How to Wash Heavy Blankets in Washing Machine Safely

Heavy blankets keep you warm and cozy but cleaning them can feel like a challenge. You might worry about damaging your washing machine or ruining the fabric. The good news is you can safely wash heavy blankets at home with the right approach.

Knowing how to handle the weight and material of your blanket will save you time and money. With a few simple steps, you’ll keep your blanket fresh and fluffy without any hassle. Let’s dive into the best way to wash heavy blankets in your washing machine so you can enjoy comfort without the stress.

Understanding Heavy Blankets and Their Care Requirements

Heavy blankets vary in material and weight, affecting how you wash and care for them. Knowing their types and common washing challenges helps protect your blanket and your machine.

Types of Heavy Blankets

• Weighted blankets: Filled with glass beads or plastic pellets, these blankets weigh between 5 to 30 pounds. They require gentle washing cycles to avoid damaging the fill.
• Wool blankets: Dense and warm, wool blankets can shrink or felt if washed improperly. Use cold water and mild detergent for wool care.
• Quilted comforters: Filled with down or synthetic fibers, these blankets need enough space in the washer to prevent clumping.
• Fleece blankets: Thick yet flexible, fleece blankets dry quickly but can pill with harsh washing.
• Electric blankets: These require special care and usually must be spot-cleaned or washed according to manufacturer instructions to avoid damage to wiring.

Common Challenges When Washing Heavy Blankets

• Machine overload: Heavy blankets can exceed your washer’s capacity. Overloading causes uneven cleaning and strains the machine.
• Water penetration: Dense fabrics trap water, increasing wash time and risk of mold if not dried thoroughly.
• Fabric damage: Aggressive cycles or hot water can shrink or distort fibers, especially in wool and fleece.
• Fill displacement: Weighted or quilted blankets may have uneven fill distribution after washing.
• Drying difficulties: Heavy blankets take longer to dry, and improper drying can lead to mildew or odors.

Understanding these factors guides your washing strategy to keep heavy blankets clean without damage.

Preparing Your Heavy Blanket for Washing

Preparing your heavy blanket ensures safe and effective cleaning while protecting your washing machine. Follow these steps to get your blanket ready.

Checking the Care Label

Check your blanket’s care label for specific washing instructions and temperature limits. Follow manufacturer recommendations about machine washing, hand washing, or dry cleaning. Note any warnings about bleach, fabric softeners, or tumble drying. Ignoring these details may damage your blanket or reduce its lifespan.

Inspecting for Damage and Stains

Inspect your blanket for tears, holes, or weak seams. Repair small damages before washing to prevent worsening during the cycle. Spot-treat visible stains with a suitable stain remover or mild detergent, applying it gently to avoid fabric damage. Addressing stains before washing helps maintain the blanket’s appearance and fabric integrity.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Wash Heavy Blankets in Washing Machine

Follow these steps for washing heavy blankets effectively and safely, maintaining fabric quality while protecting your washing machine.

Choosing the Right Washing Machine Settings

Select a gentle cycle or delicate setting to minimize fabric stress and reduce fill displacement. Use cold or warm water, respecting temperature limits on the care label to prevent shrinking or color fading. Choose a slow spin speed, around 400 to 600 RPM, to avoid excess agitation that can damage the blanket and your washing machine.

Selecting Detergents and Additives

Use a mild, liquid detergent that dissolves easily and prevents residue buildup. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners as they can degrade fibers, especially in wool or weighted blankets. Add a small amount of white vinegar during the rinse cycle to remove detergent residues and maintain the blanket’s softness.

Loading the Washing Machine Properly

Distribute the blanket evenly inside the drum without overloading, ensuring enough space for water circulation. Fold or roll the blanket loosely if needed to avoid tangling or uneven washing. Balance the load with towels or additional similar fabrics to stabilize the machine during the spin cycle and prevent damage.

Drying and Maintaining Heavy Blankets After Washing

Proper drying and storage keep your heavy blankets fresh and extend their lifespan. Focus on low-heat drying and careful storing to avoid damage and maintain softness.

Best Practices for Drying

Use a large-capacity dryer set to low heat or air-dry mode to prevent fabric shrinkage and fill displacement. Add clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer to help fluff the blanket and maintain even filling distribution. Avoid high heat, which can damage fibers and reduce softness. If air drying, lay the blanket flat on a clean surface, turning it regularly to ensure even drying and prevent mildew. Ensure the blanket is completely dry before storing to avoid mold and odors.

Storing Heavy Blankets to Maintain Freshness

Store heavy blankets in breathable cotton bags or pillowcases to prevent moisture buildup and allow airflow. Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and encourage mildew growth. Fold the blanket loosely and avoid compressing its filling to maintain loft and insulation. Place the blanket in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and fiber degradation. Adding cedar balls or lavender sachets helps repel moths and maintain freshness.

Conclusion

Washing heavy blankets in your machine doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right preparation and care, you can keep your blankets clean, soft, and well-maintained without risking damage to your washer or the fabric.

By following proper washing, drying, and storage techniques, you’ll extend the life of your heavy blankets and enjoy their comfort season after season. Taking these simple steps ensures your blankets stay fresh and cozy, ready whenever you need them.