How to Soften an Acrylic Blanket After Washing

Acrylic is often treated with finishing products that provide it with a soft feel or other qualities like water-resistance, however these products can easily be removed in a wash and leave the blanket stiff and scratchy. To restore the softness, follow the steps below.

• A bathtub
• Water
• Hair conditioner
• Olive oil

1. Fill the bathtub with enough water to cover the blanket.
2. To use conditioner, squirt a little into the water over the blanket in streaks. To use olive oil, pour about ⅛ of a cup of oil over the water.
3. Move the blanket around in the water to disperse the conditioner/oil over it.
4. Push the blanket up and down in the water several times to disperse the conditioner through the fibers.
5. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then drain the water.
6. Refill the rub with clean water and pump the blanket in the water to rinse out the conditioner/oil.
7. Allow the blanket to air dry.

• Leave-in conditioner sprays can be used to treat any areas that remain scratchy. Simply mist the spray over the area; try not to use too much or it will attract dirt to the area.
• Rewashing the blanket and adding either fabric softener or 1 cup of white vinegar to the final rinse cycle may also help.
• Another way to restore softeness is to brush the blanket with a clothing or upholstery brush, depending on how it is made/woven.
• Air fluffing the blanket in the dryer without heat may also improve the texture.
• If the acrylic has melted due to being washed in hot water or exposure to a hot dryer, the damage is likely permanent. You can try to file off some of the burned areas with a nail file, depending on how your blanket is made.

• Home Comforts: The Art & Science of Keeping House by Cheryl Mendelson
• Clean It Fast, Clean It Right by Jeff Bredenberg