How To Wash A Heated Blanket: 5 Common Questions Answered By WashRoom Laundry’s Founder
We all love a cozy night in, but keeping your favorite blankets clean can be a bit of a puzzle when there are wires involved. Whether you are using them for a movie marathon or for extra comfort while recovering from a cold, knowing how to wash a heated blanket is an essential part in owning one.
If you don’t want to risk damaging your heated blanket or your washer, count on us to make it easy: Schedule a pickup today! But if you’re ready to tackle it at home, we’ve turned to a professional for the expert guidance you need to navigate the process.
Our Heated Blanket Expert & WashRoom Laundry’s Founder
Since 2016, Saichelle McNeill has been the proud owner of WashRoom Laundry. She uses her twelve years of manufacturing experience and Six Sigma Green Belt certification to bring a higher level of efficiency to the Charlotte laundry scene. Saichelle has also dedicated her business to the helping community, prioritizing second chances by hiring individuals who face structural barriers due to criminal records.
Recently recognized by Southern Living for her expertise on how to wash a heated blanket, Saichelle is an advocate for both fabric care and comfort. Her favorite way to recharge is by relaxing in her LaZyboy reclining chair, often with a comfy blanket of her own. If anyone knows how to keep a good blanket clean, heated or not, it’s her!
We asked Saichelle for the Laundry Lowdown on keeping heated blankets clean and functional, because let’s be honest, it’s not as straightforward as washing your everyday clothing. Here are the answers to commonly asked questions when it comes to heated blankets:
1. Can You Machine Wash Electric Blankets With Wiring?
Saichelle: “Electric heated blankets weren’t meant to be thrown straight into the washer. The wires make that a no-no. Some of them have a removable cover that can be machine washed just like a regular blanket. For those, you should remove the outer cover and place it into your machine, with your favorite detergent on a medium cycle, warm water. Be sure to physically wipe down the inner portion of the heated blanket with your favorite disinfectant. If you sleep directly underneath the heated blanket, I recommend washing it weekly. However, if the heated blanket is a 2nd or 3rd layer, a quarterly wash works.”
“Heated throw blankets can easily be thrown in your machine, with your favorite detergent on a medium cycle, warm water. Then tossed in the dryer, with a dryer ball and your favorite essential oil.”
Pro-Tip: Use the blanket right when it finishes drying. That out-of-the-dryer warmth hits different!
2. What Should We Be Careful About When Using Home Machines?
Saichelle: “Not all heated blankets love home machines, especially lightweight chenille or decorative throws with big open weaves. Those styles soak up water like a sponge, which is how you end up with a washer doing a new dance move across the laundry room. It is all about weight distribution and protecting the fabric.”
3. How Often Do Heated Blankets Need To Be Washed or Hand-Washed?
Saichelle: “Throw blankets should be washed monthly depending on how much couch time they get. As for hand washing, we’re not doing that in 2026! A careful wipe down of the inner portion of the heated blanket gets the job done without the extra labor.”
4. Does Having Pets Change How Often To Wash A Heated Blanket?
Saichelle: “If your furry friend loves your throws as much as you, expect to wash them more often. You can always get your furry friend their own throw blanket. You will still need to wash more, but at least you won’t be negotiating for more space on the recliner!”
5. What If My Heated Blanket Doesn’t Have a Removable Cover?
Saichelle: “If you’re wondering how to wash a heated blanket or heated throw if it doesn’t have a removable cover, it is best to keep it out of the washer, even on a delicate cycle. Always refer to the care label first when washing your home goods. Manufacturers can be very specific when electrical wiring is involved.”
Pro Tip: If it has wiring, treat it as you would any electronics. You wouldn’t toss your phone in the washer, and the same rule applies here.
How To Wash a Heated Blanket: Do’s & Don’ts
Do:
- Remove the outer cover (if removable) before washing.
- Use a gentle cycle with warm water.
- Dry on low heat or air dry.
Don’t:
- Machine wash heated blankets with exposed wiring.
- Use high heat in the dryer.
- Ignore the manufacturer’s care label.
Pro Tip: If you are wondering how to wash a heated blanket that doesn’t have a removable cover, treat it like electronics. When in doubt, don’t put it in the washer.
If you’re still feeling unsure about how to wash a heated blanket or if you’re worried your home machine isn’t the right fit, you’re not alone. These expert tips are here to help you wash your favorite heated blankets safely, but if you’d rather skip the guesswork, it’s often best to call a professional laundry service in Charlotte. If your blanket collection is starting to look like a mountain and you’d rather spend your time relaxing instead of worrying about wiring, let our team handle the details!
Schedule a pickup today and let us take care of the rest!
The Takeaway
Your comfort shouldn’t come with a side of stress. By checking your labels and focusing on removable covers, you can keep your heated blankets hygienic and the wiring intact. It’s the smartest way to handle the dilemma of how to wash a heated blanket.
Whether you choose to handle it at home or want the peace of mind that comes with professional care, your comfort is the top priority. If you’re ready to trade laundry day for some much-needed downtime, we’d love to help. Get to know Saichelle and the dedicated team working behind the scenes:
