Vinegar and peroxide for blanket pre-wash

[Sansena]

I know I shouldn’t give away trade secrets, but I AM SO TICKLED at how nicely these two things work! Stumbled across this secret months ago and have been too busy to share, but DA-amN! What a fabulous job this does getting out dried manure and pee stains, layers of sweat and sebum, and loosens that dried in/ caked on layer of lordknowswhatthefeck that accumulates on mare’s tail cords & snaps.

Use a spray bottle, apply the vinegar about 20m. before washing and use your best judgement on whether or not to lightly scruff up the ick with a stiff bristled brush. For thick manure stains, you can use the peroxide, again from a spray bottle, and just let the foaming do the trick. If using peroxide, keep it out of the sun – it will bleach-- and only let it sit for about 5 - 10 minutes before washing.

Environmentally friendly, cheap, and saves a TON of elbow grease.

What tips can you share for you blanket washing success?

[trubandloki]

Oh wow!

Does it damage the water proofing at all?

[Sansena]

Not if you stick to 20 minutes or less :), in my experience.

Of course, those Rambos’ fabric is practically rubber lined. But I’ve had no issue with Weatherbeetah or Smartpak blankets either. And, if you want to waterproof them AFTER you wash (I used Rambo Blanket Wash), I find the waterproofing sticks even more nicely since it adheres directly to the clean fabric and not the leftover dirt or debris left behind. I use Nikwax sponge application method…

[talkofthetown]

Do you wash them in your washing machine at home? Mine is old and a handmedown so I’m not as worried about scuffing up a fancy new machine, just wasn’t sure if it would even work with something that big and heavy.

[Sansena]

I have a 50lb capacity Heubsch washer. An old one that uses LOTS of water

Blanket washing & repairs is my part of my business.

[talkofthetown]

Oh ok! Man I wish you lived closer. :lol:

[Sansena]

Most laundromats open at 6 a.m… I think you could probably sneak in before they’re paying attention. Just tie up the surcingles and wrap them in thick cotton socks. The clanking gives it away every time

[luvmyhackney]

@Sansena

Most laundromats open at 6 a.m… I think you could probably sneak in before they’re paying attention. Just tie up the surcingles and wrap them in thick cotton socks. The clanking gives it away every time

Wrap the metal part in vet wrap. Works like a charm. Only takes a little bit per metal piece as well.

[Sansena]

@luvmyhackney

Wrap the metal part in vet wrap. Works like a charm. Only takes a little bit per metal piece as well.

GENIUS!!

[neversaynever]

Please do not mix the vinegar and hydrogen peroxide together. It creates peracetic acid, which can be corrosive and cause chemical burns to skin, eyes and respiratory system. You may be able to use one, let it sit for a while, then use the other, but never mix the two together in a container first.

Baking soda with hydrogen peroxide may be a safer alternative. You can mix them together in an open container or make a paste and use (never in a spray bottle because it off-gasses carbon dioxide and can explode). The combination of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and mild dishwashing liquid like Dawn is very effective in getting rid of skunk odor.

[MissAriel]

Thanks for the great tips!

I am an inveterate DIY-er, so no worries on losing my business!

[Sansena]

Thank you, Neversaynever. I don’t mix them, I use them alternately depending upon the stain.
But your advice is very much appreciated and I’ll keep it in mind for next time.