Why Wool Requires Gentle Care
Wool is a natural protein fiber. Under a microscope, each strand is covered in microscopic scales — similar in structure to human hair. When exposed to heat, agitation, or alkaline detergents, these scales interlock and contract, causing the fiber to felt: a permanent process that results in shrinkage, stiffness, and a matted texture that cannot be reversed.
Understanding this is the basis of all wool care. The goal is to clean the fiber without triggering that felting response.
Always Check the Care Label First
Before cleaning any wool blanket, check the care label. This is the single most reliable guide to how a specific blanket should be treated — and it takes precedence over any general advice.
Our blankets are recommended for dry cleaning only. The fiber compositions and construction finishes used in our Alpaca & Cashmere and Lambswool & Cashmere blankets are best maintained through professional dry cleaning, which cleans thoroughly without exposing the fiber to the heat, agitation, or moisture that can cause permanent damage. If you own one of our blankets, dry cleaning is the method we recommend.
For blankets from other brands, the care label will indicate whether hand washing or machine washing is permitted. The guidance below covers those scenarios.
Dry Cleaning: When and Why
Dry cleaning is the safest cleaning method for fine wool blankets, particularly those with cashmere blends, embellished finishes, or structured woven constructions. It removes dirt and odors without water — eliminating the risk of felting, shrinkage, or distortion that water-based washing always carries.
For blankets used regularly on a sofa or bed, dry cleaning once or twice a year is generally sufficient. Between cleans, airing the blanket outdoors in a shaded, well-ventilated area keeps it fresh — wool's natural fiber structure releases odors effectively with fresh air alone, without requiring any washing.
How to Wash a Wool Blanket — If the Care Label Permits
Some wool blankets — particularly lighter-weight or less structured constructions — are labeled as hand washable or machine washable. If your care label permits this, follow the guidance below carefully.
Hand washing
Hand washing is the gentler of the two methods and carries less risk than machine washing.
Fill a basin or bathtub with cool water — no warmer than 30°C — and add a small amount of wool-specific detergent. Submerge the blanket and gently press it through the water. Do not rub, wring, or twist the fabric. Allow it to soak for up to 10 minutes, then drain and refill with clean cool water to rinse. Repeat until no detergent remains.
Machine washing
If the care label specifies that machine washing is permitted, use a wool or delicate cycle, keep the water temperature at or below 30°C, and place the blanket inside a mesh laundry bag to reduce friction. Select the lowest available spin speed — high-speed spinning can distort the blanket's shape.
For a full overview of wool washing standards, The Woolmark Company publishes detailed care guidance covering all wool fiber types.
How to Dry a Wool Blanket
Never put a wool blanket in a tumble dryer. The combination of heat and mechanical agitation is the most reliable way to permanently felt wool fiber — regardless of the heat setting used.
After hand or machine washing, gently press the blanket against the side of the basin to remove excess water — do not wring. Lay it flat on a clean, dry towel, reshape it to its original dimensions, then roll the towel and blanket together to absorb additional moisture. Unroll, transfer the blanket to a fresh dry surface, and leave it to air dry flat.
Keep the blanket away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as radiators, both of which can cause uneven drying and fiber degradation over time.
How to Handle Stains
For dry-clean-only blankets, take the blanket to a professional cleaner as soon as possible after a stain occurs. Do not attempt to treat the stain at home with water or detergent — this risks setting the stain further or causing localized felting.
For blankets that are hand or machine washable, act quickly. Blot the affected area immediately with a clean cloth and cool water — never hot water, which can set the stain and risk felting. Work from the outside of the stain inward, pressing gently rather than rubbing. For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of wool-safe stain remover before rinsing.
Avoid detergents containing enzymes or bleach. Enzymes are designed to break down proteins — which is exactly what wool fiber is made of.
How to Store a Wool Blanket
Before storing, make sure the blanket is completely clean and fully dry. Even trace amounts of moisture can lead to mildew, and residual food or body oils attract moths.
Fold the blanket and store it in a breathable container — a cotton bag or a clean pillowcase works well. Avoid vacuum compression bags, which can crush the fiber's natural crimp and reduce its insulating capacity over time.
To deter moths, place cedar wood blocks or dried lavender sachets nearby. Do not allow mothballs to come into direct contact with wool — the chemicals can damage the fiber and leave a persistent odor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Ignoring the care label — always check before cleaning
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Attempting to wash a dry-clean-only blanket at home
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Washing in warm or hot water
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Using a tumble dryer at any heat setting
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Hanging the blanket to dry — the weight of wet wool will stretch it out of shape
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Using standard laundry detergent, fabric softener, or any product containing bleach or enzymes
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Rubbing or scrubbing stains rather than blotting them
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Storing before the blanket is completely dry
Frequently Asked Questions
Do your blankets need to be dry cleaned?
Yes. Our Alpaca & Cashmere and Lambswool & Cashmere blankets are recommended for dry cleaning only. The fiber compositions and construction of these blankets are best maintained through professional dry cleaning rather than home washing.
How often should a wool blanket be dry cleaned?
For a blanket in regular use, once or twice a year is generally sufficient. Between dry cleans, air the blanket outdoors in a shaded, well-ventilated space to keep it fresh — wool's natural odor resistance means it does not need frequent deep cleaning.
Can any wool blankets be washed at home?
Some wool blankets — typically lighter-weight constructions without cashmere blends or embellished finishes — are labeled as hand or machine washable. Always follow the care label on your specific blanket. If the label says dry clean only, that instruction should be followed.
Why did my wool blanket shrink?
Shrinkage in wool is almost always caused by exposure to heat, high-speed agitation, or both. Once wool has felted, the process cannot be reversed. This is why following the care label — and dry cleaning where specified — is important.
How do I keep my wool blanket fresh between cleans?
Air the blanket outdoors in a shaded, well-ventilated area for a few hours. Wool releases odors naturally with fresh air, making this an effective and low-effort way to maintain freshness between dry cleaning appointments.
Can you put a wool blanket in the dryer?
No. Even a low-heat or air-dry setting carries risk. The mechanical movement of a dryer is enough to cause felting in wool fiber, regardless of temperature. Dry-clean-only blankets should go to a professional cleaner; washable blankets should always be dried flat.
Explore our wool blanket collection — crafted from Alpaca & Cashmere and Lambswool & Cashmere for lasting warmth and everyday comfort. Shop Wool Blankets