99% of people are unaware of this hidden home hack, which makes cleaning blankets simple.
Cleaning heavy blankets is one home chore that often bothers families as winter draws near and the temperature starts to drop. Despite providing warmth throughout the cold winter months, these cozy necessities may develop dust, perspiration buildup, and an unpleasant odor if they are not maintained. According to experts, cleaning properly is crucial for preventing allergies and skin diseases in addition to maintaining cleanliness.
Throughout the night, blankets stay in close proximity to the body. Sweat, dust, and dead skin cells eventually seep into the cloth, giving germs the ideal conditions to grow. Mold and a musty odor might grow if it isn’t cleaned at the end of the season. However, even heavy and thick blankets may be cleaned at home using a few easy methods without using a washing service.
At-Home Soak-and-Clean Technique
- Pour some lukewarm water into a big bathtub or tub.
- One teaspoon of mild liquid detergent and half a cup of baking soda should be added.
- Let the blanket soak for about half an hour after fully immersing it in this solution.
- To get rid of dust and grime, gently massage the cloth.
- Rinse the blanket two or three times with fresh water, then let it air dry in a gentle sun.
A Natural Deodorant: Vinegar
Vinegar may do wonders for blankets that have been kept in cabinets for months. Bacteria are killed and musty odors are reduced when half a cup of white vinegar is added to the wash water. A few drops of lemon or lavender essential oil may also be applied to improve freshness.
Typical Washing Errors to Avoid
- Because it destroys wool or synthetic fibers, blankets should not be washed in very hot water.
- Avoid using too much detergent as this can increase froth and make rinsing more challenging.
- Thick blankets should never be twisted or wrung. To keep the form, gently fold and wash.
- Machine Washing: Only When There Is Enough Room
A blanket may be cleaned on mild or delicate mode if the washing machine is big enough to fit it. Use a light detergent and either cold or lukewarm water. To make sure there is no detergent residue left, an additional rinse cycle is advised. To maintain their color and smoothness, blankets should be dried in a shady spot after washing.
How to Maintain the Freshness of Blankets While Storing Them
- To stop germs from growing, sun the blanket every ten to fifteen days during the winter.
- The blanket should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before being placed in an airtight bag for long-term preservation.
- To keep flies and odors away, use camphor tablets or neem leaves between folds.
- Before putting blankets away at the end of each season, shake and let them air out.
Heavy blankets can be washed and kept at home using these simple techniques, eliminating the need for costly laundry services. When winter hits, old blankets may be restored to their original appearance and feel with a little love and prompt care.