Got Any Faux Fur Blankets? Here’s How to Care for Them

There’s something about sinking into a soft, cozy faux fur blanket that instantly makes everything better. Whether you’re curled up on the couch with a good book or having a lazy day watching movies, these blankets offer warmth and comfort that feel luxurious without the price tag. The only catch? Keeping them in tip-top shape can be a bit tricky if you don’t know how to care for them properly.

Faux fur blankets, unlike their real fur counterparts, require special attention when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. They might seem delicate, but with the right techniques, you can keep your blanket looking and feeling as plush as the day you bought it. Let’s talk about how to pamper your faux fur so it stays as inviting as ever.

Understanding Faux Fur Fabrics

Before diving into cleaning methods, it helps to understand what makes faux fur blankets unique. Unlike natural fur, faux fur is made from synthetic fibers, usually polyester, designed to mimic the look and feel of real fur. This means that while they’re cruelty-free and often more affordable, they come with their own set of care instructions.

Fabric Composition: Faux fur is typically made up of a base fabric with fibers stitched in to create the fur-like texture. These fibers can vary in length and density, giving each blanket its unique appearance. The key to keeping these fibers intact is gentle care, as harsh treatment can lead to tangling or matting.

Texture and Feel: The appeal of faux fur lies in its texture. It’s soft, fluffy, and inviting. Over time, though, improper cleaning can lead to a loss of softness or even damage the fabric. This is why understanding how to clean your blanket without compromising its texture is crucial.

Cleaning Your Faux Fur Blanket

When it comes to washing faux fur, the gentler, the better. Machine washing can be harsh on these blankets, so it’s essential to follow the correct process to prevent damage.

Spot Cleaning: For minor spills or stains, spot cleaning is often sufficient. Use a mild detergent mixed with water and gently blot the area with a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fibers or cause them to fray. Once you’ve blotted out the stain, rinse the area with a damp cloth and let it air dry.

Machine Washing: If your blanket needs a deeper clean, machine washing can be an option, but with care. Use a delicate cycle with cold water and a gentle detergent. It’s a good idea to place the blanket in a laundry bag to protect it from friction during the wash. Skip the fabric softeners and bleach—they can be too harsh for faux fur.

Drying: Avoid the dryer at all costs. High heat can melt the fibers and ruin the texture. Instead, lay the blanket flat on a clean surface, preferably on a towel to absorb moisture, and let it air dry. Occasionally, fluff the blanket with your hands to help maintain its softness and shape as it dries.

Maintaining the Softness

Even with proper cleaning, faux fur blankets can sometimes lose their plushness over time. To keep them feeling soft and luxurious, a little regular maintenance goes a long way.

Gently brushing your blanket with a pet brush or a soft-bristled hairbrush can help detangle any matted fibers and restore their fluffiness. Do this occasionally, especially after cleaning, to keep the fibers aligned and free from knots.

Give your blanket a good shake every now and then. This helps to keep the fibers from flattening and distributes them evenly, maintaining the plush look and feel. Shaking the blanket also helps remove any loose dirt or dust that may have settled on the surface.

When not in use, store your faux fur blanket in a cool, dry place. Avoid areas with direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade the colors and weaken the fibers over time. If possible, hang the blanket to prevent creases and keep it looking fresh.

Some Common Issues

Even with the best care, issues can arise with faux fur blankets. Here’s how to tackle some of the most common problems:

Matting and flattening: If your blanket starts to look a little worse for wear, it might be due to matting or flattening of the fibers. This can happen from regular use or improper cleaning. Regular brushing can help, but if the problem persists, a professional cleaning service might be able to restore its original texture.

Static build-up: Faux fur is prone to static, which can make the fibers cling together. This can usually be remedied by lightly spritzing the blanket with water mixed with a few drops of fabric softener. Use sparingly, and always allow the blanket to dry thoroughly afterward.

Odor control: If your blanket develops an odor, it might be time for a wash. For a quick fix, lightly sprinkle baking soda over the surface and let it sit for about 30 minutes before shaking or vacuuming it off. This can help neutralize odors without the need for frequent washing.