There’s a lot of conflicting advice out there about cleaning weighted blankets, and it’s easy to feel confused. Some say you should only spot clean, while others warn against using a home washing machine at all. This can leave you wondering if you’re destined for a trip to the dry cleaners every time a small spill happens. So, can you wash a 15 lb weighted blanket yourself? Absolutely. We’re here to clear up the confusion and give you a straightforward, reliable guide. We'll cover everything from machine washing to hand washing, so you can feel confident keeping your blanket fresh without any guesswork.
Key Takeaways
- Know Before You Wash: Always start by reading the care tag for specific instructions. For blankets under 20 pounds, most home washers are fine, but for anything heavier, a trip to the laundromat is the best way to protect your machine.
- Keep it Cool and Gentle: Protect your blanket’s fabric and filling by always using a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild, bleach-free detergent. Skip the fabric softener to maintain the blanket's texture and breathability.
- Lay Flat to Dry: The safest way to dry your weighted blanket is to lay it flat on a clean surface. Hanging it can stretch the fabric and cause the weighted filling to shift, so patience and a flat surface are your best tools.
What's Inside Your 15 lb Weighted Blanket?
Before you can figure out the best way to wash your weighted blanket, it helps to know what you’re working with. The materials inside your blanket determine not only how it feels but also the specific care it needs to stay cozy and effective for years to come. From the outer fabric to the weighted filling, each component plays a role in its cleaning instructions. Understanding the construction of your blanket is the first step toward keeping it fresh without causing any damage.
Common Materials and Fillers
The "weight" in a weighted blanket comes from a filler material, and the type of filler can vary. Many blankets on the market use fine glass beads, while others use plastic poly pellets. Some might even use natural materials like sand or rice, though these are less common as they aren't as durable and don't hold up to washing. At Mosaic, we use 100% non-toxic poly pellets because they provide an even weight distribution and are built to last through many washes. The outer fabric is also key—our custom weighted blankets are made with high-quality, durable fabrics designed for both comfort and longevity.
Why Weight Distribution Matters
The magic of a weighted blanket lies in its ability to provide gentle, consistent pressure across your body, a sensation known as Deep Pressure Stimulation. For this to work correctly, the filling needs to stay evenly distributed. That’s why our blankets are sewn with small, quilted pockets to keep the pellets from shifting around. The general guideline is to choose a blanket that’s about 10% of your body weight. Maintaining that even distribution is crucial for getting the calming benefits you love, which is why following proper washing and drying procedures is so important. An improper wash could cause the filling to clump, making the blanket less effective.
How to Read the Care Label
Think of the care tag on your weighted blanket as its official instruction manual. It’s the most reliable source of information for cleaning. Before you do anything else, locate that tag and read it carefully. It will provide specific directions based on the blanket’s exact materials and construction. Most high-quality, machine-washable blankets will recommend using a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. The label will also tell you what to avoid, like fabric softeners or bleach, which can damage the fabric or the weighted filling. Always defer to the care label—it knows your blanket best.
Can You Use a Washing Machine?
So, your favorite weighted blanket needs a good cleaning. The big question is: can you just toss it in the washing machine? For many blankets, the answer is a resounding yes, but it’s not quite as simple as washing a regular throw. The extra weight means you need to take a few precautions to protect both your blanket and your washing machine. It all comes down to the blanket's weight, what your machine can handle, and the materials your blanket is made from. Before you do anything, always check the care tag for specific instructions from the manufacturer. If the tag is gone, don't worry—we've got you covered with the essential guidelines to follow.
Home vs. Commercial Washers
Your first step is to decide where you’ll be washing your blanket. For most adult weighted blankets under 15-20 pounds, your home washing machine should be up to the task. Just be sure to use a gentle cycle with cold water to keep the fabric and filling in great shape. However, if your blanket is heavier than 20 pounds, it’s time for a trip to the laundromat. A heavy, water-logged blanket can put a serious strain on your home machine's motor and drum. Using a large-capacity commercial machine at a laundromat is the safest way to get it clean without risking an expensive repair bill.
Check Your Machine's Weight Limit
Before you load your blanket into your home washer, take a moment to confirm its weight capacity. You can usually find this information in the owner's manual or by searching for your machine's model online. Remember, a 15-pound blanket gets much heavier when it’s completely soaked with water. Overloading your machine can lead to an unbalanced spin cycle, which can damage the machine or result in a blanket that isn't properly cleaned or rinsed. If you can't find the exact weight limit, a good rule of thumb is to avoid washing any weighted blanket over 20 pounds at home. When in doubt, the laundromat is your best friend.
When to Call a Professional
While most modern weighted blankets are designed for easy care, not all of them can go in the washing machine. The type of filling inside makes a huge difference. Blankets filled with plastic poly pellets, like ours, are generally machine-washable. However, some blankets are filled with natural materials like sand, rice, or beans, which can be ruined by water and may require professional dry cleaning. If your blanket’s care tag specifically says "dry clean only," it's best to follow that advice. Taking it to a professional ensures your blanket is cleaned safely without damaging the delicate fibers or clumping the filling.
How to Machine Wash Your Weighted Blanket
Putting your weighted blanket in the washing machine can feel a little daunting, but it’s usually a straightforward process. As long as your blanket is under 15 pounds and your machine can handle the load, you can get it clean at home without much fuss. The key is to treat it gently to protect the fabric and the weighted filling that makes it so comforting. Following a few simple steps will ensure your blanket comes out fresh, clean, and ready for many more nights of peaceful sleep. Let’s walk through exactly how to do it right.
Inspect Your Blanket First
Before you even think about putting your blanket in the washer, take a moment to play detective. Your first move should always be to find and read the care tag. This little label is your best friend, as it provides specific washing instructions directly from the manufacturer, tailored to your blanket’s unique materials. While you’re at it, give the blanket a quick once-over. Look for any small rips, loose threads, or weak spots in the seams. Washing can be tough on textiles, and a small issue can easily become a big problem in the spin cycle. Repairing any damage beforehand will prevent the weighted beads from escaping.
Choose the Right Detergent
When it comes to soap, gentle is the name of the game. You’ll want to use a mild laundry detergent that doesn’t contain any bleach or harsh chemicals. Bleach can weaken the fabric fibers over time and may cause discoloration, which is the last thing you want for your cozy companion. It’s also a good idea to skip the fabric softener. While it might seem like a good idea for extra softness, fabric softener can leave a residue on the fabric and filling, potentially reducing the blanket’s breathability. A simple, mild soap is all you need to get your blanket clean without causing any harm to its materials.
Select the Best Cycle and Temperature
To keep your blanket safe, always opt for the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine. This setting uses a slower spin speed and less agitation, which is much kinder to the blanket’s seams and construction. Just as important is the water temperature—stick with cold or cool water. Hot water can cause certain fabrics to shrink or fade and may even damage the weighted filling inside. For our adult weighted blankets, a cool, gentle wash is the perfect way to refresh them without putting any unnecessary stress on the materials. This simple combination will get the job done beautifully.
Instructions for Different Materials
Most modern weighted blankets, including those filled with glass or plastic beads, are designed to be machine washable. These fillers are durable and won’t be damaged by a gentle wash cycle. If you have one of our custom weighted blankets, you can rest assured that the premium materials we use are chosen for their durability and ease of care. Regardless of the specific fabric, the general rule remains the same: wash it alone on a gentle cycle with mild detergent and cool water. This approach protects both the outer fabric and the inner filling, ensuring your blanket stays in great shape for years to come.
How to Hand Wash Your Weighted Blanket
If your washing machine isn't quite up to the task of handling a 15 lb blanket, or if you simply prefer a more hands-on approach, hand washing is a fantastic option. It might sound like a big job, but it’s actually a straightforward way to give your blanket a deep, gentle clean without putting any stress on your appliances or the blanket’s seams. Hand washing gives you complete control over the process, ensuring the fabric and weighted filling are treated with care. This method is especially great for our custom weighted blankets, as it helps preserve the unique materials and craftsmanship. Think of it as a little spa day for your favorite source of comfort. With a bit of time and the right technique, you can have your blanket feeling fresh and clean, ready for many more nights of restful sleep.
What You'll Need
Before you get started, gathering a few simple supplies will make the process much smoother. You don’t need anything fancy, just the basics to get the job done right.
Here’s your checklist:
- A Bathtub or Large Basin: You'll need enough space to fully submerge the blanket without it being too cramped.
- Gentle Laundry Detergent: Look for a mild, liquid detergent. It's crucial to choose one that is free of bleach and fabric softeners, as these harsh additives can damage the blanket’s fabric and filling over time.
- Cold Water: Always use cold water for washing. It’s gentle on the fibers, prevents potential shrinking or fading, and is effective enough to get your blanket clean.
The Hand-Washing Process
Ready to get started? First, fill your bathtub with enough cold water to completely cover the blanket. Add a small amount of your gentle detergent and swish it around to create a mild, soapy solution. Carefully place your blanket in the tub, pressing it down until it’s fully submerged. Let it soak for about 30 minutes—or up to an hour if it needs a little extra attention. After it has soaked, you can gently work on any specific spots by rubbing the fabric against itself. Avoid vigorous scrubbing. Once you’re satisfied, drain the soapy water and refill the tub with clean, cold water to rinse. Repeat the rinsing process until no suds remain.
How to Handle a Heavy, Wet Blanket
A wet 15 lb blanket is significantly heavier, so handling it carefully is key to preventing damage. First, drain all the water from the tub. Instead of wringing or twisting the blanket—which can strain the seams and cause the filling to shift—gently press down on it to squeeze out as much water as possible. You can also fold it and press on it section by section. Once you’ve removed the excess water, carefully lift the blanket out of the tub, supporting its weight as much as you can. It’s best to have a spot ready where you can lay the blanket flat to dry. Never hang it from one end, as the weight can stretch the fabric and damage the stitching.
How to Dry Your Weighted Blanket
Once your blanket is sparkling clean, drying it properly is the final step to getting it back on your bed. The right drying method protects the fabric and the inner filling, ensuring your blanket stays cozy and effective for years to come. You have two main options: air drying or using a machine dryer. Air drying is the gentlest choice and our top recommendation, but if you're short on time, you can use a machine dryer with a few important precautions. Whichever path you choose, the goal is to dry the blanket evenly without applying high heat, which can damage the fibers or fillers. We’ll walk through the best practices for both methods so you can feel confident in caring for your favorite weighted blanket.
The Best Way to Air Dry
Air drying is the safest way to preserve the integrity of your blanket. While it requires some patience, it’s worth the effort. Find a large, clean, flat surface, like a bed (you can place a waterproof sheet underneath) or a clean floor. Lay the blanket out flat, spreading it as evenly as possible. Avoid hanging your weighted blanket from a clothesline or draping it over a railing. The sheer weight of the wet blanket can strain the stitching and cause the filling to shift and clump. To speed things up, turn the blanket over every four hours or so. This exposes both sides to the air and helps it dry more evenly.
Using a Machine Dryer Safely
If you need your blanket back in action quickly, a machine dryer can work, as long as you follow a few key rules. First and foremost, always use a low-heat or no-heat tumble dry setting. High temperatures can shrink the fabric or damage the internal pellets. It’s also a good idea to stop the dryer every 30 minutes to take the blanket out and fluff it. This helps redistribute the weight and prevents any hot spots, ensuring it dries evenly. If you have one of our custom weighted blankets with special fabric, double-check its care tag before machine drying.
How Long It Takes to Dry
Drying time depends entirely on the method you choose. If you’re air drying, expect it to take between 24 and 48 hours for the blanket to be completely dry. The good news is that our blankets are designed to not soak up excessive amounts of water, which helps the process along. If you opt for a machine dryer, it will likely take a few cycles on a low-heat setting to get the job done. Just be sure the blanket is 100% dry before you put it back on your bed or store it away. This prevents any chance of mildew, keeping your kids' weighted blankets and adult blankets fresh and ready for snuggling.
How to Spot Clean for Small Messes
Let’s be real—life happens. A drip of morning coffee or a smudge from a late-night snack doesn’t mean you have to haul your entire 15-pound blanket to the laundry room. For these small messes, spot cleaning is your best friend. It’s a quick and effective way to handle minor stains without subjecting your blanket to a full wash, which helps preserve the fabric and the internal filling for years to come. Think of it as first aid for your blanket.
Tackling a small stain right when it happens is much easier than dealing with a set-in spot later. It saves you time, energy, and the hassle of a full wash-and-dry cycle. Most common spills can be handled with just a few simple supplies you already have at home. This approach not only keeps your favorite weighted blanket looking fresh but also maintains its cozy integrity. Before you decide on a deep clean, always see if a little targeted attention will do the trick.
Treating Common Stains
The golden rule of stain removal is to act fast. The sooner you address a spill, the less likely it is to become a permanent resident on your blanket. Instead of rubbing the stain, which can push it deeper into the fabric, gently blot it with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much of the excess liquid as possible. Once you’ve blotted the area, you can apply a cleaning solution. Work from the outside edge of the stain toward the center to keep it from spreading. According to the Sleep Foundation, you should use a gentle soap with cold or warm water, rinse it thoroughly, and let it air dry.
Safe Cleaning Solutions to Use
When it comes to cleaning solutions, simple and gentle is always the way to go. Harsh chemicals are a no-go, so avoid anything with bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the fabric and irritate your skin. A great option is a mild, dye-free laundry detergent mixed with a bit of cold water. You can even use a small amount of clear dish soap. Always use cold water, as hot water can cause certain stains, like protein-based ones, to set permanently. Before you apply the solution to the stain, it’s a good idea to test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket to make sure it doesn’t cause any discoloration.
Quick Tips for Spills
If your blanket has a removable cover, your job is even easier. Simply take the cover off and treat the stain on the cover itself before washing it according to its care instructions. For the blanket itself, or for those without a cover, here’s a quick rundown for handling spills:
- Blot immediately: Use a clean cloth to soak up any excess liquid.
- Apply cleaner: Mix a small amount of gentle, bleach-free detergent with cold water and dab it onto the stain with another clean cloth.
- Rinse gently: Dampen a new cloth with plain cold water and blot the area to rinse out the soap.
- Air dry: Let the spot air dry completely. You can hang it over a sturdy railing or lay it flat on a clean surface.
How to Prevent Damage While Washing
A little extra care on laundry day goes a long way in preserving the life and feel of your favorite blanket. Following a few key guidelines will help you avoid common mishaps and keep your blanket in pristine condition, ensuring it remains a source of comfort for years to come.
Cleaning Products to Avoid
When it comes to washing your weighted blanket, less is more. Stick with one of the many gentle laundry detergents available and steer clear of harsh additives. Bleach is a definite no-go, as it can break down the fabric fibers over time and shorten your blanket's lifespan. You’ll also want to skip the fabric softener. While it sounds like a good idea, it can actually leave a residue that makes the material feel less soft and cozy. A simple, clean wash is all you need to refresh your blanket without causing any harm.
Protect Your Washing Machine
A 15-pound blanket is hefty, especially when wet, and it can put a strain on your home washing machine. Before you toss it in, it’s a good idea to check your machine’s capacity. Most standard home washers can handle a 15-pound load, but if you have a smaller or older model, it might be too much. For any of our adult weighted blankets over 20 pounds, we always recommend using a large-capacity commercial machine at a laundromat. This prevents any potential damage to your washer’s motor or drum, giving you peace of mind.
Keep Your Blanket's Fabric Safe
Your blanket’s care tag is your best friend. Always give it a quick read before washing, as it has specific instructions tailored to the fabric. For most of our custom weighted blankets, a gentle cycle with cool water is the perfect setting. This combination is effective at cleaning while being delicate on the fabric, helping to maintain its texture and color. Using a mild detergent ensures that the materials stay soft and comfortable against your skin. Following these simple steps helps protect the integrity of the fabric, so you can continue to enjoy your blanket for many years.
Keep Your Blanket in Great Shape
Your weighted blanket is more than just a blanket; it’s an investment in your comfort and well-being. Just like any favorite, well-loved item, a little care goes a long way in keeping it in prime condition for years to come. Taking a few simple steps to maintain your blanket ensures it remains a clean, cozy, and effective part of your relaxation routine. Think of it as preserving that feeling you got the very first time you snuggled up under its comforting weight.
Proper care isn’t complicated, but it does require a bit of intention. It’s about knowing how often to wash it based on your use, how to store it correctly to protect its materials, and adopting a few daily habits that prevent unnecessary wear and tear. By following these guidelines, you can extend the life of your blanket, keeping the fabric soft and the weight evenly distributed. This way, your blanket will be ready to provide that signature calming pressure whenever you need it most.
How Often to Wash It
The ideal washing schedule for your weighted blanket really depends on how you use it. If it’s your nightly companion, sharing your bed every single night, a good rule of thumb is to wash it about every three weeks or so. This helps manage the buildup of natural body oils, sweat, and dust. However, if you use your blanket more occasionally—say, for cozying up on the couch a few times a month—you can stretch that out to washing it just once a season, or about every three to four months. Of course, if there’s a spill or it gets visibly dirty, you’ll want to wash it sooner.
How to Store Your Blanket Properly
One of the best ways to protect your blanket and reduce how often you need to wash the whole thing is by using a removable duvet cover. The cover acts as a shield, and you can simply toss it in the wash far more frequently and easily than the heavy blanket itself. When you’re not using your blanket, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade the fabric over time. You can fold it neatly at the foot of your bed or place it in a breathable storage bag in a linen closet. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture.
Tips to Make Your Blanket Last
With the right care, a quality weighted blanket can last for about five years, and simple habits can help you get even more time with it. Try to avoid eating or drinking while using your blanket to prevent accidental spills. If you have furry friends who love to snuggle, keep a lint roller nearby to manage pet hair. It’s also a great idea to inspect your blanket for any small rips or loose threads, especially after washing. Mending any minor damage right away will stop it from becoming a bigger issue. These small actions will keep your weighted blanket feeling fresh and new.
Related Articles
- How to Wash a Weighted Blanket and Ensure Longevity
- Washing and Stain Removal Tips for Weighted Blankets and Accessories
- How to Clean a Weighted Blanket Safely: Spot Cleaning vs Machine Washing
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I actually wash my weighted blanket? This really comes down to how you use it. If your blanket lives on your bed and you sleep with it every night, washing it every few weeks is a good rhythm to keep it fresh. If it’s more of a couch companion for occasional movie nights, you can easily get away with washing it just once a season. The simple rule is to treat it like any other bedding you use regularly.
What's the biggest mistake I can make when washing my blanket? The most common mistake is using high heat, either in the washer or the dryer. Heat is the enemy of your blanket’s fabric and internal filling. The second biggest error is hanging it to dry. A wet weighted blanket is incredibly heavy, and hanging it can strain the seams and cause the filling to shift unevenly. Always wash with cool water and lay it flat to air dry or tumble dry on a no-heat setting.
Will washing my blanket make the filling clump together? This is a common fear, but it shouldn't happen if you follow the right steps. Clumping is usually caused by harsh washing cycles, wringing the blanket out, or drying it with high heat. Our blankets are made with small, quilted pockets specifically designed to keep the poly pellets evenly distributed. As long as you use a gentle cycle and lay it flat to dry, the filling will stay right where it belongs.
Is using a duvet cover a good idea? Absolutely. Using a removable duvet cover is one of the smartest things you can do to care for your weighted blanket. The cover acts as a protective barrier against dust, spills, and general wear. It’s much easier to strip off a lightweight cover and toss it in the wash every week than it is to wash the entire heavy blanket. It will save you a lot of time and extend the life of your blanket.
My blanket is over 20 pounds. Can I still try to wash it at home? For blankets heavier than 20 pounds, we strongly recommend taking a trip to the laundromat. A water-logged blanket of that weight can seriously damage the motor and drum of a standard home washing machine, leading to an expensive repair. Commercial machines are built to handle heavy, bulky loads, making them the safest and most effective option for cleaning your heavier blanket.
