How To Wash A Weighted Blanket At (Home, Hand & Machine)

Keeping your weighted blanket clean helps with hygiene and ensures it lasts longer. Over time, dirt, sweat, and stains can affect how it feels and performs.

Washing it the right way prevents unnecessary wear or damage. Before you begin, always check the care label to understand how to clean it properly.

It’s the simplest way to protect your blanket and keep it in great condition.

1. Things To Know Before Washing

Before washing your weighted blanket, it’s important to take a few steps to avoid any damage and ensure proper cleaning.

a. Understand the Material

The fabric and filler of your blanket determine how it should be cleaned. Some common fabrics include cotton, polyester, and bamboo, each requiring different care.

For instance, cotton can usually handle machine washing, while bamboo might need gentler handling. The interior fillers, like glass beads, plastic pellets, or organic materials, also play a role. These fillers can shift or lose their shape if the wrong method is used, so understanding the material is key.

b. Check the Care Label

The care label is your best guide when washing a weighted blanket. It tells you whether the blanket is machine washable or if it needs hand washing.

It also mentions the maximum weight your washer can handle. Overloading your machine with a heavy blanket can lead to damage, so always confirm your washer’s capacity before starting.

c. Inspect for Damage

Before washing, take a few minutes to check for any loose stitching, small tears, or weak spots. Washing a damaged blanket can make these issues worse, potentially causing filler to spill out or seams to rip further. Repair any damage beforehand to keep your blanket intact during the cleaning process.

2. How To Wash Your Weighted Blanket

Washing a weighted blanket requires extra care, whether you’re using a washing machine or doing it by hand. Choosing the right method depends on the blanket’s weight, fabric, and fillers.

a. Machine Washing

For blankets that weigh less than 20–25 pounds and fit comfortably in your washer, machine washing is an option. Start by selecting a gentle cycle and use cold water to protect both the fabric and the fillers.

Add a mild detergent that’s free from harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can weaken the material. Make sure the washer isn’t overloaded, and avoid spinning at high speeds to prevent stretching or uneven filler distribution.

b. Hand Washing

If your blanket is made from delicate fabrics or is too heavy for your washing machine, hand washing is a safer choice. Fill a bathtub or large basin with cold water and mix in a small amount of mild detergent.

Submerge the blanket completely and gently agitate it to loosen dirt. Once clean, drain the soapy water and rinse the blanket thoroughly with fresh water until all detergent is removed. Avoid wringing the fabric, as this can damage the stitching or fillers—press it gently to remove excess water instead.

3. Drying Your Weighted Blanket

Drying your weighted blanket properly is just as important as washing it. Using the wrong method can damage the fabric or fillers, so follow these steps for safe and effective drying.

a. Air Drying

Air drying is the safest option for most weighted blankets, especially if they have delicate materials or fillers. Lay the blanket flat on a drying rack or a clean, flat surface to maintain its shape.

Spread it out evenly to ensure proper airflow and prevent the fillers from shifting or clumping. Check periodically and flip the blanket if needed to help it dry evenly. This method may take longer, but it protects the blanket’s structure and keeps it in good condition.

b. Using a Dryer

If the care label allows, you can use a dryer for quicker results. Select a low-heat or air-only setting to avoid overheating the fabric or fillers. To keep the blanket fluffy and evenly distributed, add a few dryer balls or clean tennis balls during the drying cycle.

These help redistribute the fillers and prevent clumping. Make sure the dryer has enough space for the blanket to tumble freely. Always check on it periodically to ensure it’s drying evenly without overheating.

Conclusion

Taking the time to wash and dry your weighted blanket properly helps keep it clean, comfortable, and long-lasting.

By following these simple steps understanding the materials, checking the care label, and choosing the right washing and drying method you can avoid unnecessary damage and keep your blanket in top shape for years to come.

In this article, I’ve covered everything you need to know about caring for your weighted blanket. If you have your own tips or experiences, feel free to share them in the comments.