When it comes to cleaning a hand-knit blanket, the recommended method is careful hand washing, although airing out can sometimes suffice depending on the yarn type.
The Preferred Method: Hand Washing
If your hand-knit blanket needs washing, it's crucial to handle it gently to preserve the integrity of the fibers and colors.
Always hand wash your blanket. Machine washing, even on a delicate cycle, can cause excessive agitation that can damage hand-knit items.
Follow these steps for effective and safe cleaning:
- Use cool water: Fill a tub or large basin with cool water. Hot water can harm the fibers and lead to shrinkage or felting, especially with wool.
- Add a low suds wool wash: Choose a detergent specifically designed for wool or delicate fibers. A low suds formula requires minimal rinsing, reducing the need for agitation.
- Submerge gently: Place the blanket in the water, ensuring it is fully saturated.
- Minimize agitation: Swish the blanket around as little as possible. Gently squeeze water through it rather than rubbing or wringing. Minimal agitation is key to preventing stretching and damage.
- Rinse carefully: Drain the soapy water and add fresh, cool water. Gently press water through the blanket until the soap is gone. Repeat if necessary.
- Remove excess water: Carefully press or squeeze the water out of the blanket. Do not twist or wring, as this can distort the shape. Rolling the blanket in a towel can help absorb a significant amount of moisture.
- Dry flat: Lay the blanket flat on towels or a drying rack, shaping it as needed. Ensure good air circulation for drying. Avoid hanging, as the weight of the wet blanket can cause it to stretch.
Important Considerations
Using the wrong products or temperature can have negative consequences for your hand-knit blanket:
- Avoid hot water and harsh detergents: These will cause the fibers to become damaged and the color to fade over time. Stick to cool water and specialized wool wash.
An Alternative for Hand-Dyed Yarn
If you used hand-dyed yarn to knit your blanket, sometimes a simple airing out might do the trick instead of a full wash, especially if it just needs freshening.
By following these guidelines, you can keep your hand-knit blanket clean and beautiful for years to come.
