Considering we don’t use electric blankets all year round, it’s reasonable to want to freshen them up when the colder weather rolls around.
But is it possible to put electric blankets in the washing machine? Let’s find out.
Can You Put Electric Blankets in the Washing Machine?
While it depends on the specific blanket, the general answer is that yes, you can put an electric blanket in the washing machine.
Most modern electrical blankets have detachable power cords and waterproofed internal electronics, meaning they should be washing-machine safe.
Ideally, it should say on the product’s care label whether it can be machine washed or not. You might find that the blanket’s washing instructions depend more on the fabrics used than the electronics contained within it.
Of course, if you’re unsure or can’t find the label, err on the side of caution and don’t wash the blanket.
What Is the Best Way to Wash an Electric Blanket?
The best way to wash an electric blanket, if possible, is in the washing machine. Of course, if it’s not machine safe, you’ll need to do it by hand.
If you can’t submerge the blanket or get it too wet, cleaning it is a bit more of a challenge, but not impossible.
Your options include:
Spot-cleaning
If you just need to clean a particular area, mix a weak solution of laundry detergent and water, or white vinegar and water. Spray it on and blot the area with a cloth.
Try not to soak the area, and use the cloth to lift as much of the solution as possible.
Hand-washing
For larger blankets or more delicate materials, clean them by hand in a bath. Run a few inches of warm water and add some laundry detergent.
Swish the blanket around and soak for 30 minutes or so. Let out the water and rinse in clean water, and then hang to dry.
Airing
For electric blankets that just don’t smell great, spray lightly with a solution of vinegar and water. Then hang outside if possible, or over a door.
Try to get the blanket in contact with as much fresh air as possible. You could try hanging it in your bathroom over a shower curtain rail, and opening the window and door to get a good breeze.
Dry cleaners
It’s not a certainty that a dry cleaner will take an electric blanket. They use solvents to clean things, and this could cause more damage to the wiring than using a washing machine.
If you’re not sure, you can take your blanket to the dry cleaners and ask them. If they can’t clean your electric blanket, they should be able to give you some tips.
Final Thoughts
Electric blankets are generally much easier to clean than you might think. Luckily, most manufacturers make them machine washable so you don’t have to put in loads of effort.
However, make sure you prep the blanket properly before putting it in your machine, otherwise you risk damaging the delicate wiring inside.
Jacob is a freelance writer based in Wales, where he lives with his partner and two dogs. All his work is fuelled by extensive research and buckets of coffee.
