Here's how often you should wash your cosy blanket or throw (VIDEO)

With temperatures dropping below zero, you will likely be using your cosy blanket a lot this winter. Long cold evenings make this home accessory irreplaceable. But to make sure it does more good than bad, you have to clean it regularly.

Your blanket accumulates bacteria over time

Placed on the edge of your bed or on your sofa for cosy snuggling and keeping you warm, your soft blanket or plaid is one of the essentials in your home interior. Ready to cocoon you while you watch a movie or be an extra layer on top of your duvet while you sleep, it is a must-have during the colder time of the year.

But while it's hard to let go of this winter life-saviour, it's important to keep it clean. Used regularly, blankets accumulates bacteria. It is ideal to wash it 3 to 4 times a year to ensure that it stays clean and nice on your skin.

Also, remember to shake it regularly to get rid of dust. If you have pets, wash your sofa buddy more often, as animal fur tends to stick to it.

How to wash your cosy blanket?

To prevent pilling or matting, wash fleece blankets separately in cold water on a gentle cycle. Use only a small amount of detergent—more soap won't necessarily make your blanket cleaner. Don't bleach.

Before washing a wool blanket, check the manufacturer's care instructions to make sure it's not dry-clean only. If the blanket is machine-washable, use cold water and a wool-safe detergent.

First, place the blanket in your machine and allow it to soak in the water and detergent solution for about 15 minutes. Then select a gentle cycle and let it run for about two minutes before switching to the rinse cycle. Once complete, hang your wool blanket to dry away from direct sunlight, which can cause the fabric's colours to fade.

Faux-fur blankets are usually made with synthetic fibres, such as acrylic and polyester, that can be washed fairly easily. First, check the tag on your blanket. Many faux-fur blankets can be laundered at home using the following method.

Place the blanket in your washer and run a cold, delicate cycle with your usual detergent. If your washer doesn't have a gentle option, use the lowest temperature and spin setting. Avoid chlorine bleach, and skip any fabric softeners. Air-dry the blanket on a rack or clothesline. Shake to fluff the faux fur once dry.

For a cotton blanket, wash it at 40°.

This article has been translated from OhMyMag FR.

Sources used:

- Better Homes & Gardens: 'How to Wash Fleece Blankets (and Every Other Kind of Throw)'