How To Wash a Weighted Blanket (Even With Glass Beads!)

While weighted blankets offer many benefits, it's essential to keep them clean and hygienic. But with the different materials used in the filling (including unusual ones like glass beads, sand, and even corn), it’s important to know how to wash a weighted blanket the right way. 

In this article, we break down everything you need to know about how to wash your weighted blanket, whether by hand or machine, along with tips on spot cleaning and maintaining its freshness. 

What you’ll need

• Cold or room temperature water
• Mild detergent
• Large tub or sink (for hand washing)
• Washing machine (for machine washing)
• Clothesline or drying rack
• Vinegar and baking soda (optional)

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How to wash a weighted blanket

A quick guide on how to wash a weighted blanket based on fill material:

• Glass, plastic, or polypropylene pellets: Machine wash, gentle cycle. Tumble dry, low heat.
• Organic materials: Spot clean, air dry.
• Steel shot beads: Hand or machine wash, air dry.
• Smooth pebbles: Hand wash, air dry.
• Sand: Spot clean, air dry.

How to wash a weighted blanket by hand

To hand wash your weighted blanket, fill a large tub or sink with cold water and mild detergent. Submerge the blanket and let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes, then gently wash it. Next, drain the tub, add clean water, and rinse until the water runs clear. Lastly, carefully squeeze out excess water and air dry.

Step 1: Fill a tub with detergent and water 

Choose a tub or basin large enough to accommodate your weighted blanket comfortably. Fill it with cold water to prevent color fading or fabric shrinkage, and add a small amount of mild, fragrance-free detergent.

Step 2: Submerge the weighted blanket and wash

Carefully place the blanket in the water and gently move it around with your hands so that the detergent penetrates the fabric and reaches all areas. This helps to loosen dirt and stains.

Next, allow the blanket to soak in the soapy water for 15 to 30 minutes, gently agitating it every few minutes to maintain the cleaning process.

Step 3: Rinse the weighted blanket

Drain the soapy water and refill the tub or basin with cold, clean water. Then submerge the blanket in the clean water and gently squeeze it to remove any remaining detergent. Move the blanket around to ensure thorough rinsing.

Drain and refill the tub with clean water as needed, continuing to rinse the blanket until the water runs clear and no detergent residue remains.

Step 4: Hang it to air dry

When you’ve finished rinsing, carefully squeeze the blanket to remove as much water as possible, but avoid twisting or wringing it, as this can damage the fill material. Lay the blanket flat on a clean surface or hang it on a sturdy clothesline or drying rack to air dry.

Make sure the weight is evenly distributed to avoid clumping or stretching the fabric. It's important to allow the blanket to dry completely before using it again to avoid mold or mildew growth.

How to wash a weighted blanket in the washing machine

Wash your weighted blanket safely in a washing machine by using room temperature or cold water with mild detergent on a delicate or gentle cycle. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat. Remember to remove any covers before washing, and avoid using hot water, harsh detergents, or fabric softeners.

Remove blanket cover

If your weighted blanket has a removable or duvet cover, remove it and wash it separately.

Pre-treat stains

Pre-treat any stain by applying a small amount of mild detergent or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to the stain and working it into the fabric with your fingers. Let the pretreatment sit for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step.

Place weighted blanket in washing machine

Place the weighted blanket in the washing machine. Make sure it’s evenly distributed and not bunched up or folded over to ensure that it's washed and rinsed thoroughly.

Select gentle cycle with cold water

Select a delicate (or gentle cycle) with cold water, then add a mild detergent. Avoid using hot water or harsh detergents, as they can damage the fabric and fill of the blanket.

Choose appropriate spin cycle

Choose a spin cycle appropriate for your blanket's weight and size. A high spin cycle can damage the fill material.

Hang to dry

Finally, hang the weighted blanket over a clothesline or lay it flat to air dry. If you prefer to tumble dry, use a low heat setting and remove the blanket while it's still slightly damp to avoid over-drying it.

More laundry tips: How to wash a down comforter. 

How to spot clean a weighted blanket

To spot clean a weighted blanket, blot it with a damp cloth and apply a mild detergent. Gently work the detergent into the fabric and let it set for 10 minutes. Next, rinse and air dry before use. For best results, address stains immediately and avoid scrubbing or rubbing the stain to prevent fabric damage.

• Blot stain: Gently blot the stain with a damp cloth. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the stain. 
• Apply detergent: Apply a small amount of mild detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it in with your fingers. 
• Let sit: Allow the detergent to sit on the stain for 10 to 15 minutes. 
• Blot with a clean cloth: Dampen a separate clean cloth or sponge with cold water and gently blot the area to remove detergent residue.
• Air dry: Allow the spot to air dry completely before using the blanket again.

How often should you wash a weighted blanket?

You should wash a weighted blanket every 2-3 months, depending on usage, to prevent the buildup of body oils, sweat, and bacteria. Spot clean if it becomes visibly stained, and preferably use a removable cover to extend the time between washes since frequent washing can cause wear and tear.

More laundry tips: How to wash curtains and drapes. 

Keep your weighted blanket clean and fresh

Weighted blankets have gained popularity recently for helping to reduce anxiety and give a calming effect. However, it's essential to keep them clean and well-maintained to avoid bacteria and odor buildup. 

We’ve explained everything you need to know in this article, whether you wash your weighted blanket by hand or machine, and regardless of the filling material. Meanwhile, as we said earlier, it’s advisable to get a removable cover as it helps reduce the frequency of washing and prolong the blanket's life.

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