Ever spilled coffee on your favorite weighted blanket or noticed it’s just not smelling as fresh anymore? You’re not alone.

Weighted blankets are cozy lifesavers for sleep and stress relief, but figuring out how to clean them can feel like a puzzle.

The good news? Yes, you can wash most weighted blankets safely, as long as you know what you’re working with. From beads to bamboo, cotton to sand, each material and weight type has its own set of care rules.

If you’ve been unsure about tossing it in your washer or hauling it to a dry cleaner, this article clears it all up.

We’ll break down the best cleaning methods based on weight, material, and label instructions so your blanket stays soft, clean, and comforting for years to come.

Can You Wash a Weighted Blanket?

Yes, you can wash most weighted blankets safely at home or through professional services.

The key is understanding your specific blanket’s materials, weight, and care requirements before starting any cleaning process.

Most weighted blankets filled with glass beads or plastic pellets can handle machine washing when done correctly.

The blanket’s outer fabric also matters, with cotton and fleece being more durable than silk or bamboo materials.

Always start by checking the care label, as manufacturers provide specific instructions for their products. When in doubt, professional cleaning is the safest option to protect your investment.

Read This Before You Wash: Prep Checklist

Proper preparation prevents damage and ensures successful cleaning results. Taking time to inspect your blanket saves money and extends its lifespan.

Following these preparation steps helps you choose the right cleaning method. Smart preparation leads to better cleaning results and longer blanket life.

Method 1: How to Machine Wash a Weighted Blanket

Machine washing offers the most convenient cleaning option for compatible weighted blankets. This method works well for most people when done with proper settings and care.

When It’s Safe to Use a Washing Machine

Machine washing is safe when your blanket weighs 15 pounds or less and fits comfortably in your home washer. For heavier blankets up to 25 pounds, a commercial washer at a laundromat is recommended.

The blanket must have machine-washable fill, such as glass beads, plastic pellets, or steel beads, and a durable outer layer like cotton or fleece.

Always check the care label for a “machine washable” tag. The washer should have enough space for water and detergent to circulate freely.

Front-loading machines are preferred over top-loading ones because they balance weight better and reduce the risk of damage during the spin cycle.

Step-by-Step Machine Washing

Washing a weighted blanket at home is simple with the right prep, machine settings, and handling.
Follow these detailed steps to keep your blanket clean, fresh, and damage-free.

Step 1: Prepare the Blanket: Remove any removable covers and inspect the blanket for visible stains. Pretreat stained areas gently. Ensure all zippers or fasteners are completely closed to prevent snagging or damage.

Step 2: Load the Washer: Place only the blanket inside the washing machine without adding other clothes. Spread it out evenly in the drum to avoid bunching, which helps balance the load during the spin.

Step 3: Choose Settings: Select a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water. Never use hot water. Set a low spin speed, and use only mild detergent; avoid fabric softeners and bleach entirely.

Step 4: Start the Wash: Begin the cycle and monitor it occasionally. If the machine becomes unbalanced or stops, open it and rearrange the blanket. Add an extra rinse cycle if soap residue remains.

Method 2: How to Hand-Wash a Weighted Blanket

Hand washing provides the gentlest cleaning method for delicate weighted blankets. This approach gives you complete control over pressure and movement during the cleaning process.

When Hand Washing Is the Best Option

Hand washing is a smart choice when your weighted blanket is too heavy for your washing machine to handle safely.

It’s also the best method if the fabric is delicate, like silk, satin, or a custom-knit cover, which could get damaged in a regular cycle.

If you want to give your blanket extra gentle care or preserve its texture and stitching, hand washing is the safest approach.

Always check the care label first; if it recommends hand washing, it’s best to follow those instructions to avoid voiding any warranties or ruining the materials. Gentle care extends the life of your blanket.

Hand Washing Steps

Follow these steps carefully to clean your weighted blanket without damaging the material or shifting the weight.

Step 1: Set Up: Begin by thoroughly cleaning your bathtub to prevent residue transfer. Fill it with cool or lukewarm water, then add just a small amount of gentle, bleach-free detergent.

Step 2: Wash: Place the blanket fully into the water. Use your hands to gently press and swish the water through the fabric. Let it soak 15–30 minutes, moving it around gently throughout.

Step 3: Rinse: Drain out the soapy water and refill with clean, cool water. Gently press the blanket to remove detergent. Repeat the rinse process until the water runs totally clear with no bubbles.

Step 4: Remove Water: Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric, which can damage it. Lightly press out the water. Lay the blanket between towels and press again to soak up the remaining moisture safely.

How to Dry a Weighted Blanket Properly

Drying your weighted blanket properly is just as important as washing it. The safest method is air drying, but some machine-safe blankets may tolerate low-heat tumble drying if specified on the care label.

1. Air Drying (Best Method)

Air drying is the safest and most recommended way to dry weighted blankets, especially those with delicate fabric or filling.
It prevents damage from heat and helps maintain the blanket’s shape and stitching.

• Lay flat on a clean surface or use a strong drying rack that supports the full weight.
• Flip the blanket every few hours to ensure even drying on both sides.
• Keep the area well-ventilated using open windows or fans to reduce moisture buildup.
• Avoid direct sunlight on colored blankets to prevent fading; bring indoors if the weather changes.

2. Machine Drying

Some weighted blankets are dryer-safe, but precautions are necessary to avoid damage.

• Check the care label first to confirm that machine drying is allowed
• Use the lowest heat setting or a no-heat air-dry cycle only
• Stop the dryer every 20–30 minutes to fluff the blanket and check for overheating
• Remove the blanket immediately once fully dry to prevent overheating or fabric stress

Special Care for Different Materials

Different fabrics require different cleaning methods to avoid damage, fading, or stretching. Use this table to match your washing and drying technique to the material of your weighted blanket.

Always follow the care label on your blanket and treat it gently to extend its life and maintain comfort. When in doubt, opt for hand washing and air drying to play it safe.

How Often Should You Wash a Weighted Blanket?

How often you should wash a weighted blanket depends on how frequently it’s used and if it has a removable cover.

For blankets used every night, aim to wash them every 2 to 4 weeks to keep them fresh and free of oils, sweat, or allergens.

If the blanket is used only a few times a week or is layered over other bedding, washing it every 1 to 2 months is usually enough.

Using a duvet cover can help reduce how often you need to wash the blanket itself, since you can clean the cover more frequently.

Always follow the care label instructions when washing. Over-washing or using the wrong settings can damage the fabric, weaken stitching, or cause the fill to clump or shift.

Conclusion

Keeping your weighted blanket clean doesn’t have to be confusing or risky.

As long as you know the fabric type, filling, and weight, you can pick the safest method; if that’s machine washing, hand washing, or taking it to a pro.

Stick to gentle cycles, mild detergent, and air drying when in doubt. And remember, a clean blanket is not just about hygiene; it helps preserve the calming benefits you love.

So take a few extra minutes to prep before you wash. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Got a question about your blanket’s care tag or a tricky material? Drop a comment below, and we will help you out!