How to Dry a Wool Blanket

by Elizabeth / Tuesday, 11 October 2022 / Published in Textile Knowledge

Drying a wool blanket correctly is crucial to maintain its softness, shape, and longevity. Improper drying can lead to shrinkage, stiffness, and even damage to the delicate fibers. This guide will walk you through the best methods for drying your wool blanket, ensuring it stays cozy for years to come.

1. Preparing Your Wool Blanket for Drying

Before you even think about drying your wool blanket, it’s essential to prepare it properly. This involves gently removing excess water after washing, ensuring the blanket is in the right state for the chosen drying method.

Gentle Squeeze: After washing, carefully lift the blanket from the basin or machine. Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can damage the wool fibers. Instead, gently squeeze the blanket to remove excess water.
Towel Roll: Lay a large, dry towel on a flat surface. Place the damp wool blanket on top and carefully roll up the towel, like a jelly roll. Gently press down on the towel roll to absorb more water. This method is far gentler than wringing and helps maintain the blanket’s shape. Repeat with a fresh towel if needed.
Avoid direct sunlight: Never expose the wet blanket to direct sunlight. The rapid temperature change can cause the wool fibers to shrink and become stiff.

2. Air Drying: The Gentlest Method

Air drying is the most recommended method for drying wool blankets. It minimizes the risk of damage and shrinkage, and preserves the natural properties of wool. This method requires a bit more patience, but it’s worth the extra time.

Flat Drying: The preferred method for wool blankets, especially larger ones, is to lay the blanket flat. Choose a clean, dry surface. You can lay a large towel or clean sheet under it to absorb moisture as it dries. Ensure that the blanket is spread out evenly, with no bunching or folding. Turn the blanket over periodically to ensure even drying. This will help prevent mold growth and ensure the blanket dries faster and evenly.
Line Drying: If the blanket is smaller, you can hang it on a clothesline. Avoid using clothespins directly on the fabric as these could cause impressions or damage. Instead, drape the blanket over the line, ensuring equal weight distribution. Do not hang the blanket in direct sunlight. A shaded, well-ventilated area is ideal.
Indoor Drying: During inclement weather, you can dry the blanket indoors on a drying rack or by draping it over furniture. Ensure adequate air circulation by opening windows or using a fan. This helps prevent the development of a musty odor and ensures the blanket dries evenly.

3. Using a Dryer: Proceed with Extreme Caution

While it’s generally not recommended to machine dry wool blankets, it is possible under very strict conditions and only if the blanket’s care label allows. If you absolutely must use a dryer, proceed with extreme caution and follow these steps diligently:

Check the Care Label: Before attempting to use a dryer, always check the care label. Some wool blankets are labeled as “dry clean only” or “do not tumble dry”. If this is the case, do not put the blanket in the dryer.
Use the Lowest Setting: Select the lowest heat setting or an air-dry/no-heat cycle if your dryer has that option. High heat is the enemy of wool, causing shrinkage and damage.
Short Cycles: Start with a very short cycle, such as 10 minutes, and check the blanket’s progress. Do not use the dryer for extended periods.
Tumble Dry with Towels: Add a couple of clean, dry towels to the dryer along with the blanket. This helps to absorb moisture and minimize friction.
Frequent Checks: Continuously monitor the blanket during the drying cycle. Remove it while still slightly damp to allow for final air-drying. It is always better to err on the side of caution.

4. Troubleshooting Common Drying Issues

Sometimes, even with the best intentions, you might encounter problems while drying your wool blanket. Here’s how to address them:

Issue	Cause	Solution
Uneven Drying	Uneven distribution during drying	Flip and reposition the blanket during drying. Ensure equal exposure of all sections to air.
Musty Smell	Drying in a poorly ventilated area	Re-wash the blanket and make sure to air dry it in a well-ventilated space or outside in a shaded area.
Stiffness	Over drying or drying under high heat	Gently work the fibers by hand. Consider using a wool-specific fabric softener during the wash.
Shrinkage	Drying under high heat or improper handling	Unfortunately, shrinkage cannot be reversed. Avoid high heat at all costs during future washes and drying.

5. Maintaining Your Wool Blanket

Proper maintenance is key to keeping your wool blanket soft and beautiful for the long run. Here are some essential tips:

Regular Airing: Periodically air out your wool blanket outdoors, especially if you are storing it. This will help prevent build-up of moisture and odors.
Gentle Cleaning: Wash your wool blanket as little as possible, as each wash can be hard on the wool fibers. Spot clean when possible.
Proper Storage: Store your clean, dry wool blanket in a breathable cotton bag or wrapped in a cotton sheet in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in plastic bags, which can trap moisture.
Use a Wool Detergent: Whenever you do wash your blanket, use a mild detergent specifically designed for wool, or a gentle neutral detergent.
Avoid Bleach: Never use chlorine bleach on wool blankets as it can severely damage the fibers.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your wool blanket remains soft, cozy, and beautiful for years to come.