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Written by Michaela MacBlake Matthews
Can you wash a crocheted blanket? Yes! Learning how to wash crochet items properly can extend the life of your cherished handmade items. Depending on the materials used for the crochet blanket, the process is either pretty easy - or very easy.
How To Wash Wool Crochet Blankets
Wool crochet blankets should be washed by hand in cold water with a mild detergent. Laundry soaps that are specially formulated for wool are best! While hand washing, be incredibly gentle. In a basin or washing tub, squeeze the blanket to distribute the soapy water throughout the piece, but avoid stretching, twisting, or wringing the crochet item while you wash it. Then empty the basin and soak in clean, cold water, using the same gentle motions to rinse it. Repeat until the water is clear and free of suds.
To dry your wool crochet blanket, gently squeeze out the excess water, and lay the piece flat on a towel. Roll the towel, pressing gently to absorb excess water, but not wringing it or applying much force. You can then repeat this process once or twice until you’re ready to let the rest air dry, uncovered. Depending on the indoor temperature or time of year, you may opt to let it air dry more or less after pressing it. Shape the piece as needed, but avoid tugging on it, and then leave it to rest! If needed, replace the towel the next day and turn the item over, reshaping as needed.
Easy Washing Wool Crocheted Items
Did you know that superwash wool can be machine washed on the gentle cycle in cold water? Check out this best-of both-worlds option for your next project!
Pure Superwash Merino Wool Yarn
How To Wash A Crochet Blanket Made Of Acrylic, Linen, or Cotton Yarn
For non-wool items, washing your crochet blanket is a walk in the park! If possible, place the piece in a laundry bag. Use a gentle, bleach-free detergent, and wash on the gentle cycle in cold water. To dry, air dry as you would a wool item, or run the heatless tumble dry setting on low.
Mesh Washing Bags for Recycled Sari Garments
A Tip For Machine Washing A Crochet Blanket:
Avoid washing without a laundry bag in a machine that has a central agitator. Due to the size of a blanket, it can get wrapped around the middle column and tug, misshaping the stitches and stretching the piece. If needed, hand wash the same way you would a wool crochet item!
Great Materials To Crochet With:
Chiffon Ribbon Ombre Packs
Herbal Dyed Silk Ribbon Packs
Mexicali Dreams Super Bulky Yarn Bundle
Beautiful Blanket Kits
"Mac" is on the Lifestyle Team here at Darn Good Yarn, and loves taking a ‘teach a man to fish’ approach to creative therapy. She is certified in neuro-linguistic programming, and is also the surreal artist and author behind Surrealismac.