How to Wash a WeatherBeeta Horse Blanket

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Identify turnout, stable and liner construction

Read the sewn label and product name. Confirm whether the blanket is waterproof turnout fabric, a non-waterproof stable model, a liner, fly sheet or another WeatherBeeta layer. Note the fill weight, detachable neck, reflective pieces and taped seams. Never assume a stable-blanket detergent is safe for a turnout coating.

Step 2: Inspect straps, buckles and damage

Lay the dry blanket flat and check surcingles, leg straps, tail flap, hook-and-loop closures, clips, binding and stitching. Mark tears and failed seam tape for repair before washing enlarges them. Remove detachable straps and neck pieces if the label directs. Replace a stretched or cracked safety component instead of hiding it under a clean finish.

Step 3: Dry mud and remove hair first

WeatherBeeta advises removing excess dirt, mud and hair before washing. Let mud dry, then brush the outer shell with light strokes. Remove hair and grease from the lining with a rubber tool, brush or appropriate vacuum attachment. Clear packed material around buckles and hook-and-loop tape so it does not clog the washer or block closure.

Step 4: Prepare the washer for a waterproof blanket

Clean ordinary detergent and fabric-softener buildup from the machine's dispenser as WeatherBeeta recommends. Use a front-loading or other machine without an agitator that can catch straps, and make sure its drum is genuinely large enough. A commercial blanket washer is preferable when the item cannot tumble freely.

Step 5: Secure hardware in a mesh wash bag

Close hook-and-loop fasteners, attach clips and contain loose straps according to the label. Place the blanket in a large mesh wash bag. WeatherBeeta recommends the bag to protect both hardware and the machine. Do not knot straps tightly or wrap them around the blanket, which can prevent water and wash solution from reaching the fabric evenly.

Step 6: Use a gentle cycle and the correct wash product

Wash on a gentle or delicate cool cycle with mild soap or a dedicated blanket wash compatible with the garment. WeatherBeeta warns that ordinary detergent and fabric conditioner can compromise its waterproof and breathable coating. Use the product amount for the blanket and machine, not an extra dose intended to attack heavy mud.

Step 7: Rinse thoroughly without wringing

Use an extra rinse if the sewn label and machine allow it. Cleaner left in fill or lining can affect skin and attract dirt. Lift the blanket with support under its weight; wet fill is heavy. Do not hand-wring, twist straps or spin beyond the allowed cycle in an attempt to speed drying.

Step 8: Reproof the turnout blanket when needed

WeatherBeeta recommends reproofing to renew durable water repellency and breathability. Use a product such as the compatible Nikwax rug proofer it references, following that product's wash-in or spray-on directions. Reproofing is not a repair for torn fabric, failed seam tape or a leaking structural seam.

Step 9: Reshape and line-dry

Pull the blanket into its normal shape, open folded gussets and hang it with broad support in moving air. WeatherBeeta says to line-dry and not tumble-dry. Keep it away from radiators, open flame and intense direct heat. Turn it so the lining, fill, straps and under-flaps all dry rather than trapping moisture inside a fold.

Step 10: Test dryness and store correctly

Press thick fill, binding and strap anchors for cool damp areas. Check fasteners and waterproof surfaces after drying. Store the clean blanket completely dry in a breathable bag or pest-protected area, with hardware secured. Before the next use, verify fit and inspect repairs; a clean but damaged blanket can still rub, leak or entangle a horse.