Can you wash an electric blanket?

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wash-an-electric-blanket

Snuggling up in a cozy electric blanket on a cold winter night is hard to beat, but like all bedding, electric blankets occasionally need cleaning. If you are worried about how to clean an electric blanket, you can relax. The process is actually quite simple, and doesn’t require an expensive trip to the dry cleaners! In fact, the chemicals used in dry cleaning can damage insulation, wiring, and heating elements.

Since dry cleaning is not an option, you may be wondering: How do you clean an electric blanket?

So the question is, can you wash an electric blanket? Fortunately, in most cases, the answer is “yes.”

Although older electric blankets may need to be washed by hand, most new models can be washed in the washing machine ! To keep your electric blanket fresh and in working condition, it is important to take extra care when washing it. Strong twisting or shaking can damage interior wiring and heating components. That is why, above all, we ask you to be careful when using and washing a thermal blanket.

Machine washing (washing machine) of an electric blanket

Cleaning an electric blanket in a washing machine is the easiest way to keep it from smelling like old socks , stale popcorn, and anything else it comes into contact with. It is best to use a large capacity machine that does not constrict the blanket too much. If possible, consult the manufacturer’s care instructions, which may be included in your user manual. Or if, like many of us, you tend to misplace those pesky manuals, you can search for it online or follow these tips:

  • Disconnect the control box/ power cord from the blanket. (Most modern electric blankets have a power cord that can be disconnected during washing. If you have an older model that does not have a detachable power cord, see below for hand-washing instructions.)
  • Check that the cables are not exposed through frayed or damaged fabric before placing them in the machine. It is important that the cables do not come out from the outside, as they could get caught in the washing machine and that could be fatal.
  • Before washing , you may want to use a lint roller to remove pet hair and other debris that tends to stick to fabric. These hairs won’t help at all and it doesn’t hurt.
  • Using a pre-soak setting , soak the blanket in cold water for 10 to 15 minutes. This will help loosen stains before the wash cycle.
  • Wash on the shortest cycle possible , on the “gentle” or “delicate” setting. Use only a small amount of mild laundry detergent , and do not add bleach or other liquids/chemicals.

Hand wash an electric blanket

If you need to hand wash an electric blanket, be sure to avoid submerging the control box/ power cord in water. If the cord is detachable, remove it from the blanket. And of course, make sure the blanket is not plugged in.

Fill a large bathtub with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent. Carefully submerge the blanket, keeping the power cord out of the water, and let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes . Using gentle pressure, run the blanket under water for a few minutes, paying special attention to tougher stains.

Drain or empty the bathtub, gently squeeze the soapy water out of the blanket, and rinse thoroughly with cold water. Again, use very gentle pressure to remove excess water before it dries.

Do not forget that before washing the electric blanket by hand, review the manual, if you have it, we offer the general idea for the vast majority of blankets, but if you have the specific manual for your blanket, it is always preferable that you pay attention to the instructions. specific instructions.

Removing Problematic Stains and Odors from an Electric Blanket

If your electric blanket has unsightly stains or strong odors from pet urine or other unpleasant substances, you may want to pre-treat the stains before hand or machine washing.

Since harsh chemicals and solvents can damage delicate wiring and components, it’s best to try gentle alternatives. Fill a small spray bottle with equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. Spray the solution generously on dirty stains and let it sit for several minutes before washing. For grease or oil stains, spot clean with a little dish soap and a damp sponge before washing.

Drying an electric blanket

We have answered the question: “Can you wash an electric blanket?” But, what gets wet must be dried, so  what is the quickest way to dry an electric blanket?

Electric blankets can usually be partially dried in the dryer, but it is important to avoid high heat . Use extra caution if you use a commercial dryer because they operate at higher temperatures than household models. The dryer should be large enough to allow the blanket to fit freely. (If the dryer is too small, the blanket will twist, possibly damaging the cords.) Use a low heat setting and dry for no more than 10 to 15 minutes.

Remove the blanket while it is still damp and cover it with a clothesline or shower curtain rod until it is completely dry. Also, as common sense dictates, do not reconnect the control box/power cord or plug the unit into the wall until the blanket is completely dry.

Follow these tips, and your electric blanket will keep you warm for years.