How to wash a weighted blanket?
Weighted blankets have become increasingly popular, and it’s not surprising why. For one, they’re known to improve sleep quality and can also be very chic, making them a beautiful addition to any home. But there is a downside: washing these blankets. Because of their weight, they’re not the easiest to clean, especially when they aren’t safely tucked into a duvet cover. So, if you’re wondering how to wash a weighted blanket, you’re in the right place! We’ll be uncovering everything about washing weighted blankets with a washing machine and by hand.
Can you wash a weighted blanket?
Let’s start with the most important question, ‘Can weighted blankets be washed?’. The answer is it depends on the material. Weighted blankets made from materials like plastic pellets, steel shot beads, smooth pebbles, and micro glass beads can be washed. However, weighted blankets made from materials like sand, corn, and beans can’t.
If you have a washable blanket (check the fabric care label), it’s important to wash it occasionally. Blankets collect dirt over time and it’s essential to clean them to maintain a clean environment. Another big question, though, is whether a weighted blanket can be washed in the washing machine. The answer to that depends on the type of the weighted blanket, i.e., the material, size and manufacturer’s care label.
Generally, weighted blankets weighing above 20 pounds should be washed professionally at a laundromat. You should also avoid washing your weighted blanket in a washing machine if it’s made from organic materials like sand, corn, beans and rice (these materials are non-washable).
Your first indicator of how best to wash your weighted blanket is the fabric care label on your blanket. Here, you’ll find all the instructions on how to wash your weighted blanket correctly. If you’re missing the care label, you could always check the manufacturer’s website for this information. Otherwise, a few things to keep in mind when correctly washing a weighted blanket include:
Washing the weighted blankets alone. Weighted blankets are already big enough as is and adding more stuff to the load will overwhelm your washing machine. Avoid this by washing the weighted blanket by itself.
Here’s how to wash a weighted blanket in a washing machine:
Step 1
Start by pre-treating any stains on your weighted blanket. You can easily do this by using a high quality detergent like Tide liquid. Cover the stain with a small amount of liquid detergent and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
Step 2
We recommend placing the blanket in your washing machine, making sure to evenly distribute the blanket in the tub. Wash on the gentle cycle using cold water and a high quality detergent.
Step 3
Lastly, dry the blanket. You can air dry your blanket or use a dryer over a low-heat setting. If you opt for the dryer, stop the cycle occasionally and fluff the blanket to ensure it dries evenly. If you choose to air dry your blanket instead, do this on a clean, flat surface and turn the blanket over every four hours to ensure that it dries evenly. Expect this process to last for 24-48 hours.
How to wash a weighted blanket with beads
Weighted blankets come in numerous styles, and cleaning will vary for each kind. When washing weighted blankets with beads, you’ll need to use the hand wash and air-dry method. Use cold water and avoid using bleach. It’s also best to avoid tumble dryers, especially at high temperatures, as this can damage the beads. Air drying will provide the best results and only require you to turn the blanket occasionally before it fully dries.
Is it possible to clean a weighted blanket without a washing machine?
If you’ve been wondering whether you can wash a weighted blanket by hand, the answer is yes. In fact, certain types of weighted blankets, like those containing glass beads and smooth pebbles or steel shot beads, only require hand washing. So, if you have either of these weighted blankets, follow our simple step-by-step guide on how to clean a weighted blanket without a washing machine.
1. Spot treat your blanket. Use a toothbrush and cleaning solution made of water and a high-quality detergent and scrub out any stains. Soak in the solution for about an hour.
2. Make a cleaning solution. Fill a large sink, basin or bathtub with cold water and high-quality laundry detergent. Mix.
3. Soak the blanket. Place your blanket in the solution, ensuring it’s fully submerged) and allow your blanket to soak for 10-60 minutes depending on your preference.
4. Scrub. Use a soft brush to clean the blanket.
5. Rinse. Rinse out the weighted blanket until the water is clear.
How to dry a weighted blanket?
The next step in cleaning a weighted blanket is to dry it after washing. First check the care label If the item can be machine dried, tumble dry on low until dry. You can also choose to air dry. To do this, flatly lay your weighted blanket on a flat surface and allow it to dry. Turn the blanket every four to six hours to ensure it dries evenly on all sides. Keep in mind that it might take up to 48 hours for your blanket to fully dry.
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