Washing Aromatherapy Felt Pads: Do's And Don'ts

Aromatherapy is a popular way to enhance one's mood and overall wellness. One way to practice aromatherapy is through the use of essential oils and diffusers. To use essential oils safely and effectively, it is important to follow certain cleaning and maintenance practices. This includes knowing how to properly clean the felt pads used in diffusers. While some sources suggest that felt pads can be gently washed with soap and water and air-dried, others recommend replacing them entirely to avoid issues such as deformation and residual smells. Additionally, when cleaning felt products, it is important to avoid using hot water as it can cause shrinkage.

Washing aromatherapy felt pads by hand

Aromatherapy felt pads can be washed by hand to remove stains and dirt. It is important to be as gentle as possible when washing felt products. Firstly, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush away any surface dirt from the felt pad, always brushing in the same direction to avoid the material piling up and fuzzing.

Next, fill a sink with cool or lukewarm water and add a mild detergent or soap if desired—although some people think using detergent will cause fuzzing on the surface. Place the felt pad in the water and gently squeeze it a few times. Avoid twisting or ringing out the felt pad, and never use hot water as this can shrink and damage the fabric.

Once the pad has been washed, remove it from the water and gently press it between two towels to remove excess water. Then, allow the pad to air dry, ensuring it is placed in a cool area out of direct sunlight.

In addition to handwashing, you can also steam clean felt pads. Hold the pad over a pot of steaming water and use a soft brush to gently brush the dirty area.

Using a washing machine on a delicate cycle

Yes, you can wash aromatherapy felt pads in a washing machine. However, it is important to be gentle and only wash them occasionally. Here are some detailed instructions for washing aromatherapy felt pads using a washing machine on a delicate cycle:

Preparing the Felt Pads for Washing:

• Before placing the felt pads in the washing machine, remove any excess dirt or dust by gently brushing the surface with a soft-bristled toothbrush or a lint-free cloth.
• Ensure that you brush or wipe in one direction only, as rubbing in circles or changing directions can cause the felt to pile up and fuzz.
• If there is a stain, try spot cleaning by gently rubbing the affected area with a mixture of cold water and mild soap. Use a lint-free cloth and avoid using hot water, as it can shrink the felt.

Washing the Felt Pads in the Machine:

• Separate the felt pads from other items and place them in the washing machine.
• Set the washing machine to the delicate cycle, which uses a slower spin speed and a gentler wash cycle to protect delicate fabrics.
• Use a gentle, mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics, such as Woolite. Avoid using regular laundry detergent, as it may be too harsh.
• Start the wash cycle.

Drying the Felt Pads:

• Once the wash cycle is complete, remove the felt pads from the washing machine.
• To remove excess water, gently press the felt pads between two towels. Avoid twisting or wringing out the water, as it can damage the shape of the pads.
• Air dry the felt pads by laying them flat on a drying rack or hanging them in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

Some additional tips to consider:

• It is recommended to wash aromatherapy felt pads by hand whenever possible, as machine washing can be riskier.
• If the felt pads are not heavily soiled, consider spot cleaning or hand washing instead of using the washing machine.
• Avoid washing cat caves, shoes, or rugs in the washing machine, as they are more delicate and may not withstand the agitation of the machine.
• Always read the care instructions provided by the manufacturer of your aromatherapy felt pads before attempting to wash them.

Spot cleaning the felt

Aroma therapy felt pads can be spot cleaned to remove stains. This is preferable to immersing the felt in water, as the dye in the fabric can run and bleed.

To spot clean, follow these steps:

• Use cold water. Heat can shrink the felt, so avoid hot water.
• Mix the cold water with a mild soap.
• Gently rub the stain with the soapy water solution.
• Use a damp, lint-free cloth with clean water to remove any soap residue. Repeat this step as needed.
• For drying, use a dry towel and press down to remove excess water.
• Allow the felt to air dry.

You can also use diluted white vinegar to clean the felt. Mix one part vinegar with two parts water. Dab at the stain with a cloth soaked in the vinegar solution, then rinse with a clean, damp cloth.

It is important to act quickly when a stain occurs on felt. The longer a stain sits, the harder it will be to remove.

Air drying the pads

Yes, you can wash aromatherapy felt pads. To air-dry the pads, follow these steps:

• Gently wash the pads with soap and water: Use a mild soap and cold water to gently wash the pads. Avoid using hot water as it can cause the felt to shrink.
• Remove soap residue: Use a damp, lint-free cloth with clean water to wipe away any soap residue from the pads.
• Use a dry towel: Press a dry towel onto the pads to remove excess water.
• Air dry: After removing excess water with a towel, let the pads air dry completely. You can speed up the drying process by using a steamer or hair dryer on a low heat setting if needed.

It is important to note that excessive cleaning of the pads may cause them to deform, and if your essential oil has a strong smell, there may be a residual smell. Therefore, it is recommended to use a new pad for each essential oil to avoid smell confusion.

Using a dry cleaning kit

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Cleaning Kit

Dry cleaning kits are readily available online or at your local laundry supply store. Make sure to purchase a kit that is suitable for felt fabric. The kit will typically include a dry cleaning solvent, stain treatment, and other necessary tools.

Step 2: Test for Colourfastness

Before proceeding, it's important to test your felt pad for colourfastness, especially if it's brightly coloured or new. Apply a small amount of the dry cleaning solvent to an inconspicuous area of the felt and blot it with a clean, white cloth. If any colour transfers to the cloth, it's best to avoid using the solvent and opt for a gentler cleaning method.

Step 3: Treat Stains

If your felt pads have any stains, use the stain treatment provided in the kit. Follow the instructions on the kit for the best results. Gently work the treatment into the stain using a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth. Be careful not to rub too vigorously, as this can damage the fibres of the felt.

Step 4: Apply the Solvent

Spray or apply the dry cleaning solvent generously onto the felt pads, following the instructions on the kit. Make sure to cover all areas, including the edges and any crevices. The solvent will help to dissolve and lift away any dirt, oils, or odours from the felt.

Step 5: Absorb and Remove Solvent

Use a clean, absorbent cloth to gently blot and remove the solvent from the felt pads. You may need to repeat this process a few times to ensure that all the solvent is removed. Make sure the cloth you're using is colour-safe and won't transfer any dye onto the felt.

Step 6: Air Dry

After cleaning, lay the felt pads flat on a clean towel and allow them to air dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as these can cause the felt to shrink or fade. You can also use a blow dryer on a low setting to speed up the drying process.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once the felt pads are dry, gently brush them with a soft-bristled brush to restore their softness and fluffiness. If needed, you can also use a steamer to smooth out any wrinkles and give them a fresh look.

Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and care guidelines for your specific aromatherapy felt pads. Each product may have slightly different recommendations, so it's important to refer to those as well.

Frequently asked questions