Felt is a versatile fabric that can be used for a variety of purposes, from clothing to home decor, It is made from wool, it can be difficult to care for, but washing felt can be done in a washing machine Nevertheless, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure that your felt items come out of the wash looking their best With proper care and handling, you can effortlessly maintain and prolong the life of your cherished felt possessions.

Image: iwoolfelt.com

Can You Wash Felt in a Washing Machine?

The answer is yes, you can wash most types of felt–but not all–in a washing machine, However, to maintain the integrity and quality of your felt pieces, it is imperative to exercise caution and follow specific guidelines.

It is essential to remember that felt is a delicate and easily damaged fabric, which makes handwashing the gentler and safer option

When washing felt in a washing machine, always use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as these can damage the felt

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Felt in the Washing Machine

1

. Check the Care Label:
Determine the Specific Care Requirements for Your Felt Item

2 Pretreat Stains:
Spot-clean any stains or heavily soiled areas with a mild detergent solution and a soft cloth before washing.

3. Use a Mesh Laundry Bag:
Place smaller felt items or those with embellishments inside a mesh laundry bag for protection during the washing cycle

4. Select the Right Setting:
Opt for the delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine, using cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as these can harm the felt.

5.Spin Cycle:
If your washing machine has a spin cycle, use it on a low setting to gently remove excess water from the felt. Avoid over-spinning, as this can damage the fabric.

Types of Felt and Their Machine-Washability

Wool Felt
Made from 100% pure wool, wool felt can withstand machine washing on a gentle cycle using cold water and mild detergent.

Rayon Felt
Similar to wool felt, rayon felt can generally endure machine washing with delicate settings. However, testing a small, inconspicuous area first is advisable.

Acrylic Felt:
Usually machine-washable, acrylic felt can tolerate a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.

Avoid Machine Washing These Felts:

Certain types of felt, such as silk felt and metallic felt, should never be machine-washed. These delicate materials require hand washing or dry cleaning. Always refer to the care label for specific instructions

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Tips for Drying Felt

Tumble drying is not recommended for preserving and protecting the quality of your felt items Air drying is always the best and safest option

Gently squeeze out excess water and use a towel to absorb the remaining moisture

Lay your felt flat on a drying rack or over several layers of towels in a well-ventilated area

Avoid direct heat or sunlight, as these can cause the felt to shrink or lose its shape.

Can You Wash Felt In A Washing Machine

Conclusion

Washing felt in a washing machine is a feasible option for several types of felt, but proceed with caution and meticulously follow the guidelines outlined above Additionally, bear in mind that delicate felts or those with embellishments are better suited for hand washing or dry cleaning Choose the method that best suits your specific felt item and remember to prioritize gentle handling throughout the entire process. With proper care and attention to detail, you can successfully launder your felt items while preserving their beauty and longevity.