Machine Wash Heated Blanket: Care Tips & Guide

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Welcome to our guide on caring for your machine washable heated blanket. These cozy and convenient blankets offer warmth and comfort during chilly nights. With proper care, you can keep your blanket clean and functioning optimally for years to come.

Key Takeaways:

• Machine washable heated blankets are designed to withstand machine washing without damage.
• Follow specific washing instructions to protect the inner electrical wires and ensure proper cleaning.
• Spot clean stains promptly for a better chance of complete removal.
• Store your electric blanket correctly to avoid damage and prolong its lifespan.
• If machine washing isn’t possible, hand-wash your electric blanket as an alternative.

How to Machine Wash an Electric Blanket

When it comes to cleaning your heated blanket, machine washing can be a convenient and effective option. Follow these simple steps to ensure your electric blanket stays fresh and cozy:

1. Shake out the blanket: Start by shaking out the blanket to remove any loose debris or dirt.
2. Remove cords and controls: Before washing, detach all cords and controls from the blanket. This will help protect the electrical components during the washing process.
3. Load and prepare the washer: If you have a high-efficiency washer, load the blanket loosely. For standard washers, evenly spread the blanket around the drum.
4. Choose the right settings: Use cool to warm water with a mild detergent. Select a short or gentle cycle to minimize wear and tear on the blanket.
5. Reduce spin speed: To prevent excessive force on the wiring, reduce the final spin speed of the washing machine.
6. Remove after rinse cycle: Once the wash cycle is complete, promptly remove the blanket from the washer.
7. Partially dry and air dry: Partially dry the blanket in the dryer on low heat to speed up the drying process. Then, hang it on a clothesline or drying rack to air dry completely.
8. Recommended washing frequency: Machine-washable electric blankets can be washed every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on usage and personal preference.

With these simple steps, you can keep your electric blanket clean and cozy for continued comfort during the colder months.

How to Spot Clean an Electric Blanket

To keep your electric blanket looking clean and fresh, it’s essential to know how to spot clean any stains that may occur. Follow these simple steps to effectively remove stains from your electric blanket.

1. Blot the Stain: Start by blotting the stain with a clean towel to absorb any excess liquid or residue. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can spread it further.

2. Remove Solid Substances: If the stain is caused by food, drink, or any other solid substance, gently scrape it off the fabric using a butter knife, an old credit card, or your fingernail. Be careful not to damage the fabric.

3. Apply Mild Laundry Detergent: Rub a small amount of mild laundry detergent onto the stain. Use your fingers or a soft cloth to work the detergent into the fabric. Let the detergent sit on the stain for a few minutes to loosen it.

4. Rinse the Stain: Rinse the area thoroughly with a clean cloth dampened in cool water. Continue rinsing until all traces of the detergent are removed.

5. Air-Dry the Blanket: Once the stain is completely removed, allow the blanket to air-dry completely before using it again. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or using artificial heat sources, as this can damage the blanket.

Note: It’s essential to treat stains on your electric blanket as soon as possible for the best chance of complete removal.

Stain Type	Cleaning Method
Food or Drink	Blot the stain, remove solid substances, apply mild laundry detergent, rinse with cool water, air-dry
Ink or Marker	Blot the stain, apply rubbing alcohol, rinse with cool water, air-dry
Oil or Grease	Blot the stain, apply a small amount of dish soap, rinse with cool water, air-dry
Blood or Bodily Fluids	Blot the stain with cold water, apply hydrogen peroxide, blot again with cold water, air-dry

How to Store an Electric Blanket

Properly storing your electric blanket is essential to maintain its quality and extend its lifespan. Follow these tips for storing your electric blanket:

1. Wash and Dry Carefully

Before storing your electric blanket, it’s important to wash and dry it properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, as some blankets are machine washable while others require hand washing. Ensure the blanket is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

2. Check for Damage

Inspect your electric blanket for any exposed wiring, scorched areas, rips, or tears. If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to discard the blanket to prevent any safety hazards. For minor tears or rips, you can repair them using matching thread and a needle.

3. Gently Roll for Storage

To avoid damaging the inner wires of your electric blanket, it’s important to store it properly. Gently roll the blanket, starting from one end, into a compact cylinder shape. Avoid creating sharp folds, as they can damage the wires and affect the functionality of the blanket.

4. Choose the Right Storage Space

Find a suitable storage space for your electric blanket. Ideally, the storage area should be dry, climate-controlled, and free from insects and rodents. Avoid storing the blanket in damp basements or attics, as moisture can damage the electrical components. If possible, use a plastic storage container or a garment bag to protect the blanket from dust and potential pests.

5. Keep Controls and Cords Separate

When storing your electric blanket, it’s important to keep the controls and cords separate from the blanket. Loosely coil the cords and store them in a separate bag or container. This will prevent any damage to the cords and ensure they are easily accessible when you need to use the blanket again.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your electric blanket remains in good condition while in storage. Proper care and storage will help prolong the lifespan of your blanket, allowing you to enjoy its warmth and comfort for years to come.

Hand-Washing an Electric Blanket

If your electric blanket cannot be machine-washed or your washer is not large enough, it can be hand-washed. Hand-washing an electric blanket requires a careful approach to protect the delicate electrical components.

To hand-wash an electric blanket, follow these steps:

1. Fill a bathtub or large sink with cold water.
2. Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent to the water and mix it well.
3. Submerge the electric blanket in the soapy water, ensuring it is completely soaked.
4. Let the blanket soak for several minutes to allow the detergent to loosen dirt and stains.
5. Agitate the blanket gently in the water for a few more minutes to ensure thorough cleaning.
6. Drain the soapy water and refill the tub or sink with clean water for rinsing.
7. Gently squeeze the blanket to remove excess water, but avoid wringing or twisting it, as this can damage the internal wiring.
8. Hang the blanket to air-dry completely before using it again.

Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and check the care label for any specific recommendations regarding hand-washing. Ensure that the blanket is completely dry before reconnecting it to a power source.

Tips for Care and Maintenance of Electric Blankets

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your electric blanket, it is important to follow proper care and maintenance guidelines. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Always read and follow the care label instructions provided by the manufacturer. These instructions are specifically designed to keep your electric blanket in the best condition.

2. Before cleaning or storing your electric blanket, make sure you unplug it from the power source. This precautionary measure ensures your safety and prevents any potential electrical mishaps.

3. Avoid crumpling or crushing the blanket, as this can damage the internal wiring. Gently fold or roll it when not in use to maintain its shape and integrity.

4. Never use bleach or fabric softener on your electric blanket, as these can damage the fabric and affect its performance. Stick to mild laundry detergents recommended for delicate fabrics.

5. Do not iron your electric blanket. The heat from the iron can cause damage to the internal components and affect its functionality.

6. Before using your electric blanket, always check for any exposed wiring or damaged components. If you notice any issues, refrain from using the blanket and have it repaired by a professional or consider replacing it.

7. For small tears or rips, you can repair them using matching thread and a needle. This will help prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of your electric blanket.

8. Lastly, it is recommended to replace electric blankets that are more than 10 years old. As with any electronic device, older models may not meet current safety standards and could pose a risk.

By following these care tips and maintenance guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your electric blanket for years to come.

FAQ

Can I machine wash a heated blanket?

Yes, machine washable heated blankets are designed to withstand machine washing without damage. However, it is important to protect the inner electrical wires during the wash process. Follow the proper care instructions to ensure the longevity of your blanket.

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How do I machine wash an electric blanket?

To machine wash an electric blanket, first shake out the blanket to remove any loose debris. Then, remove all cords and controls before washing. Load the blanket loosely in your washing machine and use cool to warm water with a mild detergent. Choose a short or gentle cycle and reduce the final spin speed. Remove the blanket immediately after the rinse cycle and partially dry it in the dryer on low heat. Finish by air-drying on a clothesline or drying rack.

How do I spot clean an electric blanket?

To spot clean a stain on an electric blanket, first blot it with a towel. Use a butter knife, old credit card, or your fingernail to remove any food, drink, or other substance from the fabric. Rub a little mild laundry detergent on the stain to loosen and lift it off. Rinse with a clean cloth until the detergent is removed. Let the blanket air-dry completely before using it again.

How should I store an electric blanket?

Before storing an electric blanket, wash and dry it carefully. Check for any exposed wiring, scorched areas, rips, or tears. Repair any small tears or rips with matching thread and a needle. Once the blanket is clean and completely dry, gently roll it for storage, avoiding sharp folds that could damage the inner wires. Store the blanket in a dry, climate-controlled, and insect- and rodent-free space. Keep the controls and cords stored separately, loosely coiled to prevent damage.

Can I hand-wash an electric blanket?

Yes, if your electric blanket cannot be machine-washed or your washer is not large enough, it can be hand-washed. Fill a bathtub or large sink with cold water and a small amount of mild laundry detergent. Let the blanket soak for several minutes, then agitate it in the water for a few more minutes. Drain the soapy water and refill the tub with clean water for rinsing. Gently squeeze out the excess water, but avoid wringing or twisting the blanket. Hang it to air-dry completely before using.

What are some tips to care for and maintain electric blankets?

To keep your electric blanket in good shape, always read and follow the care label instructions. Unplug the blanket before cleaning or storing. Avoid crumpling or crushing the blanket. Never use bleach or fabric softener. Do not iron the blanket. Check for any exposed wiring or damaged components before use. Repair small tears or rips with matching thread and a needle. Finally, replace electric blankets that are more than 10 years old.