How to wash sherpa fleece without ruining it

Sherpa fleece is one of the coziest and warmest materials you can wear or snuggle under. Its soft, fluffy texture makes it a favourite for jackets, blankets, and accessories. However, caring for your sherpa can be tricky, leading to matting, pilling, and loss of softness if not handled properly. Without proper care, your cherished Sherpa blanket, sweater, jacket or other item can quickly lose their plush feel and comforting warmth.

Sherpa fleece is a synthetic material designed to mimic the softness of real wool, with a fluffy pile on one side and a smooth knit on the other. Unlike regular fleece, which can be made from various fibres, Sherpa is typically made from polyester or a polyester-cotton blend. Proper care is crucial to keep your Sherpa items looking and feeling their best for years to come.

Can You Wash Your Sherpa Fleece in a Washing Machine?

The good news is that you can machine wash your Sherpa fleece, but it requires careful attention to settings and precautions. By following the right guidelines, you can keep your Sherpa items clean without compromising their plush texture.

To wash Sherpa fleece without ruining it, it's important to follow a step-by-step process. Start by using a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as these can damage the fibres. Additionally, never overload the washing machine, as this can cause friction and matting. Let's go over it step-by-step

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Sherpa Fleece:

1. Check the Care instructions:

   • Always read the laundry label on your Sherpa item for specific instructions from the manufacturer. This helps ensure you follow any unique washing instructions required for your garment.
   • If it's handwashing only, we've got you covered with how to hand-wash clothes

2. Turn Inside Out:

   • Turn your Sherpa fleece inside out to protect the softer pile from friction and abrasion during the wash cycle. 

3. Use a Gentle Cycle:

   • Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle. This minimises the agitation and reduces the risk of damaging the fabric.

4. Select Cold or Lukewarm Water:

   • Use cold water to wash Sherpa fleece. Hot water can cause the fibres to become misshapen and lose their softness.

5. Choose a Mild Detergent:

   • Opt for a mild, fragrance-free, and dye-free detergent. Harsh chemicals and bleach can break down the fibres and ruin the texture of your Sherpa fleece. 

6. Avoid Fabric Softeners:

   • Do not use fabric softeners as they can coat the fibres and make the fleece feel stiff. Instead, you can add a small amount of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to help keep it feeling soft.

7. Do Not Overload the Machine:

   • Wash your Sherpa fleece with a few other soft items or alone. Overloading the machine can cause friction and matting.

8. Extra Rinse Cycle:

   • Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is thoroughly removed. Residual detergent can make the fleece feel less soft and cause skin irritation.

9. Air Dry:

   • Air drying is the best method to maintain the softness of your Sherpa fleece. Lay it flat on a clean, dry towel or hang it up in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.

10. Reshape While Damp:

    • While the fleece is still damp, gently reshape it to its original form. This helps maintain your sherpa and its appearance and fit.

Lucent Globe's Laundry Detergent for Cleaning Sherpa Fleece

Using the right detergent is important for keeping your Sherpa fleece soft and clean. Our laundry detergent sheets are a great choice for this. It is gentle on delicate fabrics, which means your Sherpa fleece will stay fluffy and cozy after each wash. The detergent is mild, with no added fragrances or dyes. This helps avoid the harsh chemicals that can damage Sherpa fleece fibres.

Our detergent rinses out completely, leaving no residue behind! This is important for keeping your Sherpa fleece soft and comfortable. Leftover detergent can make the fabric stiff. The gentle cleaning action of Lucent Globe's detergent removes dirt and stains without needing harsh scrubbing, which can harm the fibres. By using this detergent, you ensure your Sherpa fleece stays in excellent condition, ready to keep you warm and comfortable.

TIP: Check out our friends at ORTC for their Sherpa Fleece collection

Is Air Drying Necessary for Your Sherpa Jacket?

Air drying is very important for maintaining the softness and shape of your Sherpa jacket. Using a dryer, even on a low setting, can damage the delicate fibres, causing them to mat and lose their fluffy texture. Air drying helps preserve the fabric's integrity and ensures your Sherpa jacket stays cozy and comfortable. It's a gentle method that avoids the high heat and friction that can come from machine drying.

To air dry your Sherpa jacket effectively, start by gently squeezing out excess water after washing, but avoid wringing it out as this can distort the fabric. Lay your jacket flat on a clean, dry towel and reshape it to its original form. This prevents stretching and helps it dry evenly. Place the towel and jacket in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, which can fade the fabric. For best results, turn the jacket over occasionally to ensure it dries completely on both sides. 

Should You Use Fabric Softener on Sherpa Material?

Using fabric softener on Sherpa material is not recommended. While fabric softener might seem like it would keep your Sherpa fleece soft, it actually coats the fibres, making them stiff and less fluffy over time. This can diminish the cozy feel that Sherpa is known for.

A good alternative is adding a small amount of white vinegar to the rinse cycle, which can help maintain softness without leaving a residue. This method keeps your Sherpa fleece fluffy and comfortable without damaging the fibres.

Can You Remove Stains from Sherpa Without Damaging It?

Removing stains from Sherpa fleece can be tricky due to its delicate fibres. Using the wrong techniques or products can cause damage and reduce the fabric's softness. Here are safe and effective methods for tackling stains on Sherpa jackets, sweaters, and blankets.

Safe Stain Removal Techniques

Stains on Sherpa fleece need gentle handling to prevent damage. Blotting instead of rubbing and using mild solutions can effectively remove stains while preserving the fabric.

• Blot, Don’t Rub: Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth to absorb as much of the spill as possible. Rubbing can damage the fibres and spread the stain.
• Mild Detergent Solution: Mix a small amount of mild detergent with cold water. Apply the solution to the stain using a clean cloth or sponge, and gently blot the area.

Avoiding Damage During Stain Removal

Using harsh chemicals and improper rinsing can harm Sherpa fleece. The key is to avoid these pitfalls by choosing the right products and thoroughly rinsing out any cleaning agents.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use bleach or fabric softeners, as these can weaken the fibres and ruin the texture.
• Rinse Thoroughly: After treating the stain, rinse the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any detergent residue.

Effective Stain Removal Methods for Sherpa Blankets

For Sherpa blankets, effective stain removal involves careful spot cleaning and using the right mixtures. This approach helps maintain the blanket's fluffy texture while eliminating stains.

1. Spot Clean: For minor stains, spot cleaning is usually sufficient.

   • Prepare Solution: Mix a mild detergent with cold water.
   • Apply Solution: Gently dab the stain with the solution using a clean cloth.
   • Blot: Blot the area with a dry cloth to absorb excess moisture.

2. Tough Stains Treatment: Some stains are more stubborn and require stronger, yet safe, methods.

   • Vinegar and Water: For tougher stains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply to the stain and blot gently.
   • Baking Soda Paste: For persistent stains, make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply to the stain, let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse with a damp cloth.

Special Techniques for Tough Stains on Sherpa Fabric

Certain tough stains, like paint, need special techniques and products to be effectively removed without damaging the Sherpa fabric.

• Mineral Spirits: For tough stains like paint, use odorless mineral spirits. Apply a small amount to a clean cloth and blot the stain carefully.
• Brush Method: After treating the stain, gently brush the area with a soft-bristled brush to restore the fluffiness.

How to Make Sherpa Fleece Fluffy Again

To make your sherpa fleece fluffy again, use a soft bristled brush to gently comb the fleece while it's still damp. Brushing in circular motions helps to separate and lift the fibers, restoring the fluffy texture. If the fleece is already dry, you can lightly mist it with cool water before brushing. These simple tools and techniques will keep your Sherpa fleece looking and feeling as good as new.

Conclusion

Proper care for your Sherpa fleece helps keep it soft and gives the cozy feel. From the importance of air drying to using the right detergent, these simple steps can keep your Sherpa items in top condition. These guidelines will help you enjoy your Sherpa jackets, sweaters, and blankets for many years to come.

To restore fluffiness, use white vinegar in the wash and gently brush the damp fabric. This will revive the fibres and bring back the cozy texture you love.