How to Care for a Wool Blanket – Washing, Drying & Storage Guide

Why Wool Blankets Need Special Care

A 100% organic sheep wool blanket is more than just a cosy accessory — it’s a natural, sustainable textile that, when cared for properly, can last decades. Unlike synthetic fleece or cotton throws, wool is a living fibre with unique properties: it self-cleans to a degree, regulates temperature, and resists odours naturally. But it does require a little extra attention at wash time.

How Often Should You Wash a Wool Blanket?

Wool’s natural lanolin coating repels dirt and bacteria, so you don’t need to wash it frequently. Air it out between uses by hanging it outside (out of direct sun) for a few hours. A full wash every few months — or when visibly soiled — is usually enough.

How to Wash a Wool Blanket

Hand Washing (Best for Delicate Throws)

1. Fill a bathtub or large basin with cool water (max 30°C / 86°F).
2. Add a small amount of wool-safe or gentle detergent. Avoid enzyme-based or biological detergents, which break down protein fibres.
3. Submerge the blanket and gently press it down. Soak for 10–15 minutes.
4. Gently squeeze the water through the blanket — do not scrub, twist, or wring.
5. Drain and refill with cool clean water. Repeat until all soap is rinsed out.

Machine Washing

Some wool blankets can be machine washed if the label allows. Check the care label first, then:

• Use the wool or hand-wash cycle with cold water only
• Use a gentle, wool-specific detergent
• Place the blanket in a large mesh laundry bag to prevent friction
• Set spin speed to minimum — or skip the spin entirely

Never use hot water or a regular wash cycle — this will cause the wool to felt and shrink permanently.

How to Dry a Wool Blanket

Drying is where most wool damage happens. Follow these steps carefully:

• After washing, support the full weight of the blanket when lifting it out — wet wool is heavy and fragile.
• Lay it flat on a clean dry towel and roll the towel up to absorb excess moisture. Unroll and transfer the blanket to a fresh dry surface.
• Reshape gently and lay flat on a clean drying rack or another dry towel.
• Dry indoors, away from direct sunlight, radiators, or other heat sources.
• Flip the blanket periodically to ensure even drying.
• Allow to dry completely before folding — this may take 24–48 hours depending on thickness.

Never tumble dry a wool blanket — the heat and agitation will cause irreversible shrinkage and felting.

How to Remove Pilling

Light pilling on the surface of a wool blanket is normal, especially with new blankets. Use a fabric comb or wool pilling remover to gently lift pills from the surface. This is safe to do on dry wool and will restore a smooth appearance.

How to Store a Wool Blanket

• Always store clean and completely dry wool. Storing damp wool encourages mildew and attracts moths.
• Fold loosely and store in a breathable cotton bag, pillowcase, or linen wrap. Avoid plastic bags — they trap moisture and prevent the fibre from breathing.
• Tuck cedar blocks or lavender sachets nearby as natural moth deterrents. Replace or refresh them every season.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity.

What to Do If Your Blanket Shrinks

If your blanket has accidentally shrunk, all is not lost. Soak it again in cool water with a small amount of hair conditioner for 30 minutes. This relaxes the fibres. Gently stretch it back to size while wet and lay flat to dry. Results vary, but this often helps.

Care Summary: Dos and Don’ts

Do ✅	Don't ❌
Wash in cool water	Use hot water
Use wool detergent	Tumble dry
Lay flat to dry	Wring or twist
Store with cedar	Store in plastic
Air out regularly	Store damp

Why Organic Sheep Wool is Worth the Extra Care

Our blankets are made from 100% organic sheep wool — no synthetic blends, no harsh chemical treatments. This means they’re better for your skin, better for the planet, and genuinely built to last when treated with care. A little mindfulness at wash time pays off in years of warmth and softness.

Explore our full range of organic wool throw blankets — available in a range of natural colours and textures, each one made to become a long-term favourite in your home.