Bernat Blanket yarn is a soft, plush yarn that is popular for making cozy blankets, pillows, and other knitted or crocheted items. Its thick texture makes it ideal for quick projects, and its softness ensures comfort when used in home décor items. However, like any other yarn, it requires proper care to maintain its softness and prevent damage. Washing Bernat Blanket yarn properly is essential to preserve its quality and keep your projects looking great. This article will guide you through the best methods for washing Bernat Blanket yarn.
Why Proper Care is Important for Bernat Blanket Yarn
When you spend time and effort making a blanket or any other item with Bernat Blanket yarn, the last thing you want is for it to lose its softness, shape, or color after a few washes. Since this yarn is often used for projects that will be heavily used, such as blankets and throws, it’s important to ensure that your items are cleaned safely without damaging them.
Proper washing techniques help preserve the texture, softness, and color of the yarn. By following the correct care instructions, you can keep your Bernat Blanket projects looking as good as new, even after repeated washing.
Check the Care Label
Before you begin washing any item made with Bernat Blanket yarn, always check the care label for specific instructions. Bernat Blanket yarn is made from 100% polyester, which is generally machine washable and durable. However, different projects may have specific care recommendations depending on the fibers or stitches used. The care label will provide you with the manufacturer’s suggestions for washing, drying, and general maintenance.
Most Bernat Blanket yarn products suggest that items made from this yarn be machine-washed on a gentle cycle, using cold water, and tumble-dried on a low setting.
Washing Bernat Blanket Yarn by Hand
If you want to be extra cautious with your projects, hand washing is a great option. Hand washing gives you more control over the process, reducing the risk of damage to delicate items. Here’s how you can hand wash Bernat Blanket yarn:
Fill a Basin with Cold Water: Use a basin or sink to fill it with cold water. The cold water helps prevent the yarn from shrinking or losing its softness.
Add Mild Detergent: Use a gentle detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can strip the color and damage the yarn.
Submerge the Item: Gently place your Bernat Blanket item into the water. Swirl it around with your hands to ensure the detergent is evenly distributed. Avoid wringing or twisting the item, as this can stretch or damage the fibers.
Rinse Thoroughly: After a few minutes, drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean cold water. Swirl the item around in the clean water to rinse out any soap residue. Repeat this process until the water runs clear.
Press Out Excess Water: Once the item is clean, carefully press out the excess water. Never wring or twist the yarn, as it can cause it to lose its shape.
Dry the Item: Lay your Bernat Blanket yarn project flat on a clean, dry towel. Gently reshape it to its original shape and size. Allow it to air dry, ensuring it is in a well-ventilated area. Never hang the item, as this can cause it to stretch unevenly.
Washing Bernat Blanket Yarn in the Washing Machine
For a quicker and more efficient option, washing your Bernat Blanket yarn projects in the washing machine is a perfectly acceptable method. However, you should still take care to prevent damage. Here’s how you can machine wash Bernat Blanket yarn:
Place in a Mesh Bag: To protect the yarn from snagging or tangling with other items, place your blanket or other project in a mesh laundry bag. This will also prevent it from being exposed to harsh agitation during the wash cycle.
Select the Gentle Cycle: Set your washing machine to the gentle or delicate cycle. This reduces the amount of friction and agitation, which can cause the fibers to become frayed or stretched.
Use Cold Water: Always wash items made with Bernat Blanket yarn in cold water. Hot water can cause the yarn to shrink or lose its softness.
Use Mild Detergent: Choose a mild detergent that is free of harsh chemicals and bleach. This will help preserve the color and texture of the yarn.
Avoid Fabric Softener: While fabric softeners may make some fabrics feel softer, they can build up on yarn over time, causing it to lose its plushness. It is best to avoid using fabric softener with Bernat Blanket yarn.
Dry on Low Heat: Once the wash cycle is complete, transfer your item to the dryer. Set the dryer to a low heat or air-dry setting. High heat can damage the fibers, causing them to shrink or become stiff.
Avoid Overdrying: Be careful not to overdry your Bernat Blanket project. Overdrying can cause the fibers to become brittle. Check the item frequently while drying to ensure it does not dry out completely.
Tips for Maintaining the Softness of Bernat Blanket Yarn
To ensure that your Bernat Blanket yarn projects remain as soft and cozy as possible, follow these additional tips:
Spot Cleaning: For small stains or spills, spot clean your Bernat Blanket yarn projects instead of washing the entire item. Gently dab the affected area with a soft cloth soaked in cold water and a mild detergent.
Avoid Abrasive Surfaces: When placing your blanket or pillow on the bed, couch, or floor, avoid abrasive surfaces that could cause the yarn to pill or fray. Always use soft, smooth surfaces when handling your project.
Use a Fabric Shaver: If pilling occurs, you can use a fabric shaver to gently remove any pills that may form. This will keep your project looking new and fresh.
Wash Items in Similar Colors: If you’re washing a colorful Bernat Blanket item, wash it with similar colors to avoid any risk of color transfer. While polyester yarn is less likely to bleed, it’s always a good idea to play it safe.
Avoid Over-Washing: Over-washing can lead to wear and tear on the fibers, so try to limit the number of times you wash the item. Spot cleaning or airing out the blanket can often be sufficient to keep it fresh.
What to Avoid When Washing Bernat Blanket Yarn
While Bernat Blanket yarn is durable and machine washable, there are a few things to avoid to keep it in great condition:
Avoid Bleach: Bleach can damage the yarn and strip away its color, making it look dull and faded.
Do Not Iron: The yarn can be easily damaged by heat from an iron. If your item needs smoothing out, try using a steamer on a low setting, but this is generally not recommended.
Avoid High Heat in the Dryer: High heat can cause Bernat Blanket yarn to shrink, lose its softness, or become misshapen. Always use low heat settings when drying.
Do Not Twist or Wring: As mentioned earlier, twisting or wringing your item can cause the yarn to stretch and lose its shape. Always press out the excess water gently.
Conclusion
Caring for Bernat Blanket yarn properly ensures that your handmade projects remain soft, plush, and durable. Whether you choose to wash by hand or in the machine, always use cold water, a mild detergent, and gentle handling techniques. By following these steps and tips, you can keep your Bernat Blanket creations looking their best, wash after wash.
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