Don’t worry, it is actually quite doable. Whether you are dealing with glass beads, plastic pellets, or a removable cover, we have the steps to get your blanket fresh without the stress. Here is how to clean a weighted blanket safely.
Key Takeaways
- Check your filler type first; glass or plastic beads are usually washable, but organic fillers (rice, beans) are not.
- Use a commercial laundromat for blankets over 20 pounds to protect your home washing machine.
- Wash on a gentle cycle with cold to warm water; avoid hot water to prevent plastic pellets from melting.
- Never use fabric softeners or bleach, as they break down fibers and damage the weight distribution.
How to Machine Wash a Weighted Blanket
You can machine wash many weighted blankets, but there is a catch. You must ensure your blanket does not use organic fillers like rice, corn, or beans. Those will turn into a moldy mess if they get wet. If your blanket contains plastic poly pellets or glass beads, you are usually in the clear.
Also, consider the weight. If your blanket is over 15 or 20 pounds, it might be too aggressive for a standard residential agitator. In that case, heading to a laundromat with heavy-duty machines is the safest bet to save your appliance’s motor.
- Time: 2-3 Hours
- Difficulty: Beginner
What You’ll Need
- Washing Machine (Large capacity preferred)
- Heavy-duty drying rack
- Mild stain remover
- Gentle laundry detergent (Bleach-free)
1. Prep and Remove Stains
Inspect the blanket for spills or bodily fluids. Treat these spots with a mild stain remover or an enzyme cleaner before the wash. Let the solution sit on the fabric for at least 15 minutes to break down the grime.
2. Wash the Weighted Blanket
Pour a small amount of mild detergent into the machine. Avoid using too much soap, as it is hard to rinse out of heavy layers. Place the blanket in the drum by itself; do not add towels or sheets, or the machine will become unbalanced.
Select a gentle or delicate cycle. Use cool or warm water. Avoid hot water entirely, as high heat can warp the fabric or melt plastic poly bead fillers.
3. Dry the Weighted Blanket
Remove the blanket immediately after the cycle ends to prevent moldy odors. If your care tag allows it, you can tumble dry on low heat. However, air drying is often safer for the longevity of the beads and stitching.
Lay the blanket flat on a sturdy drying rack. Avoid hanging it vertically on a thin clothesline; the heavy wet weight can stretch the fabric and cause the filler to bunch up at the bottom. Shake and fluff it periodically to ensure the inner beads dry completely.
Weighted Blanket Care Guidelines by Type
Different fabrics require different tactics. A fuzzy fleece needs different care than a cotton cooling blanket. Always check the tag first, but here are the general rules.
Machine Wash and Tumble Dry
If the tag gives the green light for the dryer, you are in luck. Wash with mild detergent on cool/gentle. Transfer it to the dryer on a low-heat or air-fluff setting. Throw in a few dryer balls to keep the filler from clumping. Check it every 20 minutes to ensure it isn’t getting too hot.
Machine Wash, Air Dry
This is common for blankets with specific synthetic fillers. Wash it on gentle with cold water. When it comes out, lay it flat on a clean surface or a wide drying rack. Do not hang it by the corners. Shake it out occasionally to redistribute the beads as it dries.
Machine Wash, Cover Only
Many modern weighted blankets are essentially a heavy inner duvet inside a removable cover. This is the easiest scenario. Unzip and remove the cover. Wash the cover in the machine like a normal sheet. The heavy inner weighted section usually shouldn’t be washed often; spot clean it if necessary.
Spot Clean or Dry Clean Only
If your blanket uses organic fillers or delicate silk, do not soak it. For small stains, use a stain remover or a solution of water and mild dish soap. Scrub gently with a toothbrush, rinse with a damp cloth, and let it air dry. If the whole thing is dirty, take it to a professional dry cleaner.
How to Hand Wash a Weighted Blanket
If your machine is too small or your blanket is too delicate, the bathtub method is your best friend. Be warned: a wet weighted blanket is incredibly heavy. You might want a partner to help you lift it out when you are done.
- Time: 45-60 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
What You’ll Need:
- Clean bathtub
- Stain remover
- Mild laundry detergent
- Sturdy drying rack
- Clean towels
1. Pretreat Stains
Spot treat any visible stains. Rub the detergent or remover in gently and let it sit while you prepare the tub.
2. Fill the Tub
Fill your bathtub about halfway with cool or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water.
3. Add Detergent
Pour in about half the amount of laundry detergent you would use for a regular load. Swirl it around with your hand until it is sudsy and dissolved.
4. Submerge and Soak
Place the blanket in the tub. Push it down until it is completely submerged. Let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes. This gives the soapy water time to penetrate the thick layers.
5. Agitate Gently
Use your hands (or clean bare feet) to knead the blanket. Rub the fabric against itself gently to loosen dirt. Avoid rough scrubbing, which can damage the pockets holding the beads.
6. Rinse Thoroughly
Drain the dirty water. Refill the tub with fresh, cool water. Knead the blanket again to push out the soap. You may need to drain and refill the tub 2 or 3 times until the water runs clear and no suds remain.
7. Remove Excess Water
Drain the tub. Roll the blanket up tightly against the side of the tub to squeeze out water. Do not wring or twist it; this can tear the internal weight pockets.
Pro Tip: Lay the wet blanket flat on large, clean towels. Roll the towels up with the blanket inside (like a sleeping bag) and step on the roll to absorb moisture.
8. Hang or Lay Flat to Dry
Move the blanket to a drying rack. Lay it flat so the weight is evenly distributed. If you must hang it, drape it over a shower rod or a very sturdy railing, but ensure it is balanced. Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Pro Tips
- No Ironing: Never iron a weighted blanket. The heat will melt internal plastic components.
- Grease Stains: Use a drop of dish soap with a degreaser to lift oily spots.
- Urine Stains: Use an enzyme-based cleaner to break down the proteins and remove odors completely.
FAQs
How Often Should You Wash Weighted Blankets?
You should wash the weighted blanket itself 3 to 4 times a year if you use it daily. If you use a removable duvet cover, wash the cover weekly or bi-weekly with your regular sheets. This keeps the heavy inner blanket clean for much longer.
How To Clean A Weighted Blanket With Glass Beads?
Glass beads are durable and heat-resistant. You can wash these blankets in a machine with warm water and mild detergent. However, always check the fabric care label, as the outer material might be more delicate than the glass filling.
How To Clean A Weighted Blanket With Plastic Poly Beads?
Plastic poly pellets are sensitive to high heat. Always wash these blankets in cold or cool water. Never use the hot cycle and avoid high-heat drying, as the pellets can melt and clump together, ruining the blanket’s texture and weight distribution.
How Do You Get Cat Pee Out of a Weighted Blanket?
Treat the spot immediately with an enzyme cleaner (like Nature’s Miracle) to break down the uric acid. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, wash the blanket in cool water with a cup of white vinegar added to the rinse cycle to neutralize any remaining odor.
Can You Steam Clean a Weighted Blanket?
Yes, you can use a handheld steamer to refresh a weighted blanket between deep cleans. The steam helps kill bacteria and remove wrinkles. However, do not hold the steamer in one spot for too long if the blanket contains plastic pellets.
Can Weighted Blankets Be Dry Cleaned?
It depends on the filler. Many manufacturers recommend against dry cleaning because the harsh chemicals can damage synthetic pellets or organic fillers. However, some wool or high-end fabric blankets require dry cleaning. Always follow the specific tag instructions.
Can I Use Fabric Softener on My Weighted Blanket?
No, you should avoid fabric softener. It builds up a waxy residue on the fibers over time, making the blanket feel scratchy and potentially trapping dirt. It can also weaken the stitching that holds the weights in place.
In Summary
Cleaning a weighted blanket does not have to be a nightmare. Stick to cool water, gentle cycles, and mild detergent to keep the fabric and fillers safe. If your blanket feels too heavy for your home machine, a trip to the laundromat is worth the effort to save your appliance. With a little care, your blanket will stay fresh, cozy, and ready to help you sleep for years to come.
