Yes, you can wash Bernat Blanket yarn — it’s made to be washed, which is part of why it’s such a popular choice for cozy throws and baby blankets. The trick is washing it in a way that keeps that plush chenille texture from pilling or matting. Here’s how.
How to wash it
Bernat Blanket is 100% polyester, so it’s machine washable and durable:
- Wash cold or warm on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Avoid hot water, which can stress the fibers.
- Skip the fabric softener — it can coat the chenille and make it look flat over time.
- Wash large blankets alone or with similar soft items so the loops don’t snag on zippers and buttons. A duvet cover or large mesh bag adds protection.
Drying without ruining the texture
Tumble dry on low or air dry. Low heat and a few wool dryer balls help fluff the chenille back up; high heat is the main thing that damages the yarn’s plushness. Don’t wring it — gently squeeze out excess water. Polyester doesn’t really shrink, so the main risk is heat damage and pilling, both avoided by keeping temperatures low.
If a few worms of yarn “pop” out of the stitches after washing, just gently work them back in with your fingers — it’s normal for chenille and easily fixed.
Frequently asked questions
Can you machine wash Bernat Blanket yarn?
Yes. It’s 100% polyester — wash it cold or warm on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, skip the fabric softener, and tumble dry low or air dry.
Does Bernat Blanket yarn shrink?
Not really — polyester is shrink-resistant. The real risk is heat damage to the plush texture, so keep the water and dryer on low.
How do you keep Bernat Blanket yarn from pilling?
Wash it gently and alone (or in a mesh bag), skip fabric softener, and dry on low heat. Work any popped loops back into the stitches by hand.
