How to Wash a Wool Blanket?

Wool needs gentle care because heat and agitation cause it to shrink and felt. Cool water, a mild detergent, and careful drying keep a wool blanket soft and full-sized.

Before washing: Always check the care label first — some wool blankets are dry-clean only.

What you need:

• A wool-safe or mild detergent (or a gentle soap like Woolite)
• Cool or lukewarm water
• A large basin or bathtub (for hand washing)

Hand washing (safest):

1. Shake out the blanket and spot-treat any stains gently.
2. Fill a tub with cool water and dissolve a small amount of wool-safe detergent.
3. Submerge and soak the blanket for about 15 minutes, gently pressing the water through it. Don't scrub, twist, or agitate.
4. Drain and rinse with fresh cool water until the soap is gone.
5. Press out water — never wring. Gently squeeze or press the water out. Wringing stretches and damages the fibers.

Machine washing (if the label allows): Use the wool/delicate cycle, cold water, and a slow spin. Wash it alone.

Drying:

• Lay it flat on a clean towel or drying rack, reshaping it to its original dimensions.
• Air dry away from direct heat and sunlight. Never use a hot dryer, radiator, or direct sun — heat shrinks and felts wool.

Tip: Wool is naturally odor- and dirt-resistant, so airing it out often means you only need to fully wash it once or twice a season.