Weighted blankets have become super popular for their ultra coziness and potential sleep benefits. But if you have one, you should know that they need some extra care to prevent damage while cleaning. Don’t worry if you don’t know How To Wash A Weighted Blanket. Today, I’ll share with you some expert tips on how to wash and care for your weighted blanket.
Expert Advice On How To Wash A Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets are a great way to get relaxed and unwind, as they have special materials and fillers. However, cleaning a weighted blanket can be a bit tricky to keep them in good condition, but it’s doable. The weight and material of these cozy weighted blankets require special care. You can do it on your own if you know the right steps to clean weighted blankets.
Considerations Before Washing Weighted Blanket
Start from the care tag on your blanket. If the fill type is tagged as machine washable, you’re good to go, but make sure that the blanket fits within the washing machine’s capacity to avoid damage. Otherwise, it is best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid damaging your weighted blanket. However, plastic poly pellets and glass microbeads are usually machine-safe.
If your weighted blanket is too large for your home washer or over 20 pounds, it’s best to take it to a laundromat with commercial-size machines. However, a lighter-weight blanket under 20 pounds can be washed in your home machine with a gentle cycle, with cold water and mild detergent. Try to avoid using bleach, fabric softeners, and ironing to keep the blanket soft and fibers intact. Keep in mind that some blankets require spot cleaning, hand washing, or dry cleaning, while some might have removable covers.
How To Wash A Weighted Blanket In A Washing Machine?
Start by carefully reviewing the care instructions to understand the specific needs of your blanket. If it is above 20 pounds, take it to a laundromat for washing. In case of machine-washable blankets, simply follow the steps below after removing the blanket cover, if there is one.
1. How To Spot Clean A Blanket?
Spot cleaning is a crucial step before washing your weighted blanket. Spot-treating stains is also necessary as soon as they happen. Simply mix warm water and mild detergent to create a gentle cleaning solution. Now, use a toothbrush or a microfibre cloth to scrub the stain. Use cold or lukewarm water to avoid setting the stain. After that, rinse with cold water to effectively remove stains.
Please note that different types of stains require specific treatments. For tougher stains, soak the spot in cold water with a fabric-safe stain remover laundry detergent can help loosen it. You can use white vinegar for natural pigment stains. For sand, yellowing, blood, or other organic filers, you can use white vinegar, mild dish soap, or hydrogen peroxide, while heavy grease stains can be removed with a degreaser. However, never use bleach when spot-treating a weighted blanket.
2. Wash In Your Washing Machine
After spot cleaning your blanket, follow the care label’s temperature and spin speed guidelines for machine washing. Check your washing machine’s capacity to handle your blanket’s weight. Also, make sure the drum is at least ¾ full, even if the machine can handle the weight, to avoid potential damage and imbalance during the spin cycle. Also, avoid overloading or adding extra items to the drum.
After that, place the blanket evenly in the wash tub to ensure efficient cleaning. Select a gentle cycle with cool water and mild detergent to help preserve the blanket’s quality. You can also use a very small amount of fabric softener, which is optional, to keep the blanket’s quality maintained. However, a high amount of fabric softener can harm the blanket’s materials. An extra rinse cycle can also ensure the blanket doesn’t retain detergent.
3. How To Dry A Weighted Blanket?
Check and follow the care instructions before drying your weighted blanket. If it allows machine drying, simply use a low-heat setting and shake or fluff the blanket often to help it dry evenly. If air drying is recommended, just lay it flat on a clean surface or a sturdy drying rack in a well-ventilated area. You may also use a water-resistant surface with towels to absorb excess moisture. You can place a sheet or a plastic sheet down on the floor to keep it clean.
Flipping and rotating the blanket regularly every four hours can speed up the process and will help it dry evenly. Please note that air drying takes around 1 to 2 days. Also, try to avoid hanging weighted blankets, as it may cause the beads to shift. You can use a dryer on low heat to dry it. Just fluff the blanket periodically while pausing the dryer to dry it evenly. You can also use a strong drying rack for small blankets. Whatever method you choose, it’s crucial to ensure the blanket is thoroughly dry before using it.
How To Wash A Weighted Blanket By Hand?
Check the care tag on your blanket for the manufacturer’s recommendations. If it requires professional dry cleaning, find a professional nearby. Otherwise, you can follow these steps if it allows hand washing.
1. Prepare The Cleaning Solution
For hand-washable weighted blankets, use a large container, sink, or your bathtub. Start by cleaning your bathtub, sink, or the container thoroughly to prevent any residue from staining the blanket. Now, mix cold water with mild detergent to create a gentle cleaning solution and stir it well to ensure the detergent is evenly distributed. After that, spot clean any stains on your blanket before soaking it in this cleaning solution.
2. Soaking & Cleaning The Blanket
Now, submerge the blanket in this cleaning solution and let it soak for 10 to 30 minutes to help loosen dirt and stains. Use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub any particularly dirty areas to get rid of tough stains.
3. Rinsing & Drying The Blanket
After that, rinse the blanket thoroughly with cold water to remove all soap residue and squeeze out excess water. Repeat the rinsing process until the water is clear to ensure your weighted blanket is fresh and clean.
Squeezing out excess water thoroughly is important before drying. After that, lay it flat or hang it to air dry. Complete air drying takes almost 24 to 48 hours. Turning the blanket every four to six hours will also help speed up the drying process and prevent clumping or moisture buildup.
How To Keep Your Weighted Blanket Clean & Fresh Longer?
Those looking for how to wash a weighted blanket and keep it clean longer, I’m sharing here some useful tips that can help you a lot. You can use a removable duvet cover for your blanket as it’s easier to wash and protects the blanket. Try to avoid drinking or eating on it to prevent stains and spills. If you do notice any stains, be quick to spot clean them to prevent them from setting in.
Try to keep your bedroom cool while sleeping with the blanket to help reduce moisture and sweat accumulation. After using the blanket, flip it down to release any moisture buildup and air it out. After use, you can put the blanket away too, after each use, rather than leaving it on the bed. If you’re storing it, consider gently rolling or folding it when putting it into your storage bag or closet.
If you’re a pet owner, make sure that they sleep on top of the blanket. Plus, try using a lint roller regularly to remove pet hair and dander from the blanket, as they love to snuggle up with you. If you notice any rips or tears in your blanket, sew them shut to prevent them from getting worse, and repair the cover separately from the blanket. By following these simple and easy tips, you can keep your weighted blanket fresh and clean for longer.
How To Deodorize Weighted Blanket Between Washes?
Deodorizing weighted blankets between washes will give them a fresh feel. However, washing regularly and drying the blankets can definitely help prevent bad smells, but sometimes, you may require a little extra care to remove the odors.
Banking soda can help you get rid of unpleasant smells in a weighted blanket. A small bag with dried lavender can help you give a soothing a calming scent to your blanket. Hanging the blanket outside in a ventilated area or the sunshine is also a great way to freshen it up. You may also use essential oils and fabric sprays, but be aware that they can damage the fabric.
How Often Should I Wash My Weighted Blanket?
How often you wash your weighted blanket depends on how often you use it or how it’s used. If you use it nightly, consider washing it every 2 to 3 weeks or when it gets dirty to keep it fresh and clean. Please note that frequent washing weighted blanket can shorten its lifespan. If you only use it occasionally, like during the day, consider washing it after every 3 to 4 months while airing it out regularly.
You can try using a removable protective or duvet cover to help reduce the need for frequent washing. However, if it’s layered over a duvet cover and comes into contact with your skin or pets regularly, consider washing it fortnightly or monthly. If it doesn’t directly touch your skin, you may wash it every couple of months. If you’ve stored your blanket for a while and want to use it, consider washing it before use to get rid of dust and germs.
Bottom Line
It’s important to check the care tag of your weighted blanket for specific instructions before washing it. If it’s over 20 pounds, a commercial laundromat would be better than machine washing. Also, make sure your washer and dryer can handle the blanket’s weight.
I hope the above guide will be helpful for you regarding how to wash a weighted blanket. If you still need any assistance, comment down and the experts at styleofhome.com be there for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Do I Wash A Weighted Blanket At Home?
You can wash your weighted blanket at home if it’s light, under 20 pounds, and machine washable. Use cold water, a gentle cycle, and mild soap. Don’t use fabric softener or bleach. Always check the care label for specific instructions.
How Should I Spot Clean A Weighted Blanket?
Mix warm water with a mild detergent for small stains. Gently scrub the stain with a soft cloth or toothbrush. After that, rinse with clean water and let it air dry completely for 1 to 2 days.
Are There Different Care Instructions Based On Blanket Materials?
Yes, the type of fabric and filling affects how to clean your weighted blanket. Some, like those with glass beads, can be machine washed, while others with natural fillings like rice or beans may need spot cleaning or dry cleaning.
Is Hand Washing A Weighted Blanket An Option?
Yes, you can hand wash blankets that can’t be machine washed. Simply fill a large sink or a bathtub with cold water and mild soap. Now, submerge the blanket, gently swish it around, rinse well, and press out excess water. After that, air dry it for 1 to 2 days.
What Should I Avoid When Washing A Weighted Blanket?
Try to avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as they can damage the blanket. Also, don’t wring it out, as this can harm the inside. Always follow the care instructions to keep your blanket in good condition.