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Published: Mar 6, 2022 | Last Modified: Apr 13, 2022 | Author: adrienne

How To Wash A Weighted Blanket

Weighted blankets are great for soothing sore muscles, helping light sleepers fall asleep faster, and improving overall health. They can be very useful tools for those who suffer from insomnia, provide support and comfort during sleep, and they can even help reduce stress levels. However, if you use your blanket every day, it will eventually get dirty. Fortunately, there are ways to wash your weighted blanket to keep it looking and feeling fresh.

Close up of a stack of colorful weighted blankets.

How Often Should Weighted Blankets Be Washed?

The best way to keep your weighted blanket clean is to wash it regularly. If you do not have access to a washing machine, you can hand-wash it with soap and water.

We recommend cleaning your weighted blanket at least once per week to be safe.

You should always check your instructions before using any product. Some weighted blankets require special care, such as being washed by hand, while others may only need to be cleaned with soap and water.

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Weighted Blanket Care Guidelines

Before washing your weighted blanket, make sure you read the following guidelines:

  • Do not use bleach or other harsh chemicals on your weighted blanket. These products could damage your weighted blanket's fabric.
  • Wash your weighted blanket inside out. This prevents dirt from getting trapped between the layers of material.
  • Use mild soap and warm water. You can use dishwashing liquid instead of soap if you prefer.
  • Dry your weighted blanket thoroughly after washing. Air drying is preferable, which is why it’s best to wait for a nice, sunny day to do the wash.
  • Store your weighted blanket in a plastic bag when not in use.
  • Keep your weighted blanket away from heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, and stoves.
  • Don't let your weighted blanket touch anything wet.
  • Avoid placing your weighted blanket near electrical outlets or fans because these devices might cause an electric shock.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions about how to care for your weighted blanket.

How To Machine Wash A Weighted Blanket

If you want to machine wash your weighted blanket, be sure to follow the steps below:

  1. Place your weighted blanket into a pillowcase or similar laundry sack.
  2. Add some detergent to the wash cycle.
  3. Make sure the temperature setting is set to cold.
  4. Run the washer until all the items are completely clean.
  5. Remove the weighted blanket from the wash basket and place it onto a towel to dry.

Remember to consider which fabrics increase the heaviness of your weighted blanket. This will help you determine whether or not you need to use warm or cold water.

If you're not sure, we always recommend washing your weighted blanket with cold water. You can check the tags inside your weighted blanket to discover its material. 

How To Wash A Weighted Blanket By Hand

Hand washing your weighted blanket is one of the easiest methods for cleaning your weighted blanket. Here are some tips for doing this:

  1. Fill a sink or tub with lukewarm water.
  2. Add 1 tablespoon of mild soap (like dishwashing liquid).
  3. Soak your weighted blanket for 10 minutes.
  4. Rinse the weighted blanket under running water.
  5. Let the weighted blanket air dry.
  6. Repeat Steps 2 through 5 every time you wash your weighted blanket.

How To Dry A Weighted Blanket

After washing your weighted blanket, you'll need to dry it properly. Here are some tips to ensure that your weighted blanket dries quickly:

  1. Lay the weighted blanket flat on a towel.
  2. Let the weighted blanket air dry overnight.
  3. Dry the weighted blanket on a low-heat setting. 
  4. If it’s sunny outside, and you can keep your blanket elevated, set it up and leave it to dry during daylight hours.

Not all weighted blankets will be able to withstand heat. If you can tumble dry your weighted blanket, ALWAYS use a low heat setting, and don't leave it running for too long.

We recommend checking on your weighted blanket every 15 minutes to prevent it from overheating. 

Things To Avoid

If you want to give your weighted blanket the care it deserves, here are a few things you should avoid:

  • Do not expose your weighted blanket to extreme temperatures.
  • Do not put your weighted blanket next to a radiator, fireplace, or stove.
  • Do not use fabric softener when laundering your weighted blanket.
  • Do not iron your weighted blanket.
  • Do not bleach your weighted blanket.
  • Do not use harsh chemicals like ammonia or chlorine.
  • Do not use scented products such as bubble bath or lotion.

Fabric Considerations

Before you use any of the above methods to clean your weighted blanket, you'll need to take its fabric into consideration.

Blankets hanging on a laundry line blowing in the wind.

Some weighted blankets have different materials than others. The following list shows what type of fabric each weighted blanket has.

Cotton

Cotton is usually the most common fabric used to make weighted blankets today. It's breathable, easy to clean, and hypoallergenic.

However, cotton tends to shrink over time. To combat this problem, we suggest using an anti-shrink agent in the wash cycle.

Silk

Silk is very durable, but it doesn't breathe well. Because of this, silk weighted blankets tend to get musty smelling after being worn for a while.

It’s also quite a sensitive fabric, which is why we recommend hand washing your silk weighted blanket instead of machine washing it.

Polyester

Polyester is made up of synthetic fibers. These fibers are strong, yet they also tend to be scratchy. Polyester weighted blankets often come with a removable cover for easy cleaning.

Fleece

Fleece is similar to wool, except it's softer. Like wool, fleece weighted blankets are great because they're comfortable, warm, and easy to clean. They also tend to be more expensive than other fabrics.

Wool

Wool is one of the strongest fabrics available. This makes it ideal for making weighted blankets. However, wool weighted blankets tend to be heavy and bulky. In addition, they require special care since they can stain easily.

Top Weighted Blankets Of 2022

  • Sherpa Fleece Weighted Blanket 20lbs
  • Zzzhen Weighted Blanket 15lbs
  • Comfort Spaces Reversible Blanket 15lbs
  • Hypnoser Cooling 15lbs blanket
  • Handmade Chunky Weighted Blanket

Frequently Asked Questions

Can A Weighted Blanket Be Dry Cleaned?

In many cases yes it can. Make sure you check the label and manufacturers instructions before you take it to the cleaners.

What Is Inside A Weighted Blanket?

Pellets or glass beads are usually inside the blankets.

How Can I Cut Back On Washing?

Place your blanket in a duvet cover to protect it from sweat and stains. Remove the cover and wash as needed. If you use a cover you will only have to wash the weighted blanket a few times per year.

Will Washing A Weighted Blanket Ruin My Washing Machine?

The weight of the fabric can damage the inside of your machine. For blankets above 12 pounds consider bringing them to a laundromat where you can uses a machine that will be able to with stand heavier weights.

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Hi I’m Adrienne Carrie Hubbard.I believe a rich life comes not from the things you have, but the things you do; the experiences you create and the people you meet along the way. Thanks for hanging out!

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