Have you ever thought about the idea of washing an electric blanket?
The thought of washing an electric blanket is new to many of us. As, due to electrical wiring, there is chance of damage.
But, you can wash at home without any worry and without going to cleaners,
You can wash your blanket by both the ways either by hand or washing machine.
If you are washing your old blanket, then it’s better to wash by hand, and if you are using a modern blanket, then wash it by machine.
Here we are providing you complete detail about how to wash the blankets.
Things to Remember
- Detach all the cords before washing your blankets because it can damage the heating system.
- If your electric wire can’t detach that hand, wash it with great consciousness and keeping that part separate.
- Only wash your blanket as dry clean can damage the wiring because the harsh chemical has used in it.
- Never do iron on the electric blanket.
- Read the instruction carefully on the label before applying any method.
Washing Blanket with Hand
Remove the Cord
The first step is to separate all the wires from it, if you have an old fashioned blanket in which cord is not detached with it, then wash it with great care and save it from any exposure with water.
Pre-treat the Stains
Many times there are the spots, and marks are attached to it which need specific treatment to get off it. But don’t apply any harsh chemical or procedure on it as it causes damage to the wiring of your blanket.
Thus, to eliminate it, it is best to use some natural and simple processes. One of an easy method is to fill the spray bottle with the vinegar solution and spray it. It will be effective on the stained or dirt spots.
The method of making the mixture is to take the distilled water and vinegar in equal parts. Furthermore, for oil and grease, you can apply dish washing detergent by the sponge.
Also, shake the blanket or brush it off to pass out any dust and debris particle.
Preparing the Mixture
It is best to read the instruction before preparing the mixture. Mostly lukewarm water is suitable for washing. But you can also take cold water. After that, add a small amount of mild detergent into it that does not contain any harsh chemical, stir it well then.
Soak the Blanket
When the solution turns into the soapy lather. You can move it gently in the solution so that the whole solution is absorbed in it, and stains have been removed. After that, keep your blanket for 10 to 15 minutes for soaking.
Washing the Blanket
After soaking, wash the blanket carefully until the residues of soap are gone. When it has done, gently squeeze it without twisting or wrangling because there are the chances the circuit can be damaged. You have to press the blanket each time after every rinse,
Washing in Machine
Many modern blankets can be machine wash as their cord can be separated from it. However, washing in a machine is more convenient than washing by hands.
Top-loading machine
Fill up the whole tub with the cold water and then add little amount of mild detergent. After that, set your machine on the gentle cycle. Then place your blanket in the washing machine and start the cycle and end it after two or three minutes.
Then give it complete rinse and spin cycle separately. But make sure to remove the blanket as soon as the cycle ends.
Front-loading Machine
The setting that is recommended is cold and includes little quantity of mild detergent in which blanket is immersed. Only run the cycle for two to three minutes. Immediately run the rinse and spin cycle.
Remove it immediately when the cycle ends.
Drying the Blanket
Dryer
Many times the use of the dryer is not suitable for drying. But if you are in a hurry and do not have enough time, then you can use the dryer, but make sure the dryer speed remains less, and you can remove the blanket just after 10 to 15 minutes.
Reshape the Blanket
To get back the blanket in its original shape. You need to stretch the blanket to make this process easy. You need someone to stand on the other end of the blanket and while standing on one end. Together both of you pull the blanket to back its shape.
Hang the Blanket
The best option is to air dry it. You can either drape on a clothesline or if you do not have enough space. Then you can also hang on the shower rod. Don’t remove it until it is completely dried.
Storage of Blanket
You should always carefully store the blanket because any mishandling can cause severe damage. Always switch off because it can cause overheating. Furthermore, if you fold your blanket while turning off chances are the wiring may be damaged.
Therefore it is advised also kept it by roiling and detach all the cord if it is not possible then kept it loosely roll the cord along with it.
The other thing which you should care about. Don’t put in those places where there are the chances that it can catch into dust or debris. Because of the blanket is broke from some point and it comes in contact with the dust, chances are your blanket can catch with fires.
Hence, always place inside a clean laundry bag or separate container or box.
An additional consideration for taking care of the Blanket
You should remain very vigilant while using the blanket because any carelessness will lead to mishaps.
Always inspect it thoroughly while using the blanket if there are any damaged parts, then don’t use it. Don’t use the blanket with other heating accessories such as pad and mattress. Furthermore, you should not place anything over the blanket, for example, books or any other items.
However, keep it away from the pet and kids because they can cause damage. Furthermore, while washing the electric blanket don’t use bleach or harsh chemical.
While purchasing the electric blanket, select those have certified by the laboratories.
Moreover, don’t use the blanket overnight and never twist the cords and wiring of the blanket.
How to repair the Blanket if there is any damage
Here are the causes and solutions to fix the blanket which you can do by yourself.
Check the Connection
Check all the wires of the blanket. Because many times the connection is loose, which is the primary concern that the supply of electricity is not sufficient and not all the parts are getting the electricity.
Furthermore, you have to fix it properly. You can also use electrical tape to strengthen it further.
Inspect the Blanket
You can check the blanket carefully for any holes or any metal object or pin, which has stuck to remove it. If there is any hole, you should sew it as soon as possible.
Examine the Cord
With the help of millimetre, examine the cord if it’s working or not. You can connect one cable with the blanket and another with the millimetre. After that read the reading, if it is zero, then there is no need to change, but if it is high then replace the cord.
Change the Fuse
Due to the overheat or other issues, many times, the fuse has blown off. Hence, open the screw box and change the fuse.
If this problem occurs from time to time, then you should change the plug into a different socket. Because many times, the problem has overburdened the socket.
Change the Thermostat
If your blanket giving you heating at some point, then tighten the connection. If it still does not work, then you should contact to an electrician near you.
Conclusion
The electric blanket provides you ultimate comfort in the winters and will be your best friend in the chilly nights. But one should remain conscious while taking care of the blanket. Always remember if your blanket is old enough and can’t be repaired, then it’s time to purchase a new one.
Washing and taking care of the blanket is not so difficult. You just have to implement the right procedure. We have provided you all the details which will help you wash the blanket and repair it.
Best of luck!