Weighted Blanket Care Guidelines
In recent years, weighted blankets have grown in popularity because of their potential benefits for sleep health. Some sleepers find that using a weighted blanket helps with insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness.
If you own a weighted blanket, it is inevitable that it will need cleaning. Blankets in general absorb body oils and sweat and can become exposed to spills and dirt. There are some special considerations to be aware of when cleaning your weighted blanket.
As with most bedding, different care guidelines may apply depending on whether your weighted blanket is made with cotton, polyester, rayon, wool, or another material, and whether the fill contains glass beads, plastic pellets, or organic materials. The tag on your blanket, the owner’s manual, or the manufacturer’s website should provide you with the necessary information on how to clean your weighted blanket. Most weighted blankets come with one of the following instructions:
Machine Wash and Dry
When machine washing, choose a bleach-free, gentle detergent, and wash your blanket in cold or warm water on a gentle cycle. Avoid fabric softeners. Choose a light or medium dryer setting and periodically fluff the blanket while it’s drying.
Machine Wash, Air Dry
Put the blanket in the washing machine with a mild bleach-free detergent. Choose a gentle wash cycle and use cold or warm water. To air dry the blanket, spread it out flat and occasionally shake it out to make sure the inner fill evenly distributes.
Machine Wash, Cover Only
Some weighted blankets have a removable cover that can be washed separately. Remove the cover from the blanket, and wash it according to the care instructions listed on the label. Generally, duvet covers can be washed in cold water and on a normal wash setting. Either air dry the cover by laying it flat, or place it in a dryer on a low setting if the instructions allow.
Spot Clean or Dry Clean Only
Spot clean small stains using a gentle stain remover or soap and cold water. Massage the stain with your fingers or with a soft-bristled brush or sponge, and then rinse thoroughly. For blankets labeled dry clean only, take them to a professional dry cleaner or consider purchasing an at-home dry cleaning kit to keep your blanket clean.
How Often Should Weighted Blankets Be Washed?
How often you clean your weighted blanket depends on how often it’s used. If you use the blanket every night while sleeping, wash it once every few weeks to prevent the build-up of sweat and body oils. If you only use it occasionally as a lap blanket on the couch or at a desk, cleaning your weighted blanket three to four times per year should suffice.
Frequently washing a weighted blanket can affect its feel and durability. You may be able to prolong the life of your weighted blanket by investing in a cover that can be easily removed and washed.
In general, a weighted blanket should be replaced every 5 years. But, with proper care, you may be able to enjoy your weighted blanket for even longer.
Post time: Jul-19-2022