How to Wash a Weighted Blanket Safely (And Keep It Soft!)

Weighted blankets have become a must-have for better sleep, reduced anxiety, and that cozy, wrapped-up feeling we all crave. But here's the thing: after weeks of nightly use, your weighted blanket needs a good wash. And let's face it—you don’t want to ruin it in the process.

The question is, how do you clean something that's filled with weighted materials without messing it up?

If you're like most people, you're worried about things like:

• • • Can I throw it in the washer?
    • What if it damages the blanket?
    • What detergents should I use?
    • What if the weight shifts or clumps?

In this guide, we’ll break it all down for you, step by step, so you can keep your weighted blanket fresh, clean, and long-lasting. I’ll also cover some critical do’s and don’ts so you don’t accidentally destroy the one thing helping you get better sleep!

Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Weighted Blanket

When it comes to cleaning or washing a weighted blanket, it’s all about the fabric and the filler. That will determine whether you can toss it in the machine or if you’ll need to go the extra mile with hand washing.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of weighted blankets and how to wash them:

1. Can You Machine Wash a Weighted Blanket?

In most cases, yes. But here’s the catch: not all blankets are the same.

Rule of thumb: Check the care label first. If your blanket is under 20 pounds and made of machine-washable materials like cotton, you’re good to go.

• • • Use cold or warm water. Hot water can cause the fabric to shrink or weaken.
    • Go for a gentle cycle. Weighted blankets need TLC; a rough cycle can damage the blanket's structure.
    • Bleach-free and mild detergent only. Skip the fabric softeners, too—they can mess with the texture.

2. Hand Wash for Delicate Materials

If your weighted blanket is made of materials like wool or is over 20 pounds, it’s probably safer to hand wash it.

Here’s how to do it:

• • • Fill a tub or basin with cold water.
    • Add a small amount of gentle detergent.
    • Submerge the blanket and swirl it around—don’t scrub or twist it.
    • Let it soak for about 15-20 minutes.
    • Drain the tub and rinse the blanket with clean, cold water.
    • Gently press out excess water without wringing it.

This method takes more time but helps keep your blanket in top shape for years to come.

What to Avoid When Washing a Weighted Blanket

Now, I’m not here to scare you, but there are a few common mistakes people make that can absolutely ruin their blanket:

• • • Using bleach or harsh detergents. These chemicals can break down the fibers. For more detailed advice on choosing the right detergent for different materials, check out the guidelines from the American Cleaning Institute. Be sure to use a gentle, hypoallergenic detergent to protect your blanket’s fabric and filling. Avoiding common mistakes is crucial when washing a weighted blanket to prevent damage. Learn about the most frequent errors in our guide on Common Mistakes When Washing Weighted Blankets.
    • High heat drying. Always air-dry or use the low-heat tumble dry option.
    • Wringing out your blanket. It’s tempting, but this can cause the filling to bunch or clump together.

Drying Your Weighted Blanket: What You Need to Know (and what to avoid!)

Drying is just as important as washing, and trust me, you don’t want to mess this part up. Here’s the lowdown on drying:

• • • Air-dry it flat whenever possible. Lay it out on a clean surface and let it dry naturally. This is the safest way to avoid damage.
    • Tumble dry on low heat, but only if your blanket is dryer-safe. A lot of weighted blankets can take a low-heat setting, but again, check the label.

Pro Tip: Avoid hanging it up to dry. The weight of the blanket could stretch the fabric and warp the filling.

Weighted Blanket Cleaning FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered

Can You Wash a Weighted Blanket With Other Items?

Nope. Always wash your weighted blanket alone. The extra weight and bulk need room to move around in the washer. Plus, other items in the load could cause uneven distribution of the blanket's filling.

How Often Should You Wash a Weighted Blanket?

This depends on how often you use it and whether you use a duvet cover. If you have a cover, washing it once a month should suffice. Without one, aim for every 4-6 weeks.

What if the Blanket Smells Musty After Washing?

This usually happens if the blanket didn’t dry properly. Give it another air-dry session, ensuring it’s laid flat and turned periodically.