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Clean, Dry, Repair and Disinfect Beddings

By Leo Nov
Published: July 7, 2006

Like most textiles, beddings are usually inexpensive and it is recommended to discard when damaged by water to maintain high hygiene in the bedroom. If beddings are lightly damaged and you can be absolutely sure that that no mold is growing, you may try to salvage water damaged beddings.

Blankets, Comforters, and Quilts

Before you start washing water damaged blankets, check the label to determine if they can be safely disinfected with bleach. If the use of bleach is not possible, discard the blanket as it cannot be properly disinfected.

Wash each blanket separately. Soak every blanket 15-20 minutes in warm water and turn two to three times during the soak period. If your blankets are stained with dirt or debris, you may need to soak them two or three times to remove all debris.

Using your washer, wash the load on gentle cycle using mild detergents, disinfectant and warm water. Rinse, and repeat the wash and rinse cycle again. To dry use moderate heat program or line dry to reduce matting and shrinkage.

Most wool blankets are best cleaned in a dry cleaning facility. However, you can clean them in your home washing machine using a gentle cycle with cold water. do not use bleach to clean wool blankets.

Electric blankets can be washed in your home washing machine and cannot be dry-cleaned. Be sure to allow electric blankets to dry out thoroughly and do not plug them into the electricity until determined safe.

Sheets and Towels

To clean and disinfect sheets and towels presoak them in cold water, for 10-15 minutes and then pre-rinse with cold water. If your machine has a pre-rinse cycle, use it to pre-rinse, and if not, simply rinse in the bathroom with running cold water.

Wash in the regular cycle with hot water, detergent, and the maximum water level to allow proper disinfecting. Add one cup of liquid chlorine bleach to the wash water before adding items (be sure to check the label before you use bleach).

Hire a Professional Textile Restorer

Although most textiles are inexpensive, some have a great sentimental value. For example heirloom quilts. To salvage these items, hire a professional textile restorer. With the professional knowledge of different fabrics, textile and restoration techniques, your water damaged textiles are more likely to be safely restored and salvaged.

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