No, you should never put an electric blanket in a washer or dryer. Electric blankets are electrical appliances that contain wiring and heating elements. Washing or drying them in standard machines can damage the wiring, create a safety hazard, and even cause the blanket to stop functioning properly.
To clean an electric blanket, follow the manufacturer's instructions provided with the blanket. Typically, you'll find that most electric blankets are spot cleanable or require hand washing. Here are some general steps to clean an electric blanket safely:
Unplug the blanket: Ensure the blanket is unplugged from the power source before attempting to clean it.
Check the care instructions: Read the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to understand the proper cleaning method for your specific electric blanket.
Spot clean: If the manufacturer allows spot cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap or detergent to gently clean the affected areas.
Hand wash: If hand washing is recommended, fill a bathtub or a large basin with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the blanket and gently agitate the water to clean it. Avoid twisting or wringing the blanket, as this can damage the wiring.
Rinse thoroughly: After washing, drain the soapy water and refill the tub with clean water. Rinse the blanket thoroughly to remove any detergent residues.
Squeeze out excess water: Gently press down on the blanket to remove excess water, but again, avoid wringing or twisting.
Dry flat: Lay the electric blanket flat on a clean surface, like a drying rack or a clean, dry towel, and let it air dry completely. Ensure that the blanket is completely dry before using it again or storing it.
Remember, specific care instructions may vary depending on the brand and type of electric blanket you have, so it's essential to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines to maintain its safety and functionality.