There’s nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a Barefoot Dreams blanket—it’s soft, cozy, and honestly feels a little luxurious. But the moment it gets dirty, one question hits hard: how do you wash it without ruining that signature softness?
The good news? You can safely wash your blanket at home. You just need to follow the right method.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to wash a Barefoot Dreams blanket, step by step—without shrinking it, damaging the fibers, or losing that cloud-like feel.
Why Barefoot Dreams Blankets Need Special Care
Barefoot Dreams blankets are typically made from ultra-soft microfiber or polyester blends, designed to feel plush and smooth against your skin.
That softness is what makes them special—but also delicate.
Here’s what can go wrong if you wash them incorrectly:
- Hot water → can damage fibers and cause shrinkage
- High heat drying → makes the blanket stiff or rough
- Fabric softeners → leave residue that reduces softness
- Harsh detergents → weaken the fabric over time
In short: treat it gently, and it will stay soft for years.
Quick Answer: How to Wash a Barefoot Dreams Blanket
If you’re in a hurry, here’s the safe method:
- Use cold water only
- Set your machine to a gentle or delicate cycle (as recommended by American Cleaning Institute)
- Use a mild detergent
- Avoid fabric softener and dryer sheets
- Tumble dry on low heat or air dry
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing a Barefoot Dreams Blanket

Follow these steps to clean your blanket safely:
Step 1 – Shake Off Dirt and Pet Hair
Before washing, give your blanket a good shake outdoors.
This helps remove:
- Dust
- Loose dirt
- Pet hair
Pro tip: Use a lint roller or soft brush for better results.
Step 2 – Spot Clean Stains First
If your blanket has stains, don’t rely on the washing machine alone.
- Apply a small amount of mild stain remover
- Gently rub the area
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes
Avoid harsh chemicals—they can damage the fabric.
Step 3 – Choose the Right Wash Settings

This is the most important step.
- Set your machine to gentle/delicate cycle
- Use cold water only
Hot water is the fastest way to ruin your blanket.
Step 4 – Use a Mild Detergent
Always choose a gentle detergent, preferably one designed for delicate fabrics or baby clothes.
Avoid:
- Strong chemical detergents
- Bleach
- Fabric softeners
These can leave residue and reduce softness.
Step 5 – Dry It the Right Way

After washing, drying matters just as much.
You have two safe options:
Option 1: Tumble Dry
- Use low heat only
- Remove promptly to avoid overdrying
Option 2: Air Dry
- Lay the blanket flat on a clean surface
- Avoid hanging (can stretch fabric)
Never use high heat—it’s the biggest mistake people make.
Step 6 – Restore Softness After Washing
If your blanket feels slightly less fluffy after washing:
- Gently fluff it by hand
- Use a fabric brush or shake it out
- A quick air cycle in the dryer can help
Barefoot Dreams Blanket Washing Instructions (Simplified)
Here’s a quick care summary:
- ✔ Machine washable (similar to many washable rugs used in modern interiors)
- ✔ Dryer safe (low heat only)
- ✔ Cold water recommended
- ❌ No fabric softener
- ❌ No dryer sheets
Stick to these rules, and your blanket will stay soft.
Common Mistakes That Ruin Your Blanket
Avoid these at all costs:
- ❌ Washing in hot water
- ❌ Using fabric softener
- ❌ Overdrying in the dryer
- ❌ Using harsh detergents
- ❌ Washing too frequently
These are the exact reasons blankets lose their softness.
How to Hand Wash a Barefoot Dreams Blanket (Safest Method)

If you want the gentlest method, hand washing is the safest.
Steps:
- Fill a tub with cold water
- Add a small amount of mild detergent
- Submerge the blanket and gently swirl
- Let it soak for 10–15 minutes
- Rinse with clean cold water
- Press out water (don’t wring)
- Lay flat to dry
This method helps preserve softness the most.
Best Detergents for Barefoot Dreams Blankets
Look for detergents that are:
- Gentle or mild
- Free from harsh chemicals
- Designed for delicate fabrics
Good options include:
- Baby detergents
- Wool or delicate fabric cleaners
Always use a small amount—more detergent doesn’t mean cleaner.
How Often Should You Wash a Barefoot Dreams Blanket?
You don’t need to wash it too often.
Recommended:
- Every 2–4 weeks (regular use)
- More often if:
- You have pets
- You spill something
- It starts to smell
Overwashing can wear out the fibers faster.
How to Keep Your Barefoot Dreams Blanket Soft for Years
Want that “like new” feel every time? Follow these tips:
- Avoid frequent washing
- Store it folded (not hanging)
- Keep it away from high heat
- Use gentle detergents only
- Wash it separately from rough fabrics
FAQs
Can you machine wash a Barefoot Dreams blanket?
Yes, you can machine wash it using a gentle cycle with cold water.
Can you dry a Barefoot Dreams blanket in the dryer?
Yes, but only on low heat or air-fluff setting.
Why does my blanket feel less soft after washing?
This usually happens due to:
- Heat damage
- Detergent residue
- Overdrying
Can I use fabric softener on a Barefoot Dreams blanket?
No. Fabric softener can coat the fibers and reduce softness.
How do I make my blanket soft again?
- Wash with mild detergent
- Avoid heat
- Fluff or air dry properly
Final Thoughts
Washing a Barefoot Dreams blanket isn’t complicated—it just requires a little extra care.
Stick to the basics:
- Cold water
- Gentle cycle
- Mild detergent
- Low heat drying
Follow these steps, and your blanket will stay just as soft and cozy as the day you bought it.



