A weighted blanket can be a great addition to your relaxation routine. It can provide a sense of comfort and security, and can help you relax and fall asleep faster. But like any other piece of fabric, your weighted blanket will need to be washed from time to time. In this blog post, we will provide tips on how to wash a weighted blanket, as well as how to spot clean it if necessary. Let’s get started!
Read Your Blanket Care Label
Before you begin washing your weighted blanket, be sure to read the care instructions on the label. Each blanket will have its own specific washing instructions, and it is important to follow them closely in order to maintain the quality of your blanket.
Typically, a weighted blanket with microglass beads or plastic pellets can be machine washed, while a weighted blanket filled with steel shot beads or smooth pebbles should only be hand washed. On the other hand, a weighted blanket with sand or organic materials such as corn and rice can only be spot cleaned. For example, a popular Hush weighted blanket should be hand-washed.
Furthermore, it’s important to pay attention to the material of your blanket’s cover since different materials require different washing methods. For example, cotton can be washed in warm water with regular laundry detergent, while wool and rayon need to be washed in cold water.
Spot Cleaning Your Weighted Blanket
If there is a stain on your weighted blanket that you want to remove without washing the whole thing, we recommend spot cleaning it using warm water and a mild detergent. Be sure to test the detergent on an inconspicuous part of your blanket first to make sure it does not damage the fabric.
After spot cleaning, you can wash your entire blanket if needed. Otherwise, just lay it flat and air dry it.
Machine Washing a Weighted Blanket
If your weighted blanket can be machine washed, we recommend doing so on a gentle cycle. You should always wash a weighted blanket without its cover, so don’t forget to remove it before tucking it in the washing machine.
In case your blanket is especially dirty, you can wash it in warm water using standard detergent. However, don’t use any fabric softener since it can make your blanket scratchy. Also, avoid using bleach as it can damage the fabric of your blanket.
Moreover, you need to consider how heavy your weighted blanket is. Blankets that weigh 20 pounds or more need to be washed in a laundromat.
After the washing machine has completed its cycle, remove the weighted blanket from the washer immediately and shake out any excess water to prevent clumping or wrinkling. Next, lay your weighted blanket flat on a clean surface outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to dry.
Hand Washing a Weighted Blanket
If your weighted blanket cannot be machine washed, we recommend washing it by hand using warm water and gentle soap. Hand washing is perhaps the best way to clean your weighted blanket because you can control how much pressure you apply while scrubbing any stains or dirt.
Considering its size, you’ll have to hand wash a weighted blanket in your bathtub. Fill your tub with cool or lukewarm water, add a small amount of detergent (or Woolite) to the water, and gently swish the blanket around in the suds. Let the blanket soak for about 15 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly in cool water. Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring) and place the blanket on a towel. Roll up the towel and press down to extract more water. After washing your weighted blanket by hand, lay it flat on a clean surface to air dry.
How Often Should You Wash a Weighted Blanket?
It depends on how often it is used. If you are using your weighted blanket every day, we recommend washing it every few weeks. If you are only using it a few times a month, then once or twice a year should be sufficient.
Since frequent washing can affect its durability, it’s a good idea to use a duvet cover that you can easily remove and machine wash. This way, you can keep your weighted blanket clean without having to wash it as often.
Conclusion
That’s it! Now you know how to wash and dry a weighted blanket. Be sure to check the shell and filling material before getting started, and always read through the manufacturer’s instructions before using any detergents or cleaning solutions on the material. With just a few simple steps, your beloved blanket should be looking (and feeling) good as new in no time at all. Happy washing!
FAQ
Can you put a weighted blanket in the dryer?
Most weighted blankets can be machine washed and dried, but it is always best to check the care instructions that came with your blanket. Most likely, you’ll need to set the dryer to a lower heat setting. However, some weighted blankets need to be air dried.
Can you machine wash a weighted blanket?
Not all weighted blankets can be machine washed, so always check your blanket’s care instructions first. If you can wash it in a washing machine, it’s important to use the correct settings and mild detergent. You should also avoid using fabric softener or dryer sheets when washing a weighted blanket, as they can cause the fabric to become less absorbent.
Will washing a weighted blanket ruin my washing machine?
No, washing a weighted blanket will not ruin your washing machine if its weight is below 20 pounds. However, if your blanket is over 20 lb, you’ll have to hand wash it or take it to a laundromat in order to avoid any damage to your machine.
Can you wash a 20 lb weighted blanket in a washing machine?
A weighted blanket that weighs 20 pounds or more is best to wash in a commercial-size machine in order to protect your home machine from wear and tear. Alternatively, you can check out our tips on how to wash a weighted blanket by hand.
