Everyone loves using an electric blanket when it gets to the colder months. However, proper care is needed to ensure they operate efficiently, and safely.
Whether you've knocked a glass of red onto your lap during your cosy Friday night, or just want to make sure your electric blanket remains fresh, knowing how to wash your blanket without damaging the electrical components is crucial!
This guide from the team at Dreamland will walk you through washing your electric blanket step-by-step. Therefore, you can relax knowing your electric blanket is clean, fresh, and safe to use.
Table of Contents
- Can you wash an electric blanket?
- What you’ll need to wash your heated blanket
- How to wash an electric blanket: step-by-step
- Washing different types of electric blankets
- How to hand wash an electric blanket
- When should you not wash a heated blanket?
- Precautions and safety tips
- Conclusion: washing an electric blanket
- FAQs
Can you Wash an Electric Blanket?
Generally, you can wash electric blankets. Advances in heated fabric tech have made many electric blankets machine washable! This allows for convenient cleaning. However, you must make sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for your specific blanket. Some electric blankets can only be hand washed.
Being aware of how to wash your electric blanket is essential to preserve its quality and performance while keeping it fresh and hygienic! Let's explore the details of how to properly wash different types of electric blankets.
What You’ll Need to Wash Your Heated Blanket
Below are the different materials and tools you’ll need to freshen up your heated blanket:
- Mild detergent - Use a gentle, mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics. This will help to avoid damaging the fibres of the blanket.
- Soft cloth or sponge - Use for spot cleaning and treating stains gently without causing abrasion.
- Washing machine - Ensure your washing machine is large enough to accommodate the blanket without overcrowding.
- Drying rack or line - An alternative to using a dryer. Ensure sufficient space for air drying the blanket.
- Instructions manual, if available - Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for any specific care instructions.
How to Wash an Electric Blanket in the Washing Machine: Step-by-step
Washing an electric blanket is pretty straightforward. As long as you are aware of safety precautions to not damage the materials or electrical components:
Check Washing Instructions
Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Look for specific washing and care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will determine whether you can wash the blanket in a washing machine. These guidelines often specify the recommended washing cycle, detergent type, and drying methods.
Remove the Blanket Cords
Disconnect the power cord from the outlet and detach it from the blanket.
Make sure that no electrical components are submerged in water! This is incredibly important to prevent damage and ensure safety throughout the washing process. However, you do not need to remove the built-in cord of the electric blanket.
Use a Delicate Washing Cycle
Select the appropriate cycle.
Place the electric blanket in the washing machine and choose a delicate or gentle cycle with cold water. Using a mild detergent, preferably one recommended by the manufacturer, helps clean without causing damage.
Dry Gently
Use Your Dryer on Coolest Heat Setting (If Applicable)
If allowed by the manufacturer's instructions, dry the blanket on the coolest heat setting in the dryer. Ensure it's completely dry before use.
Air-Drying Method
Lay the blanket flat on a drying rack or hang it outdoors to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight and ensure it's completely dry before storing or using it again.
Washing Different Types of Electric Blankets
Electric blankets come in various forms. They are all designed to provide targeted warmth and comfort in different ways, but some of them do things a bit differently. All of our products are also tumble dryer safe, helping make it easy to wash and dry them.
Heated Throws
Heated throws are favoured for their portability and cosiness. They are often machine washable. However, specific care instructions may vary by brand or model.
Heated Underblankets
Heated underblankets are designed to be placed beneath your bedsheet for added warmth. They are generally safe for machine washing.
Heated Mattress Protectors
Mattress protectors provide warmth while safeguarding your mattress. They typically have waterproof properties, however, they may require special care during washing to maintain their protective features. Always review the manufacturer's instructions for suitable washing methods and temperature settings.
*It’s important to note, that all types of our electric blankets at Dreamland, are machine washable and tumble dryer safe!
How to Hand Wash an Electric Blanket
If the washing instructions specify handwashing, fill a tub with cold water and a gentle detergent.
Soak and Gently Agitate
Submerge the blanket, and agitate it gently by hand, mimicking the motion of a washing machine. Rinse thoroughly until all soap is removed.
Avoid Wringing
Squeeze out excess water gently without wringing or twisting, as this could damage the internal wiring.
When Should You Not Wash a Heated Blanket?
While maintaining the cleanliness of your heated blanket is crucial for comfort and hygiene, there are certain scenarios where washing might not be recommended! It could potentially pose risks to the blanket's functionality and safety.
Damaged Wiring or Visible Wear
If you notice any frayed wiring, exposed elements, or visible signs of wear and tear on your electric blanket, refrain from washing it. Damaged wiring poses safety hazards, and washing could further compromise the integrity of the blanket.
Manufacturer's Warnings Against Washing
Some electric blankets come with manufacturer's warnings explicitly stating that they should not be washed. These warnings might indicate that the blanket is not suitable for machine washing, or might specify particular cleaning methods to follow.
Old or Fragile Blankets
Older electric blankets or those that have become fragile due to extensive use might not withstand the washing process. Washing could exacerbate their condition. This could lead to potential malfunction or further deterioration.
Precautions and Safety Tips
Washing an electric blanket does require at least a little attention to detail! Following specific precautions ensures both effective cleaning and the safety of the blanket's electrical components.
Spot Check for Damage
Prior to washing, thoroughly examine the blanket for signs of wear, tear, or exposed wiring. Avoid washing if you notice any damage, as it could worsen during the washing cycle.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Bleach
Use a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners as they may damage the blanket's materials or affect its electrical components.
Handle with Care When Drying
When drying, refrain from wringing or twisting the blanket. This could damage the internal wiring. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and follow manufacturer-recommended drying methods.
Ensure Complete Drying
Ensure the blanket is completely dry before using or storing it. Moisture retention could lead to mildew growth or impact the functionality of the electrical components.
Conclusion: Washing an Electric Blanket
Washing your cosy electric blanket involves a careful balance between cleanliness and keeping its electrical components safe! By following the appropriate steps and adhering to manufacturer guidelines, you can help keep the cleanliness and hygiene of your heated fabric at its best possible standard.
At Dreamland, we have been designing, making, and providing customers with the cosiest electric blankets on the market for over 50 years. Whether you require mattress protectors, overblankets, or heat pads, we’ll keep you snug.
With award-winning technology that allows for quick heat-ups, smart Intelliheat controls and machine washable designs, our heated fabrics just make relaxing that little bit easier.
Shop our full range of warming blankets and electric bed warmers today!
FAQs
How often should you wash a heated blanket?
It's recommended to wash your heated blanket every 2 to 4 weeks. This will help maintain its cleanliness and freshness. Follow manufacturer guidelines for washing cycles and settings. Avoid ironing the blanket and opt for partial drying on the coolest heat setting followed by air-drying for optimal care.
How to clean stains off an electric blanket
Fill a large tub (bath will suffice) with cool water and a mild detergent:
- Submerge the blanket and avoid the power cord
- Soak for 10-15 minutes.
- Gently agitate the blanket underwater, focusing on stains, using mild pressure.
This process effectively tackles stubborn stains on your electric blanket.
Can I dry an electric blanket in the dryer?
Most electric blankets can be tumble dried on low settings in a dryer. However, always adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for specific drying guidelines. If air-drying is required, sandwich the blanket between towels to absorb excess moisture. Then lay or hang it flat for drying.