Preparing Your Heated Blanket for Washing
When the chill creeps in, few things beat the cosy warmth of a heated blanket. But over time, spills, dust, or just general use mean it will eventually need a clean. The good news is, you can often wash your heated blanket, but it requires a specific, gentle approach. The key is to treat it much like delicate laundry, paying close attention to the electrical components. Before you even think about water, unplug your blanket and ensure it has been completely cool for a good while. You’ll need to consult the manufacturer’s care label; this is your absolute first port of call, as it contains vital information specific to your model. If the label is missing or illegible, err on the side of extreme caution and consider spot cleaning only.
- Check the Care Label: Always begin here. It dictates whether it's machine washable, hand wash only, or spot clean only.
- Unplug and Cool Down: Ensure the blanket is switched off, unplugged, and entirely cool to the touch.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for any frayed wires, tears, or loose connections. If found, do not attempt to wash it.
What You'll Need
Gathering your supplies beforehand makes the process smoother. You'll want a mild detergent – nothing harsh, bleach-based, or abrasive, as these can damage the delicate heating wires and fabric. A clean, dry towel is also essential for absorbing excess moisture. If you're machine washing, use a mesh laundry bag to protect the blanket from snagging.
Protect the controller: If your blanket has a detachable controller, remove it before washing. If it's integrated, be extra vigilant to keep it dry throughout the process.
The most critical step before washing is to ensure all electrical connections are dry and secure.
The Gentle Washing Method
So, how to clean heated blanket textiles without compromising their electric heart? For most machine-washable models, the method is akin to washing a delicate jumper. Use a gentle cycle on your washing machine, preferably with cold or lukewarm water. Hot water can damage the internal wiring or shrink the fabric. Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid fabric softeners, as they can leave a residue that might interfere with the heating elements or cause them to clump.
Machine Washing Delicate Settings
If the care label permits machine washing, place your heated blanket inside a large mesh laundry bag or a duvet cover tied shut. This extra layer of protection is crucial. Select the gentlest cycle available on your machine, often labelled 'delicates', 'hand wash', or 'wool'. The spin cycle should also be on the lowest setting to prevent excessive stretching or damage to the wires.
Hand Washing for Maximum Care
If your blanket is hand-wash only, prepare a large basin or bathtub with cool water and a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the blanket and gently agitate the water, squeezing the suds through the fabric. Avoid harsh scrubbing, twisting, or wringing, as these actions can easily damage the internal heating wires. Rinse thoroughly with clean, cool water until all detergent residue is gone.
The secret to a clean and functional heated blanket lies in treating its electrical components with as much care as the fabric itself.
Once washed, do not wring out the blanket aggressively; instead, gently press out excess water.
Drying and Rejuvenating Your Heated Throw
Drying is perhaps the most crucial stage when learning how to clean heated blanket items. Never, under any circumstances, put a heated blanket in a tumble dryer. The high heat can melt or damage the internal wiring, rendering your blanket unsafe and unusable. Similarly, avoid direct heat sources like radiators or hairdryers. These can cause concentrated heat that damages the delicate components.
Air Drying Correctly
The safest and most recommended method is air drying. Once you've gently pressed out excess water, lay the blanket flat on a clean, dry towel. You can roll the blanket up in the towel to absorb more moisture. Then, spread it out again on a drying rack or a fresh, dry towel, ensuring it's not bunched up or folded in a way that traps moisture. Position it in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, which can fade colours over time. Turn the blanket periodically to ensure even drying.
Spot Cleaning for Minor Messes
For small spills or marks, spot cleaning is often the best approach, especially if your blanket is only suitable for this method. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with cool water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution – do not saturate it – and gently dab at the stain. Wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue, then blot dry with a clean towel. Ensure the spot is completely dry before using or storing the blanket.
Be patient with drying: A thick heated blanket can take a long time to dry completely. Ensure there is absolutely no dampness left, especially near the electrical connections, before plugging it in again.
Always ensure your heated blanket is thoroughly dry before plugging it back in to avoid any electrical hazards.