Quick answer

Hand wash your wool heirloom blanket in cool water with a gentle wool detergent, air dry flat away from heat, and store it in a breathable cotton bag to prevent moths and damage.

Why wool needs special care

Wool fibers are naturally resilient and insulating, but they are also delicate. Agitation, heat, and harsh chemicals can cause shrinking, felting, or loss of softness. Heirloom blankets like the Garden Whimsy Wool Heirloom Blanket feature intricate chain-stitch embroidery that requires extra gentleness to preserve the design and texture.

The trade-off: machine washing is faster but risks permanent damage. Hand washing takes more time but keeps your blanket looking like new for decades.

Step-by-step wool blanket care

  1. Step 1: Spot clean first: Check for stains and gently dab with a damp cloth and a tiny amount of mild wool detergent. Do not rub, as this can distort the fibers or embroidery. Always test any cleaner on a hidden corner first.
  2. Step 2: Hand wash in cool water: Fill a tub or sink with cool water and add a capful of wool-safe detergent. Submerge the blanket and gently press it under the water. Let it soak for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with fresh cool water until no soap remains. Never wring or twist the blanket—this causes felting and misshapes.
  3. Step 3: Remove excess water carefully: Lift the blanket out of the water (support its full weight to avoid stretching) and lay it flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel up like a jelly roll and gently press to absorb moisture. Repeat with a second dry towel if needed. Do not hang a wet wool blanket—gravity will stretch it out of shape.
  4. Step 4: Air dry flat away from heat: Place the blanket on a drying rack or a clean towel in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heaters. Flip it once halfway through drying. This can take 24–48 hours depending on humidity. Never use a tumble dryer or radiator—heat causes irreversible shrinking.
  5. Step 5: Store properly to prevent moths: Once fully dry, fold the blanket loosely and store it in a breathable cotton or muslin bag. Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets as natural moth deterrents. Avoid plastic bins, which trap moisture and can cause mildew. Check stored blankets every few months for signs of pests or moisture.

  • Garden Whimsy Wool Heirloom Blanket: Showcases Mary Engelbreit’s signature whimsical, joyful holiday style, brought to life through a special collaboration with Chandler 4 Corners, renowned for their beautifully handcrafted wool textiles and artisan craftsmanship. The chain-stitch embroidery and artisan construction mean you should avoid machine washing and harsh detergents to keep the stitching intact and colors vibrant.

    Garden Whimsy Wool Heirloom Blanket

    Garden Whimsy Wool Heirloom Blanket