Introduction
Blankets keep us warm and cozy, but washing them the wrong way can be tough on both the fabric and your washing machine. Learning how to wash blankets without damaging the washer will help you keep your blankets clean, fresh, and fluffy while protecting your appliance from strain. With the right method, you can safely wash heavy or bulky blankets at home instead of paying for expensive dry cleaning.
Why Blanket Washing Can Damage a Washer
Blankets—especially thick comforters, wool throws, or weighted blankets—can be heavy and absorb a lot of water. This extra weight puts stress on the washer’s motor, bearings, and suspension system.
Common problems caused by improper blanket washing include:
- Overloading the washer, causing mechanical strain.
- Unbalanced loads that make the drum shake violently.
- Poor cleaning if the blanket can’t move freely in the drum.
- Drainage issues from lint or fibers clogging filters and hoses.
Knowing how to wash blankets correctly keeps both your laundry and your machine in great condition.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Blankets Safely
1. Check the Care Label
What to do:
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying.
- Follow specific recommendations for water temperature, detergent type, and cycle settings.
Why it works:
Care labels ensure you wash the blanket in a way that won’t harm the fabric or cause shrinkage.
2. Determine Washer Capacity
What to do:
- Check your washer’s load capacity in the user manual (usually measured in cubic feet).
- If the blanket barely fits or restricts drum movement, wash it in a commercial-sized washer at a laundromat.
Why it works:
Overloading the drum strains the motor and prevents proper agitation, leading to poor cleaning and possible damage.
3. Pre-Treat Stains
What to do:
- Apply a gentle stain remover or diluted liquid detergent to any spots or marks.
- Let sit for 10–15 minutes before washing.
Why it works:
Treating stains first reduces the need for heavy scrubbing after washing.
4. Load the Blanket Evenly
What to do:
- Place the blanket loosely in the drum rather than cramming it in.
- If possible, fold it accordion-style to help water and detergent flow evenly.
Why it works:
Even distribution prevents the washer from becoming unbalanced during the spin cycle.
5. Choose the Right Cycle and Water Temperature
What to do:
- Use a gentle or bulky/bedding cycle.
- Select cold or warm water—hot water can shrink or weaken fibers.
Why it works:
Gentle cycles reduce stress on both the blanket and the washer’s moving parts.
6. Use the Right Detergent Amount
What to do:
- Use a mild, liquid detergent and measure according to the blanket size.
- Avoid fabric softener for fleece or microfiber blankets—it can coat fibers and reduce softness.
Why it works:
Too much detergent leaves residue; too little won’t clean effectively.
7. Consider an Extra Rinse Cycle
What to do:
- Add a second rinse to remove any lingering soap.
- This is especially useful for thick or heavy blankets.
Why it works:
Extra rinsing prevents detergent buildup that can stiffen fabric.
8. Spin with Caution
What to do:
- Use a lower spin speed for delicate fabrics.
- For heavy blankets, pause the cycle halfway and redistribute the load if needed.
Why it works:
High-speed spinning with an unbalanced blanket can damage the washer’s suspension and bearings.
9. Dry the Blanket Properly
What to do:
- Check the care label—some blankets should air-dry.
- If using a dryer, choose low or medium heat and add dryer balls to help fluff.
- For large blankets, dry in intervals and shake out between cycles for even drying.
Why it works:
Proper drying prevents shrinkage and maintains blanket texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Overstuffing the Washer
Solution: Use a large-capacity or commercial washer if needed.
Mistake 2: Skipping the Care Label
Solution: Always follow manufacturer recommendations to avoid damage.
Mistake 3: Using Hot Water on Delicate Fabrics
Solution: Use cold or warm water unless the label specifies otherwise.
Mistake 4: High-Speed Spinning Heavy Blankets
Solution: Reduce spin speed to protect the washer and prevent stretching.
Mistake 5: Drying on High Heat
Solution: Use low heat or air dry to preserve fibers.
Extra Laundry Tips & Hacks
- Wash weighted blankets separately and check if the cover can be removed for easier cleaning.
- Add vinegar to the rinse cycle for natural odor removal.
- For wool blankets, use a wool-safe detergent and avoid the dryer completely.
- Related guide: Check out our article on “How to Balance a Noisy Washing Machine” to keep your washer running smoothly.
Conclusion
Washing blankets doesn’t have to be hard on your washing machine. By checking the care label, ensuring your washer has enough capacity, and using the right cycle and detergent, you can keep your blankets clean, soft, and fresh while protecting your appliance from strain.
Bonus Tip: Schedule blanket washing during warm, dry weather so you can air-dry them outside—sunlight naturally freshens and disinfects fabrics.
Bookmark this guide to protect both your blankets and your washer during every wash.