Washing a luxury blanket can feel intimidating, especially when it’s as cozy and unique as an Unhide blanket. These ultra-soft faux fur throws are designed for warmth and comfort, but their special materials demand a gentle touch. If you’ve invested in an Unhide blanket, you want it to stay soft, fluffy, and fresh for years. But what’s the safest way to clean it without ruining the texture or color? Many owners worry that washing will flatten the fur, cause matting, or fade the beautiful fabric.
You’re not alone if you feel nervous about tossing your Unhide blanket in the washer. The good news: with the right method, you can keep your blanket clean and plush at home. This guide will walk you through every step, from checking labels to drying, with expert tips to avoid damage. You’ll also learn what makes Unhide blankets special, common mistakes to avoid, and how to handle stains, pet hair, and storage. By the end, you’ll feel confident caring for your favorite blanket—no guesswork or stress.
Why Unhide Blankets Need Special Care
Unhide blankets are not ordinary throws. They’re made from high-quality faux fur that mimics the softness and warmth of real fur without harming animals. This fabric is delicate and requires different care from cotton, wool, or polyester. The dense, fluffy pile can become tangled or matted if not handled gently. Aggressive washing, high heat, or harsh detergents will quickly ruin the texture.
Another thing that sets Unhide blankets apart is their size and weight. When wet, they absorb a lot of water and become heavier, which can strain washing machines or make air-drying difficult. The dyes used for their beautiful colors can also fade if washed incorrectly.
Many blanket owners miss these points and treat their Unhide blanket like any other throw, only to be disappointed by a rough or flat result. Following the right method is essential for keeping your blanket’s cloud-like softness.
Understanding The Materials: What Makes Unhide Blankets Unique
Every Unhide blanket is crafted from high-pile polyester faux fur. This synthetic material is designed for luxury and durability, but it’s not the same as standard polyester. The fibers are longer and more delicate, giving the blanket its signature fluffy feel.
Some versions, like the Marshmallow or Lil’ Marsh, have a slightly different pile length or density, but all Unhide blankets share the same base fabric. They’re hypoallergenic, vegan, and designed to be cruelty-free.
Key features of Unhide blankets:
- High-pile faux fur: Long, soft fibers for maximum fluffiness
- Dense construction: Heavier than regular throws, especially when wet
- Color-fast dyes: Deep colors that can fade with harsh detergents or hot water
- Hypoallergenic: Less likely to trigger allergies compared to animal fur
Understanding these details helps you see why gentle care is so important. Even small mistakes can change how the blanket feels and looks.
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Before You Wash: Preparation Steps
Washing an Unhide blanket starts before you ever touch the water. Preparing your blanket and washing machine can prevent common problems and make the cleaning process smoother.
1. Check The Care Label
Every Unhide blanket comes with a care label sewn into one corner. This label provides washing and drying instructions specific to your model. Never skip this step—Unhide may update care instructions for new releases, and following the label protects your warranty.
Most labels will recommend:
- Machine wash cold on gentle cycle
- Mild detergent only
- No bleach or fabric softener
- Tumble dry low or air dry
If your label is missing, stick with the gentlest washing and drying options.
2. Inspect For Damage Or Stains
Look for any tears, loose threads, or stains. Treating stains before washing helps prevent them from setting. If you see loose seams, consider repairing them first so they don’t get worse in the wash.
3. Remove Loose Dirt, Hair, And Debris
Unhide blankets attract pet hair, lint, and dust. Shake the blanket outside to remove as much as possible. For stubborn hair, use a lint roller or a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment. Removing debris before washing reduces the risk of clogged washers and helps your blanket get truly clean.
4. Choose The Right Detergent
Pick a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Harsh chemicals can strip the softness and fade the color. Avoid any detergent with bleach, brighteners, or strong scents.
5. Prepare Your Washing Machine
Unhide blankets are bulky and heavy, especially when wet. Make sure your washer can handle large loads. Front-load machines are better because they’re gentler on fabrics. If using a top-loader, avoid central agitators which can twist and damage the faux fur.
If your washer is too small, consider taking your blanket to a laundromat with larger machines.
How To Wash Your Unhide Blanket: Step-by-step Guide
Washing your Unhide blanket the right way means following careful steps. Here’s a breakdown of the complete process:
Step 1: Place The Blanket In The Washer
Gently place your Unhide blanket in the washing machine. Do not overload—if the blanket takes up more than two-thirds of the drum, wash it alone. Never cram the blanket in, as this prevents proper cleaning and can stress the machine.
Step 2: Select The Right Cycle And Water Temperature
Set your machine to the delicate or gentle cycle. Use cold water only. Warm or hot water can melt or damage the polyester fibers, causing matting or shrinking.
Step 3: Add Mild Detergent
Use the recommended amount of a mild, liquid detergent. Do not add bleach, softener, or any other laundry boosters. These can coat or break down the faux fur fibers.
Step 4: Start The Wash
Let the machine run its cycle. Do not pause or open the door mid-cycle, as this can cause the filling to shift or bunch up.
Step 5: Run An Extra Rinse Cycle (optional)
If your blanket feels soapy after washing, run an extra rinse cycle with cold water. This helps remove all detergent and keeps the fabric soft.
Step 6: Gently Remove And Reshape
Carefully take the blanket out of the washer. It will be heavy—support it with both hands to avoid stretching. Lay it flat and gently shake or fluff to restore the pile. Do not wring or twist, as this damages the fibers.
Drying Your Unhide Blanket Safely
Drying is just as important as washing. The wrong drying method can flatten the faux fur or make it rough.
Air Drying
The safest way to dry an Unhide blanket is air drying. Lay the blanket flat on a clean, dry surface, such as a large towel or drying rack. Make sure it’s spread out evenly to prevent wrinkles or bunching. Flip it occasionally for even drying.
Never hang your Unhide blanket by one edge or drape it over a clothesline. The weight can stretch and distort the shape.
Air drying can take 24-48 hours, depending on thickness and humidity. This method preserves the fluffiness and prevents heat damage.
Machine Drying
If you must use a dryer, follow these rules:
- Use tumble dry low or the air fluff setting
- Add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help restore fluff
- Check every 20-30 minutes to avoid overheating
Remove the blanket while still slightly damp, then finish air drying. This prevents overheating and keeps the faux fur soft.
Comparing Drying Methods
Here’s a quick look at air drying vs. tumble drying for Unhide blankets:
| Method | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Drying | Best for preserving texture; no heat damage | Slow (24-48 hours); needs space | All Unhide blankets, especially first wash |
| Tumble Dry Low | Faster; restores fluff with dryer balls | Risk of heat damage; must monitor closely | Quick drying in emergencies |
Restoring Fluff And Texture After Washing
Even with careful washing, your blanket might look a bit less fluffy. Here’s how to restore the original texture:
- Shake the blanket: Hold by the edges and give a gentle shake. This helps separate matted fibers.
- Use your hands: Lightly brush the pile with clean, dry hands to lift flattened areas.
- Wide-tooth comb: For stubborn matting, use a wide-tooth comb and gently brush in the direction of the fibers. Never use a fine-tooth comb, which can pull and break the faux fur.
- Dryer balls: If using a dryer, include dryer balls or tennis balls to help fluff the pile.
Avoid aggressive brushing or heat tools, which can cause permanent damage.
How To Remove Stains From Your Unhide Blanket
Spills and stains are part of life, especially if your blanket is used on the couch or bed. For best results, treat stains as soon as possible:
1. Blot, Don’t Rub
If the stain is fresh, blot it with a clean, dry cloth. Don’t rub—this pushes the stain deeper into the fibers.
2. Use A Mild Cleaning Solution
Mix a small amount of mild detergent with cold water. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and gently dab the stain. Work from the outside in to prevent spreading.
3. Rinse And Blot Dry
Dampen another cloth with plain water and blot to remove soap. Then, blot dry with a towel. Air dry completely before using or storing.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Never use bleach, stain removers, or alcohol-based cleaners. These can damage the faux fur and leave lasting marks.
Common Stain Examples
Here’s how to handle some typical stains:
| Type of Stain | How to Treat | Special Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee/Tea | Blot, then dab with mild detergent solution | Repeat if needed; avoid hot water |
| Wine | Blot immediately, treat with cold water | Do not use salt or vinegar |
| Pet Accidents | Remove solids, blot, clean with mild soap | Air dry fully to prevent odor |
| Oil/Grease | Sprinkle baking soda, let sit, then vacuum and dab with detergent | Don’t rub; repeat as needed |
Dealing With Pet Hair And Odors
Pet owners often face extra challenges with their Unhide blankets. Faux fur is a magnet for pet hair and can sometimes trap odors.
- Remove hair before washing: Use a lint roller or vacuum to lift hair from the surface.
- Add white vinegar: Pour half a cup of white vinegar into the rinse compartment. This helps loosen pet hair and neutralize odors without damaging the fabric.
- Dryer trick: After washing, place the blanket in the dryer on air fluff (no heat) with dryer balls for 10 minutes. This lifts pet hair and restores fluff.
- Baking soda: Sprinkle a little baking soda over the blanket before washing to help with odors. Shake out before putting in the washer.
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How Often Should You Wash An Unhide Blanket?
Washing too often can reduce softness, but not washing enough can lead to odors and stains. Most Unhide blanket owners should wash their blanket every 2-3 months if used regularly. Wash more often if:
- The blanket is used by pets or children
- There are visible stains or spills
- It’s used as a bedspread or sofa throw
For decorative blankets that aren’t used daily, washing every 6 months is enough.
Hand Washing Unhide Blankets: When And How
If you don’t trust your washing machine or the blanket is especially delicate, hand washing is a good alternative.
Steps For Hand Washing:
- Fill a bathtub or large basin with cold water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent and mix to dissolve.
- Submerge the blanket, gently swish for a few minutes.
- Let soak for 10-15 minutes.
- Drain the water, refill with clean cold water, and rinse until no soap remains.
- Press out water by rolling the blanket in a towel. Do not wring or twist.
- Lay flat to air dry.
Hand washing is more time-consuming but provides the gentlest clean.
Storing Your Unhide Blanket
Proper storage keeps your Unhide blanket fresh and fluffy during the off-season.
- Always wash and fully dry before storing.
- Fold loosely to avoid creases.
- Store in a breathable cotton bag or pillowcase, not plastic. This prevents moisture buildup and mildew.
- Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat.
- For longer storage, add a sachet of lavender or cedar chips to deter pests.
Avoid vacuum-sealing, as this compresses the faux fur and can cause matting.
Common Washing Mistakes To Avoid
Many Unhide blankets lose their fluff or develop issues because of avoidable mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Using hot water: This damages the polyester fibers and causes matting.
- Adding bleach or fabric softener: Both can strip color and softness.
- Washing with heavy items: Don’t wash your blanket with jeans or towels. The friction can damage the pile.
- Overloading the washer: Crowding leads to uneven cleaning and stress on the fabric.
- Skipping the extra rinse: Soap residue can make the blanket feel stiff.
- High heat drying: This flattens the faux fur and causes shrinkage.
- Hanging to dry by the edge: Always lay flat to keep the shape.
- Rough brushing: Only use wide-tooth combs, and go slowly.
Comparing Unhide Blankets With Other Faux Fur Throws
Unhide blankets are famous for their quality, but how do they compare with other faux fur brands in terms of washing and care?
| Brand | Material | Washing Method | Drying Method | Special Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unhide | High-pile faux fur | Machine/Hand, gentle, cold | Air or low tumble | No bleach/softener |
| Pottery Barn Faux Fur | Polyester blend | Machine, gentle, cold | Low tumble | Dry clean for best results |
| West Elm Faux Fur | Polyester/acrylic | Machine, gentle, cold | Air dry preferred | Fluff after drying |
| Saranoni | Polyester microfiber | Machine, gentle, cold | Low tumble/air | No heat, no softener |
As you can see, Unhide’s care instructions are similar to other luxury brands, but their unique pile and density make gentle handling even more important.
Two Non-obvious Tips Most Owners Miss
- Rotate your blanket regularly: To prevent flattening in one area, rotate how you fold or drape your blanket every few weeks. This distributes wear and keeps the pile even.
- Store with a dryer sheet (fragrance-free): If you want your blanket to smell fresh, place a fragrance-free dryer sheet in the storage bag. This maintains freshness without using harsh chemicals or risking residue from fabric softeners.
Most guides overlook these simple steps, but they make a noticeable difference in long-term softness and appearance.
When To Seek Professional Cleaning
In rare cases, professional cleaning may be the best option:
- The blanket is heavily soiled or stained
- It won’t fit in your home washer
- You’re unsure about washing at home
Look for a dry cleaner experienced with faux fur or luxury throws. Ask if they use eco-friendly, non-toxic solvents. Avoid cleaners that use high heat or harsh chemicals.
Troubleshooting: What If Your Unhide Blanket Feels Different After Washing?
If your blanket comes out stiff, flat, or less soft, don’t panic. Here’s how to fix common problems:
- Stiffness: Wash again with no detergent, using only cold water and white vinegar in the rinse.
- Loss of fluff: Tumble dry on air fluff with dryer balls for 10 minutes, then hand-fluff.
- Matting: Gently brush with a wide-tooth comb, working in small sections.
- Lingering odor: Sprinkle lightly with baking soda, let sit overnight, then shake out and air dry.
If problems persist, contact Unhide customer support for advice.
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Why Proper Care Extends Your Blanket’s Life
A well-cared-for Unhide blanket can last for years, even with regular use. Proper washing and drying maintain the plush texture, prevent fading, and protect the structure of the faux fur. Owners who follow these steps report their blankets still look and feel new after hundreds of cozy nights.
Regular gentle care also helps keep allergens, dust, and pet hair under control. This is especially important if you have allergies or sensitive skin.
For more about faux fur care and fabric science, check Wikipedia’s faux fur article.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Wash My Unhide Blanket Without Ruining It?
Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Never use bleach or fabric softener. Dry by laying flat or using the lowest dryer setting with dryer balls. Avoid heat and rough handling to keep the faux fur soft.
Can I Dry Clean My Unhide Blanket?
Check the care label first. Most Unhide blankets are not designed for traditional dry cleaning, which can use harsh chemicals. If you need professional cleaning, choose a cleaner experienced with faux fur and ask about their methods.
What Should I Do If My Unhide Blanket Gets Matted?
After washing, shake the blanket and gently brush with a wide-tooth comb. Use your fingers to fluff the pile. If matting is severe, repeat the process in small sections, taking care not to pull on the fibers.
Is It Safe To Wash My Unhide Blanket With Other Items?
It’s best to wash your Unhide blanket alone. Washing with towels, jeans, or heavy fabrics can cause friction that damages the faux fur. If washing with other items, only combine with lightweight, similar-color items.
How Can I Keep My Unhide Blanket Smelling Fresh?
Wash every 2-3 months, and add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle for odor control. Store with a fragrance-free dryer sheet or sachet in a breathable bag. Always air dry fully before storing to prevent mildew.
Caring for your Unhide blanket doesn’t have to be stressful. Follow these detailed steps, and you’ll keep your favorite throw soft, fluffy, and fresh for years—ready for every cozy moment at home.