Being one of the most comfortable blankets, knowing how to wash a Hudson bay blanket is a must. They can be either dry cleaned or machine-washed. In this article, you will learn the steps in washing a Hudson bay blanket and also discover what makes it exquisite.
Steps In Washing A Hudson Bay Blanket
Like with every piece of blanket or clothing, you have to pay attention to the washing instructions on your clothing or blanket tag. This is so you would not end up ruining your garment or fabric. Anyway, the steps below are specifically for Hudson bay blanket care.
Step #1. Shake your blanket outside
First, you need to shake your Hudson bay blanket outside to get rid of any debris. Shaking your HBC blanket would make it easier for you to wash it because it would free the fabric of dust or junk.
Make sure to thoroughly shake the blanket, but not to the point that it would damage it. Also, do it outside so that the dust or junk would not be trapped inside the house.
You can also use a brush to remove debris altogether. Remember to brush along the grain of the wool and not against it. Brushing can also be used to maintain your HBC blanket since it removes dirt and fluffs up the material.
Step #2. Wash it with a wool detergent
Next, you have to wash your Hudson bay blanket with a wool detergent, like Woolite. Woolite is a gentle liquid soap that is safe to use on wool.
Place your blanket in a washing machine with lukewarm water, and use the gentle cycle. After washing, press the water out instead of wringing it.
Wringing it would damage the wool fibers, so remember not to squeeze it. Then, leave it to dry outside.
As for cleaning the stains, do spot cleaning instead of rubbing the fabric together as it may damage the blanket’s fibers. To do spot cleaning, wet a cloth with a water-soap solution, then press and blot the stain on the fabric. Again, do not rub on the stain.
What kind of detergent is safe for wool?
As mentioned before, Woolite is a good choice for wool blankets. However, in general, mild or neutral detergents would do great on wool. These types of detergents can be used for hand-washing and machine-washing and any wool product.
When choosing a detergent for your wool, it is best to avoid those with bleach. Bleach is a strong and harsh product, and it would only make the colors of your HBC blanket bleed, ruining its look and quality.
Step#3. Store it with other blankets that have breathable materials
After your blanket dries, lay it down and flatten the creases before folding. Then, store it with breathable fabrics such as muslin or cotton. You can also choose to keep it in an airtight container with cedar balls to prevent moth damage.
What Is A Hudson Bay Blanket?
During the 1700s, Hudson Bay blankets were used to be traded with beaver pelts. Nowadays, though, they can be bought in Hudson Bay stores in Canada.
HBC blankets are famous for being made with 100% wool and having the classic yellow, red, indigo, and green stripes. This pattern is still available, along with other solid colors.
Due to their characteristics, HBC blankets have become collectibles throughout history. Their prices can even reach up to thousands of dollars, and their value depends on size, age, condition, and pattern rarity. Last year, they celebrated their 350th anniversary by re-releasing their special and limited-edition blankets.
What do the stripes mean on the blanket?
The colors were favored during Queen Anne’s regime, but they do not have a specific meaning. The colors white, yellow, red, indigo, and green were referred to as Queen Anne’s colors because they were popular during her time.
How much are these blankets?
HBC blankets are expensive. For their non-collectible blankets, the price ranges from $250 to $600. That is for twin and king-sized blankets, respectively.
Meanwhile, their collectible blankets, like the one produced during the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, are priced at $600. The 1937 coronation blanket is priced at $1300.
Are hudson bay blankets worth it?
Apart from their historical relevance, HBC blankets are comfy. Many attest to the blankets’ warmth and softness.
They keep people warm enough to turn down their heaters, which leads to them saving money. They are also breathable despite giving warmth, so you won’t feel stuffy while you are wrapped in them. Also, many of the people who have used it said they are sturdy enough to be heirloom pieces, so that’s another plus!
Conclusion
Overall, these blankets are precious pieces, so it is necessary to know how to wash a Hudson Bay blanket. They are known for their longevity, but it will serve you well to take care of them the way they should be cared for. Just follow this easy tutorial whenever you need to, and your Hudson Bay blankets will last for a long time.