Weighted blankets are a popular way to reduce stress and improve sleep or relaxation. However, they can be tricky to clean. Washing them depends on the outer fabric and the type of filler inside.
Weighted blankets, typically weighing 5 to 30 pounds, are made from wool, cotton, or thick synthetic fibers. Their weight requires careful washing to prevent damage.
Weighted blankets can be damaged if not properly cared for, but with the right tools and guidance, you can clean them at home.
What You’ll Need
- Washing machine, if machine washing
- Gentle detergent
- Fabric softener
- Stain removal agents, if necessary
How to Wash a Weighted Blanket
Always check the care tag on your weighted blanket first. How you wash it depends on the type of fill. Most synthetic or natural fabrics, like wool blends and faux fur, can go in the washing machine—unless the tag says otherwise. Some fillings aren’t machine-safe, so follow the care label and manufacturer’s instructions.
Need an easy guide to washing by fill type? Here it is:
- Plastic pellets: Wash with cold water only, let it air dry.
- Steel beads: You can wash by hand or in a machine, then air dry.
- Smooth pebbles: Wash by hand only, air dry.
- Corn, beans, rice: Don’t wash—just clean dirty spots.
- Sand: Don’t wash—just spot clean.
- Micro-glass beads: Hand wash only, air dry.
Pre-Treat Stains Before Washing
Pre-treat any stains before washing your weighted blanket. Identify what caused the stain so you know the best way to remove it.
- Use white vinegar for stains from food, makeup, or juice.
- Use hydrogen peroxide for blood or yellow stains.
- Use a degreaser for tough grease stains.
After choosing the right cleaner, apply it to the stain, scrub with an old toothbrush, and then wash the blanket.
How to Wash in a Machine
Washing a weighted blanket in the machine is similar to washing other bedding, as long as the fabric and filling are safe for machine wash.
- Put the blanket into the washing machine.
- Choose a gentle wash with cold water and low spin speed.
- Add detergent and just a small amount of fabric softener—about one-third of what you usually use. This helps keep the blanket soft and in good shape. Too much softener can make it feel rough or stiff.
- Start the machine.
How to Wash by Hand
Just like with machine washing, check the care label on your blanket to see what fabric and filling it has before washing by hand. If it’s safe to wash by hand, you’ll probably need to use your bathtub because weighted blankets are usually large. Make sure the tub is clean and has no leftover soap or dirt that could stain the blanket. Then, follow the steps below.
Fill your bathtub with cool or slightly warm water.
- Add a small amount (1 to 2 ounces) of mild detergent.
- Stir the water to mix the detergent evenly.
- Put your weighted blanket into the water.
- Let the blanket sit in the water for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Take the blanket out of the tub and pour out the soapy water.
- Fill the tub again with cold water and put the blanket back in.
- Squeeze the blanket to remove leftover soap. Do this again and again until there are no more suds and the water is clear.
How to Dry Your Weighted Blanket
It’s best to hang your weighted blanket to dry instead of using a dryer. To air dry it, lay the blanket flat—either on the floor or on a big drying rack that can hold its weight. If you’re drying it on the floor, put a sheet or plastic sheet underneath to keep it clean.
Keep the blanket in a place with good airflow and shake it now and then to spread the filling evenly. While drying, check on the blanket often and flip it over to dry both sides equally. Keep doing this until it’s fully dry.
How Often You Should Wash Your Weighted Blanket
How often you wash your weighted blanket depends on how you use it. If your blanket doesn’t touch your skin directly—like if it’s placed over a duvet—you can wash it every few months. But if it touches your skin every night or your pet sleeps on it, you should wash it once or twice a month.
Also, if the blanket has been stored away for a month or longer, wash it before using it again to remove dust and germs.