How to Wash a Sherpa Blanket: Keep It Soft and Fluffy

Sherpa blankets are like cozy little slices of heaven, perfect for curling up on a cold night or adding extra warmth to your bed. Their fluffy, plush texture makes them irresistibly soft, but caring for them properly is essential to maintaining that luxurious feel. If you’ve ever wondered about the best way to wash a sherpa blanket, you’ve come to the right place.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the exact steps for washing your sherpa blanket without ruining its softness or texture. With these expert tips, your blanket will stay fresh, fluffy, and just as comfortable as the day you bought it. Let’s get started!

Why Washing a Sherpa Blanket Requires Special Care

Sherpa blankets are designed to offer warmth and comfort, often made from a polyester or a blend of synthetic materials. The key to keeping them soft and fluffy is washing them carefully, avoiding harsh methods that could compromise their plush texture.

Sherpa Fabric Explained

Sherpa blankets have a unique fleece-like texture that mimics the softness of sheepskin. The fabric is typically soft on one side (the fleece-like side) and smooth on the other. This design makes it important to wash the blanket in a way that preserves its fluffiness.

How Improper Washing Can Damage Your Blanket

Washing a sherpa blanket without taking the necessary precautions can lead to a loss of softness, fading, or even pilling. It’s crucial to follow the right steps to ensure your blanket retains its plush appeal.

Check the Care Label: The First Step in Washing Your Sherpa Blanket

The care label sewn into your sherpa blanket is a vital tool in ensuring the blanket is washed safely. It contains all the important details, such as the recommended water temperature, washing machine settings, and drying instructions.

What to Look for on the Care Label

Care labels will usually indicate whether the blanket can be machine washed, and whether it should be washed in cold or warm water. Some sherpa blankets may even have specific instructions for hand washing or dry cleaning, so it’s important to take a quick look before you begin.

Why the Care Label Matters

Ignoring the care label can result in unnecessary damage. Following the manufacturer’s instructions helps preserve the quality of the fabric and ensures that your sherpa blanket remains soft and luxurious for years to come.

Preparing Your Sherpa Blanket for Washing

Before tossing your sherpa blanket into the washing machine, a little preparation can go a long way. This will help protect the fibers and ensure an even clean.

Shake Off Dirt and Debris

Before washing, give your blanket a gentle shake to remove any dust, pet hair, or debris that may have settled into the fibers. This step will prevent clogging the washer and give your blanket a cleaner wash.

Treating Stains

If your sherpa blanket has visible stains, spot cleaning is a great option before throwing it in the wash. Use a mild stain remover or a mix of mild detergent and water to gently blot the stained area with a soft cloth. Avoid scrubbing, as this can cause the fabric to become matted.

The Right Detergent for Washing Sherpa Blankets

Choosing the right detergent is just as important as the washing method itself. Harsh chemicals can ruin the fabric and affect the softness of your sherpa blanket, so it’s crucial to choose a mild, gentle detergent.

Mild Detergent for Sherpa

Opt for a mild liquid detergent that is free from harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners. These additives can leave residue on the blanket, making it less soft. Stick with a detergent that’s specifically formulated for delicate fabrics.

Avoiding Fabric Softeners

While fabric softeners may sound like a good idea, they can interfere with the natural softness of sherpa material. They can leave a greasy residue that weighs down the fibers, so it’s best to skip this step altogether.

How to Wash a Sherpa Blanket in the Washing Machine

Now that you’ve prepped your blanket and chosen the right detergent, it’s time to wash your sherpa blanket. The washing machine can be your best friend when cleaning large, bulky blankets, but it’s important to use the right settings.

Machine Wash on a Gentle Cycle

To keep your sherpa blanket looking its best, always opt for a gentle or delicate wash cycle. The agitation on a regular cycle can damage the fabric and affect its texture, so it’s best to choose the gentlest option.

Cold or Warm Water?

Most sherpa blankets should be washed in cold or warm water, but it’s always a good idea to check the care label for guidance. Cold water is typically safer, as hot water can cause the fibers to shrink or lose their plush feel.

Drying Your Sherpa Blanket: Air-Drying vs. Machine Drying

After washing, the next crucial step is drying your sherpa blanket. This is where many people make mistakes, as improper drying can lead to stiff, matted fibers.

Air Drying: The Best Option

For the best results, air drying your sherpa blanket is ideal. Lay it flat on a clean surface or hang it to dry naturally. This prevents the blanket from getting overexposed to heat and helps retain its softness and fluffiness.

Tumble Dry on Low Heat if Necessary

If you need to use a dryer, select a low heat or no-heat setting. High heat can damage the fibers and cause them to shrink, leaving your blanket less cozy. Adding a couple of dryer balls can also help maintain the fluffiness.

How to Prevent Pilling on Your Sherpa Blanket

Pilling is one of the most common issues with fleece-like fabrics like sherpa. It happens when small fibers become tangled, resulting in tiny balls or “pills” that can make your blanket feel rough and uneven.

Wash Inside Out

To prevent pilling, turn your sherpa blanket inside out before washing it. This protects the surface of the fabric from excessive friction during the wash cycle, which is a major cause of pilling.

Use a Fabric Shaver

If you notice pilling after washing, don’t panic. A fabric shaver can quickly and easily remove those annoying little pills. Simply glide the shaver over the surface of the blanket for a smoother, softer texture.

How Often Should You Wash Your Sherpa Blanket?

While your sherpa blanket is built to last, it doesn’t need to be washed after every use. Over-washing can cause it to lose its softness, so it’s best to wash it only when necessary.

General Guidelines for Washing Frequency

Depending on how often you use your blanket, you should wash it every 3 to 5 uses. If there’s a spill or noticeable stains, you may need to clean it sooner. For regular maintenance, spot clean or shake the blanket out between washes to keep it fresh.

Avoid Over-Washing

Washing your sherpa blanket too frequently can cause wear and tear. Always assess whether a full wash is necessary, or if spot cleaning will do the trick. Over-washing can cause the fibers to lose their softness over time.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Washing Sherpa Blankets

To ensure your sherpa blanket remains in pristine condition, it’s helpful to keep a list of washing dos and don’ts. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind:

Do’s:

Wash in cold or warm water (check the care label).
Use a mild detergent specifically made for delicate fabrics.
Dry on low heat or air dry for best results.
Turn the blanket inside out before washing.

Don’ts:

Don’t use fabric softeners or bleach.
Avoid washing with heavy items that can cause friction.
Don’t wash on high heat – this can shrink and damage the fabric.
Don’t wring or twist your blanket – this can distort the shape.

Bonus Tips for Keeping Your Sherpa Blanket Soft and Fluffy

Beyond washing and drying, there are additional ways to maintain the softness and longevity of your sherpa blanket.

Keep Your Blanket Fluffy with Gentle Care

To ensure your sherpa blanket stays fluffy, avoid overloading the washing machine. Overloading can cause the fibers to compress, making them lose their softness. Also, avoid packing your blanket too tightly in the dryer.

Store It Correctly

When you’re not using your sherpa blanket, make sure it’s stored properly. Fold it neatly and keep it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in plastic bags, as this can trap moisture and lead to a musty smell

Conclusion

With the right techniques, washing your sherpa blanket doesn’t have to be a hassle. By following these simple steps, you can keep your blanket looking and feeling as soft, fluffy, and luxurious as the first day you bought it. Remember, the key is in using gentle cycles, mild detergent, and avoiding high heat. Whether you’re cuddling on the couch or warming up in bed, a well-cared-for sherpa blanket is the perfect companion for comfort and warmth.