Expert: Jamie Novak - 12/10/2009

Question
Can I wash an electric Blanket?
If so........any special precaution?

Answer
Hi Mike,

Unless there is a label stitched to the blanket that says not to then washing your blanket can be done. Some blankets state that they should be taken to the dry cleaners.

I'll share with you how I do it and you can try it (at your own risk)

1. unplug the blanket, I figured you would but I just thought I'm mention it

2. Lay the blanket flat out on the floor or a bed to check for any holes where wires stick out

3. if you see any wires stick them back in and mend the hole

now you are ready to wash

5. pre fill the washer with cold water on the delicate setting with mild detergent

6. lay the blanket in evenly around the agitator

note: if your washer is too small to hold the blanket you can always hand wash it or spot clean it in the bathtub

7. set the washer to wash and set your timer for 5 minutes (unless the blanket is super dirty you most likely don't need to go the whole cycle)

8. do not dry the blanket in the dryer instead hang it to dry. If you can get it outside on a line do that. If not then hanging it somewhere in the house works.

I place mine over the shower bar in the bathroom. I have a shower curtain in that bathroom so I hang the blanket on the bar then I bring the shower curtain behind it to prevent any water from dripping on the floor.

Although a towel on the floor to catch the water works as well.

Good luck and enjoy your new clean and comfy blanket just in time for the winter!