The mere word “blanket” can evoke images of comfort. Blanketing a cherished one in love. A blanket of snow on a crisp Christmas Eve. A newborn babe swaddled in the folds of softness. Once you’ve experienced the luxurious softness of a minky blanket, you’ll be so overjoyed you will want to know how to keep a fluffy blanket fluffy. We’re happy to share some simple tips.
How Often Should You Wash Your Blanket?
One of the first considerations when figuring out how to keep a blanket fluffy is how often it should be washed. Your laundering schedule will come down to frequency and use—how often is it used and how it is being used.
On the one hand, if you are using a minky blanket for an infant, you should wash the blanket once a week at a minimum to keep it sanitary and soft. Same goes for a child who takes their minky binky everywhere.
On the other hand, if your Sew Sweet minky blanket is draped over the sofa and only used on occasion, a monthly washing should do.
Careful Cold Cleaning
Wondering how to keep blankets soft and fluffy? The answers are cold water and the most gentle laundering possible.
The lavishly soft fibers of minky fabric do not like heat or friction. The more care you take with your blanket, the longer it will stay soothingly soft. When it comes time to wash your blanket, ensure that you:
- Use cold water.
- Use a mild detergent with no dyes, scents, or additives, like a baby laundry detergent.
- Hand wash whenever possible. If you use the washer, make sure you use the delicate cycle.
- Do not use a washer with an agitator. The friction will break down the fibers, and you will lose softness.
- Wash the blanket by itself if using a washer. Again, the friction against other fabrics or objects like pillow cover zippers will damage fibers. You can also use a laundry bag to reduce friction, but make sure that it is big enough to give the minky blanket room to get thoroughly laundered.
- DO NOT USE FABRIC SOFTENER. The build-up will flatten fibers.
- Air dry your blanket on a laundry rack or clothesline. If you need to use the dryer, do it on a no-heat setting.
Need to get that blanket washed and dried in a hurry for something like a pending bedtime or car trip? Use wool dryer balls to speed up the drying process, or you can use tennis balls placed in a sock. This may also help to reduce static.
Protection and Storage
As much as you’ll want to wrap yourself up in your minky that has just come from the dryer, sometimes you just don’t have the time. It is important to fold it as soon as it comes out of the dryer or off the line. It is best to store minkies in a container that has some airflow, like a wicker basket with a lid. Airtight containers can retain moisture, and your blanket will come out smelling musty.
Keeping it Clean and Smelling Sweet
Try as you might, sometimes blankets get dirty. It is not unusual for a car seat catastrophe, children’s play accident, dribble of coffee, or a spot of wine to show up on a favorite blanket. Don’t worry!
Remember not to scrub the area; that kind of friction can damage the fibers. Massage it with your fingers or another plush cloth until the stain has dissipated. Simply rinse it with or soak it in cold water, and then launder as usual.
You can keep your minky blankets smelling fresh by storing them with sachets. On a nice windy day, you can harness the freshness of a spring breeze by hanging it on a line, even when it is dry. Just remember to keep it out of the sun.
Craving Comfort? Make it a Minky
Don’t have a minky blanket? Shop for one at Sew Sweet Minky Designs today! Our wide variety of sizes, colors, and textures is sure to please and provide you with hours of relaxing comfort.