Felt, a versatile and popular fabric used in crafting, fashion, and interior design, can seem quite challenging to clean and maintain. Fear not! With the proper knowledge and techniques, you can wash felt safely while keeping its texture and shape intact. In this article, we will examine three methods for washing felt – hand washing, machine washing, and spot cleaning.

1. Hand Washing Felt

Hand washing is a gentle method to clean felt effectively without risking any damage. Here’s how to do it:

– Fill a washbasin or sink with cold water. Add a small amount of gentle laundry detergent or soap specifically designed for delicate fabrics.

– Submerge the felt item in the soapy water. Gently agitate the fabric by hand to dislodge any dirt or stains.

– Once the item is clean, remove it from the soapy water. Do not wring or twist the felt, as this can cause stretching and damage.

– Rinse the item thoroughly under cold running water until all soap residue has been removed.

– To dry the felt item, gently press it between two clean towels to remove excess water. Then lay it flat on a dry towel or a drying rack, reshaping it if necessary.

2. Machine Washing Felt

While not recommended for all types of felt, sturdy and non-delicate items like blankets can be machine washed using these careful steps:

– Place the felt item inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect it during the wash cycle.

– Use cold water only and choose a gentle cycle on your washing machine. Select mild laundry detergent specifically meant for delicate fabrics.

– After washing, remove the item from its protective casing but do not wring or twist it. Instead, press it between clean towels to absorb any excess moisture.

– Lay your felt item flat on a dry towel or a drying rack, ensuring to reshape it if necessary. Never use heat to dry felt, as it can cause shrinkage or deformation.

3. Spot Cleaning Felt

Sometimes, you only need to remove a small stain or spill from your felt item. Spot cleaning is an effective method for minor touch-ups:

– Apply a mild fabric cleaner or specific stain remover for felt to the affected area using a soft cloth or sponge.

– Gently dab the stain to lift it from the fibers without causing damage.

– If needed, dampen another clean cloth with cold water and carefully remove any soap residue from the area.

– Once clean, gently press the spot with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. Lay your felt item flat and air dry.

Conclusion

No matter the type of felt or the mess you need to clean, these three methods are sure to keep your delicate fabric looking its best. Hand washing, machine washing, and spot cleaning each have their unique advantages and techniques; choosing the right method depends on your specific needs and the felt item’s sturdiness. With proper care and maintenance, you can wash and preserve your felt for years to come.