washing a merino wool blanket on wool setting?

5 years ago

last modified: 5 years ago

I've been hesitant to buy a wool blanket (specifically looking at one that's merino wool) because the recommended care is dry clean only. I want to avoid having to go to the cleaners--aside from the time wasted in going there, I have no idea what kind of chemicals are being used. For this reason, I have been using cotton blankets, but they don't have enough warmth (have to use layers on colder nights) and they also tend to be heavier.

Then I had a thought -- since both the washer and dryer have a "Woolens" setting would it be OK to wash/dry at home? (I have a Miele W3038 and matching dryer.)

Thus far, I have only used that setting for wool-blend socks and it has worked great on those. Previously shrunken socks got unshrunk and fluffy again. But those socks were rated for cold wash/hang dry and I used to use a warm wash/machine dry on them, so the only change with the "Woolens" setting was more water, less agitation and overall a gentler treatment. I don't know if a 100% wool blanket would like to be soaked completely in water.

Anyone have experience with this?

Featured Answer

luna123456

5 years ago

I was cashmere blankets in our Miele W1 and my lanbswool sweaters. All say dry clean only. I use Miele’s wool detergent and the wool cycle on the washer.

I block dry all woolens. Never use the dryer for woolens as they can felt. Lay flat on a towel, shape, and wait for them to fully dry. Always come put fine.

I also wash my 100% wool pants. No problems.

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Comments (8)

Rachel
5 years ago
I'll be interested in the answers you receive. Years ago, I purchased a Merino wool blanket from The Company Store. It's a wonderful blanket . . . so soft and warm. I've thought about washing it a few times at home, but when I've done the research online, I chicken out.
C J
5 years ago
I have washed cashmere blankets and throws in my Miele cycle (Do not use any other cycle, even “delicate” as it will over agitate the wool.) You have to be careful to use a detergent formulated for wool - I use Eucalan. Also, you have to be careful about reshaping it after washing. I tend to dry flat, or as flat as I can, over a drying rack or ironing board. Best to measure it before and after so you can gently stretch into position if necessary. If there is trim on the edging of the blanket, you need to make sure that it is washable too and dye stable. Any bulges or bumps during the drying process will remain after drying, so make sure it is smooth and flat. You may need to lightly iron. The short answer is, ”it depends“, both on the blanket and how patient and tolerant you are for what might be an exacting job. Some cashmere throws are super simple. A king sized blanket can be more time consuming.
anoop thanked C J
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Cavimum
5 years ago
I have washed hubby's 100% sweaters (some are lambs wool and some are "lamora" (a wool/angora blend) and a Pendleton wool blanket "throw" numerous times over the years in our Miele W4842 and then the Woolens dryer cycle. They all say washable and always come out fine.
anoop
Original Author
3 years ago
last modified: 3 years ago
Anyone have experience with this blanket or eith sferra in general?

I was thinking of getting this based on a swatch.

https://www.sferra.com/collections/wool-blankets/products/talida-blanket?variant=31485189161023

It says dry clean only but I will take a chance.
ginatay124
3 years ago
Have you ever tried sleeping under a down alternative duvet insert with a washable duvet cover like they do in Europe? So incredible cozy and practically weightless. I love wool blankets but find them less comfortable for sleeping.
anoop thanked ginatay124
anoop
Original Author
3 years ago
last modified: 3 years ago
@ginatay124

Do you have a link to the type of product you’re referring to? It sounds that interesting. If the duvet is that light, what is wrong with washing that and using it without a cover?

Do you find all wool uncomfortable? Are you referring to the ”scritch” caused by some wools?
MiMi
3 years ago
If you do a search in this forum you will find several posts in washing wool