as heat can cause the fibers to contract and mat together.

On the other hand, cold water helps to preserve the size, shape, and softness of the yarn, minimizing the risk of shrinking or distorting the original shape of the blanket.

Additionally, the right water temperature helps to maintain the colors of the yarn, preventing fading or bleeding and ensuring that any delicate stitches or patterns remain intact.

Therefore, it’s generally recommended to use cool or lukewarm water that doesn’t exceed 30 degrees when washing knitted blankets to protect them and extend their lifespan.

Do I wash a crochet blanket the same way as a knitted blanket?

Yes, you generally wash a crochet blanket the same way you would wash a knitted blanket, with attention to the type of yarn used and the construction of the blanket.

Both types of blankets require gentle handling to preserve their texture, shape, and integrity.

Can I take a knitted blanket for dry cleaning?

Yes, you can take a knitted blanket to the dry cleaners.

Dry cleaning is generally safe for delicate or natural fibers like wool, cashmere, or alpaca that may shrink or felt if washed in water.

Professional dry cleaning can effectively clean the blanket without the risk of damage caused by incorrect washing techniques at home.

Do knitted blankets need frequent washing?

Knitted blankets generally do not need much washing, especially if they are used as decorative items or for light use.

Overwashing can lead to wear and tear on the fibers, affecting the blanket’s softness, shape, and overall durability.

Instead, you can freshen up a knitted blanket by airing it out regularly or spot-cleaning small areas when necessary.

Can I iron hand-knitted blankets?

Ironing hand-knitted blankets is generally not recommended, as the heat and pressure from the iron can flatten the stitches, distort the fabric, and potentially damage the fibers, especially if the blanket is made from delicate or synthetic yarns.

Suppose your blanket has wrinkles or needs to be smoothed out.

In that case, a safer alternative is to use the steam function on your iron or a garment steamer in the lowest heat setting, holding it a few inches above the blanket to gently release wrinkles without making direct contact.

Another effective method is to lay the blanket flat and smooth it out with your hands or block it by pinning it into shape while it’s damp and letting it air dry.

This approach preserves the texture and structure of the knitting while ensuring your blanket looks its best.