Washing a blanket hoodie, also known as an oversized hoodie blanket or a wearable blanket, involves a few straightforward steps. These garments are typically made from soft, plush materials like fleece or sherpa, which require gentle care to maintain their softness and warmth. Here’s how to wash your blanket hoodie properly:
Check the Care Label
Start by examining the care label on your blanket hoodie. This tag provides essential information from the manufacturer on how to properly care for the material. It will indicate the recommended washing and drying temperatures and any other special instructions.
Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need:
- Mild laundry detergent
- Stain remover (if necessary)
- A large capacity washing machine
Pre-Treat Any Stains
If your blanket hoodie has any stains, treat them with a stain remover before washing. Apply the stain remover according to the product’s instructions, and gently rub it into the fabric. Allow it to sit for the specified amount of time.
Prepare to Wash
Turn your blanket hoodie inside out to protect any prints or designs. This also helps clean the inside more thoroughly. If your hoodie has any zippers or buttons, secure them to prevent snagging.
Set the Washing Machine
Place the blanket hoodie in a large capacity washing machine. Avoid overloading the machine; the hoodie should have enough space to move freely in the water. Select a gentle cycle with cold or warm water, as specified by the care label. Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent according to the package’s instructions or the machine’s dispenser.
Wash the Blanket Hoodie
Start the washing machine and let it run through the selected cycle. If the care label allows, you can add softener during the rinse cycle to keep your hoodie feeling plush.
Rinse and Spin
Ensure that the blanket hoodie gets thoroughly rinsed. Some washing machines have an extra rinse option, which can be useful if your hoodie is particularly fluffy and may hold onto detergent.
Drying
Once the wash cycle is complete, remove your blanket hoodie promptly to reduce wrinkles and prevent any mildew from forming. If the care label permits, you can tumble dry the hoodie on a low or no-heat setting. Add a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff up the blanket hoodie as it dries.
Alternative Drying Method
If the care label advises against tumble drying, or you prefer to air dry your hoodie, lay it flat on a clean, dry towel and reshape it as needed. Avoid hanging it as the weight of the water could stretch the fabric. Keep it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight until completely dry.
Final Touches
Once dry, fold your blanket hoodie or put it on a hanger to keep it ready for use. If it’s allowed per the care label, you can use a low-heat iron or steamer to remove any wrinkles.
Be sure to follow these steps to keep your blanket hoodie clean and cozy for many snuggles to come!