Can I Wash a Blanket with Towels: Unveiling Laundry Myths

In the hustle and bustle of family life, efficiency in household chores like laundry can be a game-changer. Many of us have pondered whether it’s okay to wash blankets with towels—a tempting shortcut on laundry day.

This article will explore whether combining these items in the wash is a wise decision and how to do it without risking damage to your cozy comforts.

Can You Wash a Blanket with Towels?

Washing blankets with towels is a common laundry question, especially for those looking to save time and energy. However, there are several factors to consider before combining these items in a single load.

Considerations for Mixing Blankets and Towels in the Wash

1. Fabric Type and Texture: Towels are generally made from terrycloth, which is abrasive compared to the softer materials typically used in blankets such as fleece, cotton, or microfiber. This texture difference can cause the softer blanket materials to pill or wear down from the friction against the rough terrycloth.

2. Absorbency: Towels are designed to absorb a lot of moisture, which means they can monopolize the water and detergent in the wash. This can leave blankets not fully washed if they are in the same load, potentially leading to detergent buildup on the blanket.

3. Lint Production: Towels often produce a lot of lint, which can cling to blankets, especially those made of fleece or other lint-attracting materials. This can degrade the quality of both the blanket’s appearance and feel.

4. Volume and Weight: Blankets and towels can both be bulky items, but towels typically become heavier when wet. Mixing heavy wet towels with lighter blankets can cause uneven washing and spinning, leading to potential damage to your washing machine and the items being washed.

Pros and Cons of Washing Together

• Pros:

  • Convenience: Washing blankets and towels together can save time if you are doing multiple laundry loads.
  • Energy Efficiency: Consolidating loads can save on water and energy consumption.

• Cons:

  • Risk of Damage: As outlined above, the risks of fabric damage and inadequate cleaning are increased.
  • Drying Issues: Blankets and towels often require different drying times and settings, complicating the drying process if washed together.

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How to Wash Blankets and Towels Properly

To ensure that both your blankets and towels remain in the best condition, follow these guidelines for washing them properly, whether together or separately.

Washing Blankets

1. Preparation:

   • Shake out the blanket to remove any loose dirt or debris.
   • Check for and treat any stains prior to washing using a gentle stain remover.

2. Machine Washing:

   • Load the blanket into the washing machine without overloading. Washing the blanket alone or with similar items is ideal.
   • Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water to prevent shrinkage, especially for delicate fabrics.
   • Select a mild detergent that’s suitable for the fabric type to avoid damaging the material.

3. Drying:

   • If possible, air dry the blanket by laying it flat on a clean surface to maintain its shape.
   • If using a dryer, choose a low heat setting and remove the blanket as soon as it is dry to avoid overheating and shrinkage.

Washing Towels

1. Preparation:

   • Wash new towels separately for the first few washes to remove excess lint.
   • Group towels by color to prevent color transfer.

2. Machine Washing:

   • Use a hot water setting for cotton towels to clean deeply and sanitize effectively.
   • Consider a robust detergent and possibly bleach for white towels to maintain their brightness.

3. Drying:

   • Dry towels on a high heat setting unless the care label specifies otherwise. This helps keep them fluffy and speeds up the drying process.
   • Remove towels promptly from the dryer to minimize wrinkling.

When Washing Together

If you decide to wash blankets and towels together, consider the following tips to minimize risks:

• Load Balancing: Ensure the washing machine is not overloaded and that there is a balance between the number of towels and the volume of the blanket.
• Cycle Selection: Choose a cycle that meets the needs of the more delicate item, typically the blanket, which means using a gentle cycle with a moderate spin speed.
• Detergent and Water Temperature: Use a gentle detergent and cold water to accommodate both types of items without causing shrinkage or excessive wear.

By understanding the unique needs of each type of laundry—blankets and towels—you can optimize your washing practices to extend the life of these items and maintain their best qualities. Whether washed together or separately, careful handling will ensure they continue to provide the comfort and functionality you need in your home.

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In my home, juggling the needs of kids and pets means laundry is a constant challenge. I learned the hard way that washing our plush king-sized blanket with bath towels wasn’t the best idea—it came out less soft and took forever to dry.

Now, I wash towels and blankets separately, adjusting the settings to suit each load. This not only keeps them in top shape longer but also ensures that everyone can snuggle up in comfort, whether it’s in a fluffy towel post-bath or on our luxurious Puffy Lux Mattress at night.

Conclusion

While you can wash blankets and towels together under certain conditions, doing so isn’t generally recommended. Separate washes tailored to the specific needs of each type of laundry can prevent damage and improve overall cleaning effectiveness. By understanding the needs of different fabrics and adjusting your laundry practices accordingly, you can keep your home running smoothly and your linens in pristine condition.

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