You’ve put in the time and effort to create a beautiful, cosy arm-knitted blanket. It’s a true masterpiece, a labour of love that deserves to be cherished for years to come. But now comes the most crucial part: learning how to care for it. This is where many people make a critical mistake, assuming that all yarns are the same and that a delicate knit can be simply thrown into a washing machine. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to washing, storing, and maintaining your beautiful blanket so it can continue to bring you warmth & comfort for a very long time.
The Golden Rule: Know Your Yarn
Before you do anything else, you must first know what your blanket is made from. The care instructions for a super-chunky merino wool blanket are completely different from those for a chunky acrylic one. Treating them the same way is a surefire way to ruin your hard work. Think back to when you chose your yarn. Was it a luxurious merino wool, a durable acrylic blend, or something else entirely? Once you know the material, you can proceed with confidence, knowing you are giving your blanket the care it deserves. —
The Gentle Art of Washing: Step-by-Step
Washing your arm-knitted blanket is not a one-size-fits-all process. The method you choose depends entirely on the material. Here’s a breakdown of the correct way to handle the most common types of yarn.
For Merino Wool: Hand Wash Only
Merino wool is incredibly delicate and should never be machine-washed. The agitation and hot water can cause the fibres to shrink and felt, turning your beautiful blanket into a stiff, shrunken mess. The only way to wash it is by hand. Fill a large bath or basin with lukewarm or cold water & add a small amount of a gentle, wool-specific detergent. Submerge the blanket and gently squeeze the water through the fibres. Do not rub, twist, or agitate the blanket. Leave it to soak for about 20 minutes. Once it’s finished soaking, carefully drain the water and rinse the blanket with cold water until all the soap is gone. Be gentle. This part is a slow and careful process, but it is essential for preserving the integrity of the blanket.
For Acrylic or Cotton Blends: Machine Washing with Care
Blankets made from these materials are much more durable and can be machine-washed. However, you still need to be very careful. A critical mistake is simply throwing it in with the rest of your laundry. Instead, place the blanket inside a large mesh laundry bag or a duvet cover. This will protect it from getting snagged or stretched during the wash cycle. Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicates cycle with cold water. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can coat the fibres and reduce their softness over time. The key here is to keep the wash cycle gentle and the water temperature cool to avoid any damage. —
The Drying Process: The Most Important Step
Drying an arm-knitted blanket is arguably the most critical step of all. These blankets are incredibly heavy when wet, and hanging them to dry will cause them to stretch and lose their shape. A wet blanket will be a lot heavier than you realise, and the weight will pull the yarn down, distorting the beautiful stitches.
The only correct way to dry an arm-knitted blanket is to lay it flat. Gently squeeze out any excess water (do not wring or twist it!). You can then carefully roll it in a large, clean towel to absorb even more moisture. Once you have done that, lay it flat on a clean, dry surface, like a large drying rack or a clean floor with towels underneath. You can use your hands to gently reshape the blanket while it is damp. Allow it to air-dry completely. This will take some time, but it is the only way to ensure your blanket retains its beautiful shape and structure. —
Day-to-Day Maintenance and Storage
A little regular care can go a long way in keeping your blanket looking its best.
1. Spot Cleaning
For small spills, spot cleaning is always the best option. Use a clean cloth with a little bit of cold water and a drop of gentle soap to dab the affected area. Gently blot the area until the stain is gone, and then allow it to air-dry completely.
2. Minimising Pilling
Merino wool is especially prone to pilling. This is a natural occurrence caused by friction, and it’s not a sign that your blanket is falling apart. You can easily remove pills with a fabric shaver or a special de-pilling tool. It’s a simple process that will make your blanket look as good as new.
3. Proper Storage
When you’re not using your blanket during the warmer months, store it properly to keep it safe from moths and dust. Fold it neatly and place it in a breathable cotton bag. Avoid storing it in a plastic bag, as this can trap moisture and cause mildew. You can also add some cedar balls to the bag to naturally deter moths.
Your arm-knitted blanket is a testament to your hard work and creativity. By taking the time to learn and follow the correct care instructions, you are ensuring that your beautiful creation will remain a stunning and cosy piece of your home for many years to come. A little care and attention will go a long way in preserving the beauty and warmth of your most treasured handmade creation.
