As winter sets in, people turn to thick blankets and soft quilts to protect themselves from the cold weather. Having remained locked away inside closets for many months, these bedding items tend to accumulate dust and develop a noticeable damp or stale odor. Most people simply place their quilts and blankets out in the sun for a few hours before starting to use them again.
However, merely exposing them to sunlight is not always sufficient for a thorough cleaning. It is equally important to pay attention to the inner layers, the storage bags, and the overall fabric texture. If you want to use clean and fresh blankets and quilts this winter season, you can easily follow a few straightforward tips.
Inspecting the bedding and washing the covers
Before bringing out your blankets and quilts for regular use, unfold them completely and inspect them carefully. Often, a blanket that looks clean from the outside still holds hidden dust and moisture trapped inside. The cotton stuffing or fiber layers inside a quilt can also form lumps over time. Gently press down on them to check their condition. If you notice any dampness, mold, or a strange odor, make sure to get them properly cleaned first.
The covers used for these blankets and quilts should also be cleaned before reuse, as they can easily trap dust and moisture over time. If the cover is washable, launder it thoroughly and let it dry completely before putting the bedding back on.
Sunlight exposure and using baking soda
Spread out your quilts and blankets in a clean area for a few hours before use. If the weather permits, showing them some mild sunshine helps reduce the stale smell and lingering moisture. However, avoid keeping them under harsh, intense sunlight for too long, as this can cause the fabric color to fade. Make sure they are completely dry and cooled down before you start using them.
If you had stored your blankets and quilts after properly cleaning them previously, they might not need a full wash before use again. To control any lingering odors in such items, you can sprinkle some baking soda over them. After a short while, remove the baking soda using a vacuum cleaner or brush it away gently with a clean cloth, as baking soda is known to be an effective odor absorbent.
