The frequency of washing your blanket depends on how you use it and your personal needs. As a general guideline, a blanket should be washed every 3-6 months under normal use. A blanket that is used daily will require more frequent washing than a blanket in a guest room. Allergy sufferers and pet owners will benefit from monthly washing to maintain hygiene.
How often should you actually wash your blanket?
In normal use, it is recommended to wash the blanket every 3-4 months . A blanket used daily collects more dust, sweat and dander than a guest blanket used occasionally. Guest blankets should be washed every 6 months or depending on the number of times they are used.
Allergy sufferers should wash their duvets monthly to reduce dust mites and allergens. Those who sleep with pets also benefit from a more frequent washing regimen, as pet hair and dirt can quickly build up on the duvet.
The seasons affect the need for washing. In the summer, sweating increases, so it is worth washing the blanket more often. In the winter, thick blankets can be washed less often if you use a duvet cover to protect the blanket.
How do you know when it's time to wash your blanket?
The most obvious signs that your blanket needs washing are visible stains and an unpleasant odor . A blanket will feel dusty or musty when it has accumulated too much dirt. Worsening allergy symptoms while sleeping are often a sign of dust mites in the blanket.
A visual inspection will often reveal the need for washing. Check the surface of the blanket in bright light for stains. Shake the blanket and see if any dust rises into the air. If the blanket looks grayish compared to its original color, it needs washing.
Your sense of smell can help you easily identify when a blanket needs washing. A clean blanket will smell fresh or neutral. A musty, damp or vague smell indicates bacterial growth. The feel of the blanket will also change - a dirty blanket will feel heavy and damp compared to a clean one.
How do different blanket types affect washing frequency recommendations?
Down duvets are washed the least often, only 1-2 times a year. Down naturally repels moisture and dirt. Synthetic duvets are more resistant to washing and should be washed 3-4 times a year. Synthetic fibers collect odors and moisture more easily.
Wool blankets need to be washed 2-3 times a year. Wool is an antibacterial material that stays clean longer. Cotton blankets, on the other hand, should be washed monthly, as cotton effectively absorbs moisture and dirt.
The properties of the material determine not only the frequency of washing, but also the washing temperature and program. Blankets made of delicate materials such as silk or cashmere are washed less often and more gently. Technical materials such as microfibers can withstand frequent washing and higher temperatures.
What factors increase the need to wash a blanket?
Allergies and asthma require monthly washing to control symptoms. Dust mites are killed by washing at 60 degrees. Pets in the bed bring dirt, hair and possible parasites with them, so it is worth washing the blanket every 2-3 weeks.
Night sweats significantly increase the need for washing. Sweaters benefit from washing their blankets every 1-2 months. Illnesses such as the flu or stomach ache require washing the blankets immediately after recovery to avoid infections.
In families with children, blankets get dirty faster. It is recommended to wash blankets for small children every 2-4 weeks. Dusty environments also increase the need to wash blankets.
How to hygienically extend the washing intervals of a blanket?
Using bedspreads effectively protects the actual duvet. The bedspread collects dust that settles during the day and is easy to wash frequently. Regular ventilation refreshes the duvet and reduces moisture build-up - air the duvet outside or in front of a window weekly.
You can vacuum your duvet lightly monthly with a textile nozzle. This will remove surface dust and allergens. Treat stains immediately - dampen the stain with cold water and blot it clean before it has time to set.
Proper storage is important. Keep your blankets clean, dry, and breathable when not in use. Add lavender or cedar wood to repel moths. Avoid plastic bags, as they trap moisture and cause mold to grow.
High-quality blankets stay clean longer and are more durable. Hotel-quality blankets are designed to withstand frequent washing without losing their properties. If you are looking for a durable blanket, check out our selection and you can also come to our Helsinki Showroom , where you can experience the quality of the materials yourself.
