There’s nothing quite like burrowing under a weighted blanket, especially during those colder months when you just want to feel comfort, peace, and warmth. But as spring arrives and we start thinking about fresh starts and clean spaces, it’s natural to wonder: When did you last clean your weighted blanket? And are you doing it right?
These cozy, therapeutic blankets require more than a wash in the machine. If you want to keep their feel and shape, you need to learn the dos and don’ts of weighted blanket maintenance, and when it’s time to trust a professional service instead.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know to safely clean your weighted blanket.
Key Takeaways
- Check your care label before washing any weighted blanket.
- Avoid hot water, heavy detergents, or home dryers that could damage the blanket.
- Wash & Fold services are great for machine-washable blankets.
- Dry cleaning is best for delicate or non-washable materials.
- Spring is the perfect time to give your blanket the refresh it needs!
Why Proper Care Makes a Difference
Weighted blankets are designed with comfort in mind, but they also come with unique construction. Filled with glass beads, plastic pellets, or natural materials, they’re heavier than standard bedding and need special care when washed to prevent damage.
Improper cleaning can lead to:
- Clumping or shifting of the weight
- Broken stitching
- Shrinkage or fabric damage
- Loss of that comforting “hug-like” feel
If your goal is to enjoy the effects of a weighted blanket for many seasons to come, proper washing techniques (and timing) are key.
When Should You Wash a Weighted Blanket?
Unlike sheets or pillowcases, weighted blankets don’t need weekly cleaning. Unless there’s a spill or heavy use (like daily lounging), most experts recommend cleaning them every 1–2 months, especially during seasonal transitions like spring.
Spring is an ideal time to clean and store heavy bedding. Dust, body oils, and allergens can build up over time, and a good wash can help refresh both your blanket and your home.
First Things First: Check the Label
Before doing anything, always check the care label on your weighted blanket. Some are machine washable, others are spot clean only, and a few require dry cleaning. Factors like filling material, outer fabric, and blanket size/weight all affect how it should be cleaned.
Here’s a quick breakdown of care label codes:
| Label Says | What It Means |
| Machine washable | Use cold water, gentle cycle, mild detergent |
| Spot clean only | Clean visible stains with a damp cloth & soap |
| Dry clean only | Leave it to the pros |
Common Cleaning Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Weighted Blanket
Many well-meaning people try to wash their weighted blanket like regular bedding and end up damaging it. Here are a few don’ts to watch out for:
Using Hot Water
This can shrink or weaken the fabric, especially for cotton or minky covers.
Harsh Detergents or Fabric Softeners
These can break down the fabric and filling over time. Stick to mild, fragrance-free detergents.
Overloading the Machine
Weighted blankets can weigh between 10 to 25 pounds. That’s a lot for a standard home washer, and overloading can cause both machine strain and uneven washing.
Skipping the Drying Instructions
Some fillings melt or clump under high heat. Air drying or low tumble drying is often the safest route, but it can take a long time.
Best Practices for Cleaning at Home
If your blanket is machine washable and under 15 pounds, and your washer has the capacity, here’s how to do it properly:
- Pre-Treat Any Stains: Use a mild stain remover or soap and a soft cloth.
- Use a Large-Capacity Front-Loading Washer: These are gentler on bulky items.
- Choose Cold Water + Gentle Cycle
- Skip the Fabric Softener
- Dry Flat or Use Low Heat: Lay it across a drying rack or clean surface. If using a dryer, add a few clean tennis balls to help distribute the filling.
Still, if it feels like a hassle, or if your washer just isn’t up for the task, there’s a better way.
When It’s Best to Let a Professional Handle It
If your weighted blanket:
- Weighs over 15 pounds
- Has delicate or specialty materials (like silk or wool)
- Requires dry cleaning per the label
- Feels too large for your home washer or dryer
…it’s time to call in the experts.
A professional laundry service can:
- Handle large and bulky items without damage
- Use specialized equipment and cleaning agents
- Ensure proper drying without clumping
- Save you time (and your washing machine)
Wash & Fold or Dry Cleaning — Which Is Right?
At Star Bright Cleaners, we offer both Wash and Fold Laundry and Household Item Cleaning to meet your blanket’s unique needs.
Wash & Fold
Perfect if your blanket is:
- Machine washable
- Made of cotton or polyester
- Under 15 pounds
We use professional-grade washers and dryers to ensure a thorough clean and quick turnaround, no more waiting days for air drying!
Dry Cleaning
Ideal if your blanket:
- It is marked as dry clean only
- Has specialty fabrics or filling
- Requires delicate treatment
Our dry cleaning specialists gently remove dirt and oils while protecting the blanket’s structure and comfort.
Not sure which one your blanket needs? No problem, our team can evaluate it and choose the safest option.
Don’t Forget to Wash the Cover Too!
If your weighted blanket has a removable cover, wash it more frequently than the blanket itself, about every 1–2 weeks. The cover acts as the first line of defense against dirt and oils and can extend the time between full blanket cleanings.
We include cover cleaning as part of our Wash & Fold service, ensuring your entire bedding setup is fresh and cozy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I wash my weighted blanket in a regular washing machine at home?
It depends on the blanket’s weight and materials. If it’s under 15 pounds and the label says it’s machine washable, you can use a large-capacity front-loading washer with cold water and a gentle cycle. For heavier or delicate blankets, it’s safer to use a professional laundry service.
Q. How often should I wash my weighted blanket?
Typically, every 1–2 months is enough unless there’s a spill or heavy daily use. However, if your blanket has a removable cover, washing the cover every 1–2 weeks can help extend the time between full blanket washes.
Q. Is it safe to put my weighted blanket in the dryer?
Only if the care label allows it, and even then, use low heat. High heat can damage the filling or fabric. Air drying is safest, although it takes longer. If using a dryer, toss in a few clean tennis balls to help keep the filling evenly distributed.
Q. What should I do if the care label says “dry clean only”?
Do not attempt to wash it at home. “Dry clean only” means the materials are too delicate for machine or hand washing. Bring it to a professional cleaner, like Star Bright Cleaners, to avoid damaging your blanket.
Q. What’s the difference between Wash & Fold and dry cleaning for weighted blankets?
Wash & Fold is ideal for cotton or polyester blankets that are machine washable. Dry cleaning is for blankets with specialty fabrics or fillings, or those marked “dry clean only.” Our team can help determine the safest cleaning method for your specific blanket.
Let’s Make Laundry One Less Thing to Worry About
Your weighted blanket is an investment in comfort, so treat it with care. Whether it needs a gentle machine wash or specialty dry cleaning, our team at Star Bright Cleaners is here to make spring cleaning effortless.
👉 Explore our Wash & Fold Service for fast, convenient cleaning
👉 Or trust our Household Cleaning Experts for heavier or more delicate blankets
Schedule your pickup today and rest easy knowing your comfort is in good hands, season after season.