Weighted blankets have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their potential therapeutic benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved sleep quality, and increased feelings of relaxation. However, one of the most common concerns among weighted blanket owners is how to clean and maintain their blanket. In this article, we will delve into the world of weighted blankets and explore the possibility of washing them in a machine.
Understanding Weighted Blankets
Before we dive into the washing machine question, it’s essential to understand how weighted blankets are constructed. A typical weighted blanket consists of three main components:
- The outer cover: This is the soft, removable cover that surrounds the weighted insert. It’s usually made of a breathable material like cotton, polyester, or a blend of both.
- The weighted insert: This is the core of the weighted blanket, filled with weighted materials like polypropylene pellets, glass beads, or steel shot. The weighted insert is designed to provide the deep pressure stimulation that weighted blankets are known for.
- The stitching and construction: The weighted insert is typically stitched into small pockets or compartments within the outer cover. This ensures that the weighted materials are evenly distributed throughout the blanket.
Can You Put a Weighted Blanket in the Washing Machine?
Now that we understand the construction of a weighted blanket, let’s address the question at hand. The answer is not a simple yes or no. It depends on the type of weighted blanket you have and the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check the care label: Before attempting to wash your weighted blanket, always check the care label for specific instructions. Some weighted blankets may require dry cleaning, while others can be machine washed.
- Weighted blanket type: If your weighted blanket is filled with polypropylene pellets or glass beads, it’s generally safe to machine wash. However, if your blanket is filled with steel shot, it’s best to avoid machine washing, as the metal can damage the washing machine or the blanket itself.
- Machine washing settings: If your weighted blanket can be machine washed, use a large capacity washing machine with a gentle cycle and cold water. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage the weighted materials or cause them to shift within the blanket.
Machine Washing a Weighted Blanket: Tips and Precautions
If you decide to machine wash your weighted blanket, follow these tips and precautions:
- Use a mild detergent: Choose a mild detergent that’s designed for washing delicate or heavy items. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the weighted materials or the outer cover.
- Avoid overloading the washing machine: Make sure to leave enough space in the washing machine for the weighted blanket to move around freely. Overloading the machine can cause damage to the blanket or the machine itself.
- Use a slow agitation setting: If your washing machine has a slow agitation setting, use it to minimize the risk of damaging the weighted materials or the outer cover.
- Avoid wringing or twisting: After the wash cycle is complete, gently remove the weighted blanket from the washing machine and avoid wringing or twisting it. This can cause the weighted materials to shift or the outer cover to stretch.
Drying a Weighted Blanket
Drying a weighted blanket requires special care to prevent damage to the weighted materials or the outer cover. Here are some tips for drying a weighted blanket:
- Air dry or tumble dry on low: If your weighted blanket can be machine dried, use a low heat setting or air dry it. High heat can damage the weighted materials or cause them to shift within the blanket.
- Remove excess water: After the wash cycle is complete, gently remove excess water from the weighted blanket without wringing or twisting it.
- Dry flat or hang to dry: If you prefer to air dry your weighted blanket, lay it flat on a towel or hang it over a clothesline. Make sure to reshape the blanket to its original dimensions to prevent stretching or shrinkage.
Drying a Weighted Blanket: Tips and Precautions
If you decide to dry your weighted blanket, follow these tips and precautions:
- Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause the weighted materials to degrade or the outer cover to fade. If possible, dry your weighted blanket in a shaded area or indoors.
- Avoid high heat: High heat can damage the weighted materials or cause them to shift within the blanket. If you must use a dryer, use a low heat setting or a delicate cycle.
- Don’t over-dry: Remove the weighted blanket from the dryer or drying area when it’s still slightly damp. Hanging it up to air dry can help prevent over-drying and maintain the blanket’s texture and shape.
Hand Washing a Weighted Blanket
If your weighted blanket requires hand washing or you prefer to wash it by hand, follow these steps:
- Fill a large sink or basin: Fill a large sink or basin with cold water, making sure it’s deep enough to submerge the weighted blanket.
- Add a mild detergent: Add a small amount of mild detergent to the water, making sure to avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
- Gently agitate: Gently agitate the weighted blanket in the soapy water, working from the top down. Avoid wringing or twisting the blanket, as this can cause the weighted materials to shift or the outer cover to stretch.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the weighted blanket thoroughly with cold water to remove all soap residue.
Hand Washing a Weighted Blanket: Tips and Precautions
If you decide to hand wash your weighted blanket, follow these tips and precautions:
- Avoid using hot water: Hot water can damage the weighted materials or cause them to shift within the blanket. Use cold water to prevent this.
- Avoid wringing or twisting: Gently remove excess water from the weighted blanket without wringing or twisting it. This can cause the weighted materials to shift or the outer cover to stretch.
- Reshape the blanket: After washing and rinsing the weighted blanket, gently reshape it to its original dimensions to prevent stretching or shrinkage.
Conclusion
Weighted blankets can be a valuable tool for promoting relaxation and reducing stress. While they require special care when it comes to washing and drying, following the manufacturer’s instructions and taking the necessary precautions can help extend the life of your weighted blanket. Whether you choose to machine wash or hand wash your weighted blanket, make sure to use gentle cycles, mild detergents, and cold water to prevent damage to the weighted materials or the outer cover. By following these tips and guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of your weighted blanket for years to come.
Can I Put a Weighted Blanket in the Washing Machine?
It is generally possible to wash a weighted blanket in a washing machine, but it’s crucial to check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Some weighted blankets may require dry cleaning, while others can be machine washed. If the manufacturer recommends machine washing, make sure to follow the specific guidelines provided.
Before washing your weighted blanket, inspect the care label for any special instructions. If the label recommends hand washing or dry cleaning, it’s best to avoid machine washing to prevent damage to the blanket. Additionally, consider the size and weight of the blanket, as larger or heavier blankets may not fit in a standard washing machine or may cause imbalance during the wash cycle.
What Settings Should I Use When Washing a Weighted Blanket in a Washing Machine?
When washing a weighted blanket in a washing machine, it’s essential to use the right settings to prevent damage. Choose a gentle cycle with cold water, as hot water can cause the weights to shift or the fabric to shrink. A delicate or hand-wash cycle is usually the best option, as it will provide a gentle agitation and prevent excessive wear on the blanket.
Also, make sure to select a slow spin cycle or a low spin setting to prevent the weights from shifting or the fabric from getting tangled. Avoid using the heavy-duty or bulky cycle, as it can cause excessive agitation and damage to the blanket. If your washing machine has a specific setting for washing bulky or heavy items, you can use that setting, but still, be cautious and monitor the wash cycle.
Can I Use Regular Detergent When Washing a Weighted Blanket?
When washing a weighted blanket, it’s best to use a mild detergent that’s specifically designed for washing delicate or heavy items. Avoid using regular detergent, as it can be too harsh and cause damage to the fabric or the weights. Look for a detergent that’s free of harsh chemicals and dyes, and opt for a fragrance-free option to prevent any irritation or allergic reactions.
Some weighted blanket manufacturers may recommend using a specific detergent or cleaning product. If that’s the case, make sure to follow their recommendations to ensure the blanket is cleaned and maintained properly. Additionally, avoid using fabric softener or bleach, as they can damage the fabric or affect the weights’ distribution.
How Do I Dry a Weighted Blanket After Washing?
When it comes to drying a weighted blanket, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some weighted blankets can be machine dried, while others require air drying. If the manufacturer recommends machine drying, use a low heat setting and a gentle cycle to prevent damage to the fabric or the weights.
If air drying is recommended, lay the blanket flat on a towel and allow it to air dry away from direct sunlight. Do not hang the blanket to dry, as the weights can shift or the fabric can stretch. It may take several days for the blanket to dry completely, so be patient and avoid using it until it’s fully dry.
Can I Wash a Weighted Blanket with Other Laundry Items?
It’s generally not recommended to wash a weighted blanket with other laundry items, as the weights can cause damage to other fabrics or items. Additionally, the blanket’s size and weight can cause imbalance during the wash cycle, leading to poor washing results or damage to the washing machine.
If you must wash your weighted blanket with other items, make sure to choose items that are similar in size and weight. Avoid washing the blanket with delicate or fragile items, as the weights can cause damage. Also, make sure to balance the wash load to prevent any damage to the washing machine or the blanket.
How Often Should I Wash My Weighted Blanket?
The frequency of washing a weighted blanket depends on how often it’s used and personal hygiene preferences. If you use your weighted blanket daily, you may need to wash it every 1-2 weeks to keep it clean and hygienic. However, if you only use it occasionally, you may only need to wash it every 2-3 months.
It’s also essential to consider the blanket’s material and filling. If the blanket is made of a breathable material, such as cotton or bamboo, it may require more frequent washing. On the other hand, if the blanket is made of a synthetic material, it may require less frequent washing. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance on washing frequency.
What Are the Risks of Washing a Weighted Blanket in a Washing Machine?
Washing a weighted blanket in a washing machine can pose several risks, including damage to the fabric, shifting of the weights, or imbalance during the wash cycle. If the blanket is not designed for machine washing, the weights can break free and cause damage to the washing machine or other items in the wash load.
Additionally, machine washing can cause the blanket to lose its shape or become misshapen, which can affect its performance and comfort. To minimize these risks, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take necessary precautions, such as using a gentle cycle and a mild detergent. If in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and hand wash or dry clean the blanket instead.