How to wash a weighted blanket? If the benefits of a weighted blanket are well established, the different ways to clean and maintain it are more unknown!
Machine wash or hand wash? Natural or tumble dry?
Here’s our guide to how to wash a heavy blanket and preserve its soothing properties.
Also read: How often mattress should be replaced?
Let’s go.
Washing A Weighted Blanket: 2 Preliminary Steps Not To Be Overlooked
For optimal cleaning – and to avoid damaging your adult weighted blanket – it is advisable to follow two recommendations.
1. Check The Condition Of The Blanket (And Cover)
The depth and origin of stains do not require the same washing intensity.
If it is only a very small mark (from food, perspiration, etc.) local washing will be more adequate than full cleaning – longer and more tedious.
2. Follow The Manufacturer’s Instructions
It is important to read the labels carefully and to take into account the information provided on the pictograms.
This step is essential because it avoids any error that could harm the fabric or the beneficial properties of your weighted duvet.
Good to know: recognizing weighted blanket washing pictograms
To note
weighted blankets are sometimes wrapped in protection and therefore consist of two separate elements. This type of model facilitates the cleaning phase since all you have to do is unclip the cover and put it in the machine.
Cleaning A Heavy Blanket: 3 Ways To Do It
Way N°1: Washing In The Washing Machine
When washing your duvet in a machine is authorized, some instructions must be taken into account. Before programming the washing machine, it is essential to:
Separate the cover or insert from the cover;
know the weight of each item and check the maximum load supported by the washing machine (and in the event of inadequacy, contact a laundry for professional cleaning).
respect the washing temperatures recommended for each material, which may be different depending on the sleeping accessories (cotton, minky, etc.).
TIP.
Avoid bleach-based cleaners or fabric softeners when washing a heavy blanket.
Way N°2: Washing By Hand
If hand washing is the recommended method, or if you just prefer it, the first step is to pre-treat the stains, if necessary.
Cleaning
Gentler than machine washing, manual cleaning requires no fewer precautions, and is carried out in several stages:
Immerse the blanket in a bathtub (or other deep tub) filled with lukewarm water;
pour a small amount of chlorine-free detergent (for a less abrasive feeling on the hands, it is also possible to use a little soap, dishwashing liquid or gloves).
Then rub it with your hands for several minutes.
When the water becomes increasingly cloudy and dirty, replace it with clean water.
Be sure to wring out the excess water and hang or lay the blanket to dry.
rub the stains gently.
Spinning
To facilitate the drying phase, spinning in the machine is recommended (unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer).
PRO TIP
If you don’t have a bath, you can use a large container.
Way N°3: Dry Cleaning A Weighted Blanket
You can dry clean some heavy blankets, but this is generally only recommended for those that are filled with a natural material like sand, rice, or beans.
Always check your blanket’s care instructions to see if dry cleaning is acceptable.
Drying A Microbead Blanket: 2 Techniques
Technique N°1: Machine Drying
While most manufacturers advise against machine drying their weighted blanket, it is sometimes possible.
In this exceptional case, note that a wet blanket (especially with microbeads) can be very heavy: be careful not to exceed the maximum weight allowed by your dryer.
Technique N°2: Natural Drying
Drying your laundry in the open air is an eco-responsible habit, which also preserves the quality of the fibers and the color for longer.
Its downside? It requires more effort than machine drying!
For even drying, your blanket should be turned over every 30 minutes to avoid traces of the clothesline (from your chairs, your shower screen, etc.).
This technique also speeds up drying by preventing water from remaining too long in the same areas.
Note that some models must be dried flat. In this case, you will have to use your imagination… or seek advice from a washing professional.
How Often Should I Wash A Weighted Blanket?
A heavy blanket should be washed as often as you would a regular blanket.
If you use your blanket every night, you should consider washing it once or twice a month. Remember, however, that frequently washing your heavy blanket can reduce its durability.
To avoid any issues, consider purchasing some sort of protective cover.
Conclusion
Now you know how to machine wash a mattress topper. Always have in mind that the weighted blanket has been designed to promote falling asleep and restful sleep.
Intended to pamper you and not to act as a bedspread, it is advisable to fold it – or even store it – during the day so as not to dirty it and to increase its lifespan!
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