Weighted blankets have risen in popularity in recent years, and for a good reason. Their deep touch pressure, which helps you calm down and fall asleep more easily, has been linked to many health benefits.
Studies show a weighted blanket can help lower your heart rate and blood pressure, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, relieve the perception of chronic pain, calm the parasympathetic nervous system, and potentially even improve symptoms of autism spectrum disorder.
In that sense, weighted blankets are unlike any other blankets you’ll find on the market. However, like any other blanket, you’ll have to wash it periodically to get rid of any buildup of dirt and allergens—and this is where it gets a little tricky.
Due to their weight and the materials they’re made of, weighted blankets can often be harder to handle than other types of bedding when it comes to cleaning.
That’s why we’ve put together a handy step-by-step guide for how to wash your weighted blanket to help it last as long as possible.
How to wash a weighted blanket
First, it’s important to note that every weighted blanket is different. They’re made of different materials and come in different weights, meaning they require different types of care.
Many weighted blankets can’t be washed in a washing machine due to their high weight and the nature of the materials in them. For example, we recommend having our weighted blanket dry cleaned only when needed because of its high weight and the fact that it’s made from 100% natural materials.
So always check the care label first to ensure you can put your weighted blanket in the washing machine. For weighted blankets that can be put into a washing machine, you should take special care and only use cool water and a gentle cycle because materials like plastic poly beads inside the blanket could melt if the water is too hot.
Weighted blankets that are on the heavier side (i.e, 15 pounds or more) likely won’t fit in your home washing machine and could even do damage to it, so consider going to a laundromat and using a commercial washing machine for it.
For those weighted blankets whose care label says they can be washed, follow these instructions:
- Wash weighted blankets under 15 pounds at home on the gentle cycle using cool water and mild detergent.
- Skip fabric softeners and bleach since that can lead to wear and tear of the weighted blanket.
- Wash weighted blankets over 15 pounds in an industrial washing machine at a laundromat.
- If the guidelines allow you to put your blanket in the dryer, always choose a light or medium dryer setting and periodically fluff the blanket while it’s drying.
- If your blanket can only be air dried, spread it out flat and occasionally shake it out to ensure the inner fill evenly distributes.
To avoid frequent washing, spot-clean your weighted blanket as necessary with a solution of warm water and mild detergent.
How often should you wash a weighted blanket?
The frequency of washing depends on how often you use your weighted blanket and if you use a barrier between your body and the blanket.
If it’s something you use daily and is in direct contact with your body, then you may want to wash it once every few weeks to prevent the buildup of sweat and body oils.
If you don’t use your weighted blanket all that frequently, and/or if you use a sheet as a barrier between your body and the blanket, then once a season should suffice.
Keep in mind that washing your weighted blanket too frequently can affect its feel and durability. To prolong the life of your weighted blanket consider investing in a cover that can be easily removed and washed.
Finally, follow our guide for complete and detailed instructions on how often to clean every type of bedding.
Get more restful sleep with Saatva's weighted blanket
Weighted Blanket
Enjoy the calming, soothing effect of our plush weighted blanket. Cotton velvet is soft to the touch for maximum comfort and warmth. Gentle, even pressure from all-natural glass beads encourages relaxation.
FAQs
How do you wash a 20-pound weighted blanket?
Generally, weighted blankets over 15 pounds shouldn’t be put in your washing machine as they can damage it. If the care label says it can be washed, consider using an industrial washing machine at a laundromat. Depending on the manufacturer, your weighted blanket might need to be dry-cleaned only.
Why can’t you put a weighted blanket in the washer?
Many weighted blankets can’t be put in the washer because materials like plastic poly beads inside the blanket could melt if the water’s too hot.
Additionally, some weighted blankets are too heavy for your washing machine and can damage it. Weighted blankets that are on the heavier side (i.e, 15 pounds or more) likely won’t fit in your home washing machine and could even do damage to it, so consider going to a laundromat and using a commercial washing machine for it.
For weighted blankets that are less than 15 pounds and whose label says they can be put into a washing machine, make sure to use cool water and a gentle cycle.
Shop Saatva’s weighted blanket for better sleep
In other words, weighted blankets are a worthwhile investment because of their numerous benefits that allow you to sleep better. And now that you know how to take care of them, hopefully, you have more confidence to start using this fantastic bedding item.
When you’re ready, check out our
Plush, all-natural weighted blanket for deeper, more restful sleep
, which is made from plush cotton velvet and filled with all-natural glass beads to promote relaxation.
