Molly Ayala
Electric blankets are a great way to stay warm, especially during the winter. However, due to their electrical components, cleaning them can be tricky. Most electric blankets can be washed in a washing machine or by hand, but it's important to read the manufacturer's care instructions before getting started. Some blankets may have specific requirements, such as needing to be washed on a delicate or gentle cycle, or requiring spot cleaning. It's also important to unplug the blanket and disconnect any cords or controllers before washing to avoid water damage. While many electric blankets can be dried in a dryer on the lowest heat setting, it's generally recommended to opt for air drying to avoid damaging the wiring.
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What You'll Learn
Check the care label
Before you start cleaning your electric throw blanket, it's important to check the care label for specific instructions. Due to the internal wiring system, you need to follow the directions carefully to ensure that the heating grid remains intact. The care label will indicate whether the blanket can be machine washed or should be hand washed, as well as the specific wash cycle and water temperature to use.
The care label will also specify if the blanket can be dried in a dryer or should be air-dried. If you are instructed to air-dry, you can lay the blanket flat or hang it on a clothesline or drying rack. Avoid using a dryer unless the care label specifically states that it is safe to do so, as the heat and agitation may damage the electrical components and wiring.
In addition to washing and drying instructions, the care label may also provide guidelines for stain removal. It is important to pretreat any stains before washing the blanket. Follow the care label's instructions for stain removal, or use a mild detergent to gently dab and soak the stain before rinsing and patting it dry.
If your electric throw blanket has detachable cords or a remote, be sure to disconnect and unplug them before washing. Do not submerge the cords or remote in water, as this can cause damage. For hand-washing, fill a bathtub or large basin with water, following the care label's instructions for water temperature and detergent type. Submerge the blanket, agitate it gently, and then rinse thoroughly.
By carefully following the instructions on the care label, you can effectively wash and care for your electric throw blanket while ensuring the safety and longevity of the product.
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Detach cords and controllers
Before washing an electric throw blanket, it is important to detach the cords and controllers. This is because the cords and controllers are the electrical components of the blanket, and submerging them in water can damage them. If the cords and controllers are not removed, they could malfunction, and the blanket may stop working.
Some electric blankets have wiring that can be disconnected from where it attaches to the blanket. Others have detachable remotes. If you can remove any of these components, do so before washing to protect them from water damage. If the cords cannot be removed, leave them dangling outside the basin as you wash the blanket.
If your electric blanket has a controller, it is important to remove it before washing. Controllers should not be submerged in water, as this may damage them. If your blanket has a cord, this should also be removed and kept away from water.
If you are hand-washing your electric blanket, fill your basin or bathtub with lukewarm water and a small amount of natural detergent. Agitate the water slightly and then fully immerse your blanket. If you are machine washing, check the care instructions to see if the cord can be washed, and if so, whether there are any specific instructions for the wash temperature and cycle settings.
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Pretreat stains
Before you start washing your electric throw blanket, it is important to pretreat any stains that are visible. Start by unplugging the blanket and removing the controller and cord. You don't want to submerge the blanket's controller in water as it may damage it.
Next, pretreat the stains with a stain-removing spray or a solution of 1 cup of cool water and 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap or an enzyme-based laundry detergent. Avoid harsh stain-removing solutions like bleach. Use a soft brush to scrub the pretreatment into the stain, then let it sit for 5 to 20 minutes.
Afterward, gently rub the stain with a warm, damp cloth or a toothbrush until it is gone. Rinse the affected area and press with a towel to absorb any excess water. Repeat the process two to three times if necessary.
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Wash on a gentle cycle
Before washing an electric throw blanket, it is important to check the manufacturer's guidelines and care label. Modern electric blankets can be washed and dried in standard residential washers and dryers, but it is important to treat them with care to keep the heating grid safe and intact.
To wash an electric throw blanket on a gentle cycle, first, make sure the blanket is unplugged and disconnect all cords and controls from the blanket. Some electric blankets have wiring that can be disconnected from the blanket. If the cords cannot be removed, leave them dangling outside the basin as you wash the blanket, being careful not to submerge them.
Pretreat any stains by applying a small amount of mild detergent to the stain and letting it sit for 20 minutes. Then, gently rub the stain with a damp cloth or a toothbrush until it disappears. Rinse the area and press with a towel to remove excess water. Repeat this process if necessary.
Next, place the blanket in the washing machine and allow it to soak in a solution of water and a small amount of mild detergent for about 15 minutes. Then, select the gentle cycle and let it run for a brief period, usually about two minutes, before switching to the rinse cycle. It is recommended to use cool to warm water to preserve the inner wiring.
Once the rinse cycle is complete, remove the blanket from the machine immediately. To dry the blanket, it is best to avoid using a dryer due to the risk of damaging the wiring. Instead, allow the blanket to air-dry by draping it over a clothesline or drying rack. Make sure the blanket is completely dry before plugging it in and using it again.
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Air dry
Firstly, remove all connected cords and controllers to protect the blanket from water damage. If you cannot remove the cord, leave it dangling outside the basin as you wash the blanket. Avoid submerging the cords in water, as this could cause damage to the electrical components.
Next, pretreat any stains on the blanket. Use a stain-removing spray or a mild detergent to gently remove the stain. Allow the detergent to sit for a few minutes, and then use a damp cloth or toothbrush to gently work on the stain until it is removed.
After stain removal, you can proceed with hand-washing or machine-washing your electric blanket. If hand-washing, fill your tub or sink with cool to warm water and add a mild detergent. Soak the blanket for several minutes, agitate it gently, and then rinse thoroughly. Gently squeeze out the excess water without wringing or twisting the blanket, as this could damage the wiring.
Now you are ready to begin the air-drying process. Hang the blanket flat to dry, or drape it over a drying rack, clothesline, shower rod, or furniture with a similar structure. Avoid using clothespins as they can leave marks on the fabric. Ensure that the blanket is fully supported to bear its weight.
Finally, wait for the blanket to be completely dry before using it again. It is important to be patient during this step, as using an electric blanket while it is still damp can be unsafe. Once it is dry, you can carefully shape the blanket back to its original form if needed.
Remember to always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and care instructions for your specific electric throw blanket. These instructions will provide you with the most accurate and detailed information for washing and air-drying your blanket safely.
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Frequently asked questions
First, check the manufacturer's guidelines and care label for specific instructions. If possible, disconnect and unplug the blanket and remove the controller and cord. Pretreat any stains with a stain-removing spray or a mild detergent. If your blanket is machine washable, use a gentle, short cycle on a low-speed spin with minimum agitation and follow any specific instructions for water temperature. If you are hand washing your blanket, fill a basin or bathtub with lukewarm water and a mild detergent, then gently wash the blanket with your hands.
It is recommended that you air dry your electric blanket by laying it flat or hanging it over a clothesline or drying rack. Avoid using a dryer to protect the electrical elements.
It is recommended that you wash your electric blanket at least once or twice per season, or once or twice a month if it is being used frequently.
It is not recommended to use a cover on your electric blanket as it may cause the blanket to not function properly.
While some sources say it is safe to put your electric blanket in the dryer on a low heat setting, others recommend avoiding the dryer altogether to protect the electrical elements. Instead, air drying is recommended as the safest method.
