Weighted blankets are a popular choice for people struggling with sleep and anxiety, as they provide comfort and security because they provide some weight to your body other than regular comforters. Like any other item in your home, weighted blankets need to be cleaned to maintain hygiene and freshness. 

Regular cleaning can help prolong the lifespan of the blanket, prevent bacteria growth, and keep unpleasant odors away. This Post will discuss the steps to wash a weighted blanket properly and how to keep it in its best condition.

Before You Begin

Read the care label or manufacturer’s instructions

Before you start cleaning your weighted blanket, it is essential to read the care tag or manufacturer’s instructions. 

Some weighted blankets may have different washing requirements, such as using only hand washing or dry cleaning, so it is important to follow these instructions carefully to avoid damaging the blanket.

Usually, the following washing steps are recommended:

Gather necessary cleaning materials

You will need a soft detergent, preferably one designed for delicate fabrics, and a stain remover if needed. You may also need a basin or bathtub to hand wash the blanket or a washing machine if you choose to machine wash. 

How to wash a weighted blanket

Step 1: Remove stains

Stains can set in and become more difficult to remove if not treated immediately. To remove stains, gently blot the affected area with a clean cloth or sponge and a stain remover. Make sure to test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket first to ensure it does not cause any damage.

Cover Only:

Suppose the cover of a weighted blanket is removable. In that case, it is recommended to wash only the cover and not the weighted inner layer. 

This is because the weighted inner layer is usually filled with plastic pellets, microglass beads or steel shot beads, which can damage the washing machine or become misshapen if exposed to excessive water or agitation during the cleaning process. 

Additionally, washing the entire blanket can cause the weight to become unevenly distributed, affecting the blanket’s effectiveness and comfort. 

By washing only the removable duvet cover, you can maintain the cleanliness and performance of the weighted blanket without causing any damage.

Spot Clean or Dry clean:

Spot cleaning may be better than washing the entire weighted blanket if there are only a few stains on the blanket. 

Use a clean cloth or sponge to spot clean, apply the stain remover, and gently blot the stained area. Repeat the process until the stain is removed.

How Often Should Weighted Blankets Be Washed?

Conclusion

Washing a weighted blanket is crucial in maintaining its cleanliness, freshness, and effectiveness. Following the proper care instructions and cleaning the blanket regularly can ensure its longevity and make the most of your investment.

It’s important to note that most weighted blankets have additional care requirements, so always check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing. By taking good care of your weighted blanket, you can enjoy its benefits for years.

FAQ:

How to wash a weighted blanket with glass beads?

1. Use a Gentle Cycle: When cleaning your weighted blanket in the machine, choose a gentle cycle and cold water. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage the microglass beads.
2. Avoid Overloading the Machine: Overloading the machine can cause excessive agitation, which can cause the microglass beads to shift or become misshapen.
3. Use a Gentle Detergent: Use a gentle detergent and fabric softeners to avoid damaging the blanket or the microglass beads. Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softener.
4. Machine Dry on Low Heat: If using a machine dryer, choose a low heat setting. Avoid over-drying or use air dry, as this can cause the glass bead to become misshapen.

How to wash a weighted blanket with sand?

weighted blanket fillers like sand or even organic materials may be more challenging to wash than those filled with other materials, like plastic poly pellets or microglass beads. Sand is heavier and less likely to move, which can make it difficult to clean the blanket thoroughly.

Additionally, the weight and abrasiveness of the sand can cause damage to the weighted blanket and washing machine during the cleaning process. For these reasons, cleaning weighted blankets filled with sand is not recommended.

It’s best to spot-clean it or have it professionally cleaned. This can help ensure that the sand remains evenly distributed and that the blanket stays in good condition.

When spot cleaning, use a damp cloth and a soft detergent to clean the affected areas. Avoid using too hot or too cold water, as this can cause the sand to shift. After spot cleaning, hang the weighted blanket in a well-ventilated area to air dry. Please do not put it in a dryer, as the heat and agitation can cause the sand to misshapen.

How to wash a 20 lb weighted blanket

Washing a 20 lb weighted blanket should not cause any problems for a washing machine as long as the machine is in good working condition and not overloaded. The weight of the blanket can put extra strain on the washing machine, so it’s essential to take care when washing it.