How to Buy and Care for Your Cotton Blanket
Ever find yourself feeling like you need to wash your favorite blanket, but aren’t sure how to go about it? Can it be machine washed? Does it need to be dry cleaned? Can I dry it? Do I need to go to the laundromat? Is that coffee stain or chip dust ever going to come out? Well, if you bought a cotton blanket, you’re in luck! Read on to learn how to care for your cotton blanket.
What is a Cotton Blanket?
Blankets are one of the most versatile pieces in your home. Not only can they be used to snuggle with on the couch or in bed, they can also be used as décor. Utilizing blankets in your home is a great way to add some color and pattern to a room and make a bit of a statement. You’ll want one that feels cozy, but also looks clean, so when it’s left out or thrown over a piece of furniture, it will look like it’s meant to be there and has a function. Cotton blankets are a great year-round option that are lightweight enough to be used in the summer and warm enough for the winter. Cotton blankets are breathable and soft, making them great for cuddling. Cotton also washes very well and is durable. Cotton blankets come in a large assortment of colors and patterns, so you can easily find one (or more!) to match the aesthetic of your home.
Can You Wash a Cotton Blanket?
Yes, yes you can. That’s one of the many reasons people love cotton blankets. Unlike silk or wool blankets, you can throw cotton blankets right in the wash. And it’s super easy! Just use a mild liquid detergent on a gentle cycle using cold wash and rinse so the blanket doesn’t shrink. When putting it in the dryer, use a delicate setting and medium heat. And, you’re done! Avoid using bleach and fabric softener. You can also throw in some other cotton items in with the blanket like your supima cotton sheets.
What is the Best Cotton Blanket?
The best cotton blankets are made from soft, strong ring spun cotton. Look for a cotton blanket with reinforced corners and lock stitched hems to ensure your cotton blanket won’t fall apart in the wash or over time. Cotton/acrylic blends are also very durable. Also, consider the care instructions. Organic cotton is great, too, though it needs to be dry cleaned. So, if you’re shopping in-store, read the labels, touch the blankets, inspect the hems and stitches. If you’re shopping online, make sure to read all of the product descriptions on the website and look at the customer reviews.
Can You Wash a Comforter Like a Blanket?
Comforters are quite different from blankets and required different care. Comforters can be machine washed just like your bed sheets and pillowcases, but it is really best to use a commercial-sized, front-loading washer and dryer. First, make sure there are no holes or rips in the comforter before you wash it. If there are, do not put it in the wash. Also, do not put anything else into the load with the comforter; the comforter is already large and thick, and it needs as much room to move around in the washing machine as possible. Only use a minimal amount of mild detergent and set the cycle to gentle. Once that cycle is complete, start another cycle without any soap to make sure all of the detergent is rinsed out. To dry your comforter, use low heat. The comforter will need to be fluffed throughout the cycle so the internal fill dries evenly and properly. About every 20 minutes, take out the comforter and move around the material inside. Using dryer balls also helps with this process. Once the drying cycle is complete, hang your comforter up to air dry to make sure it is fully dry and is able to fluff up again with circulating air. Then, you can put it back on your bed! If your comforter is made of fine down, it is recommended to get it dry cleaned.