As temperatures drop and cozy season takes hold, throw blankets come out of storage — and with them, the question of how often they need a wash. According to a consensus among cleaning professionals, the answer depends on how frequently the blanket is used, but a general rule of thumb is every two to three weeks, with weekly washing recommended for those in daily rotation.
Elizabeth Shields, operations manager of Super Cleaning Service in Louisville, notes that fall brings more indoor time, movie nights, and snacks, which means crumbs and spills are more likely to find their way into the fabric. She advises weekly washes during this period to prevent permanent stains and to combat seasonal allergens like pollen, dust, and mold spores that can circulate when heating systems are turned on.
Scott Schrader, a cleaning expert and CMO at CottageCare, echoes that sentiment, pointing out that throws absorb body oils, dead skin cells, dust, and pet hair. "The time we spend indoors during the cooler months makes it easy for things to build up," he says. Regular washing, he adds, helps keep these particulates at bay.
Kristin DiNicolantonio, a cleaning expert and senior director at the American Cleaning Institute, adds another reason for more frequent laundering: the onset of cold and flu season. With germs circulating more actively in fall, stepping up the laundry routine can help reduce exposure within the household.
Best Practices for Washing Throw Blankets
When it comes to washing, the experts offer a step-by-step approach. First, shake the blanket outdoors or over a bathtub to dislodge loose debris, then use a lint roller for anything that remains. Sorting is crucial — blankets need ample space in the drum to move freely, so avoid cramming them into an already full load. For knitted or delicate throws, Shields warns against washing them with rough items like towels or zippered clothing, which can snag the fibers.
Detergent choice matters: a mild, scent-free formula is preferred, and cold water on a gentle cycle is the safest bet, as warm or hot water can shrink certain materials like wool. If someone in the household is ill, DiNicolantonio suggests using a deeper-cleaning agent or an EPA-registered laundry sanitizer, following the product's instructions.
Drying is equally important. Air drying or line drying is the most reliable method to preserve fabric integrity, but if using a dryer, the lowest heat setting is recommended. For faux fur or fleece blankets, a quick brush with a wide-tooth comb after drying can restore fluffiness.
Maintenance Between Washes
To extend the time between full washes, Schrader recommends shaking blankets out regularly, using a fabric brush to remove pet hair, and airing them outside on pleasant days. DiNicolantonio stresses always checking the care label before using any additives like bleach or sanitizers, as some fabrics are more sensitive.
Shields offers a few extra tips: replace fabric softener with a cup of white vinegar to naturally soften fibers, eliminate odors, and prevent color fading; add an extra rinse cycle to ensure no detergent residue remains, which can stiffen the fabric; and if the blanket has tassels, braid them loosely before washing to prevent tangling, then unbraid and fluff after drying.
Following these guidelines can keep throw blankets fresh, clean, and ready for the season's cozy moments.
