Fleece blankets are soft, warm, and cozy – perfect for curling up on the couch or bed. However, like all blankets, fleece blankets need to be cleaned occasionally to remove dirt, oils, and odors. Washing a fleece blanket properly is important to keep it looking and feeling its best. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to wash a fleece blanket.

Gather Your Supplies

Before washing your fleece blanket, you’ll need to gather a few supplies:

Mild laundry detergent – Choose a gentle, fragrance-free detergent to clean the fleece fibers without damaging them. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners.
Washing machine – A standard home washing machine is perfect for washing fleece blankets. Make sure it’s large enough to fit your blanket.
Mesh laundry bag – Washing fleece blankets loose can cause pilling. Putting your blanket in a mesh bag protects the fibers.

Check the Care Label

Before washing, always check the care label on your fleece blanket. This will indicate the proper washing method and water temperature. Most fleece can be washed in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid using hot water, which can damage the synthetic fibers.

Pre-treat Stains

If your fleece blanket has any visible stains, pre-treat them before washing. Apply a small amount of mild detergent directly to the stain and let sit for 5-10 minutes. This helps lift and break down the stain so it’s easier to remove in the wash.

Wash on a Gentle Cycle

Set your washing machine to the gentle or delicate cycle using cold water. The gentle agitation helps clean the blanket without causing pilling or damage.

Place your fleece blanket inside a mesh laundry bag and zip it closed. Put the bag in the washing machine. Use the recommended amount of mild detergent.

Avoid Fabric Softener

Do not use fabric softener when washing fleece blankets. The waxy coating can attach to the fleece fibers, reducing the blanket’s softness and absorbency. Softener can also attract dirt over time.

Dry on Low Heat

Move your fleece blanket to the dryer immediately after washing. Make sure to use the low heat setting. High heat can cause fleece fibers to melt or shrink.

To prevent bunching, periodically pause the cycle to rearrange the blanket so it dries flat and evenly. Let the blanket fully dry to avoid mildew.

Remove From Dryer Promptly

Don’t leave your fleece blanket sitting in the warm dryer after it’s finished drying. The heat can damage the fibers over time. Remove it right away and lay flat or hang to finish cooling.

Fluff the Blanket

Once fully dry, fluff your fleece blanket by gently shaking it out. This helps restore its softness and loft. Your blanket will now be fresh, cozy, and ready for more nights of warmth!

Tips for Washing Fleece Blankets

Follow these additional tips when cleaning your valuable fleece blankets:

Wash New Blankets First

Brand new fleece blankets should be washed before first use. The initial wash removes excess dye and helps the blanket achieve maximum softness.

Wash Separately

Wash fleece blankets by themselves or with other synthetic items. Don’t mix with natural fibers like wool that can damage the fleece.

Wash Every Few Months

Only wash fleece blankets every 2-3 months unless heavily soiled. Too frequent washing reduces the blanket’s warmth and softness.

Inspect Before Drying

Inspect your fleece blanket after washing before drying. Look for any remaining stains you may want to spot treat.

Dry Thoroughly

Make sure your fleece blanket is completely dry before using or storing. Any remaining moisture can allow mildew growth.

How to Remove Stains on a Fleece Blanket

Fleece is a synthetic fabric that doesn’t easily absorb liquids. However, accidents happen and stains can still set in over time. Try these methods for removing tough stains from fleece blankets:

Dish Soap

For oil-based stains, apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the spot. Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush and rinse clean.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Mix 1 tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 2 cups of water. Spray on blood or protein stains. Let sit 5 minutes before washing.

Baking Soda

Make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently rub onto grease, dirt or mud stains. Let sit for 30 minutes then vacuum off.

White Vinegar

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray over pet urine stains. Blot dry with a cloth and rinse thoroughly. Repeat as needed.

Oxyclean

Dissolve OxyClean powder in hot water per package directions. Soak the stained area for 30 minutes before washing as usual.

Avoid Bleach

Never use chlorine bleach on fleece blankets. It degrades the synthetic fibers and can create holes or a worn appearance.

With some spot cleaning effort, you can keep your fleece blankets looking and smelling fresh for seasons to come. Just be sure to follow proper washing methods to maintain the blanket’s softness and warmth.

Drying a Fleece Blanket

Drying your freshly washed fleece blanket properly is key to maintaining its comfort and durability. Follow these fleece blanket drying tips:

Shake out the blanket after washing to minimize wrinkles.
Use the lowest heat setting on your dryer to prevent heat damage.
Toss a couple clean tennis balls in the dryer. They’ll bounce around and fluff up the blanket.
Every 20 minutes, pause the dryer cycle to rearrange the blanket so it dries evenly.
Feel the blanket throughout drying to check for any damp spots requiring more time.
Remove immediately when fully dry to avoid over-drying, which can impact softness.
Avoid line drying fleece outdoors, as the sun’s UV rays can degrade the synthetic fibers.
Lay flat on a clean surface or hang on a wide, non-plastic hanger if air drying indoors.
Fluff the blanket by gently shaking and smoothing it after fully dried.

Following these simple fleece blanket drying tips helps restore the fluffy texture you love while extending the life of your blanket.

Storing a Fleece Blanket

To keep your fleece blanket clean, soft, and pill-free when not in use, proper storage is key. Here are some storage tips:

Fold loosely rather than tightly creasing or rolling. This reduces wrinkles.
Place in a breathable cotton or mesh storage bag. Avoid plastic bags that trap moisture.
Store in a cool, dry place like a closet or under the bed. Heat and humidity can damage fibers.
Wash before seasonal storage to remove oils and dirt that attract moths or mildew.
Consider cedar blocks or natural moth deterrents if storing long term.
Refold and fluff stored blankets every few months to maintain their loft.
Check periodically for any pilling or stains so they can be groomed or spot cleaned.
Wash and completely dry a stored blanket before using again or placing back into storage.

With proper care between uses, a quality fleece blanket can provide cozy warmth and comfort for many years to come. Follow these storage tips to keep it soft, clean and ready to use whenever needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washing Fleece Blankets

Can you put a fleece blanket in the washing machine?

Yes, fleece blankets can be washed in a washing machine on gentle/delicate cycle using cold water and mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners. Place in a mesh bag first to prevent damage.

Should fleece blankets be washed before use?

It’s recommended to wash a new fleece blanket on its own before first use. This initial wash helps improve softness by removing excess dye and finishes from manufacturing.

How often should you wash a fleece blanket?

Only wash fleece blankets every 2-3 months, or when visibly dirty or smelly. Frequent washing can reduce fleece’s warmth and softness. Spot clean stains between full washes.

How do you dry a washed fleece blanket?

Always dry fleece blankets on low heat. High temperatures can damage or shrink the synthetic fibers. Toss in a couple tennis balls for fluffing. Remove promptly when dry and shake out any wrinkles.

Can you put a fleece blanket in the dryer?

Yes, fleece blankets can go in the dryer but only on low heat. High heat can melt the synthetic fibers. Air dry fleece blankets if possible rather than using any heat.

How do you soften a freshly washed fleece blanket?

To soften fleece after washing, make sure to fully dry on low heat. Remove immediately and gently shake out and smooth the blanket. Don’t use fabric softener as it coats fibers and reduces absorbency.

Why does my fleece blanket pill?

Fleece pilling is caused by fibers catching on each other during washing and drying. Using a mesh wash bag and drying on low heat minimizes this. Avoid overwashing, and use a de-pilling tool to remove existing pills.

How do you remove pills from a fleece blanket?

Use a de-pilling tool, sweater shaver, or disposable razor to gently remove pills on fleece blankets. Work slowly to avoid damaging the material underneath. Going forward, use a mesh bag when washing to reduce pilling.

Conclusion

Washing fleece blankets properly is simple and ensures they stay soft, clean, and pill-free for seasons of cozy use. Check labels for washing directions, pre-treat stains, use a delicate cycle, skip the fabric softener, dry on low, and store loosely folded. With proper care, high-quality fleece blankets can provide warmth and comfort for many years. Follow these easy fleece washing and drying tips to keep your favorite blanket looking fluffy and feeling like new.

How to Wash a Fleece Blanket