To wash a heated blanket, first detach the power cord and control unit, then check the care label — most can be machine washed on a gentle, cold cycle with a mild detergent and a slow spin, while delicate ones are better hand washed. Never use bleach or fabric softener, don’t wring or twist the fabric (it can break the internal wiring), and air dry flat or tumble on low/no heat. Always make sure the blanket is completely dry before plugging it back in or storing it.
When winter has you taking refuge under a heated blanket, the occasional spill or stain means you’ll need to clean it — carefully. Maintaining a heated blanket is simpler than you might think, as long as you protect its wiring along the way. Here’s how to do it safely, by machine or by hand.
What to do before washing your heated blanket
A little prep protects the blanket’s electronics and fabric. Detach the cord, pick a suitable detergent, and confirm the right settings before you start.
Detach the cord correctly
Before washing, disconnect the power cord — a vital step, since electric blankets contain conductive wiring and detaching the cord avoids electrical hazards while protecting the heating function. Locate the connections along the blanket’s edge (usually secured by clasps) and gently release them without tugging, which keeps the internal wiring intact for even heating after the wash.
Check the manufacturer’s instructions
Always consult the care label or manual first — skipping this can jeopardize both the fabric and the heating function. Manufacturer guidance typically tells you:
- Whether machine or hand washing is recommended, and under what conditions
- The maximum water temperature and the right type of cleaning agent
- How to remove the electrical components safely
- Any warranty stipulations — following the guidelines keeps your warranty intact
How do you machine wash an electric blanket?
Reference the care label or user manual before you begin, then dial in gentle settings:
- Choose a delicate or gentle cycle to minimize agitation, paired with cool or lukewarm water to protect the electric components.
- Use a mild detergent formulated for delicates. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, which degrade both the fabric and the electrical system.
- Use a slow or shortened spin cycle to keep the internal wiring from distorting or breaking.
- Distribute the blanket evenly in the drum — an unbalanced load strains the wires and fabric.
Rinse thoroughly so no detergent is left behind, since leftover soap can irritate skin and interfere with the electrical components. If your machine allows, a second rinse helps.
How do you hand wash a heated blanket?
Delicate blankets do best with a gentle hand wash, which gives a thorough clean without stressing the wiring.
Use a gentle cleaning solution
Avoid harsh chemicals and bleach. Choose a liquid laundry detergent marketed as mild or gentle and suitable for delicate textiles — regular detergent can be too abrasive for the sensitive wires and plush fabric. Submerge the blanket gently in a tub of mild detergent solution, agitate softly, and let the detergent do the work — don’t wring or twist, which damages the internal wiring.
Spot clean with a diluted solution
For isolated stains, skip a full wash. Mix a diluted solution of mild detergent and water, apply it to the spot with a soft cloth, and blot rather than rub to protect the weave and the wires.
Rinse and handle properly
- Make sure the power cord and control unit are detached before rinsing.
- Use cold or lukewarm water to avoid damaging the wiring.
- Refill the tub with clean water and rinse out all soap.
- Gently agitate to move the blanket around without twisting or wringing it.
- Drain and repeat if any suds remain.
Then lay the blanket flat on a towel, shaping it back to its original size and making sure no wires are bent.
How do you dry a heated blanket?
Air-drying safely
Air-drying is the gentlest option. A few pointers:
- Dry in a shaded area, preferably indoors, away from harsh sunlight or rain.
- Don’t use clothespins or clips, which can puncture the fabric or stress the wires.
- Lay the blanket flat on a large surface so its weight is evenly distributed and the wires aren’t pulled.
- Rotate it periodically for even drying, especially in thicker areas.
- If hanging, drape it over two parallel, spaced-apart lines to balance the weight and avoid stretching.
Thorough drying is essential — lingering moisture can damage the electrical components, so feel the blanket at several points to confirm it’s completely dry before folding and storing.
Machine-drying with care
- Remove excess water gently by rolling the blanket in a clean, dry towel.
- Set the dryer to low heat, or use an air-fluff/no-heat option if available.
- Place the blanket in loosely, not folded or bunched, so air flows evenly.
Monitor the time to avoid overheating, and remove the blanket promptly when the cycle ends to prevent wrinkling and extra stress on the wires.
FAQ
Can I wash a heated blanket in a washing machine?
Yes — follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use a gentle cycle with cold water.
How do I wash a heated blanket by hand?
Fill a bathtub or large basin with cold water and a mild detergent, gently agitate the blanket, and rinse thoroughly. Avoid wringing or twisting.
How do I remove the cord to wash it?
Detach the cord per the manufacturer’s instructions. Some blankets have a detachable cord at the blanket’s edge; for others you simply unplug from the wall before removing the control unit.
Can I clean an electric blanket without washing it?
Yes — spot cleaning with a mild detergent and a damp cloth removes stains and freshens the blanket between full washes.
How do I dry a heated blanket?
Gently squeeze out excess water, then air dry flat or use a low-heat dryer setting. Avoid high heat, which can damage the heating elements.
Can I wash a heated blanket with the wires in it?
Yes — the wires stay in. Just detach the cord and control unit, use a gentle cycle with cold water, and don’t wring or twist.
