The Best Way To Safely Wash Your Electric Blanket

When you plan to store your electric blanket away for the season, chances are that giving it a good cleaning is not on your to-do list. And you're not alone. Unfortunately, many people don't wash their electric blankets because they're afraid of damaging the blanket, but even the best heated blankets need to be cleaned. With just a few steps, you can safely wash your electric blanket and store it away, ready for the next time you need to warm up. There are two methods for cleaning an electric blanket: by hand or in the washing machine.

Whether you wash your blanket by hand or use a machine, the most important first step is to check the care label. The information you find there will tell you exactly what you need to do. While many newer electric blankets are designed to go in the washing machine, some older blankets may not be able to withstand the process. In either case, it's very important to remove the cords and controls before washing, since these can be damaged by water. Most controls have a detachable port near the edge of the blanket, but if yours doesn't, a hand wash might be a better option to avoid submerging the electrical components. Ensure to give the blanket a good shake outside or a once-over with a lint roller before starting the washing process.

For blankets that can be machine-washed, remember that a gentle approach is always the best. When you're getting ready to wash the blanket, there are a few mistakes to avoid. Never use harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softener, since they can weaken the insulation on the wires inside the blanket and cause them to break. Always use mild liquid detergent and arrange the blanket loosely inside the washing machine, making sure it's not wadded up or twisted around itself. If you have a top-loading washer with an agitator, gently position the blanket around the center so it won't get tangled. It can also be helpful to add a few towels to the washer to help balance the load.

Once the blanket is in place, set the washing machine to a short, gentle cycle. This is also a good time to adjust the water temperature to cold or lukewarm. Using a low-speed spin cycle is also recommended to prevent the inner wiring from shifting around. When the wash cycle has ended, remove the blanket immediately. Take care not to twist or wring it out, since this can damage the wiring. Instead, gently squeeze out any extra water and get it ready for the drying stage.

If your blanket's care label says that it shouldn't be put in a washing machine, or if you prefer an even gentler option, hand-washing is an effective way to clean it. Fill a bathtub or large sink with lukewarm or cool water and a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Dunk the blanket and gently move it around with your hands. Let it soak for a few minutes, then drain the soapy water and refill with clean water for rinsing. Repeat this process until all soap has been removed. Once it's clean, squeeze out any remaining water.

Properly drying the blanket is just as important as the washing part. While you can use your dryer, it's best to dry the electric blanket for a short amount of time on a low-heat setting, or a no-heat setting if your machine has it. Do not use high heat, since it can shrink the blanket and ruin the wiring. After about 20 minutes in the dryer, the blanket should be removed while it's still damp and placed on a drying rack or a clothesline. Hanging the blanket helps to keep the wires in place and makes sure it gets adequate airflow for drying. Make sure the blanket is completely dry before plugging it back in for use or storing it in vacuum bags or some other storage solution.