Wash Your Cozy Blanket Now: Why They Need Extra TLC In Winter

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Brr, it’s getting chilly out there! As the winter weather lingers, you’ll probably find yourself snuggling up with your favorite throw blankets a lot more. But before you get all cozy, you’ll want to toss that blanket in the washing machine. Why? All that extra time under the blanket means you’re breathing in a whole lot of pet dander, dust, and other nasties that have built up. Plus, winter is prime time for colds and flu, and those germs can stick around on your blankets for days. Better to play it safe and give those throws a good wash!

Turns out, most experts say blankets should be washed at least once a month, even more if they’re getting heavy use. Fleece throws are especially prone to attracting allergens due to their static electricity. And after being sick, you’ll definitely want to give your blankets a thorough cleaning to kill any lingering germs. One study found that influenza A can survive for days on synthetic fabrics. Yikes! When it’s time to wash, here’s what to do.

Always check the care instructions on your throw blanket’s tag – that’s the best way to know how to wash it properly. Many blankets do best in cold water, though fleece can handle warmer temps to kill germs. The delicate cycle is usually the way to go to keep the fabric in tip-top shape. And don’t wash your blankets with sheets and stuff – they need their own cycle to really get clean.

If you’ve been sick, a normal wash with a deep-cleaning detergent should do the trick to kill any pesky cold, flu, or COVID germs. Look for a detergent with enzymes for that extra cleaning power. You can also throw in a sanitizer additive for extra peace of mind.