Introduction
An electric blanket can be one of the cosiest upgrades you make to your bed or sofa, but it also brings an extra layer of responsibility. Unlike a normal blanket, there are heating wires, controllers and safety systems sewn inside, which means washing and caring for it needs a bit more attention and know‑how.
The good news is that most modern heated throws and underblankets are designed to be cleaned at home. As long as you follow the instructions and avoid a few common mistakes, you can keep your blanket fresh, comfortable and safe to use for many seasons. This guide walks you step by step through how to wash and dry an electric blanket, how often to clean it, what to avoid, and how to store it properly.
We will also touch on the differences between heated throws and fitted underblankets, and how their care can vary. If you are still deciding which style is right for you, it is worth reading about the difference between electric blankets and heated blankets or exploring the main types of electric blankets so you know exactly what you own and how it should be treated.
Key takeaways
- Always read the care label and instruction booklet first, and never wash an electric blanket that is clearly labelled as non‑washable.
- Unplug and remove detachable controllers and leads before cleaning; these parts are never designed to get wet.
- Most modern heated throws, like this soft LIVIVO fleece overblanket, can be machine washed on a gentle, cool cycle and air‑dried flat.
- Never wring, twist, iron or dry clean an electric blanket, and avoid high heat in tumble dryers to protect the internal wiring.
- Store your blanket loosely rolled or flat in a dry cupboard; sharp folds, heavy items and damp conditions can all shorten its life.
Understanding care labels and safety basics
The most important part of washing an electric blanket safely happens before you even go near the sink or washing machine: reading the label. Every legitimate heated throw, overblanket or fitted underblanket should come with a sewn‑in care label and an instruction booklet from the manufacturer. These will tell you whether the product is machine washable, hand wash only, or spot‑clean only.
Look for specific symbols such as a washing machine icon with a temperature, a hand in a tub (for hand washing), or a crossed‑out tub which usually means do not wash. Some older or more basic models may be marked as surface clean only, which means you should gently sponge them instead of immersing them in water. If the label text has faded but you still have the manual, follow that instead, and if you have neither, it is safest to treat the blanket as non‑washable.
Before cleaning, always unplug the power lead from the mains and detach any controllers or removable connectors. These include digital controllers on heated throws, and simple sliders on underblankets like the popular Silentnight Comfort Control underblanket. Controllers must never be washed or soaked, and the sockets where they connect to the blanket should be kept dry.
As a rule of thumb, if the blanket shows signs of damage such as exposed wires, burn marks, fraying fabric around the wiring channels or a controller that intermittently cuts out, it should not be washed at all. Unplug it and consider replacing it instead of trying to revive it with a deep clean.
If you are ever unsure whether your electric blanket is safe to wash, err on the side of caution. A gentle surface clean and fresh bedding on top is preferable to risking damage to the wiring or, worse, compromising safety.
Preparing your electric blanket for washing
Preparation is where many problems can be avoided. Start by spreading the blanket out on the bed or a clean surface so you can see all the connectors and wiring channels. Remove the controller or controllers carefully, following the instructions. Some will have a simple plug‑in connector with a release button; others may twist slightly before pulling out. Never tug the wires directly, and never force anything that seems stuck.
Next, check the blanket for visible stains or marks. Light stains can usually be handled by the normal wash cycle, but heavier marks may benefit from a bit of pre‑treatment. Use a mild, non‑bleach laundry liquid or a tiny amount of gentle stain remover on a damp cloth and dab (do not rub) the area. Avoid soaking any one spot with product, as residue can be hard to rinse out and may stiffen the fabric around the heating wires.
Inspect the power cord entry points and connector area; if there is any cracking in the plastic or fraying near the socket, washing may worsen the damage. Address these concerns first, and if the blanket is under warranty, contact the manufacturer for advice rather than proceeding with cleaning.
Finally, close any straps, ties or elastic corners on underblankets so they do not tangle in the wash. Heated throws, such as a flannel and sherpa electric blanket designed for full‑body warmth on the sofa, can simply be folded loosely into the drum once they are ready to wash.
How to machine wash an electric blanket safely
Many modern electric blankets and heated throws are labelled as machine washable, which makes routine care relatively straightforward. However, they are still more delicate than a standard fleece or duvet cover, so choosing the right settings is essential.
Use a gentle or delicate cycle with a cool or lukewarm temperature, usually around 30–40°C if the label allows it. Avoid hot washes, intensive stain cycles and extra‑long spin programmes. Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent; powder detergents can sometimes leave residue, especially if you are using lower temperatures and shorter rinses.
Place the blanket loosely in the drum, avoiding tight packing. If your blanket is large, wash it on its own so it has space to move freely. This helps prevent strain on the internal wiring. Avoid adding heavy items such as towels or jeans that can twist and pull on the fabric and cables as they spin.
Once the cycle is complete, remove the blanket promptly. Do not use an extended spin programme, and never put the blanket through a separate high‑speed spin. Excessively vigorous spinning is one of the quickest ways to stress the heating elements and shorten the life of the product.
Hand washing and spot cleaning
If your electric blanket is marked as hand wash only, or you are simply more comfortable handling it gently, you can clean it in a bath or large basin. Fill the tub with enough lukewarm water to fully submerge the blanket and add a small amount of mild detergent, swishing it to create a light lather.
Lower the blanket into the water and gently press it down so the fabric becomes saturated. Avoid bending or scrunching it tightly; instead, lightly move it around with flat hands to help the soapy water circulate. Focus on any stained areas by gently pressing them between your hands under the water, but do not vigorously scrub or wring.
When you are satisfied, drain the tub and refill with clean water for rinsing. Repeat until the water runs clear and there are no bubbles left. Rinsing thoroughly is crucial; leftover detergent can make fibres feel stiff and may trap moisture around the wiring.
For small marks, it is often enough to spot clean instead of fully immersing the blanket. Use a barely damp, soft cloth with a tiny amount of mild detergent, dab the stained area gently and then wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove the soap. This method is especially useful for non‑washable or only surface‑clean models.
Drying your electric blanket: air‑drying vs tumble‑drying
Drying is just as important as washing when it comes to keeping an electric blanket safe. Most manufacturers recommend air‑drying flat wherever possible. Lay the blanket over a clothes airer, drying rack or several chairs, making sure it is supported evenly and not hanging from one edge, which can stretch the wiring. Smooth out any major wrinkles so the wires lie naturally within the fabric.
Choose a warm, well‑ventilated room or a shaded outdoor space if the weather is dry. Avoid direct, intense heat such as radiators, open fires, fan heaters or strong sunlight focused on one area. High surface temperatures can damage insulation around the wires and affect the lifespan of the blanket.
Some machine‑washable electric blankets can also be tumble‑dried on a low heat short cycle, but only if the label explicitly says so. Use the gentlest setting, remove the blanket while it is still slightly damp, and finish drying it flat on an airer. Do not leave it in a hot dryer for long periods, and never use high or extra‑hot settings.
Under no circumstances should you wring or twist an electric blanket to remove excess water. Instead, support it from underneath, gently press out water with your hands, or roll it between two towels to absorb moisture before laying it flat to dry.
Always ensure your electric blanket is fully dry before plugging it back in. Even a small amount of trapped moisture around connectors or wiring channels can pose a safety risk.
Special considerations for different blanket types
Not all electric blankets are designed the same way, and their ideal care routines can differ. Heated throws and overblankets, such as a soft fleece throw or a sherpa‑lined blanket for the sofa, tend to be more flexible and often have looser wiring patterns. These are commonly labelled as fully machine washable and can usually cope with gentle drum action as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Fitted underblankets that sit on top of your mattress, like the Silentnight Comfort Control model, may feel stiffer and include straps, elastic corners or more structured panels. They often have clear instructions on the maximum temperature and wash cycle. Because they are more structured, it is particularly important not to fold them tightly or force them into a small washing machine drum.
Some premium electric blankets feature multiple zones, rapid heat‑up or extra‑fine wiring. These might be more sensitive to aggressive washing and drying, even if they are technically machine washable. Treat them with extra care – use the mildest detergent, the gentlest cycle and avoid tumble‑drying unless the manual is very clear that it is allowed.
If you prefer a fully washable solution with plenty of warmth for the sofa or office, a flannel and sherpa heated throw with a removable controller, such as a full‑body warming blanket with 10 heat levels and a timer, can be a practical option because it is specifically designed to go into the washing machine and come out fluffy again when correctly dried.
How often should you wash an electric blanket?
Unlike bed linen, electric blankets do not usually need washing every week. In many homes, a thorough clean once or twice per season is enough, especially if the blanket is used over other bedding or clothing. Spot cleaning and airing between uses can help bridge the gaps between washes.
If you use your electric blanket daily as a top layer on the sofa, or if pets lie on it, more frequent washing may be appropriate. In that case, choose a model designed for regular cleaning, such as a machine‑washable heated throw with durable fleece or sherpa fabric. Always balance the desire for freshness with the fact that every wash puts a little stress on the wiring and fabric.
To keep things feeling fresh without over‑washing, let the blanket air regularly by switching it off, unplugging and draping it over a chair or airing rack for a few hours. Using a removable cover or a lightweight sheet over a fitted underblanket can also reduce direct contact with sweat and body oils, meaning you can wash it less often.
For anyone managing allergies, check the manual for guidance on wash temperature and frequency. Some people choose to use a hypoallergenic mattress protector between an electric underblanket and the fitted sheet, so most allergens can be tackled by washing the easily removable protector and bedding more often.
What you should never do when cleaning an electric blanket
Knowing what to avoid is just as important as understanding the correct washing method. Certain cleaning approaches can seriously damage your electric blanket or compromise safety, even if they seem harmless at first glance.
Never dry clean an electric blanket. The chemicals and processes used in dry‑cleaning are not compatible with the internal wiring, and the tumbling can be too aggressive. Similarly, do not use bleach, strong stain removers or fabric softener; these can attack the insulation and reduce the flexibility of the wires.
Do not iron an electric blanket, even on a low setting. Direct contact with a hot soleplate can melt the insulation around the elements and create weak spots. If you are tempted to smooth out creases, do it by hand when the blanket is cool and switched off, or let gravity and gentle use relax the fabric over time.
Finally, never switch on or plug in the blanket while it is damp, and never fold or store it while there is still moisture trapped in the layers. Patience during the drying stage is essential for safety – allow extra time if in doubt.
Ongoing care and correct storage
Day‑to‑day care makes a big difference to how long your electric blanket will last. Always switch it off at the controller and unplug from the mains when not in use. Avoid placing heavy items on top of it, particularly anything with sharp edges or concentrated weight, as this can compress or bend the internal elements.
When the season ends and you are ready to put your blanket away, clean and fully dry it first. Then roll or loosely fold it without strong creases. A gentle roll – starting from the end opposite the connectors and working towards them – is often the best way to avoid tight bends in the wiring.
Store the blanket in a cool, dry cupboard where it is not squashed by other items. Many people like to keep electric blankets in a breathable cotton storage bag or pillowcase to protect against dust while allowing any residual moisture to escape. Avoid plastic bags that can trap humidity and promote mildew.
When you bring the blanket out of storage, give it a quick inspection. Check the controller cable, connectors and fabric for any signs of deterioration before you plug it in. A short visual check now can prevent problems later.
Choosing a washable electric blanket in the first place
If you are shopping for a new electric blanket and know you will want to wash it regularly, it makes sense to choose a model that is specifically designed to cope with cleaning. Look for clear wording such as machine washable, detachable controller and tumble‑dry safe on the packaging and product description.
Heated throws and overblankets are often the most straightforward option here. A soft fleece throw with multiple heat settings and a timer, like the cosy LIVIVO heated blanket, is designed to be unplugged, popped into the washing machine on a gentle cycle and then air‑dried flat. Similarly, a flannel and sherpa heated throw with 10 heat levels and a 1–9 hour timer is typically built with everyday practicality in mind, including washing.
Fitted underblankets can also be washable, but their care instructions may be more specific, with particular temperature limits or recommendations for short cycles only. When you compare models, factor in how often you expect to wash them and what your usual laundry routine looks like.
For help weighing up the pros and cons of different designs, you may find it helpful to read an electric blanket buying guide or explore low‑voltage, energy‑efficient electric blankets that are designed for everyday, economical use.
Related articles
FAQ
Can you put an electric blanket in the washing machine?
Many modern electric blankets and heated throws are machine washable, but you must check the care label and instructions first. If your blanket is labelled as machine washable, remove the controller and cables, use a gentle, cool cycle with mild detergent, and avoid high‑speed spins. Products such as a washable fleece throw or a flannel and sherpa heated blanket with a detachable controller are often designed specifically with this in mind.
Can you tumble dry an electric blanket?
Some electric blankets can be tumble‑dried on a low heat, short cycle, but only if the manufacturer states this clearly on the label or in the manual. Even then, it is usually best to remove the blanket while slightly damp and finish drying it flat on an airing rack. Never use high heat, and never put a non‑washable or non‑tumble‑dry blanket in the dryer.
How do I know if my electric blanket is safe to use after washing?
Once your electric blanket is completely dry, inspect it carefully. Check for any visible damage, such as distorted areas, lumpy sections, exposed wires or fraying around connectors. Plug in the controller and turn the blanket on while you are nearby, checking that it heats evenly and that no part feels excessively hot. If anything seems unusual, switch it off immediately and stop using it.
Is it safe for pets to sleep on an electric blanket?
Many people allow pets to lie on a low‑heat setting electric blanket, but claws and chewing can damage the fabric and wiring. If you choose to share your blanket with a pet, supervise use, keep the blanket on a low setting and inspect it regularly for snags or small holes. A washable heated throw with a robust outer fabric can be a more practical option, as it can be gently cleaned more often.
