Weighted blankets are known for their soothing properties and ability to promote relaxation among both adults and children. Even pets are in on the relaxation methods promoted by heavy blankets.
However, when it comes to drying a weighted blanket, special care must be taken to preserve its integrity and functionality. Have you just washed your weighted blanket and need to dry the whole thing?
In this guide, we will walk you through various methods and best practices to effectively dry a weighted blanket.
By following these tips and techniques, you can ensure that your weighted blanket is thoroughly dried and ready for use, no matter how wet it was previously, you can be sure that your blanket will be fully ready for use again.
Brief Overview: Everything You Need To Know About Drying Your Weighted Blanket
To air dry your weighted blanket, lay it flat on an air rack or clean floor. DO NOT USE HEAT. Placing it on a radiator can damage your blanket. If your weighted blanket is light enough to machine dry, use a medium or low setting.
Full Guide Below:
Can You Machine Dry Any Weighted Blanket?
It is recommended that you air dry your weighted blanket, however, depending on the weight, it is perfectly fine to machine dry it too on a low or medium setting. Anything over 20 LB of weight should not be machine dried.
Just like you need to hand wash your weighted blanket, sometimes drying it needs to be done by alternative methods too. If you want to know more about machine drying your weighted blanket, carry on reading for some great tips.
Check the Care Instructions
Before proceeding with drying, it's crucial to review the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Different weighted blankets may have specific guidelines for drying, and it's essential to follow them to avoid damaging the blanket.
Choosing the Right Drying Method
Air Drying
Lay the blanket flat: Spread the weighted blanket evenly on a clean, dry surface, such as a drying rack or clean floor.
Ensure proper airflow: Place the blanket in a well-ventilated area, allowing air to circulate around it. This helps expedite the drying process.
Flip and rotate: Periodically flip and rotate the blanket to ensure even drying and prevent moisture from getting trapped in certain areas.
Machine Drying
Use a large-capacity dryer: If the care instructions allow machine drying, use a dryer with a large drum capacity to accommodate the weight and size of the blanket.
Set to low heat: Set the dryer to a low heat setting to prevent damage to the weighted inserts. High heat can cause the inserts to clump or shift, affecting the blanket's effectiveness.
Use dryer balls or clean tennis balls: Add a few dryer balls or clean tennis balls to the dryer to help fluff the blanket and distribute the weight evenly.
Drying Tips and Techniques
Patience is key: Weighted blankets may take longer to dry compared to regular blankets due to their additional weight and thicker construction. Be patient and allow sufficient drying time. Don't try to speed the process up with heated methods as this can damage the blanket.
Check for damp spots: During the drying process, periodically check for any damp spots or areas that may require additional drying. This ensures that the blanket is thoroughly dried and prevents any musty odours or mould growth. Before storing away your weighted blanket be 100% sure it is dry, otherwise you can cause a serious problem with such mould.
Avoid direct heat and sunlight: Whether air drying or machine drying, avoid placing the weighted blanket in direct sunlight or near direct heat sources. Excessive heat can damage the weighted inserts and affect the blanket's overall quality.
Use fans or air circulation: Enhance the drying process by using fans or creating air circulation in the drying area. This helps expedite the evaporation of moisture and reduces drying time.
Fluff and redistribute weight: Once the blanket is partially dry, take a moment to fluff and redistribute the weight within the blanket. This ensures that the weight is evenly distributed and restores the blanket's original shape and effectiveness.
Spot clean if necessary: If you notice any spots or stains on the weighted blanket during the drying process, address them promptly by spot cleaning. Use a mild detergent and clean cloth to gently blot the affected area.
Final Steps and Maintenance
Inspect the blanket: Once the weighted blanket is completely dry, carefully inspect it for any signs of moisture, stains, or damage. Address any remaining issues before storing or using the blanket.
Proper storage: Store the weighted blanket in a clean and dry area when not in use. Avoid storing it in a damp or humid environment to prevent musty odors or mold growth.
Follow manufacturer's recommendations: Always refer to the manufacturer's care instructions and guidelines for proper drying and maintenance of your specific weighted blanket. Each blanket may have unique considerations that should be followed for optimal care.
Conclusion
Properly drying a weighted blanket is crucial to maintain its quality, comfort, and effectiveness.
Whether you choose air drying or machine drying, following the tips and techniques outlined in this comprehensive guide will help you achieve thorough drying while preserving the integrity of your weighted blanket.
Remember to review the care instructions provided by the manufacturer, be patient throughout the drying process, and avoid excessive heat or sunlight.
By taking care of your weighted blanket and ensuring it is thoroughly dried, you can continue to enjoy its soothing benefits for years to come.
Comments