How to Wash a Weighted Blanket with Beads: Can You Machine Wash It? Best Tips for Safely Cleaning Bead-Filled Weighted Blankets
Washing a weighted blanket with beads requires careful consideration to avoid damaging the blanket or the beads inside. Unlike regular blankets, weighted blankets often contain delicate materials, including glass or plastic beads, which can be affected by improper washing methods. So, how to wash a weighted blanket with beads? The answer is to follow specific steps tailored to the blanket’s fabric and the type of beads used. This guide will cover how much care weighted blankets need, where to clean them, why it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and much more.
What Are Weighted Blankets with Beads, and Why Do They Need Special Care?
Weighted blankets are therapeutic blankets filled with materials such as glass beads, plastic pellets, or organic fillers. These beads provide gentle pressure, which mimics a therapeutic technique called deep pressure stimulation (DPS), helping to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and increase relaxation. According to studies from institutions like Harvard Medical School, DPS can trigger a calming effect by lowering cortisol levels, boosting serotonin, and improving overall well-being.
However, due to the weight and the nature of these blankets, they require special care when it comes to washing. The beads inside, especially those made from glass or plastic, can be damaged or displaced during improper cleaning. Moreover, the fabric that encases these beads, such as cotton, minky, or polyester, may have specific washing instructions.
How to Wash a Weighted Blanket with Beads: Key Steps and Considerations
Before you begin washing your weighted blanket, it’s essential to check the care label for specific washing instructions. Most weighted blankets will come with guidance on how to clean them, but if you’re unsure or the label is missing, here are the general steps you should follow:
Step 1: Identify the Bead Material and Fabric Type
The first step in determining how to clean your weighted blanket is to identify the bead material and the fabric type. Here’s why:
- Glass beads: These are more durable and can typically withstand machine washing, but caution should still be taken.
- Plastic beads: These are less durable and more prone to melting or breaking, especially if exposed to high heat.
- Organic fillers: These are rarely washable in a machine as they can deteriorate or mold when exposed to moisture.
Additionally, the fabric (cotton, fleece, minky, or bamboo) will have specific washing requirements. For example, cotton blankets can usually be machine washed, while minky blankets (with their soft, textured surface) might require gentler cleaning.
Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
Before washing, it’s a good idea to pre-treat any stains. You can do this by using a mild detergent or a stain remover. Apply it directly to the stain and let it sit for 15–30 minutes before washing.
Make sure to avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, as these can damage the fabric or cause discoloration, especially on colored or printed blankets. For natural stains (such as food or oils), opt for an enzyme-based cleaner, which breaks down organic materials.
Step 3: Choose Between Hand Washing or Machine Washing
Depending on the weight of the blanket and the bead type, you’ll need to decide whether to machine wash or hand wash the blanket. Here’s a breakdown of both options:
- Machine Washing: Most blankets under 20 pounds can safely be washed in a home washing machine, provided that the machine is large enough to handle the weight. Use a gentle cycle with cold or warm water and a mild, non-chlorine detergent. If your blanket is too heavy or your machine too small, consider taking it to a commercial laundry with larger capacity washers.
- Tip: Place your weighted blanket inside a laundry bag or a duvet cover to protect it during the wash cycle. This prevents the beads from shifting and reduces wear on the fabric.
- Hand Washing: If your weighted blanket is filled with delicate beads (like plastic) or weighs over 20 pounds, it’s best to hand wash it. Fill a bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. Submerge the blanket, gently agitate the water with your hands, and then drain the tub. Refill with clean water and rinse until the detergent is gone.
- Tip: Use a handheld showerhead for easier rinsing. Avoid twisting or wringing the blanket, as this can cause the beads to shift or clump.
Step 4: Drying the Weighted Blanket with Beads
One of the most critical steps in cleaning a weighted blanket is how to dry it. Improper drying can damage the beads, cause mold growth, or lead to uneven distribution of the weight. Here’s how to dry your blanket safely:
- Air Drying: The safest method is to air dry your blanket. Lay it flat on a clean, dry surface (such as a drying rack or a large towel) and spread it out evenly. Make sure to flip the blanket periodically to ensure that both sides dry thoroughly.
- Tip: If possible, dry the blanket outdoors in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight, which can fade or weaken the fabric.
- Tumble Drying: If you prefer using a dryer, check the care label to confirm it’s safe. Use a low heat setting, as high heat can melt plastic beads or damage the fabric. You can also add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer to help fluff the blanket and maintain its shape.
- Warning: Never use high heat when drying a weighted blanket with plastic beads, as they can melt and cause irreversible damage to the blanket.
Step 5: Spot Cleaning for Minor Stains
For minor stains or spills, you don’t need to wash the entire blanket. Spot cleaning is a quick and effective way to treat small areas without subjecting the entire blanket to water. Use a soft cloth, mild detergent, and lukewarm water to gently dab the stain. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and allow the spot to air dry.
Why Is Regular Cleaning of a Weighted Blanket Important?
Regular cleaning of your weighted blanket is essential for several reasons. Since these blankets are used daily or nightly, they can accumulate sweat, oils, and bacteria over time, which not only affects the longevity of the blanket but also your health. Dust mites, allergens, and other contaminants can build up if the blanket isn’t washed regularly.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, washing your bedding, including your weighted blanket, once every 1–2 weeks can help prevent allergic reactions and skin irritations.
Weighted blankets with beads require specific care to maintain their effectiveness and comfort, so proper washing techniques ensure that the fabric and beads remain intact, while also keeping the blanket clean and hygienic.
How Often Should You Wash a Weighted Blanket with Beads?
The frequency of washing your weighted blanket depends on how often it’s used and where it’s used. If you use your blanket every night, consider washing it every few weeks. If the blanket is shared between family members or used by pets, more frequent washing may be necessary.
However, over-washing can wear down the fabric and beads, so spot cleaning between washes and using a removable cover are great ways to keep your blanket clean without subjecting it to frequent full washes.
Using a Removable Cover for Easier Cleaning
One of the easiest ways to prolong the life of your weighted blanket and reduce the need for frequent washing is by using a removable duvet cover. These covers can be easily removed and washed separately, protecting the inner weighted blanket from dirt and stains.
A washable cover adds a protective layer that can be cleaned more frequently than the blanket itself, preserving the fabric and beads inside.
What to Do if Your Weighted Blanket Has an Unpleasant Odor?
If your weighted blanket has developed an odor, whether due to improper drying or prolonged use, here’s how you can eliminate the smell:
- Air it out: Leave the blanket outside on a sunny, breezy day to allow fresh air to circulate through the fabric.
- Baking soda treatment: Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over the blanket’s surface and let it sit for 30 minutes before brushing it off or vacuuming. Baking soda is great for absorbing odors.
- White vinegar rinse: If you’re washing the blanket, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar helps neutralize odors and acts as a natural fabric softener.
Can You Dry Clean a Weighted Blanket with Beads?
Most weighted blankets are not suitable for dry cleaning because the chemicals used in dry cleaning can damage the fabric or the beads. However, always check the care label on your blanket for specific instructions. Some high-end or custom blankets might have special care instructions that recommend professional cleaning, but in general, hand washing or machine washing is the safer option.
How Much Does It Cost to Professionally Clean a Weighted Blanket?
If your weighted blanket is too heavy for your home washer or you’re unsure about washing it yourself, professional cleaning services are available. The cost of cleaning a weighted blanket varies based on its size, weight, and the type of materials used.
On average, the cost of cleaning a weighted blanket at a professional laundry service ranges from $20 to $50, depending on the weight. Larger, heavier blankets may cost more, especially if special handling is required.
Some companies also offer specialized weighted blanket cleaning services, where they ensure the proper care and drying methods are used to preserve the blanket’s materials.
Personal Experience: Washing My Weighted Blanket with Beads
As a parent of two young children and a firm believer in the therapeutic benefits of weighted blankets, I’ve had my fair share of experiences cleaning these heavy blankets. One time, my toddler spilled juice on a weighted blanket filled with glass beads. Panicking at first, I quickly researched the best ways to clean it and followed a method similar to the one outlined here.
First, I pre-treated the stain with a mild detergent. Then, I machine washed the blanket on a gentle cycle with cold water, carefully balancing the load. To dry it, I laid it flat on a drying rack and flipped it periodically to ensure even drying. The blanket came out fresh, clean, and intact—no beads lost or shifted.
Through this experience, I learned how crucial it is to follow the right steps, from pre-treating stains to choosing the proper drying method. Whether you’re new to weighted blankets or a long-time user, maintaining your blanket with the right washing techniques will extend its lifespan and keep it in top condition.
Conclusion: Best Practices for Washing a Weighted Blanket with Beads
Weighted blankets offer incredible comfort and therapeutic benefits, but they require special care, especially when beads are involved. By following the right washing techniques, including checking the care label, pre-treating stains, choosing the appropriate washing method (hand washing or machine washing), and using safe drying techniques, you can maintain the quality and longevity of your blanket.
Remember to wash your blanket regularly, use a removable cover to protect it from stains, and always handle it with care, especially when dealing with delicate beads. With proper care, your weighted blanket will continue to provide comfort and relaxation for years to come.
