Just like all your bedding, electric blankets need a cleaning routine to keep them in good shape. Don't overlook how much dust, body oil, and other buildup that can affect the fabric over time—especially if you share your blankets with pets. While many modern electric blankets are machine washable, it's important to follow the care instructions to prevent damage to the wiring.
Whether you wash it every few weeks or once a season really depends on use. If you use it every day, spot clean it whenever necessary and wash every few weeks to help prevent soils like sweat from building up. If you only use it occasionally as a lap blanket while lounging, cleaning it a couple of times per year will do.
One important detail to remember: Make sure that the blanket is completely dry – even after spot cleaning – before plugging it back in.
Hand Wash vs. Machine Wash an Electric Blanket
Always start by checking your blanket’s washing instructions. "Washing in a washer on a gentle cycle is appropriate for most modern heated blankets made from durable and washable materials, like cotton or polyester," notes Wendy Saladyga, Fabric Care Expert and Manager of Technical Performance at Henkel for Purex. "Make sure you are using the gentle cycle and do not put the blanket in the dryer."
She adds a few important notes:
- Carefully air dry the blanket and do not wring or twist the blanket. It can damage the internal wiring.
- If the washing instructions say that you can wash it by hand, that is the next best option.
- For more delicate or sensitive materials, such as blankets with intricate designs or those with delicate fillings, it's better to wash them by hand.
How to Wash an Electric Blanket
- Check the Care Label – Read the care tag for specific washing instructions. Some blankets are machine washable, while many of the older blankets should be washed by hand.
- Unplug and Detach Electrical Cords – Remove all power cords and controllers before cleaning to prevent electrical damage. While the built-in electrical elements in modern blankets can go in the wash, the power source should NOT.
- Use a Gentle Detergent – Stick to a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Bleach and fabric softeners can break down fibers and impact the heating elements.
- Select the Right Wash Cycle – Set the washing machine on a gentle or delicate cycle using cool water. Hot water temperature promotes shrinking.
- Rinse Thoroughly With Clean Water – Use cold water to rinse away all soap residue. Rinsing the soapy water keeps the fabric soft and prevents residue buildup.
- Air Dry the Blanket Flat – Air drying is important because you can't put the blanket in a tumble dryer. Lay the blanket on a clean, flat drying rack. Hanging it during the drying process may stretch the material. If you were treating stubborn stains, this is a good time to check to see if the stain was removed.
- Check for Signs of Damage and Test Electrical Components – Before reconnecting, inspect the blanket for any exposed wires or unusual stiffness. If the blanket was visibly damaged during machine washing, don't use it. In all cases, when the blanket is bone dry, use it during the day to test the electrical wiring before relying on it unattended overnight. Make sure all of the heating wires activate; if they don't, it's likely that the internal heating element was damaged.
Does bleach damage heated blanket components?
"Again, check the washing instructions," notes Saladyga. "Avoid washing the blanket with harsh detergents, softeners or bleach as it can damage the material of the blanket. Opting for a gentle detergent can help preserve the longevity of the blanket – and, since it will touch your skin, using a gentle detergent – like Purex® Free & Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent – is also a great way to get a hypoallergenic clean."
Is it safe to iron an electric blanket to remove wrinkles?
No, ironing can damage the delicate wiring. If your blanket has wrinkles after washing, smooth them out by laying it flat while drying. Once dry, gently shake it or run your hands over the fabric to relax any remaining creases.
