Can You Wash Burlap Fabric?

Burlap, with its unique texture, has become a staple in crafting rustic and natural-themed events. Its versatility shines through in table runners, chair covers, and even DIY decor. However, the beauty of burlap often comes with a practical challenge: stains. Whether it's a spilled drink at a wedding or a food mishap at a backyard barbecue, accidents happen. This raises the question: Can you wash burlap fabric?

While burlap adds an undeniable charm to any occasion, its susceptibility to stains can be a cause for concern. In this guide, we'll show you the possibilities of dealing with this special fabric and the ways of cleaning it so you can use it for your next event like nothing happened.

Understanding Burlap

The shortest answer to the main question “Can you wash burlap material?” is yes. But before we get into details, we’ll let you know the components of this unique party material favorite to better understand how to deal with it.

Burlap is a rough, natural fabric made from plant fibers. It's usually made from jute, a strong, long plant fiber. Sometimes, burlap can also be made from hemp or sisal, which are similar to jute. These plants grow tall and strong, and their fibers are spun into thick threads to create burlap. 

Because it is a natural fabric, that means it can snag easily and show stains. Spilled wine and drippings of barbecue sauce can cause stains. It happens. But don’t worry, it’s not the end of the world and there are some solutions to make burlap like new again.

How To Wash Burlap Fabric

Burlap is a bit tricky to wash. Because it’s made from natural fibers, it can shrink or get damaged if you're not careful. Unless it’s a handy burlap napkin, which is easier to deal with, here’s how to clean it without ruining it:

Hand Washing Burlap

1. Fill a large tub or sink with cold water.
2. Add a small amount of gentle detergent.
3. Gently submerge the burlap and let it soak for a few minutes.
4. Gently swish the burlap around in the water.
5. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
6. Gently squeeze out excess water. Do not wring or twist the burlap.

Machine Wash

If you’re wondering: “Can you wash burlap in the washing machine?” Yes, you can machine wash burlap! Here’s how to do it:

1. If you must use a washing machine, choose a delicate cycle and cold water.
2. Use a small amount of gentle detergent.
3. Wash the burlap alone to prevent snagging or damage.
4. Remove the burlap from the washer as soon as the cycle is finished.

How To Dry Burlap

After washing burlap material, of course, you have to dry them. Just like washing them, you need to take extra care when drying them. This crucial step is important since drying often requires heat and throwing it in the dryer is not good for burlap. 

The best way to dry burlap is by air drying. This is the gentlest method and helps prevent shrinking and damage. If you don’t have a place to hang the burlap, you can lay it flat to dry. Place it on a clean, dry towel to absorb excess moisture.

You can also hang the burlap to dry. You can use a clothesline, a drying rack, or even a shower curtain rod. Make sure the area is well-ventilated.

Important: Avoid using a dryer. The high heat can damage the burlap and cause it to shrink.

How To Deal Stains On Burlap

Accidents happen, especially at events. If you don’t need to clean the entire burlap tablecloth but see a spot you need to deal with, follow these tips on how to deal with it:

1. Blot and don’t rub

If you spill something on your burlap, blot the stain immediately with a clean cloth. Rubbing can spread the stain.

2. Spot Clean

For small stains, mix a mild detergent with water. Gently dab the stain with a clean cloth. Rinse with cold water and let it air dry.

3. Vinegar Solution

For tougher stains or odors, try a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then blot with a clean cloth.

Remember, prevention is key. Consider using tablecloths or placemats under your burlap to protect it from spills.

Remember, gentle hand washing or a delicate machine wash, followed by air drying, is the safest way to clean burlap. For stains, quick action and the right cleaning solution can work wonders. If ever you need to iron them to get rid of wrinkles, be sure to use light heat and never iron the fabric for too long to avoid permanent damage.

With a little care and attention, you can confidently incorporate burlap into your event planning without worrying about stains or damage. 

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