Caring for your picnic rug is just like caring for any other blanket or throw - the more it's washed, the more the yarn softens. We recommend where possible, spot clean with cold, soapy water. If you need to wash it, cold machine wash on a cold delicates cycle only. Hang to air dry. Do not use harsh detergents. Do not use fabric softeners. Do not soak, bleach, dry clean, tumble dry or iron. Expect an initial shrinkage once washed, but the rug will expand in size again after use. Avoid contact with suntan lotions and oils as they can mark with heavy use – wash immediately if your items come into contact. Avoid contact with rough surfaces to prevent pulls of the yarn. To remove dirt, shake outside rather than vacuum as it can damage the threads.