Introduction
Weighted blankets are therapeutic blankets designed to provide deep touch pressure, a sensation that promotes relaxation and mimics the feeling of being hugged. These blankets can help improve sleep, reduce stress, and provide comfort for individuals with anxiety, ADHD, or sensory sensitivities.
While weighted blankets are a cozy and therapeutic addition to any home, caring for these unique blankets requires some extra attention to ensure they stay clean, fresh, and in top condition. Whether your weighted blanket is filled with beads, pellets, or made from hand-knit, organic materials, proper cleaning and maintenance can extend its lifespan and keep it as comforting as the day you brought it home.
Common Issues with Cleaning Weighted Blankets
Cleaning a weighted blanket can be tricky due to its size, weight, and filling. Some common challenges include:
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Heaviness: Weighted blankets may be too heavy for standard home washing machines, potentially causing strain on the machine. Because many weighted blankets are filled with materials like glass beads or plastic pellets, care msut be taken to ensure the filling is not damaged or pushed to one side, creating a misshapen blanket.
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Fabric Sensitivity: Many weighted blankets are made from delicate fabrics like bamboo or organic cotton, requiring gentle care. They are also often knit, with exposed threads that can be damaged or frayed by vigorous washing techniques.
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Risk of Damage: Improper washing or drying techniques can cause damage to the blanket’s filling, leading to clumping or uneven weight distribution.

How to Properly Clean a Weighted Blanket
If your weighted blanket needs a refresh, follow these steps for safe cleaning:
Step 1: Check the Care Label
Start by reviewing the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Different blankets have unique washing requirements based on their fabric and filling and following the care instructions precisely will ensure the highest quality care for your blanket
Step 2: Spot Clean for Small Stains
For minor spills or stains, use a gentle detergent and a damp cloth to clean the affected area. Avoid soaking the blanket to prevent damage to the filling.
Step 3: Hand Wash or Use a Front-Loading Washer
If machine washing is allowed, opt for a front-loading machine without a central agitator to avoid damage if possible. For hand-knit designs, hand washing is the best option to ensure minimal wear and tear.
For all washes, set use cold water, a gentle cycle like delicates or permanent-press, and gentle or mild detergent. You’ll also want to wash the blanket in a dedicated load to ensure it has the space to move about freely.
Step 4: Tumble Dry On Low Hear
Follow the care label - most will suggest tumble drying on low heat to avoid damage to the fabric or fillings. Because of the thickness of the fabric, be prepared to dry more than once.
It’s unlikely that the care label will recommend hang-drying because the weight of the wet blanket will stretch and deform the material. You’ll also want to prevent laying it flat to air dry because the material will take so long to dry, your blanket runs the risk of forming mildew and other funky smells.

Caring for Your Weighted Blanket: FAQs
1. How often should I wash my weighted blanket?
Aim to wash your blanket every 1-3 months, depending on use. For daily use, consider using a duvet cover to protect it from dirt and spills.
2. Can all weighted blankets be machine washed?
Not all weighted blankets are machine washable. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to clean your blanket at home.
3. What should I do if my blanket has clumped filling?
Clumped filling can result from improper washing or drying. To avoid this, consider professional cleaning services like Rinse, where experts ensure your blanket is handled with care.

Try Rinse: A Trusted Professional Option
Weighted blankets require special care, and not everyone has the tools or time to clean them properly. That’s where Rinse comes in.
At Rinse, we specialize in cleaning weighted blankets, ensuring they are fresh, sanitized, and perfectly maintained. Our experts handle the heavy lifting so you don’t have to worry about overloading your washing machine or damaging your blanket.
Recommended by brands like Bearaby, we’ll make sure your weighted blanket stays fresh, clean, and comforting for years to come.
Contact us at Rinse today to see our skill in action.

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