All about merino wool blankets
Merino wool blankets are products that have been popular for more than one year. They not only warm in winter, but also become a beautiful addition to the interior. We will consider the varieties of such models, as well as aspects of choice and care in this article.
Advantages and disadvantages
Merino is a breed of sheep whose wool has unique characteristics. The origin of this breed has not yet been precisely established. Some sources claim that these are Irish sheep, others that they are French. Some scholars claim that the merino was originally developed in Scotland.
Sheep wool was highly valued, and in the past, the owners of such sheepfolds were strictly forbidden to sell and export it outside the country. Violators were subjected to the death penalty.
Fortunately, many years have passed since then, and all these rules are in the past. Today, merino wool blankets are widespread throughout the world.
The material is highly valued and is quite expensive, but all this pays off for its numerous advantages, which should be considered in more detail:
- merino wool is breathable and breathable;
- the material heats perfectly, leaving no chance to freeze even at low room temperatures;
- blankets are lightweight, at the same time they are very durable;
- products serve for many years without rolling or deforming;
- wool absorbs moisture, does not conduct static electricity;
- inside the fibers there is lanolin, which serves as an antiseptic, that is, it prevents the spread of bacteria and mold, destroys foreign odor;
- the material is relatively fireproof, since it ignites much more slowly than products made from other types of fabrics and wool;
- Merino wool blankets are very beneficial for health - they relieve joint pain, relieve head and back pain, normalize blood pressure, relax, give peace and tranquility.
The main disadvantage of a merino wool blanket is its price. Good quality models will cost you a lot. In addition, some claim that the product has caused an allergy, although this is extremely rare. An additional disadvantage is not easy leaving.
Design
Merino wool blankets are available in different types and designs. The most widespread models are large knits, which are made from thick yarn. If you have the skill, you can easily tie them yourself. Large knitted blankets are popular because they warm you better than other models, and they can also be effectively used in interior design.
A woolen blanket can be used as a bedspread. Models can be thin, bulky and fluffy. The latter are perfect as a cape for an armchair or sofa. They are also successfully used in children's rooms. As for the color scheme, it can also be completely different: from the most delicate snow-white models to bright and juicy turquoise, red, green.
Blankets can be not only large knitted, but also absolutely smooth. In this case, the manufacturer can add other materials to them, for example, camel down. The resulting models are particularly soft. In addition, smooth solutions are not only monochromatic, but also patterned. They can contain prints in the form of stripes, geometric shapes, abstract patterns. Many manufacturers make custom-made blankets from merino wool, taking into account all the wishes of the client.
In addition to ordinary woolen blankets, some companies also produce blankets that perform two functions at once. You can wrap yourself up in them during the day, as well as hide at night. Typically, duvets are smooth patterns. They can be lightweight, lightweight and standard.
Most often, other components are added to merino wool, but their number rarely exceeds 20-30%.
Dimensions (edit)
Blankets are available in completely different sizes, and you need to choose the right one only after deciding on the purpose of the product.
- Single-bed models are suitable for one person and are considered the most popular. Most often it is 140x200 cm in size. You can take such a blanket with you into nature, comfortably hide it at home. If you want to complement the interior with a product, you can take the following sizes: 130x170, 150x200 cm. The first one is suitable for sheltering small armchairs, the second one - for volumetric models or sofas.
- One-and-a-half blankets made of merino wool have dimensions such as 170x210 or 160x220 cm. Such dimensions are quite enough for one person. You can also make a bed with such a blanket.
- Double models distributed no less widely. Such a blanket will easily cover the bed, but it is better to choose a model with a margin so that the product hangs effectively from the ends. Double options are available in sizes 180x200 or 180x220 cm.
- Euro size models have parameters in 200x210 or 200x220 centimeters. The most expensive products will be Euromaxi, capable of covering even the most impressive bed. Sizes start from 220x240 cm and end with 280x280 cm.However, if you wish, you can always order other parameters.
- Merino wool blankets can also be purchased for children. It is not always advisable for newborns to buy them, but babies from 3 years old will be able to use the purchase without problems. The most common children's models are 60x120 and 70x140 cm.
How to choose?
When choosing a woolen blanket, it is not always necessary to take into account the style of the interior, since the main task of the product is to give comfort to a person and warm him. As unnecessary, such an item can be hidden in the closet. If the task is to complement the interior, then the choice should be taken more carefully.Large knitted blankets are well suited for classic and minimalistic styles, country styles, Provence. In other cases, you should choose a smooth canvas. The color scheme should also correspond to the style of the room. In addition, the characteristics of the product itself should be taken into account. It is recommended to take models with a high density, because the higher the density, the more wool.
Do not hesitate to ask sellers for product documents, necessary certificates. Each blanket should be labeled with a composition and minimum care instructions. Choose trusted manufacturers that have been on the market for several years. When buying, be sure to consider the smell of the product. Newer models may or may not have a slight foreign smell. This is normal, but if the plaid gives off chemistry, then it is better not to make such a purchase, this indicates a violation of the processing technology.
It should also be remembered that a blanket made of merino wool cannot be cheap, because the material in the composition is a very expensive and valuable raw material. If you are offered a product at a low price, it means that most of it is represented by synthetics.
How to care?
Most merino wool items are hand washable. This will be verified by the label on which the triangle will be depicted. Blankets are washed in a delicate mode and at a temperature not exceeding 30 degrees. It is best to choose liquid detergents for washing without aggressive additives. It is forbidden to twist the product or apply spinning, as the blanket can be deformed. After finishing washing, the product should be pulled out of the machine and squeezed slightly in the bathtub so that the excess water just glass.
Sometimes blankets made of merino wool are not machine washable, then you will have to wash them by hand. Water should also not exceed 30 degrees. Wipe off dirt with a soft brush using products containing lanolin. Then the blanket is rinsed several times in cool water and allowed to drain.
Drying also has certain features. When the water is completely drained, the blanket is taken out of the bathroom and laid out on a flat horizontal surface. You can put a blanket under it. Residual moisture can be easily removed with a towel. Make sure that the product is fully straightened, creases are not allowed. Do not use hair dryers, radiators and other heating devices. Ironing should also be avoided.
Here are some more helpful tips.
- If the blanket needs to be stored, it is recommended to wrap it with a canvas cloth. To keep the material safe, take care of moth repellent.
- It is recommended to ventilate any woolen products a couple of times a year. This can be done on the balcony by shaking the blanket well and hanging it up for several hours. It is best to do this at night, when there is no direct sunlight.
- If the knitted blanket does not accept washing, in general, it is better not to risk it. Entrust dry cleaning to professionals and your product will serve you for years to come.