Introduction
Drying blankets in the dryer is an important part of keeping them clean and looking their best. Knowing how to do it properly can help you get the most out of your blankets and extend their life. In this article, we’ll explore the best tips for drying blankets in the dryer so you can enjoy soft, clean blankets for years to come.
Use the Gentle Cycle to Dry Blankets
The best way to dry blankets in the dryer is to use the gentle cycle. This helps protect the fabric from damage due to intense heat or agitation. It also helps prevent shrinking, which can ruin a perfectly good blanket.
Why Gentle Cycle is Best
The gentle cycle on your dryer is designed to provide a much lower level of heat and agitation than other cycles. This helps to protect delicate fabrics like those found in blankets. The lower heat also helps to prevent shrinking, as well as fading and other damage.
How to Set the Dryer for Gentle Cycle
Setting your dryer for the gentle cycle is easy. Just select the “gentle” setting on your dryer’s control panel. This will set the dryer for a lower temperature and slower spin speed. You should also select the “low heat” option to further reduce the risk of shrinkage.
Fluff and Tumble Dry on Low Heat
Once you’ve selected the gentle cycle, it’s time to start drying your blankets. To ensure even drying, it’s important to fluff the blankets before putting them in the dryer. This helps to separate the fibers and prevents clumping. Then, tumble dry the blankets on low heat.
Benefits of Using Low Heat
Using low heat in the dryer helps to protect the fabric from damage caused by high temperatures. It also helps to reduce the risk of shrinking, which can ruin a perfectly good blanket. Additionally, low heat helps to keep the colors vibrant and prevents fading.
How Long to Dry on Low Heat
The amount of time it takes to dry your blankets will depend on the size and weight of the blankets. Generally, it will take about 30 minutes to dry a single blanket on low heat. However, if you are drying multiple blankets at once, it may take up to an hour or more.
Add a Tennis Ball to Reduce Static Cling
Adding a tennis ball to the dryer can help to reduce static cling. The tennis ball helps to break up the electric charge that builds up during the drying process. This helps to keep the blankets from sticking together or clinging to other items in the dryer.
How to Use a Tennis Ball to Reduce Static
To use a tennis ball to reduce static, simply place it in the dryer with the blankets. The tennis ball will roll around with the blankets and help to break up the electric charge. For best results, use two or three tennis balls for larger loads.
Alternative Solutions to Reduce Static Cling
If you don’t have a tennis ball handy, there are other solutions for reducing static cling. Adding a few tablespoons of white vinegar to the wash cycle can help to reduce static. You can also add a damp towel to the dryer to help absorb the electric charge. Finally, using a dryer sheet can help to reduce static.
Remove Blankets Promptly from the Dryer
Once the blankets are done drying, it’s important to remove them promptly from the dryer. Leaving them in the dryer for too long can cause them to wrinkle and become stiff. Additionally, leaving them in the dryer can cause them to accumulate lint and debris from other items in the dryer.
How to Know When Blankets are Ready
You’ll know your blankets are done drying when they feel soft and look fluffy. If they still feel damp or stiff, they may need a few more minutes in the dryer. If they’re still damp after a few more minutes, try using the “air dry” setting to finish drying them off.
What to Do After Removing Blankets From Dryer
After removing the blankets from the dryer, give them a good shake to fluff them back up. This will help to restore their original shape and make them look their best. You can also hang them up on a line or clothes rack to air dry if needed.
Use Dryer Sheets for a Fresh Scent
Using dryer sheets in the dryer can help to keep your blankets smelling fresh. The sheets help to absorb odors and leave behind a pleasant scent. They also help to reduce static cling and make the blankets softer.
Benefits of Using Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets are great for keeping blankets smelling fresh and feeling soft. They also help to reduce static cling and can help to prevent wrinkles. Additionally, using dryer sheets can help to reduce lint buildup on your blankets.
How to Use Dryer Sheets
Using dryer sheets is easy. Just toss a dryer sheet into the dryer with your blankets and turn on the machine. The dryer sheet will help to absorb odors and leave behind a pleasant scent. For best results, use a new dryer sheet each time you dry your blankets.
Conclusion
Drying blankets in the dryer is an important part of keeping them clean and looking their best. By following these tips, you can ensure your blankets stay soft and free of static cling. Be sure to use the gentle cycle, fluff and tumble dry on low heat, add a tennis ball to reduce static, remove promptly from the dryer, and use dryer sheets for a fresh scent. With these tips, you’ll have no trouble keeping your blankets looking and feeling their best.