Despite the advance in technology when it comes to bedding today, there are few things to match the warmth and cosiness of a wool blanket. Soft and warm, but breathable and allowing a good flow of air, they are a durable and enduring link with the past and our traditions of craftsmanship and sustainability. Generations of our forefathers slept under wool blankets and they remain the go-to covering of choice for many of us.
Our Recommendation 🇺🇸
EKTOS 90% Wool Blanket
This dense woolen blanket is ideal for your upcoming outdoor excursion. It’s suitable for daily or urgent situations. Even when damp, this camping blanket retains body warmth effectively. Plus, it promotes airflow, balances temperature, and is woven on a loom to ensure it lasts. It doesn’t contain any flame retardant chemicals because wool’s natural properties make it fire-resistant, making it an excellent choice for a fireside blanket.
Why Wool?
Wool has been valued for thousands of years for its warmth and durability. The fibres are crimped, meaning they can trap little pockets of air that become natural insulators that guarantee warmth even in the coldest months of the year. Remarkably, wool can absorb almost 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet. For those of us who sweat at night, this property of wicking away moisture is a valuable asset, ensuring not only that we keep warm, but that we remain dry.
How to Wash a Wool Blanket
- CHECK THE LABEL – Wool is delicate and must be treated gently and with patience, so always check the manufacturer’s label. Some blankets will have been pre-shrunk or specially treated to make them machine washable.
- HAND WASHING – Even when machine washing is an option, washing your blanket by hand will preserve its life and avoid possible damage. Use cold water and a mild detergent, one designed for wool or delicate fabrics if you can obtain one. Soak the blanket and paddle the water around, then leave it for 15 minutes.
- RINSING – Drain the water, then refill with fresh cold water for rinsing. Avoid wringing the blanket out or twisting it, which can damage the fibres, and instead press the water from the material.
- DRYING – Place the blanket flat on a clean towel. Roll the towel up and press the remaining water out before lying the blanket flat on a rack. If it has lost any of its shape, gently restore it; but avoid hanging the blanket as this can stretch the fibres.
- STORING – When your blanket is completely dry, store it in a cool, dry place, using lavender sachets or cedar balls if household pests are an issue.
What Else Should You Know?
ITCHY FABRIC – Some blankets may feel itchy on your skin due to the coarseness of their fibres. If this is an issue, try a higher grade wool, such as Merino or Alpaca.
IRONING – Wool blankets may be ironed, but always use a low heat setting and iron through a damp cloth to prevent scorching.
FIRE-RETARDANT –Wool has a high ignition point and is naturally flame-resistant. Even when exposed to flame, it doesn’t melt, but chars.
SUSTAINABILITY – As a natural product, wool is renewable and biodegradable and production of the material requires less energy than synthetic fabrics. When your blanket has reached the end of its life, the material will simply decompose. The lanolin oil in wool also makes it resistant to bacteria, mould and mildew.
Why Opt for a Wool Blanket and What to Keep in Mind
Wool blankets are exceedingly versatile and warm, making them an excellent long-term asset. They offer a cozy haven for both indoor and outdoor usage. A superior wool blanket is woven from top-quality wool or a wool blend that ensures comfort even in the coldest months. When purchasing a wool blanket that meets all your requirements, it’s crucial to remember certain aspects.
Pondering the Weight of Your Wool Blanket
The versatility of wool blankets is astounding, and their uses vary greatly depending on their weight. If camping or nighttime outdoor events appeal to you, consider buying a more robust, heavier blanket. These blankets also come in handy for bitterly cold winter nights. Conversely, if you tend to feel overly warm at night or reside in a hotter climate, you may want to think about a lighter weight blanket or one made from breathable and moisture-absorbent materials. Wool blankets promise to keep you warm and comfortable, indoors or outdoors, ensuring you feel relaxed no matter where you are.
