How to Wash a Weighted Blanket Without Ruining It – Best Tips

(Last Update: 04/06/2025)

Are you worried that washing your weighted blanket might ruin it? You’re not alone. Many people avoid cleaning their blankets out of fear they’ll damage the fabric or inner fill.

But keeping your weighted blanket clean is essential to its performance and sleep hygiene.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to wash a weighted blanket without ruining it—from choosing the right wash method to drying it properly—so it stays cozy, effective, and in tip-top shape for the long haul.

Preparing to Wash a Weighted Blanket

Before washing your weighted blanket, it’s essential to prepare it properly to ensure a safe and effective cleaning process. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Check the Care Label: Always check the care label on your weighted blanket to see if it can be machine-washed or hand-washed. Some weighted blankets may require dry cleaning,
2. Remove Any Loose Debris: Gently shake the weighted blanket to remove any loose debris, such as dust or dirt, that may have accumulated on the surface.
3. Pre-Treat Any Stains: If there are any stains on the weighted blanket, pre-treat them with a stain remover or a mixture of gentle detergent and cold water.

Follow Manufacturer's Instructions First

Before cleaning your favorite weighted blanket, always read the care tag or the manufacturer’s care instructions.

As a general rule, many weighted blankets with removable duvet covers are machine safe, but the entire blanket should be washed separately to protect glass microbeads or plastic poly pellets.

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Identify Stains and Pre-Treat Trouble Spots

Before anything else, please look over your weighted blanket for stains or spills. Tackling these areas before washing will make a big difference in the results.

• Spot clean noticeable stains using a mild detergent or a stain remover that’s safe for delicate fabrics.
• Use a soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush to gently work the solution into the fabric.
• Dab with a clean cloth—avoid rubbing, which can wear down the fabric.

Determine the Right Cleaning Method

Not all weighted blankets are made the same, so the best way to wash your weighted blanket depends on the material, construction, and type of filler, such as glass beads or plastic pellets.

Some are labeled machine washable, especially those made with durable cotton or microfiber fabrics.

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Machine Washing Your Weighted Blanket

If your blanket is machine washable, that’s great news—but you still need to take care.

• Use a large-capacity washer (top-load machines with agitators can be too harsh).
• Use a mild or gentle detergent—avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as they can break down the fibers and filler.

Spot Cleaning Tips

Use cold or warm water, mild laundry detergent, and a delicate cycle. Avoid fabric softener buildup. For cleaning stains, use an old toothbrush to spot clean the blanket inside. You may blanket soak in cool water for a deep clean.

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Hand Washing Your Weighted Blanket

Manual washing your weighted blanket is best for heavier or non-machine-washable options. Start by filling a bathtub or large basin with cold or lukewarm water and mix in a gentle detergent to create a mild cleaning solution.

Submerge the blanket fully and gently agitate the fabric by hand to lift dirt and residue. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly to remove all detergent and press out excess water carefully—never wring, as it may damage the internal fill.

Drying and Post-Wash Maintenance

Drying a weighted blanket the wrong way can cause damage or clumping. Here’s how to do it right:

• Air dry the blanket on a flat surface, like a clean towel or rack, to avoid stretching.
• If machine drying is allowed, tumble dry on a low temperature or low setting.

Avoid high heat with organic materials. Laundry experts recommend washing removable covers more often than the weighted insert to keep your blanket fresh along with other bedding.

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Spot Cleaning for Minor Messes

Spot cleaning is ideal when only a small area of your weighted blanket is dirty. Gently blot the stain using a soft cloth with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain further into the fabric.

Washing and Spot Cleaning Tips

Use cold or warm water, mild laundry detergent, and a gentle cycle. Avoid fabric softener buildup. For cleaning stains, use an old toothbrush to spot clean the blanket inside.

How Often to Wash a Weighted Blanket

The frequency of washing a weighted blanket depends on how often it is used. Here are some general guidelines:

1. If Used Daily: Wash your weighted blanket every 2-3 weeks to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
2. If Used by Pets: Wash your weighted blanket more frequently, ideally every 1-2 weeks, to prevent the accumulation of pet dander and dirt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When washing blankets, there are a few mistakes that can lead to damage:

• Using hot water or harsh detergents can degrade materials and fillers.
• Skipping the care label may result in irreversible damage.

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Tips for Keeping Your Weighted Blanket Cleaner Longer

Proper care doesn’t end after washing. Here’s how to keep your blanket fresher between cleanings:

• Wash your hands before handling it to reduce oil transfer.
• Avoid food or drinks near your blanket—especially in bed.
• Use a duvet or removable outer cover as a shield.
• Wash every 3–6 months or as needed, depending on use.

After washing your weighted blanket, be sure to check the care tag before starting the drying process. Always use low heat and place the blanket on a clean surface or visit a commercial laundromat for larger sizes.

Hand Wash vs. Machine Wash – Which One’s Better?

Deciding between hand washing and machine washing depends on your blanket’s material, weight, and filler. Machine washing is quicker and works well for durable, machine-friendly fabrics, while manual washing is gentler, especially for delicate fabrics or blankets with plastic pellets.

To avoid moisture build up, ensure the blanket is completely dry before storing or using it again, as damp fabric can lead to mildew and odors.

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🟢 Conclusion

Properly caring for your weighted blanket ensures it remains effective, clean, and cozy night after night.

Whether you prefer machine or hand laundering , the key is cold or lukewarm water, gentle detergent, air drying, or low-tumble drying.

By following these easy tips and avoiding common mistakes, your blanket will continue to provide soothing comfort for years.

With attention and the right steps, you can keep your blanket fresh without sacrificing quality or durability.

🟡 FAQs

Can you wash a weighted blanket in the washing machine?

Yes—if the blanket is labeled machine washable. Use a large-capacity washer, cold water, and a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, and always follow the care label to prevent damaging the blanket’s material or fill.

What not to do with a weighted blanket?

Avoid using hot water, harsh detergents, or fabric softeners. Don’t overload the washing machine or ignore care instructions. Never wring the blanket dry or expose it to direct sunlight for long periods, as this can weaken the material and ruin the weighted filling.

How to wash a weighted blanket that was peed on?

First, spot-treat the stain with an enzyme-based cleaner or mild detergent. Then, wash the blanket using cold water on a gentle cycle or hand wash if necessary. Avoid heat when drying—air dry or tumble dry on low to prevent damage.