How Often to Wash Baby Blankets, Sleeping Bags and Liners – and How to Do It Right

Washing baby clothes is part of everyday parenting. But how often should you wash specific baby gear – and more importantly, how can you do it right to keep it soft, functional, and beautiful for as long as possible? Here's a practical guide based on product and material type.

🧺 Important Rule: Clean ≠ Scented

Parents often over-wash because they feel that if it doesn’t smell like fabric softener, it’s not clean. But natural materials like merino wool or bamboo have natural odor-neutralizing properties – a quick airing out or shake is often enough to keep the gear fresh.

📅 How Often to Wash Each Item

Item Recommended Frequency Tip
🛏️ Blanket Every 2–3 weeks, or when soiled Air out instead of washing when possible
😴 Sleeping Bag Every 1–2 weeks, or when soiled Use with a bodysuit underneath to reduce washing
🪑 Stroller/Car Seat Liner Weekly, or more if baby sweats Great for preventing sweaty backs
🧺 Waterproof Sheets/Protectors Weekly or after accidents Watch the temperature – especially with Tencel and bamboo

🧼 How to Wash – by Material

Merino Wool

  • Hand wash or use the wool cycle at max 30 °C
  • Use wool-specific detergents
  • No fabric softener – it destroys the fiber structure
  • Do not dry on a radiator – merino hates temperature shock
  • Lay flat to dry

Bamboo Viscose

  • Wash at max 30 °C on a gentle cycle
  • Do not tumble dry – it may shrink by one or more sizes
  • Advantages: softness, breathability, antibacterial properties

Organic Cotton

  • Wash up to 40 °C
  • Can be tumble dried (low temp recommended)
  • Use gentle detergents without optical brighteners

💡 Tips for Long-lasting Baby Gear

  • Don’t dry in direct sunlight – natural fabrics may fade
  • Avoid bleach, enzymes, and optical brighteners
  • If you need to wash more often, having two sets (e.g. 2 sleeping bags or 2 blankets) pays off

❤️ Experience-based Tips from Parents

Our customers share great real-life advice:

"I just vacuum our merino regularly and air it out. It stays soft without frequent washing."

"In Iceland they taught me to clean wool in snow – just roll it in fresh snow and it comes out fresh and nice again!"

🧵 Summary: Less Is More

High-quality natural baby gear doesn’t need daily washing. Gentle care and a smart washing schedule help preserve its beauty, function, and softness – saving time and nerves.