How to wash a crocheted afghan???

[Anza54]

Hello Ladies and Gents, Could sure use some advise on the best way to wash a crocheted afghan. Is washing in machine on gentle cycle ok or do by hand? I sure don't want to shrink it or ruin it. Please help Thanks. Anza54

[temom]

I've always tossed them in the washer, but of course it depends on the fiber. Wool is not a good thing to toss in the dryer.

[Bama]

I have a bed sized afghan that DH's aunt made. I've been tossing it in the washer and dryer every now and then for over 20 years. It's made with acrylic yarn. Still looks the same.

[sewingrandma]

I too toss mine into the washer but all of mine are made with yarn that is machine washable. Like temom said, wool would not be a good thing to wash. There are so many speciality yarns out there now it is hard to tell one from the other anymore. If you do wash it by machine, or even by hand I would get a gentle low sudsing type soap/detergent to wash it in. Nothing any harder than rinsing all that yarn.

[Anza54]

Thanks all for advice. The afghan is over 30 yrs old and I haven't a clue what kind of yarn(Wool or Synthetic) it is made from. It is still in beautiful condition. Have had it tucked away for a LONG time. Thanks again Anza 54

[Here_Fishey]

As you don't know what it is made out of, I would wash on the delicate or knit setting (if your machine has one) in cold water, and dry on no or low heat. If you don't have a delicate setting, hand wash in the tub. Use Orvus soap to wash it in. Orvus soap can be found in quilting shops or feed stores (yes, you read that right, FEED stores). It is cheaper at the feed store. Orvus is actually a soap made for washing the sheep before shearing, and the wool afterwards.

[Anza54]

wow thanks I will check with our local feed store to see if they carry that soap. Never heard of it. Thanks again

[bridesmom]

That's a great idea, the Orvus soap! I have used Ivory soap flakes, or Zero for stuff that I want to really keep in good shape, but am out of both. Wonder if we can get it here, or something similar! A great idea for woolens or knits!

[temom]

So did you wash it yet? How did it turn out?