If you’ve ever invested in a waterproof blanket, you’ll know the anxiety that comes with the very first wash. Will the waterproofing hold up? Will the fabric lose its softness? And most importantly, how long will it last before it starts letting little leaks through?
It’s the number one fear buyers have: that after a single spin in the washing machine, their blanket will never perform the same way again.
The truth is, not all waterproof blankets are created equal. And not all care instructions are written with longevity in mind. At Victoria Orton, we’ve spent years perfecting a design that balances luxury with practicality, and that means giving you clear, no-nonsense guidance to make sure your blanket stays every bit as beautiful and functional as the day it arrived.
In this guide you will learn:
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: Why the Distinction Matters
Before we get into the practical steps, let’s clear up a common confusion.
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Water-resistant blankets are designed to repel a small amount of liquid. They’re fine for a quick splash of water or a light spill, but if liquid lingers, it will eventually seep through.
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Waterproof blankets, on the other hand, are engineered with a barrier that simply won’t let liquid pass. Whether it’s a tipped glass of red wine, a puppy accident, or hours of drool from a snoozing Labrador... if it’s waterproof, your furniture stays dry.
The distinction isn’t just marketing jargon. It comes down to construction and materials. A water-resistant blanket relies on surface treatments. A true waterproof blanket, like the Victoria Orton collection, sandwiches a tested membrane between soft layers, creating a shield that keeps liquid out but comfort in.
That membrane is what you need to protect in the wash.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Waterproof Blanket
1. Shake Off Loose Hair and Debris
If your blanket has been protecting against pets, crumbs, or the usual chaos of family life, give it a good shake outdoors first. For stubborn pet hair, a lint roller or a quick vacuum with a fabric attachment works wonders.
2. Pre-Treat Stains
Accidents happen. If there’s a noticeable mark, say, a muddy paw print or a patch of red wine, it’s always best to pre-treat before washing. This avoids the need for harsher detergents that can damage the waterproof membrane.
Enzyme vs. Oxidising Cleaners: Which to Choose?
Not all stain removers are the same. The best option depends on the type of stain and how long it’s been there.
Enzyme-based cleaners
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Use natural enzymes to break down organic matter like urine, saliva, food, or blood.
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Excellent for fresh pet accidents and other protein-based stains.
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Safe for most fabrics when used correctly, though prolonged soaking can weaken delicate fibres.
Oxidising cleaners (such as MyPetPeed)
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Use oxygen compounds to neutralise and lift stains.
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Effective on older or set-in stains where organic material has already broken down.
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Designed to be fabric-safe and non-toxic, though stronger oxidisers can lighten dark fabrics if left too long.
Our recommendation for Victoria Orton blankets:
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For fresh stains, start with a gentle enzyme cleaner.
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For stubborn or older marks, an oxidiser like MyPetPeed may be more effective.
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Always spot-test on an inconspicuous area first.
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Never use chlorine bleach or harsh solvents, which will compromise the waterproof membrane.
By pre-treating wisely, you remove stains before they set - protecting both the beauty of your blanket and the integrity of its waterproof core.
3. Machine Wash Cold
Place your blanket in the washing machine on a gentle, cold cycle.
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Use a mild liquid detergent.
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Avoid bleach or fabric softeners - they break down waterproofing layers.
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Wash the blanket alone if possible, especially for larger sizes. (It needs room to rinse properly.)
Tip: If you own a Queen or King size waterproof bed blanket, consider a commercial machine at a laundromat for extra space.
4. Extra Spin Cycle
Because the waterproof layer holds onto water during washing, it’s worth running an extra spin cycle. This pulls out excess water and shortens drying time—without stressing the fibres.
Drying Tips: Gentle Is Key
Heat is the enemy of waterproof membranes. While it may be tempting to tumble dry on high to get your blanket back on the bed quickly, resist.
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Tumble dry on low or delicate. A cool, slow cycle is safest.
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Line dry if you can. Fresh air not only protects the waterproofing but also refreshes the fabric naturally.
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Avoid direct sunlight for prolonged periods, which can fade darker colours.
The result: your blanket stays soft, your waterproofing intact, and your design as elegant as the day it was unwrapped.
Common Washing Mistakes That Shorten a Blanket’s Life
Even the best waterproof blanket can lose its magic if it’s mistreated. Here are the missteps we see most often:
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Hot water cycles - these can warp or melt the inner membrane.
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Fabric softeners - leave residues that clog fibres and compromise waterproofing.
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Overloading the machine - cramming the blanket in with towels or jeans prevents a proper clean and stresses the seams.
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Skipping the pre-treat - letting stains sit makes them harder to remove without harsher chemicals later.
Avoid these, and you’ve already doubled the expected lifespan of most ordinary waterproof blankets.
Why Victoria Orton Blankets Are Built to Last
A waterproof blanket is only as good as its core. That’s why every Victoria Orton blanket is crafted with a 3-Layer Shield:
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Top layer - A premium soft-touch fabric that’s spill-resistant and pet-hair resistant. Liquids bead on the surface before slowly moving toward the middle, giving you time to wipe away small accidents before they soak in.
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Middle layer - A noiseless waterproof membrane, tested to ISO 811 standards for hydrostatic resistance, that locks out liquid completely. This is the hidden hero of the blanket.
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Bottom layer - The same premium fabric as the top, sealing the membrane securely inside. It adds drape, weight, and elegance, so the blanket looks and feels like a designer bedspread, not a utility cover.
This construction means that, even after 40+ washes, your blanket performs as beautifully as day one. It’s why we confidently back every design with a warranty other brands can’t match and why thousands of customers trust Victoria Orton not just to protect their homes, but to elevate them
Care Today, Comfort Tomorrow
Washing a waterproof blanket shouldn’t feel like a gamble. With the right care (cold water, gentle detergent, low-heat drying) you’ll extend the life of your blanket and enjoy its elegance for years.
If you’re ready to give your home the same care, explore our Waterproof Blanket Collection — where beauty meets everyday practicality.
Because protecting your home shouldn’t mean compromising on beauty.
