Before the invention of washing machines and dry cleaners, wool was always washed safely by hand. With a bit of care, you can still do so without shrinking the blanket. Difficulty Level: Average Time Required: 90 minutes

Here's How: Fill a large wash tub, or your bath tub, with cool - lukewarm water. Add a mild soap, such as dishwashing liquid, to the water (no bleach). Place the wool blanket into the soapy water. Allow the blanket to soak for about an hour. Any soiled spots can be gently hand-rubbed in the water to release the dirt. Drain the water from the tub. Refill the wash basin or tub with cool - lukewarm water. Hold the blanket away from the running water, so that the water is not spraying onto the blanket, or it might felt that part of the blanket. Allow the blanket to soak in the rinse water for a few minutes. Drain the water from the tub. Squeeze any excess moisture from the blanket. Hang the blanket to dry outside, or drape over the shower curtain rod in your bathroom and allow to air dry.

Tips: If drying in your bathroom, you may want to place a few towels under the blanket to catch any excess dripping from the blanket. Heat and agitation cause felting of wool. If wool blankets (or sweaters) are washed in cool water and are not agitated, such as in your washing machine (even on gentle cycle), felting should not occur.