How Do You Wash Electric Blanket? Safe Guide to Cleaning and Drying It

Curling up on the couch with a heated electric blanket and a cup of cocoa is the perfect way to spend a fall evening. But what happens when you spill some of that cocoa on the blanket? How do you wash and dry an electric blanket?

The process is actually pretty simple once you know what to consider and how to go about it. This guide breaks down exactly how to wash an electric blanket, safety pointers to note, and key don’ts to avoid.

Can you wash an electric blanket?

The short answer: yes. Most modern electric blankets are indeed washable. However, some older, heavier ones are not. The only way to know for certain if you can wash an electric blanket is by reading the care label. 

Can you wash an electric heating blanket or not also depends on its condition. Before you wash anything, quickly check the blanket. Frayed fabric, exposed or kinked wires, scorch marks, or a damaged cord are signs to stop. Washing is for an electric blanket that’s in good condition, not one that already has damaged electrical components. 

How do you wash an electric blanket in the washer: A simple guide

The following steps can guide you on how to wash an electric blanket in the washer.

Step 1: Read the care label

Check the care label to confirm that the electric blanket can be machine washed. Also check for specific washing instructions like:

• Water temperature

• Appropriate cycle

• Drying instructions

Step 2: Unplug and detach the controller/cord

Turn the blanket off, unplug it from the outlet, and disconnect the removable power cord and controller before washing. Those external electrical parts should never be submerged in water.

Take a quick look over the blanket at this point, too. If you spot damaged wiring, scorch marks, a damaged connector, or other obvious electrical damage, don't simply put it through a wash.

Step 3: Spot clean if needed

If there are stains on the electric blanket, follow these steps to pre-treat them before tossing the blanket into the washer:

• Wet the stained area and dab with a gentle detergent or the Mozi Stain Treater

• Let it sit for 10-15 minutes

• Pat it with a damp cloth or gently rub with a toothbrush

• Rinse and press with a towel to remove excess water

Step 4: Place it in the washer and add detergent

Don't ball up your electric blanket and shove it into the drum. With a front loader, spread it evenly inside. For a top loader, position it evenly around the agitator or impeller. The blanket needs enough room to move without creating an unbalanced load.

If you want the load unbalanced, add another blanket or towels. Then add a small amount of gentle but concentrated detergent, like Mozi Wash. 

Step 5: Select the wash cycle and start

Choose the cycle and water temperature listed on the care label. Depending on the blanket, that may mean a gentle or delicate cycle, low-speed spin, and cool-to-warm water to limit stress on the internal wiring.

Once the cycle finishes, handle the wet blanket gently. Don't twist or wring it to squeeze out water.

How do I wash an electric blanket by hand?

If the care label on your electric blanket says ‘hand wash only’, you cannot throw it into the washer. Instead, here’s how you wash an electric blanket by hand:

• Unplug the blanket and detach the removable controller and cord.

• Fill a bathtub or large sink with cool-to-warm water, following the care label.

• Add a gentle liquid detergent and mix it into the water.

• Let the blanket soak for about 10-15 minutes, then swish it through the water.

• Drain and refill with clean water until all the detergent has rinsed away.

• Gently squeeze out excess water without twisting or wringing the blanket.

How to dry an electric blanket safely?

Learning how to wash and dry an electric blanket goes hand-in-hand. This is precisely because you don't want to reconnect electrical components while any part of the blanket is still damp. 

For the right drying method, go back to the care label. Most electric blankets are meant to be air-dried, as dryer heat can wreck the wiring. To air-dry your electric blanket properly:

• Spread or hang the blanket as its instructions allow.

• Don't wring it to speed things up.

• Give the blanket plenty of airflow.

• Wait until it's completely dry before reconnecting the controller or plugging it in.

What not to do: The ‘don’ts’ you should remember

When it comes to how do you wash an electric blanket, you have to pay extra attention to the don’ts:

Keep the wash gentle with Mozi Wash 

Electric blankets call for a gentle detergent, and since fabric softener isn’t recommended, your detergent has to do a little more of the work. This is why Mozi Wash laundry detergent is the perfect fit. 

Here’s why Mozi checks all the right boxes:

• Low-sudsing, concentrated formula means you only need a small amount for a gentle wash.

• Plant-based enzymes help clean everyday dirt and stains without needing a heavy-handed wash.

• Luxury-inspired fragrances leave the blanket smelling amazing long after it’s dry, so there’s no need to reach for fabric softener just for the scent.

Clean, cozy, & ready for the next chilly night

Now you know that you can wash an electric heating blanket, provided the care label says so, and the fabric is not frayed or wires exposed. 

To wash it the right way, always remember to:

• Stick to the care label (over and above this guide)

• Disconnect the electric cord/controller before getting started

• Wash with a mild detergent and keep the wash gentle

• Dry out the blanket completely before using

Follow these guidelines and your electric blanket will stay fresh and cozy, ready for the next chilly night!

How to wash an electric blanket FAQs

1. How do you wash an electric blanket without damaging it?

Check the care label first to see the recommended washing technique. Remove the detachable controller and cord. If washing is allowed, use the recommended method and avoid twisting, wringing, or using high heat. 

2. Is an electric blanket machine washable?

Many modern electric blankets are machine washable, but not all. Check the care label first. If machine washing is allowed, follow the recommended water temperature, cycle, and detergent instructions.

3. Can I put an electric blanket in the dryer?

Only if the care label recommends it. Use the recommended setting, which may be low heat or air-only. Never use high heat, and make sure the blanket is completely dry before plugging it in. 

4. How often should I wash an electric blanket?

Electric blankets don’t need to be washed frequently. Wash it when it becomes dirty or develops odors, following the manufacturer's instructions. Spot cleaning can handle smaller messes between washes. 

5. Can I dry clean an electric heating blanket?

No, you should never dry clean an electric heating blanket. The harsh chemicals in dry cleaning can degrade the vinyl/plastic insulation around the wires. This can lead to electrical shocks or even fire hazards.

6. Machine wash vs. hand wash: Which is better for an electric blanket?

Neither method is automatically better. If the blanket is machine washable, a gentle cycle is convenient. If the label calls for hand washing, wash it by hand. The manufacturer's instructions should decide the method.