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July 16, 2025 5 min read

Weighted blankets offer more than comfort, they help regulate the nervous system and provide calming pressure for better sleep and stress relief. But because of their unique construction, caring for a weighted blanket isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re dealing with a spill or planning a deeper clean, understanding the right way to wash your blanket is key to maintaining its integrity and effectiveness.

This guide will help you decide when spot cleaning is enough, when machine washing is safe, and how to protect your investment for years to come.

Why Weighted Blankets Need Special Care

Weighted blankets are not like regular comforters. They contain evenly distributed fill, such as plastic poly pellets or glass beads, that give them their signature weight. This internal structure means cleaning them requires more attention to method and materials.

Some weighted blankets can be safely machine washed. Others require gentle spot cleaning only. Choosing the wrong method can lead to:

  • Clumped or uneven weight distribution

  • Damaged stitching or fabric

  • Mold or mildew from improper drying

  • Shortened product lifespan

At Mosaic Weighted Blankets, all of our blankets come with care instructions designed to help you get the longest possible life from your purchase. We usehigh-quality plastic pellets that are bothdurable and machine washable, but even so, knowing when to spot clean and when to machine wash matters.

When to Spot Clean Your Weighted Blanket

Spot cleaning is the go-to method for quick cleanups and light maintenance. It’s especially important if your blanket contains materials that can’t get wet or if it’s labeled “spot clean only.”

Spot Cleaning Is Best When:

  • The blanket has minor spills or stains

    A small area can be treated without exposing the entire blanket to wear and tear.

  • The fill is organic

    Blankets filled withrice, sand, corn, or beans must never be submerged. These materials absorb water and can grow mold or break down inside the fabric.

  • The label says ‘Spot Clean Only’

     Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

  • You want to extend the time between washes

    Spot cleaning reduces how often the full blanket is exposed to washing stress.

How to Spot Clean Properly:

  1. Act quickly

     Dab or blot up any liquid before it sets.

  2. Use gentle detergent

     Mix a small amount of bleach-free soap with cold or warm water.

  3. Apply with a clean cloth

     Gently blot the stain. Avoid rubbing, which can stretch or damage fibers.

  4. Rinse the area

     Use a second clean cloth dampened with water to remove detergent.

  5. Let it air dry fully

     Make sure the spot is dry before folding or storing the blanket.

When to Machine Wash Your Weighted Blanket

Not all weighted blankets can be machine washed — but if yours can, it’s one of the easiest ways to keep it fresh and hygienic.

Machine Washing Is Safe If:

  • Your care label allows it

     Some blankets are constructed with washer-friendly stitching and fill.

  • The blanket uses poly pellets or glass beads

     These fillers can withstand water without degrading.

  • The blanket is under 15 to 20 pounds

     Most home machines can only handle weights up to this range. Anything heavier may strain or damage your washer.

Pro Tip: Mosaic’s standard-sized blankets are built to bewasher safe when used with the right settings.

Machine Washing Instructions:

  1. Remove any cover

     If your blanket has a removable duvet cover, wash it separately.

  2. Pre-treat visible stains

     Use a mild stain remover before loading.

  3. Use a gentle cycle

     Select delicate or low agitation cycles to reduce strain on seams.

  4. Use cold or warm water only

     Never use hot water — it can melt poly pellets or weaken stitching.

  5. Avoid bleach or fabric softener

     These can degrade fabric over time and irritate sensitive skin.

  6. Do an extra rinse

     Especially helpful if you have sensitive skin or use detergent additives.

What If Your Blanket Is Too Heavy for Your Machine?

If your blanket weighs more than 20 pounds or you’re unsure of your machine’s capacity, skip the risk and:

  • Visit a laundromat with commercial-grade machines

  • Hand wash the blanket in a large tub or sink (instructions below)

How to Hand Wash a Weighted Blanket

Hand washing gives you control over pressure and agitation — ideal for larger or more delicate blankets.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Fill a clean tub with cold water and mild detergent

  2. Submerge the blanket fully and gently swish it through the water

  3. Soak for 15 to 30 minutes

  4. Drain the tub and rinse thoroughly with clean water

  5. Press out excess water gently

     Never wring or twist the fabric — it can shift the internal weight or damage the seams

  6. Lay flat or hang evenly to dry

Drying a Weighted Blanket the Right Way

Proper drying of your weighted blanket is just as important as proper washing. The weight of the blanket makes drying tricky, especially if the fill holds onto water.

Air Drying:

  • Best for all fill types

  • Lay flat on a clean surface or hang over a sturdy railing

  • Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading

  • Flip periodically to allow even drying

Machine Drying (if permitted):

  • Only uselow heat or air fluff settings

  • Adddryer balls or clean tennis balls to help distribute weight

  • Remove promptly when dry to prevent heat buildup

Fill-Specific Guidelines:

Filler Type

Drying Recommendation

Plastic Poly Pellets

Low heat only

Glass Beads

Low to medium heat or air dry

Organic Fillers

Air dry only — never machine dry

Steel Shot Beads

Air dry only

How Often Should You Wash a Weighted Blanket?

If you use your weighted blanket every night, amonthly wash is usually enough to keep it clean without over-washing. Using a removable duvet cover cuts down on cleaning needs significantly and helps extend the blanket’s life.

At Mosaic Weighted Blankets, our covers are designed for easy removal and machine washing — perfect for daily users and sensory-sensitive households.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Washing too frequently

     Over time, even high-quality fabrics can weaken with too much washing.

  • Ignoring the weight capacity of your washer

     Always know your washer’s limits before tossing in a heavy blanket.

  • Using bleach or fabric softeners

     These are too harsh for most weighted blankets.

  • Skipping the air dry step

     Even if you tumble dry, air drying completely afterward prevents moisture buildup inside seams.

Mosaic’s Weighted Blankets Are Made for Easy Maintenance

Our weighted blankets are filled withnon-toxic, hypoallergenic plastic pellets that won’t absorb water or break down. That means most of our blankets can be machine washed — and last for years with proper care. We also offer:

  • Removable, washable covers

  • Breathable fabric choices like cotton and Coolmax®

  • Stitching engineered for weight stability

Whether you need a washable blanket for daily use or a cozy option that’s easy to spot clean, we have you covered.

Final Takeaway

Keeping your weighted blanket clean doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is knowing when to spot clean for small messes and when your blanket is built for a full wash. Always check the care label, consider your blanket’s weight and filler type, and air dry thoroughly when possible.

With the right care routine, your Mosaic weighted blanket will stay fresh, functional, and comforting for years to come.

Ready to find your perfect, easy-care weighted blanket?

Explore Mosaic’s washable weighted blanket collection