How to Wash and Care for a Wool Blanket: Complete Guide

Why Wool Blankets Need Gentle Care

Wool is naturally warm, breathable, and resistant to odours, so a wool blanket usually needs less washing than a cotton or synthetic throw. Gentle cleaning helps protect the fibres, shape, and softness for many seasons.

How Often Should You Wash a Wool Blanket?

Air your blanket regularly and wash it only when it is genuinely dirty or has absorbed an odour. For everyday use, a thorough airing every few weeks and spot cleaning when needed is often enough. Always check the care label first, especially for blankets with a delicate weave or trim.

How to Wash a Wool Blanket

Hand Washing

1. Fill a clean bath or large basin with cool water, no warmer than 30°C.
2. Add a small amount of wool-safe, pH-neutral detergent. Avoid bleach, fabric softener, and enzyme-based detergents.
3. Submerge the blanket and gently press the water through it. Do not scrub, twist, or wring.
4. Rinse with cool water until the water runs clear.
5. Drain the water and press the blanket gently to remove excess moisture.

Machine Washing

Only machine wash a wool blanket if the care label allows it. Choose the wool or delicate cycle, use cold water, select the lowest spin setting, and wash the blanket alone or with similar wool items. A large blanket becomes heavy when wet, so make sure your machine can handle the load.

How to Dry a Wool Blanket

Never tumble dry, iron, or place a wet wool blanket directly on a radiator. Heat and agitation can cause wool to shrink or felt.

• Roll the blanket in a clean towel and press gently to absorb water.
• Lay it flat on a dry towel or a mesh drying rack.
• Reshape it while damp, aligning the edges and corners.
• Let it dry slowly away from radiators and direct sunlight, turning it once or twice so both sides dry evenly.

Removing Small Stains

Blot spills promptly with a clean, dry cloth. For a mark, dab with cool water and a tiny amount of wool detergent, working from the outside of the stain inward. Do not rub, as friction can felt the fibres. If the stain is large, oily, or persistent, use a cleaner experienced with wool rather than treating it aggressively at home.

Storage Tips for Wool Blankets

• Store the blanket only when it is completely clean and dry.
• Fold it loosely and keep it in a breathable cotton bag or a well-ventilated cupboard.
• Avoid long-term storage in airtight plastic, which can trap moisture.
• Use cedar or lavender nearby to help deter moths, and check the blanket occasionally.

Keep Your Wool Blanket Beautiful

Shake out the blanket gently, air it outdoors in dry shade, and remove loose lint with a soft clothes brush. Avoid pulling at pills. With less frequent washing and careful drying, the natural wool fibres can stay soft, warm, and comfortable for years.

Shop Organic Wool Blankets

Explore our Ivory organic wool throw blanket or the Drift organic wool throw blanket, both made from 100% organic sheep wool. Follow the care label for your specific blanket and treat the fibres gently from the start.