How to Wash a Heated Blanket in 4 Steps

Heated blankets have come a long way from the scratchy, stiffly-wired original blankets that frequently caused hazards by overheating. Today's blankets are plush, easy to care for, and use technologically smart wires that are much safer. While most still rely on an electrical connection for power, there are battery-operated options that can go anywhere. The electrical element may make a heated blanket seem difficult to clean, the good news is most options out there have pretty straight-forward care instructions. Read on for steps on how to wash a heated blanket and keep it clean, stain-free, and cozy.

How Often to Wash and Clean a Heated Blanket

How frequently the heated blanket needs to be washed depends on how much you use it and if you have pets that love it as much as you do. Most blankets should be washed once a month during the cool season and always before storing them away for the summer. Always lift or blot away and spot-clean fresh stains as soon as they happen.

Between washings, freshen and remove dust and pet dander by tumbling a heated blanket in a clothes dryer set to the air-only cycle.

What to Consider Before Washing a Heated Blanket

• While most heated blankets are machine-washable, always take the time to read the care label. Some may only suggest spot-cleaning to remove stains.
• If you have a king or queen-sized blanket, be sure that your washer and dryer have the drum capacity to wash such a large item. Other options are to hand-wash the blanket in a bathtub or use a commercial washer at the laundromat.
• Never use a commercial laundromat dryer for a heated blanket because they can reach temperatures so high the wires will be damaged.
• When purchasing a new heated blanket, be sure it has a seal of approval from a third-party testing agency, like UL or Intertek.