10 Important Tips to Keep Your Winter Blankets Fresh and Cozy

Bedding is an item that can easily be neglected from a hygienic perspective. People sweat a lot during sleep and shed skin cells and hair unknowingly. Therefore, a lot of attention is needed in managing bedding. Winter blankets, bulkier than those used in other seasons, tend to have longer washing cycles, making them prone to hygiene issues. Let’s take a look at how to keep your winter blankets clean.

Avoid Storing Unwashed Blankets

It is common to fold blankets to reduce the volume of storage. However, it is recommended to avoid storing unwashed blankets. This is because it can create an optimal environment for the proliferation of bacteria and dust mites. When putting blankets into the closet, washing them to remove old dirt is essential. However, the washing method differs for cotton and synthetic fillings, so it is necessary to consider the material and wash it correctly.

 

Maintain a Humidity-Free State

The inside of the closet storing the blankets can become an ideal environment for bacterial growth if not properly managed. More than 80% of blanket storage is completed by protecting the blanket from moisture. The inside of the closet is an optimal space that can become damp. It is good to place dehumidifiers, insect repellents, and air fresheners inside the closet, and it is also necessary to ventilate it regularly. Especially during the rainy season, blankets become vulnerable to moisture, requiring extra attention.

Methods That Help Remove Humidity

Some items commonly found around us have excellent effects in removing humidity. Examples include charcoal, dry green tea bags, and pine cones. Placing these items in the closet can help remove some moisture. Utilizing newspapers is also a good idea. If you put newspapers between winter blankets that are stored for a long time, it can help ventilate the inside of the closet and remove moisture.

Storage Method for Microfiber Blankets

Microfiber blankets, which are soft to the touch and give a cozy feeling when they touch the skin, are often used as winter blankets. It is recommended not to use fabric softener when washing microfiber blankets for storage. This is because fabric softeners can reduce the soft touch of microfiber. Also, while compression packs are expected to reduce volume for storage, they are not recommended for microfiber blankets as they can flatten the fibers.

Care Method for Modal Blankets

Recently, many people have preferred winter blankets made of modal material. Modal, a material commonly used for winter blankets, is popular as it is the softest to touch. Compared to other materials, it does not easily generate dust or lint, allowing for comfortable use. However, as the fiber’s durability is weak, washing it using a laundry net for blankets is necessary. It is best to wash it in cold water, and it is recommended to dry it naturally in a well-ventilated area.

In the Case of Cotton Fill Blankets

Among all types of blankets, those filled with cotton are the heaviest and, thus, have excellent insulation. Many people prefer the heavy feel of cotton, but the weight, which is also a factor of popularity, makes washing quite challenging. It is recommended to beat it in strong sunlight to shake off the dust and thoroughly dry it to remove moisture. When storing, it is good to use a blanket cover, and after the cold days are over, it is recommended to store it with a dehumidifier to prevent mold.

Easy-to-Manage Polyester

Winter blankets made of polyester material, which can be purchased cheaper than natural fiber fill, can be quickly dried after washing, which is a plus. They are also easy to manage as they do not wrinkle or shrink after washing. After washing in the wool or blanket course, you can dry it by spreading the blanket while beating it so the filling does not clump together. If you washed it with a regular detergent, adding fabric softener at the end is recommended. This can prevent static electricity.

For Goose Down Filled Blankets

Goose down blankets are lightweight yet have excellent insulation. The rustling feeling when covered with a blanket and the soft touch is unique. However, frequent washing can reduce its insulation, which is a drawback. Minimizing washing and storing it by shaking it in the shade to remove dust and dead skin cells is recommended. Also, since it is a material that is very vulnerable to moisture, it is good to put newspapers or dehumidifiers that can remove moisture between the blankets when storing.

Wool That Absorbs Sweat Well

Wool blankets are considered an excellent material to use all year round, not just in winter. They do not easily absorb odors; if used in the summer, they absorb sweat well. However, washing or drying them using a washing machine or dryer is not recommended. When cleaning is needed, it is recommended to dry it at a laundry or similar place. Also, since it can smell if it absorbs moisture, it is necessary to dry it thoroughly in the sun regularly.

In the Case of Using Blanket Duvet Covers

The blanket cover and filling are quilted together, ensuring the filling remains in place without the risk of turning or clumping. Additionally, the blanket is lightweight, making it an ideal choice, particularly for children’s blankets. Cover blankets offer the convenience of easy cleaning, as they can be readily washed. However, due to the attachment of the cover and filling, it is essential to allocate ample time for thorough drying following the washing process. For optimal results, it is advisable to wash the blanket with cold water and utilize the blanket or wool cycle during the washing cycle.

By. Deok Soo Choi