How to Wash Flannel Blankets ( to keep them soft)

Flannel blankets are a fan favorite especially when the weather gets colder. Nothing beats snuggling up in a flannel blanket in bed or seated in front of the fireplace on a cold night or day. The soft fabric keeps you all cozy and toasty making you feel like you are enveloped in a warm hug.

Nevertheless, flannel is a delicate fabric and if not properly taken care of will soon look worn out, faded, and loose its classic softness. Here are a few tips to help you properly wash flannel blankets to maintain its quality for as long as you can.

Wash in Warm Water

Always wash your flannel blankets in warm or cool water. NEVER wash your flannel in hot water. Hot water can cause the fabric to shrink which may lead to pilling and fraying of the delicate fabric, which will, in turn, affect its classic softness, making it an uncomfortable blanket. Furthermore, hot water will cause the fabric to fade faster over time. Warm or cool water is much gentler to the fabric.

Do not forget to separate your colors.

Use Mild Detergent

Use a gentle detergent to wash your flannel blanket. Harsh detergents with enzymes, bleach n other similar additives will cause your flannel blanket to fade quickly.

Use Gentle Friction

The last thing your flannel blanket needs is a lot of friction. Too much agitation on the fabric puts a lot of stress on the fabric and can cause pilling. A gentle cycle will put less friction on the fabric, thus less stress on the blanket.

Avoid Liquid Fabric Softener

Do not use Liquid Fabric Softener on your flannel blanket. A liquid fabric softener will coat the fibers on your blanket with a film that will cause the blanket to stiffen over time.

Drying

If you decide to dry your flannel blanket in a dryer, ensure you use the lowest setting or let them tumble dry. It will take longer to dry it will keep your flannel blanket of top quality for longer. Ensure you remove the blankets from the dryer the minute they dry to avoid wrinkles. Always remove lint from your machine after washing your blankets. Flannel blankest tend to shed a lot so there will be a lot of lint.

Another option is to let the blankets air dry. Just remove them from the washer, wring out excess water and hang them on a clothesline or drying rack.