How to Wash a Weighted Blanket, According to a Manufacturer

How to Wash a Weighted Blanket in a Washing Machine

Remember that according to Grojean, large blankets over 20 pounds should be washed at a laundromat instead of a home machine.

1. Spot-Clean Stains

   Whenever spills or stains happen, spot-clean the blanket as needed using a toothbrush dipped in a cleaning solution. To make the cleaning solution, mix warm water and mild detergent in a bowl. Immediate spot cleaning will help keep your blanket clean between washings.

   • Combine a gentle laundry detergent with lukewarm water.
   • Scrub the stain using an old toothbrush or cloth.
   • If the stain needs more effort, try soaking the spot (or blanket) in cold water mixed with laundry detergent for 45 minutes to an hour. This will help loosen the stain.

   Always use cold or lukewarm water when cleaning stains—hot water will cause the stains to set.

   How to Remove Every Type of Stain, in One Simple Chart

2. Wash the Blanket

   If you've determined that your blanket is less than 20 pounds and is machine-washable, place it in your washing machine. Wash it on a gentle cycle, using cool water and mild detergent.

3. Dry the Blanket

   You can dry your weighted blanket in a dryer or by letting it air-dry. Whichever method you choose, it's important not to use your weighted blanket until it has dried thoroughly.

   If using the dryer, set it on the low-heat setting. The process is surprisingly speedy since glass and plastic pellets don't readily absorb water. Stop the drying cycle periodically and fluff up the weighted blanket to make sure it dries evenly.

   Alternatively, air dry the blanket on a large, clean, flat surface. Weighted blankets take about 24 to 48 hours to air dry completely. To speed up the drying process, turn the blanket every four hours.

   "If you have a strong shower bar, you can hang it up; I just don't recommend hanging a weighted blanket by one end, as it can put a strain on its seams," says Grojean.

How to Wash a Weighted Blanket by Hand

Many weighted blankets can be hand-washed. Always check the blanket's care tag to see the manufacturer's recommendation to be sure it doesn't require professional dry cleaning.

1. Make a Cleaning Solution

   After spot-cleaning any stains, mix cold water with a mild, bleach-free laundry detergent in a large sink or bathtub. You'll need ample space to wash your weighted blanket. Stir the water to distribute the detergent evenly.

2. Submerge the Blanket

   Add the blanket to the soapy water mixture, ensuring all parts get wet. Let it soak for 10 to 30 minutes, up to an hour.

3. Clean the Blanket

   Gently scrub any areas on the blanket that are particularly dirty. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to clean stains or spots.

4. Rinse and Dry

   Rinse the blanket with cold water until the water is clear, making sure no soap suds are left. Lay the blanket flat on a large, clean surface to air dry. Be sure it's completely dry before using it again—remember, this can take one or two days. Turn the blanket every few hours to speed up the process.

How Often to Wash a Weighted Blanket

Depending on how often you use it, you should wash your weighted blanket every few weeks or every quarter. If you use it every night, wash your weighted blanket about once every three weeks (or whenever it gets dirty). If you don't use it regularly, wash your weighted blanket once every three to four months.

How to Keep Your Weighted Blanket Clean Longer

Just because it's safe to machine wash a weighted blanket from the comfort of your laundry room doesn't mean it's foolproof. Try these tips to help your weighted blanket stay clean and last longer.

• Use a duvet cover. To cut down on the frequency of washes, Grojean recommends using a removable duvet cover. You can wash the cover more frequently and protect the weighted blanket.
• Put away the blanket after each use. Don't use your weighted blanket as a bed cover. Fold it up and set it aside after using it. For long term storage, gently fold or roll your blanket and place it on a shelf in your closet, or cover it with the storage bag that came with it. Weighted blankets can be stored similarly to quilts, duvets, or comforters.
• Avoid eating on the weighted blanket. To prevent spills or stains, don't eat while sitting on the blanket.
• Clean stains right away. Spot-clean your weighted blanket as soon as you notice any spills or stains. This will help keep the spots from setting in.
• Remove pet hair. If you have pets that sleep on your bed, use a lint roller at least weekly to clean pet hair and dander. And be sure that pets sleep on top of a weighted blanket, as it may be too heavy otherwise.
• Repair rips or tears. If you notice that your weighted blanket has any rips or tears, sew them shut to prevent them from growing. Repair the cover separately from the blanket.