How to Clean Burlap
To clean, begin by filling a (clean) sink or washtub with cold water. Warm or hot water might cause shrinkage. Machine washing your burlap isn’t advised, as the natural jute fiber in burlap bags will easily deteriorate in the harsh atmosphere of your washing machine. If you do choose to machine wash, your machine may experience problems in the future because burlap can produce large amounts of lint. Once you’ve filled the tub or sink with cool water, add a small amount of gentle detergent. Let the burlap sit, but for no more than five minutes. If the fabric sits too long, it may begin to fray.
After you’ve let the fabric sit, rinse well, and lay it flat between two towels to dry. Though you might think it will speed up the process, don’t wring the burlap, as twisting it can also cause damage. If your burlap bags have stains, blot (don’t rub or scrub) the fabric with a wet sponge, and blot the leftover dampness immediately.
Smelly Burlap
Do your burlap bags smell after use? Sprinkle baking soda onto the fabric and lay it outside, but not in direct sunlight; a screened in porch is ideal. After a few hours, turn the fabric and apply more baking soda to the other side. For more persistent odors, let the fabric sit in (indirect) sunlight and apply vinegar or lemon juice. The acids in these liquids will help remove the odors without damaging the integrity of your fabric. After applying your chosen treatment, rinse the fabric as described in the steps above.
Burlap Storage Tips
When you plan on storing your burlap bags, make sure they are clean and dry, following the steps we’ve provided. If you want to avoid creases or wrinkles in your bags, we suggest rolling them. Store bags in a cool and clean place, since burlap draws in moisture from the air and can mold easily. Your storing place should also not be in direct sunlight, as the bags will dry and fade, leaving them fragile and brittle when you need them next.
If you have more questions about how to clean and store your burlap bags, or how customized burlap bags might assist your operations, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
