Introduction
Heated blankets are a lifesaver in the cold winter months when you’re looking for a cozy way to warm up. However, washing these blankets can be tricky, and if you’re not careful, you could end up damaging your blanket permanently. Washing your heated blanket safely is essential to maintain its quality and prolong its lifespan. In this article, we’ll discuss the five simple steps to effectively wash your heated blanket, along with some do’s and don’ts, expert advice, tips for winter cleaning and storage, and even some DIY options.
5 Simple Steps to Effectively Wash your Heated Blanket
Before washing your heated blanket, it’s important to follow these five simple steps to ensure that you don’t damage your blanket:
Step 1: Preparing Your Heated Blanket for Washing
It’s essential to read the label on your heated blanket to determine the appropriate washing instructions. Do not wash your blanket if it says ‘dry clean only.’ Before washing your blanket, unplug it, detach the cords, and check it for any rips or tears. If you find any damage, do not wash your blanket.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Washing Machine Settings
Choose a washer that’s big enough to fit your blanket with room to move around. Use a gentle washing cycle and cold water. Hot water can damage the wiring and shrink the blanket. Always avoid bleach when washing your heated blanket.
Step 3: Selecting the Ideal Detergent for Your Heated Blanket
Choose a gentle detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics. Avoid using detergents that contain bleach, fabric softeners, or enzymes. Fabric Softeners can damage the wires embedded in heated blankets, while bleach and enzymes could break down the fabric’s fibers.
Step 4: Washing Your Blanket
Place your blanket in the washing machine and add the detergent, following its instructions. Run the washer on a gentle cycle, and do not use too much detergent. After the first cycle, run the blanket through a second cycle, but this time, without detergent. Doing this helps to remove any traces of soap that could harm the wiring or irritate your skin.
Step 5: Drying Your Blanket
After the washing cycles, remove the blanket from the washer and gently press out any excess water out. Do not twist or wring the blanket as it can damage the wiring. Line dry your heated blanket outside preferably. If you need to use a dryer, use the air fluff setting or the lowest heat setting possible.
Washing Your Heated Blanket: Do’s and Don’ts
Here are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to washing your heated blanket:
Washing Your Blanket with Cold Water
Use cold water when washing your heated blanket. Hot water can damage the blanket and the wiring, leading to reduced performance and even ruining the material.
Using Gentle Detergents
Always use a gentle detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics like silk or wool. Choose a mild detergent, preferably without bleach or fabric softeners.
Avoiding Fabric Softeners
Do not use fabric softeners with heated blankets. These softeners coat the wires, resulting in reduced efficiency and even possible harm to the electronic components.
Tips for Ensuring Your Blanket Stays in Good Condition
Always store your heated blanket correctly after use. Do not fold it when wet but dry it entirely before storing it. Keep it in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, to prevent fading.
Expert Advice for Laundering Your Heated Blanket at Home
Here’s some professional advice for washing your heated blanket:
Advice and Tips From Professional Cleaners
Always read the label for care and washing instructions, especially if the blanket is made of a poly-cotton blend or has special care instructions. Heated blankets should never be dry cleaned.
How to Keep Your Heated Blanket Clean and Germ-Free
Once you’ve washed your heated blanket, follow these tips to keep it clean and germ-free:
- Use a lint roller to get rid of pet hair, dust, and debris regularly.
- Vacuum your blanket with the nozzle at a low setting.
- Keep your blanket folded or stored in a closed storage unit when not in use.
Additional Tips for Laundering Your Heated Blanket at Home
Always ensure the cord connectors are adequately attached, and that the blanket is not exposed to tangled cords or electrical hazards. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or fabric softeners that can damage the wires.
Winter is Coming: How to Clean and Store Your Heated Blanket
Here’s how to clean and store your heated blanket:
Why Cleaning and Storing Your Heated Blanket is Important
Storing your blanket properly ensures its longevity and helps to keep it in good condition. As for cleaning, regular washing and airing helps to remove any dirt or debris that could potentially harm the heating elements or cause skin irritation.
Tips for Cleaning Your Heated Blanket Before Storing It
Before storing your blanket, ensure it’s clean by washing it as stipulated in the instructions mentioned earlier in this article. Make sure your blanket is completely dry before folding it and storing it in a dry and moisture-free place as dampness could attract mildews, leading to potential damage.
How to Store Your Heated Blanket Properly During the Off-Season
Store your heated blanket folded or rolled in a dry and moisture-free place, away from direct sunlight. Invest in suitable storage compartments like trunks or cedar chests that help to protect your blanket from moisture, dust, and pet hair.
DIY Heated Blanket Cleaning: How to Do it Yourself
If you don’t have access to a washing machine, here’s a DIY method for cleaning your heated blanket:
How to Clean Your Heated Blanket at Home
- Fill your bathtub or sink with lukewarm water and gentle detergent.
- Submerge your blanket and ensure it’s entirely covered in water.
- Agitate the blanket gently by hand in the soapy water.
- Drain the tub and rinse the blanket until all the soap has been rinsed out.
- Press the blanket against the sides to remove excess water.
- Lay your blanket flat on the floor or outside to dry in the shade, flipping it over intermittently.
Tips for Washing Your Blanket Separately
To avoid tangling, ensure you wash your heated blanket alone or with items of the same color.
How to Wring Out Your Blanket by Hand
Never twist or wring out your blanket with your hands as this could damage the wiring. Rather, press it gently against the sides of the tub to extract excess water gently.
Additional DIY Cleaning Tips
If your blanket is too large for your sink or bathtub, you can hang it on a sturdy clothesline or shower rod to drip dry. Avoid sunlight and direct heat sources to prevent shrinkage and color fading.
Conclusion
Washing your heated blanket need not be a complicated process. Following these guidelines to wash, care for, and store your heated blanket ensures you enjoy its warmth and comfort for years to come. Always prioritize the safety of cleaning instructions and ensure that all detachable cords are correctly attached. Remember to unplug the blanket before you begin washing, and never dry clean your heated blanket.
