Can You Wash Weighted Blankets? A Comprehensive Guide

I. Introduction

Weighted blankets have gained a lot of popularity in recent years as a natural way to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and promote relaxation. But with frequent use, it is important to keep your weighted blanket clean to maintain its effectiveness and prolong the lifespan of the product. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to wash a weighted blanket so that you can enjoy its benefits for years to come.

II. How to Wash a Weighted Blanket at Home

The first thing you need to know before washing a weighted blanket is to check the care label on the product. Most weighted blankets are machine washable, but some may require hand washing or dry cleaning. If the care label allows machine wash, here are the steps to follow:

1. Prepare the washing machine. Make sure the machine is large enough to accommodate the size of your blanket and set it to a gentle cycle with cold water.
2. Use a mild detergent. To avoid damaging the fabric, it’s essential to choose a mild detergent that is free from bleach and fabric softeners.
3. Place the blanket in the machine and start the wash cycle
4. Once the cycle finishes, remove the blanket and run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all the detergent is removed.
5. Air dry the blanket by hanging it outside, or lay it flat on a clean surface indoors.

Note that while some blankets can be tumble dried, most manufacturers recommend air-drying to maintain the integrity of the product.

III. The Dos and Don’ts of Washing Your Weighted Blanket

Here are some things to avoid when washing your weighted blanket:

• Avoid using hot water as it can damage the filling of the blanket.
• Never use bleach or fabric softeners as this can damage the weighted beads’ effectiveness and flatten the fibers of the blanket.
• Don’t wring or twist the blanket as this can damage the stitching and weight distribution.

To keep your blanket in good condition, you should routinely clean it. It’s best to spot clean stains as soon as they happen rather than allowing them to set. For spot cleaning, use a damp cloth and a mild soap or laundry detergent to dab lightly on the affected area.

IV. The Best Products for Washing Weighted Blankets

Choosing the right cleaning products for your weighted blanket is essential. Here are some of the top-rated products on the market:

• Charlie’s Soap Laundry Pre-Spray: This versatile spot cleaner removes stubborn stains on all types of fabrics, including weighted blankets.
• Rockin’ Green Platinum Series Active Wear Laundry Detergent: This special formula is designed to remove tough body odor and sweat stains, making it ideal for cleaning your weighted blanket.
• Downy Unstopables In-Wash Scent Booster Beads: Weighted blankets can sometimes hold onto bad odors. These scent beads add a fresh, long-lasting scent to your blanket without damaging the fibers or beads inside.

It is important to note that some soaps or detergents can be harsh and damage the filler or lining of the blanket, so be sure to verify the detergent you want to use with the manufacturer before use.

V. How Often Should You Wash Your Weighted Blanket?

The frequency of washing depends on how frequently you use your blanket and how dirty it becomes over time. The more it is used, the more it will potentially require cleaning. It’s recommended to wash your weighted blanket every 1-2 months, depending on how often you are using it. Not washing often enough will lead to a buildup of dust and dirt that will reduce the effectiveness of the product over time. If you are using the blanket multiple times daily, the more frequent you should clean it, so it serves the purpose you need it for effectively.

VI. The Pros and Cons of Hand Washing vs. Machine Washing Your Weighted Blanket

Handwashing and machine washing offer different benefits and drawbacks when it comes to cleaning weighted blankets. Here are some things to consider before deciding which method to use:

• Hand washing can better target and remove specific stains, but it is a more labor-intensive process than machine washing.
• Machine washing is more convenient but can cause the beads to shift or clump together due to the impact of the washing machine’s agitator.

For small blankets, hand washing is the best option to ensure it remains in good condition. If the blanket is larger and cannot easily fit into a washing machine, hand washing is also recommended. For oversized weighted blankets or blankets that take up more than half of your washing machine’s capacity, traditional machines may damage the washing product. For this reason, it’s best to take it to the laundromat, use an industrial-sized washing machine or get it professionally cleaned.

VII. Conclusion

Washing a weighted blanket requires a specific set of steps and considerations to ensure its continued effectiveness. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your weighted blanket stays clean and fully functional. It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for caring for your blanket, as cleaning methods can vary based on the material and weight of the blanket. By keeping your weighted blanket clean, you can enjoy its benefits for years to come.