Cleaning a weighted blanket might seem scary, but it’s actually pretty simple. Many people worry that washing will ruin their blanket’s calming effects, but that’s not true. Your weighted blanket can stay fresh and work just as well after cleaning, no matter what’s inside it – whether that’s glass beads, plastic pieces, or other materials.
According to Jessica Samson, a cleaning expert at The Maids, “Most weighted blankets can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, but always check the care label first since some require dry cleaning.”
Let’s look at how to keep your comfy blanket clean without messing up its weight or fabric.
Wash Weighted Blankets Safely Today
When it comes to keeping your weighted blanket fresh and clean, knowing the proper washing techniques is essential for maintaining its quality and longevity.
We’ll always want to check the care label first to determine if we should machine wash or hand wash our weighted blankets.
For machine washing, we’ll use cold water, a gentle cycle, and mild detergent, followed by air drying flat.
Let’s look at the key aspects of cleaning your weighted blanket, including important do’s and don’ts, step-by-step guidance, and final recommendations.
We’ll start by exploring what you should and shouldn’t do when cleaning your weighted blanket, which can help prevent damage and extend its life.
Since proper care is essential for maintaining your weighted blanket’s quality and comfort, we’ll walk through the cleaning process together, breaking it down into manageable steps while sharing helpful tips along the way, including what products work best and which methods to skip.
Things to Do When Cleaning A Weighted Blanket
Properly cleaning a weighted blanket requires careful attention to detail and following specific steps to maintain its quality and effectiveness.
The cleaning process must be tailored to the blanket’s materials and construction, as different fillings and fabrics require different cleaning approaches to prevent damage and guarantee longevity.
- Check care label – Review manufacturer’s specific instructions before cleaning to avoid damaging the blanket
- Spot clean stains – Apply appropriate stain remover to affected areas before full washing
- Use gentle detergent – Select mild, bleach-free cleaning agents suitable for delicate fabrics
- Select proper cycle – Choose cool water and delicate washing settings to protect the blanket’s structure
- Distribute weight evenly – Balance the blanket in the washing machine to prevent damage during cleaning
- Monitor drying process – Guarantee thorough drying by rotating the blanket and checking for damp spots
- Professional cleaning – Consider dry cleaning for blankets with natural fillings or special care requirements
Things to Avoid When Cleaning A Weighted Blanket
Properly cleaning a weighted blanket requires careful attention to avoid common mistakes that could permanently damage this therapeutic item.
Understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing the correct cleaning methods, as improper care can compromise the blanket’s effectiveness and longevity.
- Bleach and harsh chemicals – These substances break down fabric fibers and can weaken the blanket’s structural integrity.
- Overloading washing machine – Puts excessive strain on the machine and prevents thorough cleaning of the blanket.
- Fabric softeners – Create unwanted residue that affects the blanket’s texture and weight distribution.
- Wringing or twisting – Damages internal filling and distorts the blanket’s shape.
- Machine washing natural-filled blankets – Sand or bean fillings require professional dry cleaning only.
- High heat settings – Can melt synthetic materials and cause uneven weight distribution.
- Frequent washing – Excessive cleaning accelerates wear and tear on the blanket’s materials.
Steps
Cleaning a weighted blanket requires careful attention to protect its unique construction while guaranteeing thorough sanitization. The process involves several key steps that, when followed correctly, will help maintain the blanket’s quality and extend its lifespan without compromising its therapeutic benefits or damaging the weighted elements inside.
Step 1: Check the care label for specific washing instructions
Step 2: Remove any visible debris and pre-treat stains with appropriate cleaning solutions
Step 3: Confirm the blanket weighs less than 20 pounds for machine washing
Step 4: Load the blanket evenly in the washing machine
Step 5: Select cold water and gentle cycle settings
Step 6: Add a mild detergent, avoiding fabric softeners
Step 7: Run the complete wash cycle
Step 8: Remove promptly after washing
Step 9: Lay flat to air dry in a well-ventilated area
Step 10: Flip the blanket periodically during drying
Step 11: Confirm the blanket is completely dry before using or storing
Final Thoughts
After mastering these steps, you’ll find that maintaining your weighted blanket isn’t as challenging as it might seem.
Regular cleaning with cold water on a gentle cycle, following care instructions, and using a duvet cover will extend your blanket’s life.
Whether you choose to machine wash or air dry, remember that consistent care with low heat settings will keep your weighted blanket fresh and comfortable for years to come.
Caring for your weighted blanket doesn’t have to be an intimidating task when you follow proper cleaning guidelines. Regular maintenance not only guarantees your blanket stays fresh and hygienic but also helps preserve its therapeutic benefits for years to come.
By checking care labels, using appropriate washing methods, treating stains promptly, and drying correctly, you can keep your weighted blanket in peak condition.
Take the time to establish a regular cleaning schedule that works for your lifestyle and usage patterns. Whether you choose to hand wash, machine wash, or dry clean your blanket, consistent care will prevent dirt and odor buildup while maintaining the integrity of the blanket’s weight distribution and fabric quality.
Start implementing these cleaning practices today to protect your investment and continue enjoying the comfort and benefits of your weighted blanket. Your future self will thank you for taking good care of this valuable wellness tool.
