How to Wash an Electric Blanket
Most eclectic blankets are machine washable but still require delicate care. Learn how to wash an electric blanket to keep it fresh and in working condition.
Washing an electric blanket is similar to washing your sheets and pillowcases. Follow these steps to get it clean.
Before Washing Your Electric Blanket
Always read the care instructions before washing your electric blanket. Almost all newer electric blankets are machine washable and dryer safe. But before washing, detach the cord and controller. The wires inside the blanket are water and sweatproof.
Older electric blankets may not be washable. If your blanket is missing the care tag, look for the owner’s manual or online instructions from the brand.
How to Wash an Electric Blanket in the Washing Machine: Step by Step
Here are the basic steps to washing an electric blanket.
Step 1: Remove the Plug and Controller
Before washing your electric blanket, unplug it and detach the cord that plugs into the wall. You should never wash the controller or the plug.
Step 2: Spot Treat Stains
Use your favorite laundry stain treater on stains or extra dirty spots.
Step 3: Wash on the Gentle Cycle in Cold Water
Place your electric blanket in the washing machine. Use mild detergent and wash with cold water on a gentle or delicate cycle.
Step 4: Dry on Low Heat
Place your blanket in the dryer on low heat. Avoid using high heat as it may damage the cord inside. You can pull out the heated blanket when damp and air dry if you’d like. (Or keep it at a low temp until dry.)
Don’t iron your electric blanket. The heat can ruin the internal wiring.
Step 5: Reattach the Cord
Once the blanket is dry, reattach the cord and controller.
How to Hand Wash an Electric Blanket
If you don’t have a washing machine, or your blanket is too large to fit, you can hand wash it in the bathtub.
Step 1: Remove the Plug and Controller
Detach the power cord and controller from the blanket.
Step 2: Fill Your Bathtub with Cold Water and Detergent
Fill your bathtub half full with cold water and 1-2 spoonfuls of mild laundry detergent. Use a wooden spoon or your hand to swirl the mixture.
Step 3: Soak and Wash
Soak the blanket for ten minutes and use your hand to wash it gently. Remove stains with a soft-bristled brush but be careful not to bend the internal wires.
Step 4: Rinse
Drain the bathtub and refill it with cold water to rinse the soap.
Step 5: Dry the Electric Blanket
Use gentle motions to press excess moisture out of the blanket. Then hang it on a rack to air-dry or put it in your dryer using low heat.
Step 6: Reattach the Power Cord
Wait until the blanket is dry, then reattach the power cord and controller.
How to Spot Clean a Heated Blanket
You can spot clean food and drink spills without putting your blanket in the washer.
First, unplug the blanket. Then, mix a solution of warm water and a couple of drops of dish soap. Dampen a rag with the mixture and wipe the soiled area. Wipe again using only water and allow the blanket to air dry.
Tips for Cleaning an Electric Blanket
- You can’t submerge older heated blankets in water.
- There’s no set frequency for washing a heated blanket. If you use it daily, wash it every couple of weeks. For blankets that don’t get used much, cleaning once per year or when the blanket smells bad is sufficient.
- Don’t use high heat or steamers on blankets. High heat can damage the internal wiring.
- It’s best to wash electric blankets in a front-load washer. The spindle in top-load washing machines can ruin the wiring.
- Chemicals in dry cleaning solvents can ruin the wiring in electric blankets.
- You can wash newer SunBeam heated blankets by removing the controller, washing on the gentle cycle, and drying.