This blanket came vaccum sealed and when I first opened the package it was awful! Seriously, it had the worst chemical smell I've ever experienced (even my son & dog were gagging.) I carried the blanket outside to throw it away because it quickly stunk up my room and I was nervous about what kind of chemicals were on the blanket but decided to try washing it first. I washed it with vinegar added to the load to see if I could get rid of the horrible smell and that worked for the most part. I can still smell a hint of stink but my daughter loves her new blanket and its the perfect size for her (she's 15 years old.)