How to Wash Throw Blankets Without Ruining Them 💛
Throw blankets get used constantly in my house. I always have one draped over the bed, another on the couch, and one just for cozying up while watching TV. Checking the care tag is always a good start, but sometimes the tag fades, wrinkles, or even falls off. Since throws come in so many fabrics, it can be tricky to wash them without shrinking or losing their softness. Cold water and low-heat tumble drying work for most, but some materials need extra care. Here’s my simple wash routine for keeping all my throw blankets in good shape:
Fleece & Microfiber Throws
These are some of the most common throws, but they can get rough if washed the wrong way. I use cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, and I always skip fabric softener because it flattens the fibers. After washing, I either air dry or use the dryer on low heat to keep them fluffy.
Chunky Knit & Delicate Throws
These need a gentler approach since they stretch easily. I place them in a mesh laundry bag and wash on delicate with a mild detergent. Instead of tossing them in the dryer, I lay them flat to dry so they keep their shape and texture.
Cotton Throws
Cotton is usually the easiest to care for. I wash mine in cold or warm water, depending on the label, and dry them on low heat. They hold up well in the wash!
Wool & Specialty Fabrics
Throws made from wool or other delicate fabrics need special care. I either hand wash them in cool water with gentle detergent or take them to the dry cleaner if I don’t want to risk damage. This keeps them from shrinking or felting. Wool should never be washed in a machine!
Wash Separately
One small thing that helps a lot is washing throw blankets by themselves. This prevents them from picking up lint or fuzz from towels and other laundry. Sometimes if I have multiple of the same material to wash, I place them in their own individual mesh bags and wash them together.
Shake Out First
If pets love your blankets too, give them a good shake before washing. This gets rid of loose fur and hair so it doesn’t cling to the fabric during the wash cycle.
Skip the Heat
No matter the fabric, I avoid hot water or high dryer heat. That’s what usually causes shrinking, fading, or damage to the fibers. Low heat or air drying is always safer.
With just a little extra care, throw blankets stay looking nice and feeling cozy wash after wash instead of wearing out too quickly!
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Throw blankets not only add warmth but also style to your living space, making their care essential for longevity. Beyond the initial wash tips, using a mild, fragrance-free detergent helps preserve fabric integrity and prevents skin irritation, especially for sensitive skin. When washing fleece and microfiber throws, avoiding fabric softeners is crucial since they can coat fibers and reduce softness and breathability. For chunky knit and delicate throws, remember that laying them flat to dry also helps prevent stretching and maintains even drying, which avoids mold or mildew. Cotton throws, although sturdy, benefit from being washed with similar colors to prevent dye transfer and maintain vibrancy. Wool and specialty fabric throws should never be twisted or wrung out as this stresses fibers; gentle squeezing to remove excess water is better. Washing throw blankets separately is especially helpful for pet owners to avoid tangling pet hair into other laundry and preventing lint clinging to throws. Doing a thorough shake-out before washing lifts loose hair and dirt for a cleaner wash. Skipping hot water and high dryer heat is critical since heat causes shrinking, fading, and fiber damage. Embracing air drying or low heat settings protects fabric structure. Additionally, rotating your throw blankets’ use allows each one to rest between washes, reducing wear and prolonging lifespan. Opting to spot clean minor stains promptly prevents frequent total washes that wear fabrics down faster. Taking these little extra steps helps keep your throw blankets looking fresh and feeling cozy, ensuring they remain a beloved staple in your home for years.








I tend to skip the dryer for the synthetic soft blankets because it ruins them faster. They stop being soft and start having pills.