how to wash baby blankets to keep them soft

0

how to wash blankets at laundromat

 


How to Wash Blankets at the Laundromat: A Step-by-Step Guide

Washing blankets can be challenging, especially when they’re too large for your home washing machine. Whether you have a king-size comforter, a weighted blanket, or thick throws, a laundromat is the perfect solution. With large-capacity washers and dryers, you can clean your blankets thoroughly and efficiently. In this blog, we’ll guide you step by step on how to wash your blankets at the laundromat so they come out fresh, clean, and cozy.

Why Use a Laundromat to Wash Blankets?

  • Large-Capacity Machines: Laundromat washers and dryers are designed to handle oversized items like blankets, comforters, and quilts.
  • Convenience: You can wash and dry your blankets in one trip.
  • Efficient Cleaning: High-capacity machines allow blankets to move freely, ensuring a deeper clean.
  • Protect Your Home Machine: Washing heavy blankets at home can strain your washer and dryer.

Step 1: Check the Blanket Care Label

Before heading to the laundromat, check the care label on your blanket for important cleaning instructions:

  • Washing Instructions: Look for terms like “machine-washable” or “dry clean only.”
  • Water Temperature: Cold, warm, or hot water based on fabric type.
  • Drying Recommendations: Air dry, tumble dry low, or no heat.

Fabric Care Overview:

  • Cotton and Microfiber: Machine washable on a normal or gentle cycle.
  • Wool: Requires cold water and delicate handling.
  • Fleece and Polyester: Cold water and low heat drying to prevent damage.
  • Weighted Blankets: Check weight limits for laundromat machines.

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies

Take these essentials with you to the laundromat:

  1. Mild Liquid Detergent: Avoid powder detergents, which may not dissolve completely in large loads.
  2. Stain Remover: For spot cleaning any visible stains before washing.
  3. Dryer Sheets or Wool Dryer Balls: To reduce static and help fluff the blanket while drying.
  4. Laundry Bag: To carry your blanket and supplies.

Step 3: Pre-Treat Stains and Shake the Blanket

  1. Spot Clean Stains:

    • Use a mild stain remover or liquid detergent to pre-treat any visible stains. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.

  2. Shake Out Debris:

    • Give the blanket a good shake to remove dust, dirt, or pet hair.

Step 4: Choose the Right Washer at the Laundromat

  1. Select a Large-Capacity Machine:

    • Use a commercial washer with a high capacity (at least 20–30 pounds) to ensure the blanket has room to move freely for an even clean.
    • Overloading the machine can prevent thorough cleaning and cause damage to the fabric.

  2. Load the Blanket:

    • Spread the blanket evenly in the drum to avoid unbalancing the washer during the cycle.

  3. Choose the Correct Settings:

    • Water Temperature: Use cold water for delicate fabrics (wool, fleece) and warm water for cotton or polyester blankets.
    • Wash Cycle: Select a gentle or delicate cycle for soft or weighted blankets, and a normal cycle for sturdier fabrics.

  4. Add Detergent:

    • Pour in a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid using too much detergent, as it can leave residue on the blanket.

Step 5: Run the Wash Cycle

  • Start the machine and let it run through the full cycle.
  • Stay nearby in case the blanket shifts and causes the washer to stop mid-cycle. Some laundromats have attendants who can assist if needed.

Step 6: Dry the Blanket Properly

Once the washing is complete, transfer your blanket to a large-capacity dryer to ensure proper drying.

  1. Check the Dryer Size:

    • Use the largest dryer available so the blanket has plenty of space to tumble and dry evenly.

  2. Choose the Correct Heat Setting:

    • Low Heat or Air Fluff: Best for fleece, wool, or delicate blankets to prevent shrinking or damage.
    • Medium Heat: Suitable for sturdy cotton and microfiber blankets.

  3. Add Dryer Balls or Sheets:

    • Use wool dryer balls or dryer sheets to reduce static and help fluff the blanket during drying.

  4. Pause and Fluff:

    • Stop the dryer every 20–30 minutes to shake out the blanket and reposition it for even drying.

  5. Check for Dampness:

    • Remove the blanket while it’s still slightly damp to prevent overdrying. Lay it flat to finish air drying, if necessary.

Step 7: Fold and Store the Blanket

  1. Once your blanket is completely dry, fold it neatly to avoid wrinkles.
  2. Store it in a clean, dry place or breathable storage bag to keep it fresh.

Tips for Washing Specific Blankets

  1. Weighted Blankets:

    • Check the weight capacity of the laundromat’s machines. Wash on a gentle cycle to protect the filling.

  2. Wool Blankets:

    • Use cold water and air dry. Avoid agitation to prevent shrinking.

  3. Fleece Blankets:

    • Wash with cold water and avoid high heat in the dryer to maintain softness.

  4. Quilts and Comforters:

    • Use a large-capacity washer and dryer to prevent bunching or uneven drying.

Benefits of Using a Laundromat for Blankets

  • Professional-Grade Cleaning: Commercial machines provide a thorough clean for oversized items.
  • Time-Saving: Wash and dry your large blankets in a single trip.
  • Convenience: Avoid straining your home washer and dryer with heavy loads.

Conclusion

Washing large and heavy blankets at the laundromat is an efficient and effective way to keep them clean and fresh. By following these steps—choosing the right machines, settings, and drying techniques—you can ensure your blankets stay soft, cozy, and in excellent condition.

The next time your favorite blanket needs a deep clean, head to the laundromat with confidence and enjoy the results of a perfectly washed blanket!

Comments

Post a Comment