How To Clean A Weighted Blanket?

Can you wash a weighted blanket at home?

Most weighted blankets can be washed at home, but the weight matters. Blankets under 15 pounds usually fit in standard home washing machines. Blankets 20+ pounds may damage home washers (overload the motor, throw off balance, strain the drum). Many weighted blankets have removable covers that wash separately from the heavy inner blanket; check yours. The weighted insert itself can usually be washed less frequently (every 3 to 6 months) since it doesn't touch your skin directly. Always check the specific care label which gives guidance for that brand.

What is the machine wash method?

Remove the cover if your blanket has one; wash the cover on cold gentle with mild detergent. For the weighted insert: check the care label. If machine washable, use cold water on gentle or delicate cycle. Wash alone to balance the load. Use mild liquid detergent, no bleach, no fabric softener. Many manufacturers (Bearaby, Gravity, YnM) provide model-specific instructions on their websites if the label is unclear. Dry on low heat or air dry; high heat can damage the filling (plastic poly pellets or glass beads) and the stitching that contains them.

What about hand washing?

For heavy weighted blankets or those marked hand-wash only: fill a clean bathtub with cool water and mild detergent. Submerge the blanket. Gently agitate by pressing down and lifting (don't twist or wring; weight will pull on stitching). Soak for 15 minutes. Drain the soapy water. Refill with clean water for rinsing. Repeat rinse until soap is removed. Drain the tub completely. To remove water, lift the blanket out (it will be very heavy; get help for large blankets) and let drain in the tub for 15 minutes before moving. Hang over a sturdy outdoor line or shower rod to drip dry.

How do you dry it?

Air drying is safest for the weighted insert since high heat damages bead-filled compartments. Lay flat on towels or hang over a sturdy line. Plan for 24 to 48 hours of drying time. For faster drying, use low heat (check label first). Dry completely before storing; damp blankets grow mildew. For heavy or large blankets, professional laundromat services are worth the cost versus damaging a home washer or dryer.