Flannel blankets and sheet sets are ideal when it comes to colder weather. Nothing seems better than snuggling up in a flannel blanket in bed on a cold night or day. The soft fabric keeps you all snug and comfortable letting you feel like you are wrapped in a warm hug. Flannel is a delicate fabric, and if it's not properly taken care of, it will begin to look worn out, faded, and fail to retain its classic softness. Here are several tips to help you correctly wash flannel blankets and sheets to keep their quality for as long as you can.

CHOOSE YOUR WATER TEMPERATURE

Always wash flannel with cool or warm water - not hot. Hot water not just promotes fading but also risks the fabric softness. Also, maintain the water temperature consistent. That means if you wash in cool water, rinse in cool; if you wash in warm water, rinse in warm.

CHOOSE YOUR CYCLE SPEED

After choosing cool or warm water, opt for the gentle cycle on your washing machine. The agitation generated during a regular or heavy-duty wash cycle stresses the fibres in your flannel sheets and can cause pilling.

PICK YOUR DETERGENT

Avoid harsh detergents and those that include bleach additives or bleach alternatives. The amount of detergent can be the same as you usually use, but make sure to use a mild detergent instead. This practice can help stop your flannel products from fading.

CHOOSE YOUR FABRIC SOFTENER

A fabric softener will help decrease the lint shed from your flannel blankets/sheets, but be mindful of what you use. Using a regular liquid fabric softener will eventually make your flannel products less soft, not more. This is because, even though the liquid softener makes the fabric soft to the touch in the beginning, over time it clogs the fibres and stiffen the fabric. Instead, use white vinegar (depending on the load size) as a natural fabric softener.

SELECT YOUR DRYING METHOD

The best practice is to let your flannel blankets and sheets air dry. If you must use the dryer, make sure to dry your flannels on the lowest heat setting, and remove the materials as soon as they are dry.

Do not overdry flannel, and do not dry it on medium or high heat. Too much heat will weaken and shrink the flannel fabric.

Anyone can wash and dry a regular blanket or sheet. But understanding how to wash flannel in particular means knowing how to keep your favourite flannel blankets and sheets looking and feeling the way you like.

It’s only right to point out that not all flannels are produced equal. If you want a flannel blanket that will continue to look and feel good over time, you’ll need to select a quality flannel blanket or a sheet from the beginning.

Hussain Textiles is known for producing high quality, Flannel Bath Blankets, Flannel Baby Blankets, Thermal Blankets and Flannel Bed Sets for Importers, Wholesalers, Laundry, Hotels & Hospitals. Be sure to check the collection of our soft and comfortable range of flannel and bedding products.