Wool blankets, with their luxurious softness and warmth, are cherished possessions. But improper storage can lead to damage, including moth infestations, musty odors, and even permanent wrinkles. This guide will walk you through the best practices for storing wool blankets, ensuring they remain soft, fresh, and ready for use for years to come.
Preparing Your Wool Blankets for Storage
Before you even think about putting your wool blankets away, proper preparation is crucial. This seemingly small step is vital for preventing damage and maintaining the quality of your blankets.
1. Cleaning is Key:
- Professional Cleaning: For delicate or heavily soiled wool blankets, professional cleaning is recommended. Dry cleaning is generally preferred to avoid shrinkage.
- Hand Washing: If hand washing, use a gentle wool detergent in cool water and avoid harsh scrubbing. Gently squeeze out excess water – never wring or twist!
- Air Drying: Always air dry your wool blanket flat on a clean, dry surface away from direct sunlight. This prevents shrinking and uneven drying.
2. Thorough Inspection:
- Check for Damage: Carefully inspect your blanket for any existing holes, tears, or stains before storing. Repair any minor damage to prevent further deterioration.
- Remove Debris: Shake out the blanket to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris that might attract pests.
3. Airing Out is Important:
- Fresh Air: Before storing, let your clean and inspected blanket air out completely. This removes any lingering moisture and prevents the growth of mildew or mold. Hang it outside on a breezy day, or lay it flat in a well-ventilated room.
Choosing the Right Storage Method and Environment
The environment and storage method you choose will significantly impact the longevity of your wool blanket.
1. The Ideal Storage Environment:
- Cool, Dry, and Dark: Store your wool blankets in a cool, dry, and dark place. Avoid attics, basements, or garages which can experience fluctuating temperatures and humidity. A cedar chest is an excellent option, as the cedar helps repel moths.
- Consistent Temperature and Humidity: Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause damage to wool fibers. A climate-controlled area is ideal.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate air circulation around the blanket to prevent mustiness.
2. Effective Storage Containers:
- Storage Bags: Breathable cotton or linen storage bags are preferable to airtight plastic bags, as they allow for proper air circulation. Avoid plastic, which can trap moisture and promote mildew.
- Cedar Chests: Cedar chests offer excellent protection against moths and provide a naturally fragrant environment.
- Vacuum-Sealed Bags (with Caution): Vacuum-sealed bags can save space, but they can compress the wool fibers over time. Only use them for short-term storage and avoid over-compressing the blanket.
Storing Your Wool Blankets: Step-by-Step
- Fold Carefully: Fold your blanket gently and neatly, avoiding sharp creases that could damage the fibers. Loosely folding is better than tight folding.
- Wrap in Acid-Free Tissue Paper (Optional): Wrapping your blanket in acid-free tissue paper adds an extra layer of protection.
- Place in Storage Container: Gently place your folded and wrapped blanket into your chosen storage container.
- Label and Date: Label your storage container with the contents and the date of storage. This helps you easily identify and manage your blankets over time.
Preventing Moth Infestations
Moths are a significant threat to wool blankets. Here’s how to protect your treasured throws:
- Mothballs (Use with Caution): While effective, mothballs release strong fumes that can be harmful to humans and can impart a lingering odor to your blankets. If you choose to use them, ensure the container is well-ventilated.
- Cedar: The natural scent of cedar repels moths. Cedar chests, sachets, or blocks are excellent natural moth deterrents.
- Lavender: Similar to cedar, lavender's scent is also a natural moth repellent. Lavender sachets can be placed within the storage container.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure your wool blankets remain in pristine condition for years to come, ready to provide cozy warmth and luxurious comfort whenever you need them. Remember, proper preparation and storage are key to preserving the beauty and quality of these cherished textiles.
