A weighted blanket filled with glass beads is one of the most soothing, comforting sleep aids you can own. The glass beads give it a balanced, quiet weight that hugs your body evenly. But when it comes to washing, many people worry—will the blanket survive the machine? Will the beads crack or seams burst? The good news is yes, you can wash most glass bead weighted blankets at home, but the process requires care and attention.
Can You Wash a Glass Bead Weighted Blanket?
The short answer: it depends on the weight, fabric, and instructions on the care tag. Blankets under 20–25 pounds are usually safe to wash in a standard home washing machine as long as you select gentle settings and stick with cold water. If your blanket is heavier, made from delicate fabrics like silk or satin, or the tag recommends dry cleaning, it’s better to hand wash or take it to a laundromat with commercial machines.
Washing in the Machine
If your blanket is a manageable size and your washer can handle it, the machine is the easiest route. Always read the label first. Most manufacturers recommend using a gentle or delicate cycle, with cold water only to protect the stitching and prevent shrinkage. Choose a mild liquid detergent and avoid bleach or softeners, since they can break down the fibers over time. Wash the blanket by itself—loading it with clothes or towels can cause uneven tumbling and damage both the blanket and the washer.
Before starting the cycle, fold the blanket into an accordion shape so its weight is distributed more evenly in the drum. Keep the spin speed low, since the centrifugal force on a heavy wet blanket can be intense. Once finished, remove it immediately so the fabric doesn’t stretch under its own weight.
Hand Washing for Larger or Delicate Blankets
For blankets over 25 pounds or those made from fragile fabrics, hand washing is safer. Fill a bathtub with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the blanket fully, gently pressing and moving the water through the fabric without wringing or twisting. Let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes before draining and rinsing several times until no soap remains. To remove water, press it flat against the side of the tub or lay it on a clean surface with towels, but never twist or pull, as this stresses the seams.
Drying Safely
One of the most common mistakes people make is tossing a weighted blanket into the dryer on high heat. Unless the tag clearly allows it, avoid machine drying altogether. High heat can weaken stitching and warp the filler pockets. If dryer use is permitted, stick to a low-heat or air fluff setting, and check every half hour. Adding dryer or tennis balls can help redistribute the beads, but be cautious. The safest method is always air drying—lay the blanket flat on a clean surface, flipping it occasionally so it dries evenly. Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Spot Cleaning and Maintenance
You don’t need to fully wash your weighted blanket every time it’s used. For small spills or stains, mix a little mild detergent with warm water, blot the area with a clean cloth, then rinse with plain water and let it air dry. To make long-term care easier, use a removable duvet cover. This can be washed weekly, protecting the inner weighted blanket so you only need to deep clean it a few times a year.
Final Thoughts
Weighted blankets with glass beads are durable, effective, and built to last, but only if they’re cared for correctly. By following the manufacturer’s label, respecting weight limits, and choosing the right washing method, you can keep your blanket clean and fresh without ruining it or your washer. A little extra effort goes a long way—so the next time you curl up under your blanket, it’ll feel just as cozy, balanced, and comforting as the day you brought it home.