Can You Wash a Weighted Blanket in the Washer: Ultimate Care Guide

The growing popularity of weighted blankets has brought forward many questions about their maintenance and care. While these therapeutic blankets offer numerous benefits, keeping them clean can seem challenging.

Let’s explore the safe and effective ways to wash your weighted blanket in a washing machine, ensuring it stays fresh without compromising its quality or damaging your washer.

Can You Put a Weighted Blanket in the Washer

Understanding your weighted blanket’s washing requirements starts with knowing its composition and weight. Not all weighted blankets are created equal, and their washability depends on several key factors.

Material Composition: Different materials require different care approaches

• Glass Beads: These are the most durable filling option for weighted blankets and can withstand regular machine washing. The small, smooth beads maintain their shape and distribution even after multiple washes.
• Plastic Pellets: While these can handle machine washing, they require more gentle care to prevent clumping and displacement. Plastic pellets may also become more brittle over time with repeated washing.
• Natural Materials: Materials like rice or beans need specialized care as they can break down or expand with moisture. These fillings often require spot cleaning or professional dry cleaning to maintain their integrity.

Weight Categories: The blanket’s weight determines washing method

• Under 12 pounds: These lighter weighted blankets are ideal for home washing machines and can be cleaned regularly. They distribute weight evenly during the wash cycle and pose minimal risk to standard machines.
• 12-20 pounds: Medium-weight blankets need more powerful machines to handle the extra weight effectively. These blankets require careful monitoring during washing to ensure even weight distribution and prevent machine strain.
• Over 20 pounds: Heavy blankets exceed most home washing machine capacities and risk causing damage. Professional cleaning services have specialized equipment designed to handle these weights safely and effectively.

Just as the Puffy Cloud Mattress adapts to provide consistent comfort through all seasons, proper washing techniques help maintain your weighted blanket’s comforting weight distribution and softness.

Will a Weighted Blanket Break My Washer

Washer Capacity:

• Standard Machines: These common household washers can safely handle lighter weighted blankets up to 12-15 pounds. The drum size and motor strength are designed to manage this weight range while maintaining proper cleaning action.
• Heavy-Duty Machines: These robust washers feature reinforced components and larger drums specifically built for heavier items. They can handle weighted blankets up to 20 pounds while providing thorough cleaning without strain.
• Front-Loading Machines: The horizontal drum design offers better weight distribution and gentler agitation for weighted blankets. These machines typically handle heavy items more efficiently and provide more consistent cleaning results.

Risk Factors:

• Weight Distribution: Uneven distribution can cause excessive vibration and potential drum damage. Proper loading and weight balance are crucial for protecting both the blanket and machine during the wash cycle.
• Spin Speed: Higher spin speeds create more centrifugal force that can stress machine components. Using lower spin settings helps protect the machine’s bearings and motor while still effectively cleaning the blanket.
• Age of Machine: Older washing machines may have worn components less capable of handling heavy loads. The accumulated wear on bearings, motors, and suspension systems can make them more susceptible to damage from weighted blankets.

How to Wash a Weighted Blanket in the Washer

1. Preparation Steps:

   • Read Care Label: Manufacturer instructions provide specific guidance for your blanket’s materials and construction. These guidelines are designed to protect both the blanket’s integrity and your washing machine’s functionality.
   • Check for Damage: Inspect seams, corners, and filling distribution before washing to prevent further damage. Small tears or loose stitching can worsen during washing and lead to filling leakage or uneven weight distribution.
   • Remove Covers: Separate washing of removable covers ensures better cleaning results for both components. This also reduces the total weight being washed and allows for appropriate care of different fabrics.

2. Washing Process:

   • Use Cold Water: Cold temperatures prevent fabric shrinkage and protect the filling material from damage. This setting also helps maintain the blanket’s shape and weight distribution while being gentler on the washing machine.
   • Select Gentle Cycle: Slower agitation protects both the blanket’s construction and machine components. The gentle cycle provides adequate cleaning while minimizing stress on seams and reducing the risk of filling displacement.
   • Add Mild Detergent: Gentle detergents clean effectively without degrading fabrics or leaving residue. Choose fragrance-free options to prevent irritation and avoid additives that might damage specialized materials.
   • Balance Load: Even distribution prevents excessive machine vibration and ensures uniform cleaning. Proper loading helps protect the machine’s drum and suspension system while achieving better cleaning results.

3. Post-Wash Care:

   • Air Drying: Natural drying prevents heat damage and maintains the blanket’s structural integrity. This method, while slower, is the safest way to preserve both the filling and fabric of your weighted blanket.
   • Reshape While Damp: Working with the blanket while slightly wet helps restore proper shape and weight distribution. This step is crucial for maintaining the blanket’s therapeutic benefits and ensuring even pressure distribution.
   • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Excessive sun exposure can fade colors and degrade certain filling materials. Indirect drying in a well-ventilated area provides the best results while protecting the blanket’s materials.

Just as the Puffy Lux Mattress offers balanced support without strain, your washing machine needs proper weight distribution to safely clean your weighted blanket.

Conclusion

Washing a weighted blanket in your machine is possible with the right approach and precautions. By following proper guidelines and understanding your blanket’s specific care requirements, you can maintain its cleanliness and longevity while protecting your washing machine.