Maintaining a wool plaid: this way your plaid will remain beautiful for years to come
Why wool is such a good material
Wool is known for its natural qualities:
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Heat regulating
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Breathable
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Self-cleaning
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Durable and wear-resistant
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Odor-repellent
Thanks to lanolin (wool fat), wool even has antibacterial properties. This means that a woolen blanket much less maintenance more necessary than synthetic materials.
1. Airing: the easiest form of maintenance
The best thing you can do for your blanket? Ventilate outside regularly.
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Hang the blanket outside in dry weather
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Avoid full sun (too much UV is not necessary)
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Let the wind do the work
Odors disappear naturally and the fibers bounce back beautifully.
👉 Tip: In Scotland, airing wool is standard practice. Simply hang it outside for a bit—and you're done.
2. Washing: only if absolutely necessary
Does a wool blanket need to be washed?
Preferably as little as possible. Wool is self-cleaning and benefits enormously from fresh air.
Still want to wash? Here's how to do it safely.
Hand wash (recommended) (ALWAYS CHECK THE WASHING INSTRUCTIONS)
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Max. 30°C lukewarm water
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Mild wool detergent or wool shampoo
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Do not wring or stretch
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Rinse gently
Washing machine (only if the label allows it)
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Wool program
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20–30°C
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Low speed
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Use a laundry bag
Drying
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Let it dry flat on a towel
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Do not hang (that stretches the wool)
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Do not tumble dry
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3. Pilling: how does it occur and how do you remove it?
What is pilling?
Small balls formed by friction. Completely normal in natural wool fibers.
Prevent pilling
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Move your blanket from place to place every now and then
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Avoid contact with sharp zippers or rough fabrics
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Regular airing also helps
Remove pilling
Use a:
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Wool comb
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Pilling comb
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Lint remover (careful, low setting)
After a quick touch-up, your plaid will look beautiful again.
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4. Storage: how to keep wool in top condition
Are you going to put your blanket away for a while?
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Store it dry and clean
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Use a breathable bag (cotton)
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Add cedarwood or lavender to repel moths
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Do not place it pressed under heavy items
5. When do you choose professional cleaning?
For larger stains or situations you would rather not solve yourself, choose a dry cleaner who has experience with wool.
Conclusion
A wool throw requires little maintenance. Airing it often is enough, washing it only when absolutely necessary, and pilling is easily removed with the right tool.This way, your blanket will stay beautiful for years to come – and you can continue to enjoy the warmth and quality of real wool.
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