How to Wash Flannel

Flannel fabric provides a warm, soft material that is used for a variety of items. It requires some simple cleaning steps to ensure that the fabric stays soft and touchable, the way it was intended. Here are the proper cleaning methods, whether you’re washing flannel shirts, sheets, blankets or other items.

• Mild detergent (ex: Woolite)
• Warm water
• Fabric softener/white vinegar/dryer sheets

1. Fill the washing machine with warm water. Do NOT wash flannel in hot water.
2. Add the appropriate amount of a mild detergent. Regular detergent can be used, but may cause the flannel to fade over time. Harsh detergents or those with bleach additives or alternatives should be avoided.
3. Wash the flannel on the permanent press or gentle cycle, depending on the item. It is best to keep the water temperature consistent, warm wash and warm rinse.
4. Add a fabric softener to the rinse cycle. You can use 1 cup of white vinegar as a natural fabric softener. This is important to reduce the amount of lint on the flannel. If you don’t use fabric softener in your washing machine, a dryer sheet can be added to the drying cycle.
5. Flannel can be hung to dry or machine dried. If machine drying, remove promptly once the piece is dry. Do not over-dry the item or it will weaken the fabric. Drying on low or no heat helps to keep the fabric in good condition for a longer time and prevents both shrinking and shedding.

• Check the label prior to washing any flannel item. If it is made of wool flannel, it will require special cleaning, usually done by a professional cleaner.
• Flannel is well-known for shrinking and in some cases, such as with bed sheets, is often made slightly larger than needed to allow for this shrinking to occur. When buying a flannel shirt, keep this in mind and consider getting the next size up.
• Flannels have a tendency to shed and should be washed with like colors. If the shedding is a problem, try adding one half cup of vinegar to the wash cycle.
• If the flannel is losing its softness, it could be the result of softener build up. Try washing without adding fabric softener to the water and drying without a dryer sheet. Also, running an extra rinse cycle will remove any residue that can cause the fabric to feel stiff.
• While flannel is known for being soft, there are different qualities of flannel. Choose your pieces carefully as some, though still flannel, are a lower grade and do not have the same softness as a higher quality piece.
• Flannel will create lint in the dryer, be sure to empty your lint trap after each load.
• Even the best flannel will wear out overtime and become thin and lose its softness. Enjoy it and take care of it while it lasts, but be prepared to replace older pieces.

• Home Comforts: The Art & Science of Keeping House by Cheryl Mendelson
• Talking Dirty Laundry with The Queen of Clean by Linda Cobb
• The Spot and Stain Remover Handbook by Jean Cooper