Weighted blankets are designed to provide deep-pressure stimulation, which can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. However, like any bedding item, they can accumulate dirt, dust, sweat, and other types of debris over time, which can compromise their hygiene and effectiveness. You may find yourself wondering exactly how to wash a weighted blanket properly, and we’re here to help!
Cleaning a weighted blanket — along with other sheets and bedding — is important to remove these things and prevent the growth of bacteria or other harmful microorganisms that can cause unpleasant odors or allergic reactions. Regular cleaning can also help maintain the blanket’s appearance and extend its lifespan.
The cleaning method for a weighted blanket may depend on the type of fill material used, the weight of the blanket, and the manufacturer’s care instructions. Following the manufacturer’s care instructions carefully is essential to avoid damaging the blanket or altering its weight distribution. So here are all the steps for how to wash a weighted blanket safely and correctly.
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Check the washing tag and determine the filling type before you begin.
All weighted blankets should have cleaning and care instructions on the tag. These are the guidelines from the manufacturer, and we recommend sticking to them. The instructions will provide important information about the type of detergent to use, the temperature of the water, and whether the blanket can be tumble-dried or not. By following these instructions, you can ensure that your weighted blanket stays in good condition and lasts for years to come.
Spot-clean any stains before washing.
Spot clean by spraying the affected area with a gentle fabric spot cleaner, being careful not to saturate the blanket. Then gently rub the stain in a circular motion. Use a cloth damp with water and continue to dab the area until the stain is removed. If you don’t need to give the blanket a full cleaning, allow the blanket to air dry completely before using it again. If it needs a deeper cleaning, keep reading!
If your weighted blanket has a cover, you toss it in the washer.
Many weighted blankets have a removable duvet cover. Unzip or unbutton the cover and remove it from the blanket. Then simply wash the cover separately in cold water with a mild detergent in your washing machine. Tumble dry on low heat or hang it to air dry; consult the care tag for instructions. Once dry, reattach the cover to the blanket and enjoy its clean and refreshed feel. You should aim to wash the blanket’s cover biweekly if you can.
How to wash a weighted blanket in a bathtub.
Fill the bathtub with cold or warm water and add a gentle detergent. Place the blanket in the tub and use your hands to agitate it gently. If you notice any stains on the weighted blanket itself, gently scrub them using a damp cloth.
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Submerge the blanket and let it soak.
Let the blanket soak in the sudsy water for at least 15 minutes and up to 30 minutes. Check any soiled areas to see if they’ve disappeared. If not, gently scrub some more to remove them and let the blanket soak a little longer.
Rinse using cold water.
To rinse a weighted blanket, you can either drain all the sudsy water and fill the bathtub again with clean, cold water and agitate the blanket once more to remove the detergent. Or you can drain the tub and rinse the blanket under the running tap. Using running tap water removes the detergent more easily in our experience.
Hang or lay flat to dry.
Once the blanket has been rinsed completely, wring it out and hang it or lay it flat to dry. Draping it over the shower curtain rod is an easy solution that doesn’t take up much space.
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