Washing a weighted blanket doesn't have to be complicated. Yes, you can wash a weighted blanket either in your washing machine or by hand, depending on its weight and care instructions. For machine washing, use cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, ensuring your washer can handle the weight (typically up to 20-25 pounds). For heavier blankets or those with special fillings, hand washing or professional cleaning may be necessary.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of caring for your weighted blanket, from checking care labels to proper drying techniques. Whether you're dealing with a 15-pound comfort blanket or washing a 25lb weighted blanket, you'll find expert tips to keep your investment fresh and long-lasting.
Contents
Before diving into the washing process, it's crucial to understand what type of weighted blanket you own. Different materials and fillings require specific care approaches.
Every weighted blanket comes with manufacturer's care instructions that should be your primary guide. These labels indicate whether your blanket is machine washable, hand wash only, or requires dry cleaning.
The filling material significantly impacts how to wash a weighted blanket in washer settings. Glass beads and plastic pellets typically handle machine washing well. However, organic fillings like rice, beans, or sand require spot cleaning only.
Most home washing machines can handle blankets up to 20 pounds. For washing 25lb weighted blanket or heavier options, consider using a commercial washer at a laundromat to prevent damage to your machine.
Front-loading washers work better than top-loading models with agitators. The agitator can cause uneven weight distribution and potentially tear the fabric.
The question "are weighted blankets machine washable" depends on several factors. Most modern weighted blankets with synthetic fillings can go in the washing machine.
Blankets filled with glass beads, steel shot beads, or plastic pellets are generally machine washable. These materials don't absorb water and maintain their weight distribution during washing.
Cotton, polyester, and fleece covers typically handle machine washing well. Minky fabric blankets also machine wash successfully with proper care.
Skip the washing machine if your blanket contains organic materials like rice, corn, or beans. These fillings can rot or mold when exposed to moisture.
Blankets over 20-25 pounds may exceed your home washer's capacity. Check your machine's manual for weight limits before attempting to wash heavy blankets.
Follow these detailed steps for machine washing your weighted blanket safely and effectively.
Remove any duvet cover if your blanket has one. These covers can be washed separately using regular bedding care instructions, making maintenance easier.
Pre-treat any visible stains with a gentle stain remover. Apply the product directly to stains and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before washing.
Place the blanket in the washer by itself to ensure even weight distribution. Adding other items can cause imbalance during the spin cycle.
Use cold or warm water (never hot) on a gentle or delicate cycle. Hot water can damage the fabric and affect the blanket's weight distribution.
Add a small amount of mild, bleach-free detergent. Using too much detergent can leave residue that's difficult to rinse from the heavy fabric.
Ensure the blanket spreads evenly in the drum. For top-loading washers, you may need to stop and redistribute the blanket during the cycle.
Select a low spin speed to prevent excessive stress on your washing machine. High-speed spinning can damage both the blanket and your washer.
Hand washing provides a gentler alternative for delicate fabrics or extra-heavy blankets.
Clean your bathtub thoroughly before starting. Any soap residue or grime can transfer to your blanket during washing.
Fill the tub with cool to lukewarm water, adding a small amount of gentle detergent. Mix the water thoroughly to distribute the soap evenly.
Submerge the blanket completely, gently pressing to ensure water penetrates all layers. Let it soak for 15-30 minutes to loosen dirt and oils.
Gently massage the blanket, working the soapy water through the fabric. Avoid aggressive scrubbing or wringing, which can damage the internal structure.
Drain the soapy water and refill with clean water for rinsing. Repeat this process until no soap suds remain.
Press out water gently without wringing or twisting the blanket. Rolling the blanket in large towels can help absorb excess moisture.
Support the blanket's full weight when lifting to prevent stretching or tearing. Have someone help you if the blanket is particularly heavy when wet.
Proper drying is crucial to prevent mildew and maintain your blanket's shape and effectiveness.
Can you wash a weighted blanket in washer and dryer? Yes, but use low heat settings only. High heat can damage both fabric and filling materials.
Add clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff the blanket and distribute filling evenly. This prevents clumping and ensures even drying.
Check the blanket every 30 minutes, redistributing as needed. Remove while slightly damp to prevent over-drying and shrinkage.
Lay the blanket flat on a clean surface, preferably elevated on a drying rack. This method prevents filling from settling to one end.
For outdoor drying, choose a shaded area to prevent sun damage. Use a clean tarp underneath to protect from ground moisture and debris.
Flip the blanket every few hours to ensure even drying. Shake it periodically to redistribute the filling material.
Different materials require specific care approaches to maintain their quality and longevity.
Cotton blankets are the most durable and easiest to care for. They withstand regular washing without significant wear.
Add a cup of white vinegar to the first wash to set colors and prevent bleeding. This natural solution also helps remove any manufacturing residues.
These synthetic fabrics require cooler water temperatures. Hot water can cause pilling and reduce the fabric's soft texture.
Skip fabric softeners, which can damage the fibers. The materials naturally maintain their softness without additional products.
Hand-knitted blankets need extra gentle care. Machine washing can cause stretching and distortion of the knit pattern.
Spot clean when possible, and hand wash only when necessary. Support the entire blanket when wet to prevent stretching.
Sometimes a full wash isn't necessary. Spot cleaning extends time between washes and preserves your blanket's lifespan.
Mix mild dish soap with cold water to create a gentle cleaning solution. Avoid harsh chemicals that might damage fabrics or affect the weighted filling.
Dab the solution onto stains using a clean cloth. Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading.
For food stains, treat immediately with cold water before the stain sets. Enzyme-based cleaners work well for protein-based stains.
Coffee or wine stains respond to white vinegar solutions. Apply, let sit briefly, then blot with clean water.
Montauk weighted blanket washing instructions may vary by specific model, but general guidelines apply to most of their products.
Most Montauk blankets feature machine-washable designs. Check the specific care tag for your model's requirements.
Use gentle cycles with cold water for best results. Their quality construction handles regular washing when done properly.
Follow temperature guidelines strictly to preserve fabric integrity. Montauk's premium materials respond best to gentle care.
Consider using a duvet cover to reduce washing frequency. This simple addition significantly extends your blanket's lifespan.
Some situations call for professional cleaning services rather than home washing methods.
Blankets labeled "dry clean only" should always go to professionals. Attempting home washing can permanently damage these items.
Very expensive or delicate weighted blankets benefit from professional care. The cost is worth protecting your investment.
Commercial washers handle washing 25lb weighted blanket sizes easily. Their larger capacity prevents overcrowding and ensures thorough cleaning.
Many laundromats offer specialized settings for bulky items. Ask staff for recommendations on optimal settings for weighted blankets.
Proper care between washes keeps your blanket fresh longer and reduces washing frequency.
Invest in a quality duvet cover designed for weighted blankets. These covers are much easier to wash than the blanket itself.
Choose covers with strong closures to handle the blanket's weight. Zipper closures typically work better than buttons for heavy blankets.
Air out your blanket regularly by hanging it over a chair or railing. This prevents moisture buildup and keeps it fresh.
Rotate your blanket periodically to ensure even wear. This simple practice extends its usable life significantly.
Learning what not to do is as important as knowing proper techniques.
Never use hot water, even if the blanket seems extra dirty. High temperatures can shrink fabrics and damage filling materials.
Avoid switching between extreme temperatures during washing and drying. Gradual temperature changes prevent shock to materials.
Skip bleach entirely, even for white blankets. Harsh chemicals weaken fabrics and can damage weighted filling materials.
Fabric softeners leave residue that attracts dirt. Your blanket stays cleaner longer without these unnecessary additives.
While maintaining your weighted blanket, consider enhancing your entire sleep space. Explore these bedroom decor ideas to create a cohesive, relaxing environment.
For complete bedding coordination, understanding the difference between duvets and comforters helps you make informed choices about bedding layers.
Proper laundry room setup makes weighted blanket care easier. Consider these laundry room ideas for efficient organization.
Transform your laundry space with attractive small space laundry room ideas that accommodate bulky items like weighted blankets.
Add personality with laundry room wallpaper or laundry room paint colors while maintaining functionality.
For additional guidance on textile care, the Good Housekeeping Institute offers research-backed cleaning advice.
The Sleep Foundation provides comprehensive information about weighted blanket maintenance and sleep health.
If you use your weighted blanket nightly, wash it every 2-4 weeks. Less frequent use requires washing every 2-3 months.
Using a removable cover significantly reduces washing frequency. With a cover, you might only need to wash the blanket itself seasonally.
Can you wash a weighted blanket washer depends on its weight and your machine's capacity. Most home washers handle blankets up to 20 pounds safely.
Check your washer's manual for specific weight limits. When in doubt, use a commercial machine for heavier blankets.
Choose mild, liquid detergents without bleach or brighteners. These gentle formulas clean effectively without damaging materials.
Use about half the recommended amount for a regular load. Too much detergent is difficult to rinse from thick, heavy fabrics.
Add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle to eliminate odors naturally. This also helps remove detergent buildup.
Ensure complete drying to prevent future mustiness. Even slight dampness can cause odor problems in thick blankets.
Never iron weighted blankets directly. High heat can melt synthetic fillings and damage fabric.
If wrinkles bother you, hang the damp blanket smoothly while drying. The weight naturally pulls out most wrinkles.
Proper care ensures your weighted blanket provides comfort for years. Whether you're washing a 25lb weighted blanket or caring for a lighter option, following these guidelines protects your investment.
Remember that regular maintenance between washes extends your blanket's life. From understanding how to clean a weighted blanket to mastering proper drying techniques, each step contributes to long-lasting comfort.
Ready to upgrade your bedroom comfort? Explore weighted blanket options and transform your sleep experience. With proper care, your weighted blanket will provide soothing comfort night after night.