Concerned about washing something electric, like a blanket?
Here are some of the best ways to learn how to wash an electric blanket!
Use these tips to clean a heated blanket the right way without any damage!
Winter cold has us pulling out our blankets and electric throws.
For many of us, an electric blanket is our go-to when the frigid weather takes over.
The trouble is when we eat over it, our kids wipe their germs on the blanket after being sick, or we spill our coffee or ketchup on our beloved cuddle buddy, we now have to clean it.
If you’re wondering how to wash an electric blanket, here are some simple ways to keep a heated blanket clean you’ll be glad to know!
How To Clean An Electric Blanket
When you’re cleaning an electric blanket, there are several options you can go about it, but you need to know what to do as you’re doing them.
Here’s where I come in!
If you are wondering, are electric blankets washable?
The answer is some are, and some aren’t.
Always check the care tag.
It’s understandable to be concerned about how to wash an electric blanket, but it’s totally doable.
If an older electric blanket looks a bit worse for wear and isn’t safe to wash, you can try some alternative methods that may help clean it.
An alternative option to washing your electric blanket is to use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to gently suction away any debris or dirt from the surface of your blanket.
You can also try spritzing your blanket with white vinegar or lemon juice and then letting it sit for a few hours to help break down stains and eliminate any unpleasant odors.
How To Clean Electric Blanket Without Washing
Before cleaning an electric blanket, always unplug it and remove the power cord to prevent a fire hazard.
If your heated blanket has no stains or smells, you can get away with surface cleaning it.
First, take a lint roller over the blanket to pick up hairs or small debris.
You can vacuum the electric blanket to pick up larger loose debris if needed.
Lay the blanket on a flat surface and use the vacuum’s small attachment brush.
If you want to freshen up your electric blanket, you can take a damp cloth over the surface of the blanket.
To disinfect it lightly, you can use an alcohol wipe.
Or lightly mist with a fabric-safe homemade disinfectant spray.
How To Wash A Heated Blanket In The Washer
Before you start cleaning your blanket, you should check the tag for wash and care options.
Some models are not to be washed in a machine.
Electric blankets manufacturer’s instructions may vary.
Check out this printable laundry chart to understand your blanket’s care tags.
1. First, remove your electric blanket from the bed, unplug it from your outlet, and turn the control to “zero.”
Then remove the control panel cord from the blanket. The cord cannot be washed.
2. Next, wash the blanket in cold water on a gentle/delicate cycle in your washing machine using a small amount of mild laundry detergent or soap.
Do not use fabric softener or bleach; they can damage the electrical wiring inside the blanket.
3. Once the cycle is complete, gently squeeze out any excess water and hang the blanket over a drying rack to air dry.
Air drying is necessary as the temperature in a dryer can get too hot and damage the wiring inside the blanket, ruining the electric blanket.
If you don’t have a drying rack, you can always hang your electric blanket over your shower rod in your bathroom.
The drying process may take a full 24 hrs.
4. Finally, once the blanket is completely dry, you can plug it back in and carefully re-insert it onto your bed or relaxation spot.
If you don’t have access to a washing machine, handwashing is an alternative way to clean your electric blanket.
How to Wash An Electric Blanket By Hand
There are also a few heated blankets you won’t be able to wash via the washing machine, and in those cases, here’s how to wash an electric blanket by handwashing.
1. Start by unplugging your electric blanket from the wall and turning the control to “zero.”
This will ensure you don’t get an electric shock when washing it.
I know this step may sound silly to some, but you would be surprised how this reminder can save a lot of significant pain later.
Then remove the power cord from the blanket.
2. Carefully remove any loose stains or debris from the surface of your blanket using a soft-bristled brush, such as a toothbrush.
Shaking out the blanket will also help to remove the loose particles stuck to the blanket.
Use a credit card to scrape off dried-on particles.
3. Areas where spots look tough, should be spot treated.
Depending on the stain will determine how you will need to spot treat.
4. Next, fill a bathtub or laundry sink with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
Submerge your blanket into the tub/sink and agitate the blanket a bit to cover it thoroughly with water and soap.
Soak your blanket in the tub for at least 15 minutes to help loosen any tough stains or residue.
5. After soaking, gently press down on the blanket to release any trapped dirt or grime.
Then, using a soft sponge or cloth, gently wash the entire surface of your blanket until it is spotless.
You may need some scrubbing power on the tough spots, but spot treating should have helped reduce the effort.
6. When finished washing, rinse your blanket thoroughly with warm water until all traces of soap have been removed.
You may need to empty and refill your tub/sink multiple times or run underwater until the water runs clean.
7. Before removing it from the tub/sink, press down on the blanket to remove excess water, then hang it over a drying rack or clothesline to air dry.
8. Finally, once the blanket is completely dry, you can plug it back in, carefully re-insert it onto your bed, and get ready to snuggle with it for warmth and comfort.
Washing Electric Blanket FAQs
How to clean an electric blanket?
Always check your heating blanket user manual about the cleaning process.
The first step to cleaning an electric blanket is to unplug it.
The next step is to use a vacuum cleaner and suck up any dust or debris that may have accumulated on top of the blanket.
If washing, it is also important to inspect the electric blanket for stains, tears, or other damage before washing it.
If any of these are found, they should be repaired before being washed and dried in a machine.
Can you wash a heated blanket in the washer?
Yes, you can wash a heated electric blanket in the washer.
However, it would be best if you took special precautions because the heating elements can be damaged by the hot water and harsh chemical detergents.
Always check the heated blanket’s care tag to ensure it can be washed in a washer.
After checking the washing instructions, then be sure to unplug the power cable from your blanket.
If your blanket does not have a detachable power cord, machine washing your electric blanket is no longer an option.
Can you use fabric softener or bleach on a heated blanket?
No, it would be best if you did not use fabric softener or bleach when washing an electric blanket.
They can damage the electrical components inside the blankets.
Can you dry a heated blanket in a dryer?
Drying a heated blanket in a dryer is not recommended.
The heat from the dryer can damage the wires in the blanket and cause it to malfunction.
However, depending on your manufacturer’s instructions, you may be able to dry your electric blanket using the low heat setting and only partially dry it.
Never use high heat.
Never dry electric blankets in a commercial dryer at a local laundromat.
How to dry an electric blanket?
The best way to dry a machine-washable electric blanket is by letting it air dry.
Make sure to let it dry in a cool, dry place.
If drying outside on a clothesline, be sure the blanket is not drying in direct sunlight.
How To Wash An Electric Blanket – The Right Way!
As you’re learning how to clean an electric blanket, remember to take extra care both cleaning it and using it!
Following these simple steps, you can enjoy a fresh, clean electric blanket that will keep you warm and cozy for many years!
Remember, with proper care, electric blankets can be a relaxing and reliable source of warmth for many frigid winters!