Do you love snuggling up under your cozy electric blanket on a cold winter night? Electric blankets are a convenient and comfortable way to stay warm during the colder months, but they can get dirty over time and require regular cleaning. But, cleaning and drying electric blankets might be a difficult chore, especially if you’re not sure how to do it properly.
One of the most important steps in the process is drying the blanket after washing it, as improper drying can damage the blanket or even pose a safety risk.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the best way to dry your electric blanket after washing it to keep it in good condition and ensure it lasts for many cozy nights to come.
Can Electric Blankets Be Washed?
Yes, many electric blankets can be washed, but it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to do so. Some electric blankets have removable cords and controls, making them safe for washing.
Other electric blankets are not washable and must be spot-cleaned instead. The manufacturer’s instructions will usually provide clear guidance on whether the electric blanket is washable or not, and if so, here’s how to properly wash and dry it.
It’s important to note that electric blankets should never be washed in a washing machine with an agitator, as this can damage the internal wiring and pose a safety risk. Instead, they should be washed in a front-loading washing machine or by hand, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to Wash an Electric Blanket
Here are steps you can follow to safely and effectively wash your electric blanket, keeping it clean and fresh for use. Remember to always check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing and follow them closely.
If your electric blanket is safe for washing according to the manufacturer’s instructions, you can follow these general steps to wash it:
1. Read the manufacturer’s instructions. Before washing your electric blanket, carefully read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will ensure that you don’t accidentally damage the blanket during the washing process.
2. Remove cords and controls. If your electric blanket has removable cords and controls, detach them before washing. Some models have cords that cannot be removed, but in this case, be sure to protect them during the washing process.
3. Pre-treat stains. If your electric blanket has any visible stains, pre-treat them before washing using a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water. Allow the pre-treatment to sit for 15-20 minutes before washing.
4. Wash the blanket. Wash the electric blanket in a front-loading washing machine or by hand using cool water and mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as these can damage the blanket’s wiring.
5. Rinse thoroughly. After washing, rinse the blanket thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
6. Squeeze out excess water. Gently squeeze out excess water from the blanket, being careful not to wring or twist it.
7. Dry the blanket. The drying process is crucial for the longevity and safety of your electric blanket. We will discuss how to properly dry your electric blanket in the next section.
How To Dry an Electric Blanket
Drying an electric blanket is an important step in the washing process, as improper drying can damage the internal wiring and pose a safety risk. Read the care label on your electric blanket to see if it has any specific instructions for drying. Some electric blankets may be dryer-safe, while others may need to be air-dried.
Here are two ways to safely and effectively dry an electric blanket:
1. Air-drying
If your electric blanket is not dryer-safe, air-drying is the best option. Spread the blanket out on a flat surface, such as a clean, dry towel, and let it air dry completely. Flip it over periodically to ensure that both sides dry evenly.
2. Machine drying
If the manufacturer’s instructions allow for machine drying, place the electric blanket in the dryer with a few clean towels to help absorb moisture. Use the lowest heat setting possible and avoid using fabric softener sheets or dryer balls, as these can damage the wiring.
Check the blanket periodically and remove it from the dryer when it’s dry, and avoid over-drying it as this can damage the internal wiring.
How to Machine Dry an Electric Blanket
While air-drying is the safest and recommended way to dry an electric blanket after washing, some electric blankets may be dryer-safe and can be dried in a low-heat dryer. But, it is important to check the care label and manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to tumble dry.
If the care label does not specifically state that the electric blanket is dryer-safe, it is best to air-dry the blanket to avoid damaging the electrical wiring. In general, it is safer to air-dry electric blankets to prevent any potential damage.
Remember to always check the manufacturer’s instructions before drying and follow them closely to avoid damaging the blanket or compromising its safety.
Steps to Dry an Electric Blanket in a Dryer
Here are step-by-step instructions on how you can safely and effectively tumble dry your electric blanket:
- Check the care label. Before putting your electric blanket in the dryer, check the care label to make sure it is safe to do so. Some electric blankets may not be dryer-safe and must be air-dried.
- Clean the dryer. Make sure the dryer is clean and free of any debris that could damage the blanket or the dryer itself.
- Add clean dry towels. To help absorb moisture and prevent the blanket from bunching up in the dryer, add a couple of clean, dry towels to the dryer.
- Put the blanket in the dryer. Place the electric blanket in the dryer, making sure it is spread out evenly and not bunched up.
- Set the dryer to low heat. Set the dryer to the low-heat or delicate cycle to avoid damaging the electrical components of the blanket. Do not use high heat, as this can damage the blanket.
- Check the blanket and towels. After 10-15 minutes of tumbling on low heat, stop the dryer and check the blanket and towels to see if they are damp or dry. If they are still damp, continue drying for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Repeat as necessary. Check the blanket and towels every 10-15 minutes until they are completely dry.
- Avoid folding or bunching. After drying, avoid folding or bunching the electric blanket, as this can damage the internal wiring. Instead, store it flat or loosely rolled to prevent damage and ensure it lasts for many cozy nights to come.
Tips For Maintaining and Caring for Electric Blankets
Caring for your electric blanket properly is important to ensure its longevity and safety. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying and to avoid high heat, fabric softeners, and harsh chemicals.
Here are some additional tips to help you maintain and care for your electric blanket, ensuring it stays in good condition for years to come.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for caring for your electric blanket. This includes washing and drying instructions, as well as any specific care recommendations.
- Store properly. When not in use, store your electric blanket in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight, as this can damage the electrical parts.
- Avoid overheating. Do not leave your electric blanket on for a long time or while unattended. Overheating can damage the blanket and increase the risk of fire.
- Check for damage. Before using your electric blanket, check for any signs of damage, such as frayed wires or scorch marks. If you notice any damage, do not use the blanket and replace it.
- Avoid dry cleaning. Do not dry clean your electric blanket, as the chemicals used in the dry cleaning process can damage the electrical components.
- Use a cover sheet. To protect your electric blanket from spills and stains, use a cover sheet or mattress protector over the blanket.
- Don’t fold while in use. Avoid folding or bunching up your electric blanket while it is in use, as this can cause overheating and damage the electrical components.
Finally, electric blankets are an excellent purchase for people looking to keep warm and toasty throughout the cold winter months. But, for your electric blanket to last for many winters to come, it must be properly maintained and cared for.
You can keep your electric blanket in good condition and avoid any problems by following the advice we’ve provided.
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Hanging an electric blanket to dry
It is not recommended to hang an electric blanket to dry, as this can cause the water to pool in certain areas and damage the electrical wiring. It is best to air-dry the blanket by laying it flat on a clean, dry surface.
Drying an electric blanket on high heat
No, it is not recommended to dry an electric blanket on high heat, as this can damage the electrical components and potentially cause a fire. Always use a low-heat or delicate cycle if you choose to tumble dry your electric blanket
What should you do if your electric blanket does not heat up? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Check out our blog article for some helpful tips on how to fix an electric blanket that is not heating. Remember that taking good care of your electric blanket is essential if you want to enjoy its warmth and comfort for many years to come.