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Generally, we advise that wool blankets should be dry cleaned. Some light staining by water solubles can be removed with luke-warm or cold water after which the blanket can be hung to dry, as below. To avoid shrinking and misshaping the wool, it is important not to twist or wring the blanket out. There are spot cleaners on the market for wool. These should be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

The use of washing machines or tumble dryers, even on delicate settings, is not recommended.

To remove dust and other particles, a wool blanket can be gently brushed with a garment brush, lint brush or adhesive lint remover. The blanket should be brushed in the direction of the nap or weave for best results. Do not pick or pull a thread out of woven blanket.

Wool blankets should be hung to dry, preferably over a non-staining large diameter plastic tubular rail, moving regularly to avoid excessive stretch. Be careful with wood or wooden hangers and furniture which can stain.

Wool is a natural material and it is important to protect it from pests and damp when stored. Storage is best in an airtight storage box or bag, adding some preferably natural repellent such as impregnated cedar wood balls or paper, or sachets of herbal mixtures [various blends of rosemary, mint, cloves and ginger]. Fold gently and avoid crushing the folded fabric.

Ironing a blanket is not generally recommended as it will flatten the nap and can cause uneven shrinkage. If, however, one does want to do this, a large flat surface should be used and, to avoid scorching, a sheet or ironing cloth should be placed between the iron and the wool blanket. Set the iron to the “wool “or a low, warm setting and gently run across a flat area swiftly.

Colour and dyes on wool vary in resistance to the effects of light and UV and will tend to fade with time. Natural coloured or undyed blankets will also change colour when exposed to natural or synthetic light. Prolonged exposure to light of one part of a wool blanket will cause discoloration and bleaching when compared to the non-exposed wool area.

Wool is a naturally flame retardant fibre and will tend to smoulder when exposed to flame rather than flash ignite.