Yes, it is generally OK to put a weighted blanket in the washer. However, before washing a weighted blanket, you should read the care label to make sure it is safe to wash the blanket in a washing machine.
Some manufacturers may recommend that weighted blankets be spot cleaned rather than machine washed. If the label allows for machine washing, make sure to use a gentle cycle and cold water to help protect the fabric of the blanket.
Additionally, avoid using harsh detergents that may damage or shrink the fabric. It is very important to dry a weighted blanket thoroughly so it retains its shape and evenly distributes weight. It is best to hang the blanket on a clothesline or use a low air tumble dry cycle.
Avoid using high heat as this may damage the fabric. It might also be helpful to add a few towels or tennis balls in the dryer along with the blanket to help separate it and prevent clumping while drying.
If a blanket is too large to fit in the washing machine, it is best to take the blanket to a reputable dry cleaner that specializes in delicate fabrics.
Can you machine wash a 15 lb weighted blanket?
No, it is not recommended to machine wash a 15 lb weighted blanket. Weighted blankets are generally filled with plastic or glass beads, and these are not suitable for machine washing. Furthermore, these materials can be damaged by water, so washing them in a washing machine puts them at risk of damage.
Additionally, it is often impossible to get the blanket back into its original block size and weight, which can affect the therapeutic benefits of the blanket. For these reasons, it is recommended to spot clean the blanket with a damp cloth instead.
Will a weighted blanket break my dryer?
No, a weighted blanket should not break your dryer. Weighted blankets generally range from 5 to 25 pounds in weight, so they should be completely safe to put into a dryer. However, if you have a very old or fragile dryer, it’s best to use a lower spin and low-heat setting to protect the internal components.
Additionally, if your weighted blanket has removable weights in the pockets, you should remove them before putting the blanket in the dryer so they don’t become loose or damage the dryer due to the spinning.
Lastly, make sure to clean the lint filter after each load. Following these precautions will help you keep your weighted blanket and dryer safe.
How do you wash a weighted blanket that says spot clean only?
If your weighted blanket says “spot clean only,” it’s best to be extra cautious and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. First, check the care label of your weighted blanket or consult the manufacturer’s website to make sure that machine-washing is not an option.
If there are no other instructions, here are some spot cleaning tips:
1. Remove as much debris as possible. Use a gentle brush or vacuum to remove as much debris as possible.
2. Pre-treat the stained areas. Pre-treat the stained areas with an upholstery cleaner that is safe for your fabric. Some products are specifically designed for spot cleaning.
3. Wet the blanket. Wet the area with clean water. Do not soak the blanket.
4. Apply a cleaning solution. Use a mild detergent, a carpet shampoo, an enzymatic cleaner, or an upholstery cleaner to spot clean the blanket. Be sure to test a small area first to ensure that the cleaning product does not damage the fabric.
5. Work the cleaning solution in. Use a clean cloth to work the cleaning solution into the fabric. Gently rub in a circular motion.
6. Blot the area. Use a clean cloth to blot the area until the suds have been absorbed.
7. Let it dry. Allow the area to dry thoroughly. Avoid direct sunlight and heat, as this could damage the fabric.
8. Vacuum the remaining debris. Use a vacuum to remove the remaining debris from the blanket.
9. Let it air out. Allow the blanket to air out for a few hours if possible.
Following these steps should help you spot clean your weighted blanket safely and effectively. If in doubt, it is best to consult a professional dry cleaner to ensure that your blanket is cleaned properly.
What’s inside a weighted blanket?
Weighted blankets typically contain non-toxic, hypoallergenic, glass beads or plastic poly pellets, which are usually evenly distributed throughout the blanket. The beads are usually housed in small sewn pockets in the blanket, with layers of fabric between the beads and the outside of the blanket.
Weighted blankets range in weight and size, with lighter, smaller versions typically meant for children, and heavier, larger versions usually intended for adults. The weight of the blanket is often 10–25% of the user’s body weight, and the inner compartments of the blanket can be filled accordingly to make the blanket heavier or lighter.
The beads or pellets provide gentle pressure to the body, similar to a hug or massage. This is believed to increase serotonin and melatonin levels, reduce cortisol levels, and improve overall sleep quality.
Can you sleep on your side with a weighted blanket?
Yes, you can sleep on your side with a weighted blanket. When using a weighted blanket for side sleepers, the general rule of thumb is that the blanket should be 7 to 12 percent of your body weight, depending on the blanket size and your comfort level.
Additionally, it’s best to opt for a blanket with larger compartments (or separate pockets) filled with weighted material to ensure that the weight is evenly distributed across your body. If you’re using a one-piece weighted blanket, it should be larger than the mattress size to make sure that it hangs over the sides and can sufficiently cover your body.
Furthermore, special weighted blankets that are specifically designed for side sleepers are now available.
Do weighted blankets damage washing machines?
Weighted blankets are quite heavy and it is possible that their weight can damage washing machines. However, if weighted blankets are washed properly, following the manufacturer’s instructions, most washing machines should be able to safely handle them.
When washing a weighted blanket, care should be taken to use a gentle cycle, low to medium spin speed, and appropriate water temperature for the fabric. Additionally, make sure the load is properly balanced, as an unbalanced load can damage the washing machine.
Lastly, avoid washing weighted blankets with other heavier items, such as jeans, as this can be too much for the washer to manage. Taking these measures should minimize the chances of the blanket damaging the washing machine.
How do you wash blankets in the washing machine?
To wash blankets in the washing machine, begin by separating them into separate loads according to color, texture, and fabric type. Place lighter blankets, such as cotton, in the washer first, while heavier fabrics, such as wool or fleece, can be the last load.
Use a mild detergent and cold water to prevent shrinking and color fading. Choose the gentle or delicate cycle, with a slow spin setting, to protect the fabric and keep it looking new. For high-piled and thick blankets, place them in a mesh bag or pillow case and tie it with a string before you add it to the wash.
You may want to also reduce the load size so it is not too bulky. Let the machine complete the cycle and empty it after washing. Hang the blankets outside in the sun to dry, rather than putting them in the dryer, unless the label explicitly says it is okay to do so.
Why do weighted blankets feel heavier than they are?
Weighted blankets are heavier than they appear because they are filled with glass beads, metal pellets, or plastic poly pellets that are evenly distributed throughout the blanket material. This evenly distributed weight creates a comforting pressure similar to that of being hugged, cuddled, or swaddled.
This pressure is known as Deep Touch Pressure (DTP) – a type of therapy used to treat anxiety, depression, and stress. This type of pressure has been known to increase serotonin and melatonin levels, reduce cortisol, decrease the time taken to fall asleep, and reduce the frequency of night terrors.
As the heavier weighted blankets interact with the pressure receptors on our skin, they effectively activate this calming effect by mimicking a hug.
