Heated blankets help keep you warm, especially in winter. They have electrical wiring that warms up when plugged in. Because of this, cleaning them can be tricky. Follow your manufacturer’s instructions and use our tips to safely wash and dry your heated blanket.
How Often to Wash a Heated Blanket
It’s best to wash your electric blanket once or twice each season. Since they’re used more in cold weather, you might need to wash yours more often depending on how much you use it.
Before Getting Started
Most heated blankets can be washed in a machine or by hand, but always check the care instructions first. Some blankets have special cleaning needs. If the controls and cords can be removed, they are usually machine washable, while others may need spot cleaning or hand-washing.
Materials Needed
Gather these materials before you begin:
- Mild detergent
- Water
- Basin or bathtub
How to Machine-Wash a Heated Blanket
If your heated blanket allows, remove the controls and cords. Otherwise, you may not be able to machine wash it. Some newer blankets are machine washable, but always check the care instructions first.
- Unplug your heated blanket and remove the controls and power cord.
- Apply a little natural detergent to the stain and gently dab it with a clean microfiber cloth.
- If the blanket is large, wash it alone so it has enough space to move.
- Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
- Gently press out extra water from the blanket. Don’t wring or twist it, as this can damage the wiring.
- Lay the blanket flat to air dry and make sure it’s fully dry before plugging it in.
How to Hand-Wash a Heated Blanket
Just like with machine washing, remove the control and cord, and check the care instructions to make sure the blanket can be hand-washed.
- Unplug the heated blanket and remove the controls and power cord.
- Apply a little natural detergent to the stain and gently dab it with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Fill a basin or a clean bathtub with warm water.
- Add a little natural detergent to the basin or bathtub.
- Stir the water slightly, then fully submerge the blanket.
- Let the blanket soak in soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Gently rub the fabric with your hands to wash the blanket.
- Drain the soapy water, refill the basin or bathtub, and rinse the blanket.
- Gently press out extra water from the blanket. Don’t wring or twist it, as this can damage the wiring.
- Lay the blanket flat to air dry and make sure it’s fully dry before plugging it in.
Dry cleaning may seem like an easy option, but it’s not safe for electric blankets. The chemicals can damage the wiring.
Can You Put a Heated Blanket in the Dryer?
Check the care instructions before using a dryer. Many electric blankets can be dried on the lowest heat, but air drying is safer. Too much heat can damage the wiring.
Tips for Maintaining an Electric Blanket
Remember these tips when taking care of your heated blanket.
- Keep the blanket in a cool, dry place when you’re not using it.
- Don’t fold the blanket too tightly to protect the wiring.
- Check the cords and connectors. If they look frayed or worn, it may be time for a new blanket.
- Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
- Check regularly for stains and signs of wear.
- Clean spills quickly to prevent liquids from soaking into the fabric.
- Make sure the blanket is fully dry before plugging it in again.