Sherpa blankets are beloved for their exceptional coziness and warmth, making them a popular choice for bedding or throw blankets.
Commonly made from polyester fleece, these blankets mimic the softness and texture of sheep’s wool, providing a plush and comforting experience. Over time, however, Sherpa blankets can lose their softness, fluffiness, and overall appeal due to regular use and washing.
This is where knowing how to revive a Sherpa blanket becomes essential. Reviving your Sherpa blanket to its former glory not only enhances its appearance but also restores its comforting qualities.
In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process on how to revive sherpa blanket effectively. From assessing the blanket’s condition to washing, drying, and dealing with common issues like matting and pilling, we cover all the necessary methods to help you rejuvenate your favorite blanket.
Assessment of the Sherpa Blanket
Assessing the condition of your Sherpa blanket is a crucial first step before attempting any revival techniques.
This initial evaluation helps to identify areas that require special attention and determines whether the blanket can be revitalized with basic cleaning methods or if it needs more comprehensive treatment.
Steps for Assessing the Blanket:
Inspection:
Begin by closely inspecting the Sherpa blanket for visible signs of wear and tear. Look for areas with matting where the fibers have clumped together, pilling where small balls of fabric have formed, and stubborn stains that may not come out with regular washing.
Pay particular attention to edges and high-contact areas, as these are typically more prone to damage.
Smell Test:
Next, perform a smell test to check for any lingering odors. Unpleasant smells can often get trapped in the fibers, especially if the blanket has been exposed to food spills, pet dander, or excessive sweat.
Identifying these odors early will help you tailor your cleaning approach to ensure a thorough refresh.
Considerations:
Based on your inspection and smell test, decide whether the blanket can be revived with simple washing and drying techniques or if it requires more extensive cleaning or repairs.
Suppose the blanket is heavily matted, stained, or has an overwhelming odor. In that case, you might need to consider using stronger cleaning agents or even professional services to restore its softness and fluffiness.
However, if the blanket only shows minor wear and manageable stains, the steps in this guide should suffice to bring your Sherpa blanket back to its plush and cozy state.
How to Revive Sherpa Blanket: Washing and Drying
Reviving the softness and fluffiness of a Sherpa blanket starts with proper washing and drying techniques.
A gentle approach ensures that the fibers maintain their integrity and the blanket retains its plush texture. Follow these step-by-step instructions for effective washing and drying:
Step-by-Step Instructions for Washing and Drying:
1. Pre-treatment:
Before placing the Sherpa blanket in the washing machine, inspect it for any stains or soiled areas that require pre-treatment. Use a gentle stain remover or a mild detergent to spot-treat these areas.
Apply the stain remover or detergent directly to the stain, gently rubbing it in with your fingers or a soft cloth. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to penetrate the fibers before proceeding with the wash.
2. Washing:
When the pre-treatment is complete, place the Sherpa blanket in the washing machine. Use a mild detergent that is free of harsh chemicals and additives to prevent damage to the fabric. Set the washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle and use cold water.
The gentle cycle minimizes agitation, which helps preserve the softness of the fibers, while cold water prevents shrinking and keeps colors from fading. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can coat the fibers and reduce the blanket’s fluffiness.
3. Drying:
Once the wash cycle is finished, it’s time to dry the blanket. You have two options for drying: tumble drying or air drying.
- Tumble Drying: Set your dryer to a low heat setting and tumble dry the blanket. Low heat is crucial to prevent damage to the fibers. Avoid using high heat, as it can cause the fabric to become stiff and lose its softness. Adding a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer can help keep the blanket fluffy by preventing the fibers from clumping together.
- Air Drying: Alternatively, you can air dry the blanket by laying it flat on a clean surface or hanging it outdoors. Choose a shaded area to hang the blanket, as direct sunlight can cause fading. Ensure the blanket is evenly spread out to prevent any portions from remaining damp, which could lead to mildew.
4. Fluffing:
After the blanket is completely dry, the final step is fluffing. Shake the blanket out vigorously to help lift the fibers and restore its loftiness. For additional fluffing, you can use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush the surface of the blanket.
This helps revive the plush texture, making the Sherpa blanket feel as soft and cozy as when it was new.
By following these washing and drying instructions, you can greatly improve the condition of your Sherpa blanket, restoring its beloved softness and warmth.
Dealing with Matting and Pilling
Matting and pilling are common issues that can detract from the appearance and texture of a Sherpa blanket. These problems occur when the fibers become compressed and tangled, leading to a rougher, less appealing surface.
Fortunately, there are effective techniques to address matting and pilling, reviving your Sherpa blanket to its soft and plush state.
Tips and Techniques for Addressing Matting and Pilling:
Brushing:
Using a soft-bristled brush is an excellent first step to tackle matting and mild pilling. Gently brush the surface of the blanket in one direction to help lift and separate the fibers.
This technique not only helps remove surface pilling but also restores the blanket’s plushness.
Another option is to use a lint roller, which can effectively collect loose fibers and small pills, leaving the surface of the blanket smoother and cleaner.
De-pilling:
A fabric shaver or a sweater comb can be used for more stubborn pilling. These tools are designed to safely remove pills without damaging the underlying fabric.
Carefully run the fabric shaver over the blanket, taking care not to press too hard to avoid thinning out the material.
If using a sweater comb, gently comb the surface to lift and remove the pills. Regular maintenance with these tools can keep your Sherpa blanket looking new for longer.
Washing with Vinegar:
Adding white vinegar to the washing cycle is a practical technique for softening the fibers and reducing pilling. When washing the blanket, include a cup of white vinegar along with your usual mild detergent.
The vinegar helps to break down detergent residues and soften the fibers, making them less prone to pilling. Additionally, vinegar has natural deodorizing properties, ensuring your blanket smells fresh.
By combining these techniques, you can effectively manage matting and pilling on your Sherpa blanket.
This will not only enhance its appearance but also ensure it remains soft, fluffy, and inviting for years to come. Regular care and maintenance are key to preserving the quality and comfort of your favorite Sherpa blanket.
Refreshing and Deodorizing
Even with regular care, your Sherpa blanket may occasionally develop lingering odors that compromise its overall freshness. Fortunately, several methods can help refresh and deodorize your blanket, keeping it smelling clean and inviting.
Methods for Refreshing and Deodorizing a Sherpa Blanket:
Air Drying Outdoors:
One of the simplest and most effective ways to freshen up your Sherpa blanket is to hang it outdoors on a sunny day.
The natural airflow will help dissipate any odors, while the sunlight acts as a natural deodorizer. Choose a day with good weather and a gentle breeze, and hang the blanket over a clothesline or a flat surface like a clean table.
Ensure that the blanket is spread out evenly to allow maximum exposure to the air. This not only refreshes the blanket but also enhances its softness.
Spritzing with Fabric Refresher:
Another practical approach to deodorizing your Sherpa blanket is by using a fabric refresher. Lightly spray the blanket with a commercial fabric refresher or a homemade mixture of water and essential oils. To make your own refresher, mix one cup of water with a few drops of essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, or lemon.
These oils not only impart a pleasant scent but also have natural antibacterial properties. Lightly mist the blanket, ensuring not to soak it, and then lay it flat to dry. This method leaves your blanket smelling fresh and rejuvenated without the need for a full wash.
By utilizing these refreshing and deodorizing techniques, you can maintain the inviting aroma and overall freshness of your Sherpa blanket, ensuring it remains a cozy and delightful accessory in your home. Regular refreshing can help extend the time between washes, preserving the quality and longevity of the fabric.
Storage and Care Tips
Maintaining the revived condition of your Sherpa blanket extends beyond washing and refreshing. Proper storage and regular care are essential to preserve its softness and fluffiness.
Recommendations for Storing and Caring for a Sherpa Blanket:
Folding:
When not in use, store your Sherpa blanket in a clean, dry place to prevent damage. Fold the blanket neatly to avoid wrinkles and creases. Proper folding helps maintain the blanket’s structure and makes it easier to access when needed. If possible, store the folded blanket in a protective bag or container to shield it from dust and moisture.
Avoiding Compression:
To maintain the blanket’s plush texture, avoid placing heavy objects on top of it during storage. Compression can lead to flattening or matting of the fibers, reducing the blanket’s softness and loftiness. Ensure that the storage area allows the blanket to lie flat or be loosely folded, preventing undue pressure on any part of the fabric.
Regular Washing:
Periodically washing your Sherpa blanket is crucial to keeping it clean and refreshed.
Follow the previously recommended care instructions for washing, drying, and fluffing to retain the blanket’s softness and appearance.
Consistent care helps eliminate potential build-up of dirt and oils, ensuring the blanket remains a comforting and hygienic addition to your home.
By adhering to these storage and care tips, you can enjoy the luxurious feel of your Sherpa blanket for many years, keeping it in pristine condition and ready for use whenever you need a cozy touch.
Conclusion
Reviving a Sherpa blanket involves a straightforward process that ensures your favorite cozy accessory remains soft and inviting. Start by assessing the blanket to identify any areas that need attention.
Proceed with gentle washing and drying techniques, incorporating white vinegar to soften fibers and reduce pilling.
Address matting and pilling using brushes, lint rollers, fabric shavers, or sweater combs. Refresh and deodorize your blanket by air drying it outdoors or spritzing it with a fabric refresher.
Finally, the blanket should be stored properly by folding it neatly and avoiding compression, and regular maintenance washes should be performed.
By following these steps on how to revive sherpa blanket, you will not only extend its lifespan but also enjoy its warmth and coziness for years to come. Successfully reviving your Sherpa blanket will bring a sense of satisfaction and ensure that it remains as soft and plush as the day you first used it.
