Quck answer
Cleaning a Hudson Bay blanket requires special care to preserve its quality and colors. Here are the steps to clean a Hudson Bay blanket:
1. Spot clean: Use a mild detergent and water to gently remove any stains or dirt marks. Avoid rubbing vigorously to prevent damage.
2. Hand wash: Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a gentle wool detergent. Submerge the blanket and gently agitate it for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
3. Machine wash (optional): If the blanket is machine washable, use a gentle cycle with cold water and a wool detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals.
4. Air dry: Lay the blanket flat on a clean towel or hang it over a clothesline to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause shrinkage or fading.
5. Fluff and store: Once dry, fluff the blanket gently to restore its loftiness. Store in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture and mildew.
Remember to always check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer before cleaning your Hudson Bay blanket.
Hudson Bay blankets, also known as Hudson Bay Point Blankets, are highly sought-after pure wool blankets that were originally produced by The Hudson Bay Company in North America during the 18th and 19th centuries. The term “Point” in the name refers to a system used to categorize the blankets based on their size and insulation level, determined by the weight of wool. A higher point value indicates a larger and warmer blanket. Historically, these blankets came in various patterns and colors. Today, they are still manufactured in England in different colors and sizes to fit modern bedding standards.
Dry Cleaning Method
Step 1
Take your blanket to a reputable dry cleaner. This is the most common method used nowadays to clean Hudson Bay blankets, as it is more convenient than washing and drying. Dry cleaning is particularly important for newly acquired blankets that are not brand new, as it eliminates any moth eggs or carcasses and removes any foreign substances and residues before use or storage.
Step 2
Wash your Hudson Bay Blanket with a gentle liquid soap, such as Woolite, in lukewarm water. You can do this either in a wash tub or in a washing machine on the gentlest cycle. Despite being made of 100 percent wool, these blankets are pre-shrunk during manufacturing. To remove the residual water, avoid wringing the blanket as it may stretch and tear the fibers. Instead, gently press and blot the water or roll the blanket in clean towels and press gently. Lay the blanket flat to dry completely, either on a sheet in a shaded area outdoors or on clean, dry towels placed over a bed.
Step 3
When storing the blanket, use a breathable fabric cover such as a sheet or cotton muslin, and store it in a cedar chest or closet to protect it from moth damage, which is the biggest threat to Hudson Bay blankets. Loosely fold the blanket or hang it from a sturdy hanger under the cover. Regularly adjust the folded blanket to prevent creases from becoming permanent.
Step 4
For routine cleaning and maintenance, shake out the blanket, air it outdoors away from direct sunlight, and brush it with a lint brush to remove debris and restore the wool’s texture.
