Weighted blankets can be used to provide a sense of comfort and ease the symptoms of stress and anxiety. But, like any bedding product, they need to be washed and dried regularly in order to keep them clean and in the best condition possible. In this article, we’ll provide you with some tips for washing and drying your weighted blanket to ensure it stays clean, retains its weight over time, and remains in the best condition possible.
Materials Needed
When washing a weighted blanket, you’ll need certain materials in order to do it properly. These materials include a washing machine, mild detergent, cold water, and a large laundry basket or bucket. Depending on the size and weight of your blanket, you may need to use a washing machine with a larger-than-usual capacity.
Drying Materials
When drying your weighted blanket, you’ll need a few items. These items include a tumble dryer, preferably one with a low setting, some tennis balls or fabric softener balls if needed, and a drying line or rack. If you don’t have access to a tumble dryer, you can also use an outdoor clothesline for air drying. Make sure that the area you hang your blanket is in a well-ventilated area and away from direct sunlight.
Cleaning Supplies
You’ll also need some cleaning supplies. To clean your weighted blanket, you’ll need a soft brush or vacuum attachment, a mild, non-abrasive detergent, and some warm water. If possible, use a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Vacuuming your blanket at least once a month is a great way to keep it clean and free of dust.
Spare Liner
Lastly, it’s important to have a spare liner. Having a spare liner means that if one of your original liners gets stained or damaged, you can replace it without having to replace the whole weighted blanket. This is a great way to make sure that your weighted blanket stays in good condition for a longer period of time.
Washing the Blanket
Weighted blankets are an effective tool for providing extra comfort and relaxation, but it’s important to take the proper steps to keep your weighted blanket in good condition. Washing and drying a weighted blanket requires extra care and attention, as well as choosing the right setting. Here are some tips for washing and drying a weighted blanket.
Selecting the Right Detergent
The most important part of washing a weighted blanket is finding the right detergent. Weighted blankets should always be washed in cold water on a gentle cycle, and it’s best to use a detergent designed for delicates or a mild, non-irritating laundry detergent. Avoid using laundry detergents that contain dyes, scents, fabric softeners, bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage or degrade the weighted blanket material.
Drying Weighted Blankets
Proper care and drying of weighted blankets is essential to ensure the blankets stay in good condition. Because weighted blankets are heavier and thicker than other bedding, they can take longer to dry. To ensure the best results, it’s important to not overload the dryer and to keep the temperature on the low or medium setting. Avoid putting the weighted blanket in the dryer for more than 60 minutes, as this can cause the blanket to become over-dried and brittle. It’s also a good idea to remove the weighted blanket from the dryer promptly when it’s done and fold it up, to prevent wrinkles from forming.
Alternatives to Dryer Drying
Weighted blankets can also be hung up to dry, as this helps prevent wrinkles. Choose a warm, dry area to hang the blankets, and make sure that the area has good air circulation. It may take a few days or even a week or more for the weighted blanket to dry completely, depending on the humidity and temperature of the room. It’s best to hang the blanket in a place where it won’t be exposed to direct sunlight or other sources of heat, as this can damage the fabric.
Drying the Blanket
Weighted blankets are specially designed to be heavier than traditional blankets. This weight makes them heavier to wash and dry than other blankets. To ensure your weighted blanket stays in the best condition possible, follow these simple steps when drying it.
Air Dry Your Weighted Blanket
The best way to dry a weighted blanket is to air dry it. You can hang or lay the blanket flat on a drying rack or outdoor clothesline. If you choose to lay the blanket flat, make sure it is not folded in half, as this could cause the beads to become lumpy. Allow the blanket to dry fully before folding it and storing it away.
Don’t Use a Dryer
Weighted blankets should not be placed in a dryer. The heat from the dryer could damage the fabric of the blanket and cause the filling to lump together. Not only could this damage the blanket, but it could also make it less comfortable to use.
Protect Your Blanket from the Sun
When air drying your blanket, make sure to take the necessary steps to protect it from the sun. The sun’s UV rays can damage the fabric of the blanket and cause it to fade over time. Hang the blanket in a shady spot or cover it with an old sheet while it is drying.
Preventing Mold Growth
Before storing your weighted blanket, make sure it is completely dry. Any moisture that is left in the blanket can cause mold and mildew growth, which can damage the blanket. If you are unable to get the blanket to dry completely while air drying, consider placing it in a well-ventilated room with a fan on low to increase air flow. This should help the blanket to dry more quickly.
Following the above tips for washing and drying your weighted blanket will help keep it in good condition for years to come. Taking the time to properly clean and care for your blanket will ensure you get the most out of it.
Healthy Habits for Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets are best suited for individuals who are looking to reduce stress, improve sleep, and ease chronic pain. When selecting a weighted blanket, it’s important to consider the weight settings to ensure it’s appropriate for the individual’s needs. Generally, weighted blankets should be approximately 10% of the body weight of the user. For example, a 150-pound adult should use a 15-pound weighted blanket.
Choose Lightweight Materials
Weighted blankets are usually made with a combination of heavy materials including plastic pellets, micro glass beads, and heavy fabrics like cotton or fleece. But if you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for blanket, it’s best to choose a lightweight material like bamboo or lightweight cotton. Both materials are soft, cozy, and lightweight, making them easy to wash and dry.
Regular Washing and Drying
Regular washing and drying is essential for keeping a weighted blanket in good condition. Before washing the blanket, it’s best to make sure all the parts are properly secured, such as zippers and fasteners. Then, you can choose a mild detergent and wash the blanket in cold water on the delicate cycle. To dry the blanket, use a low heat setting and make sure to remove it as soon as it’s finished.
Storing the Weighted Blanket
Once the blanket is cleaned and dried, it’s important to store it properly. This means keeping the blanket in a dry, clean place, such as a linen closet or dresser drawer. Storing the blanket in a breathable material, like a cotton or muslin bag, can help keep it clean and dust-free.
Don’t Overuse the Blanket
Weighted blankets are incredibly beneficial for reducing stress and improving sleep. However, it’s important not to overuse the blanket as it can have a negative impact on the body. It’s best to limit use to no more than two hours per day, as prolonged use can lead to increased stress levels.
Check for Signs of Damage
Over time, weighted blankets can become worn or damaged. It’s important to inspect the blanket on a regular basis for signs of damage including holes, tears, or fraying. If any of these issues are discovered, it’s best to replace the blanket to ensure your safety.
Maintaining Weighted Blankets for Comfort and Durability
Maintaining weighted blankets is key to ensure the long-term comfort and durability of the blanket. To clean a weighted blanket, hand wash it with cold water and a mild detergent. Gently agitate the blanket and soap mixture, then rinse. To dry a weighted blanket, make sure to use a gentle cycle on the lowest heat setting or hang it to air dry. It’s also important to use a detergent that does not contain bleach or fabric softener, as these could damage the blanket. With the proper care, weighted blankets can last for years and provide comfort and stability for a good night’s sleep.
Leave a reply