Introduction
Heated blankets can be one of the most comfortable and convenient items to have in your home during the colder months. The lovely warmth they provide can help you snuggle up for hours of reading or a peaceful night of sleep. While using them is easy, washing them can be a little challenging. Not to worry, though, this article is here to help. Here, we’ll go through a step-by-step guide to washing your heated blanket properly, dos and don’ts to follow, mistakes to avoid, and practical advice to ensure that your blanket lasts a long time.
Step-by-Step Guide
Before we begin, there are a couple of things to keep in mind to make sure that you don’t damage your heated blanket during the washing process. Firstly, check the manufacturer’s instructions for washing the blanket – each brand can have slightly different requirements. Secondly, disconnect and remove any detachable cords or controls from the blanket before washing it.
Now, let’s get started with the step-by-step guide:
1. Fill your washing machine, sink, or bathtub with lukewarm water.
2. Add a mild detergent – one that’s gentle on fabrics and doesn’t contain bleach or fabric softeners.
3. Submerge the blanket in water, making sure it’s fully covered. If washing in a machine, use a gentle cycle.
4. Gently agitate the blanket to remove dirt and stains, but don’t twist or wring it, as that could cause damage to the heating elements.
5. If you’re handwashing, you can knead the blanket gently.
6. Rinse the blanket at least twice, making sure there’s no soap or detergent left inside.
7. Squeeze out excess water, but avoid wringing or twisting the blanket.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure that your heated blanket stays clean after washing, we recommend adopting these tips and tricks:
1. Use a mild detergent that’s free from bleach or fabric softeners – these ingredients can damage the heating elements of the blanket.
2. Opt for lukewarm to cold water to avoid shrinkage or damaging heating wires in the blanket.
3. For stains, apply baking soda and water or a pre-wash stain remover product to the affected area before washing.
Do’s and Don’ts
There are some basic do’s and don’ts when washing heated blankets:
Do’s:
– Handwash or machine-wash the blanket using a gentle cycle.
– Use a mild detergent that’s gentle on fabrics.
– Consult the manufacturer’s instructions before washing.
Don’ts:
– Don’t use bleach or fabric softener – these can damage the heating elements in the blanket.
– Don’t use harsh detergents as they can cause damage to the fabric of the blanket.
– Don’t wring or twist the blanket while wet, as it could severely damage the heating elements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The following are common mistakes to watch out for when washing your heated blanket:
– Using too much detergent or fabric softener.
– Using hot water that could shrink or damage the heating wires inside the blanket.
– Agitating the blanket too much which can cause damage to the heating elements.
– Using the wrong washing machine setting.
Practical Advice
Once you’ve washed your heated blanket, we recommend you follow the below practical advice:
– Store the heated blanket in a cool, dry place.
– Avoid exposing the blanket to direct sunlight or heat as it can deteriorate the fabric’s quality.
– Wash the blanket occasionally, but not too often unless feasible, as frequent washing can weaken the heating elements.
Conclusion
Now you know how to wash your heated blanket properly and ensure that it stays in good condition while enjoying the comfort it provides. Follow these steps and remember the do’s and don’ts for cleansing. These tips and tricks can help you keep your beloved blanket clean and cozy for years to come.
