How Often Should You Wash Blankets? Complete Guide

If you’re wondering how often should you wash blankets, you’re not alone—it’s one of the most common household laundry questions. The answer depends on the blanket type and how you use it: bed blankets touching your skin need washing every 1-2 weeks, couch throws require monthly cleaning, while decorative blankets can go 2-3 months between washes.

Unlike sheets that get washed weekly, blankets often get overlooked until they’re visibly dirty or smell off. But waiting too long creates problems—allergen buildup, dust mite populations, bacteria growth, and odors that won’t come out easily.

This guide answers exactly how often should you wash blankets based on type, usage, and special situations like pets or allergies, plus proper washing techniques to keep them fresh and long-lasting.

Quick Answer: Blanket Washing Schedule

Based on blanket type and use:

General rule: The more skin contact and use, the more frequent washing needed.

How Often to Wash Different Types of Blankets

Bed Blankets (Every 1-2 Weeks)

If blanket touches your skin directly: Wash weekly or every 10 days.

Why this often: Your body sheds dead skin cells, releases oils, and sweats during sleep. Blankets in direct contact accumulate:

• Body oils and sweat
• Dead skin cells (dust mite food source)
• Bacteria and odors
• Hair and skin care product residue

Same schedule as sheets: If your blanket replaces a top sheet or is the layer you sleep under, treat it like bedding and wash it with your sheets.

Top Layer Blankets (Every 3-4 Weeks)

For blankets over your comforter/duvet: Monthly washing is sufficient.

Why less often: These blankets don’t directly touch skin, acting more as insulation and decoration. They collect:

• Dust from the air
• Pet hair (if pets on bed)
• Minimal body oils through other layers

Still important: Even without direct contact, monthly washing prevents dust accumulation and keeps them fresh.

Throw Blankets on Couch (Every 2-4 Weeks)

For family-use throws: Wash every 2-3 weeks during heavy use seasons.

Consider your habits:

• Daily movie nights with snacks: Every 2 weeks
• Occasional use: Every 4 weeks
• Multiple people using it: Every 2 weeks
• Mostly decorative: Monthly

Red flags for immediate washing:

• Visible stains or spills
• Pet hair buildup
• Noticeable odor
• Someone sick used it

Decorative Blankets (Every 2-3 Months)

For throws that are mostly for show: Seasonal washing (3-4 times per year).

These blankets:

• Rarely get used
• Draped over furniture edges
• Chosen for aesthetics
• Made from delicate materials (cashmere, velvet)

Why less frequent: Minimal contact means minimal soil. Over-washing actually damages delicate fibers and shortens blanket lifespan.

When to wash:

• Before and after storage
• After cleaning day when dusted heavily
• If visibly soiled

Weighted Blankets (Every 4-6 Weeks)

Standard schedule: Monthly to every 6 weeks, depending on use.

Special considerations:

• Many have removable covers (wash cover every 2-3 weeks, inner blanket every 2-3 months)
• Some aren’t machine washable (check label carefully)
• Heavy weight makes frequent washing impractical

Spot clean between washes to extend time between full laundering.

Baby Blankets (Weekly)

Infants need the cleanest environment: Wash baby blankets with every sheet change (weekly minimum).

Why so often:

• Babies have developing immune systems
• Spit-up, drool, and diaper leaks
• Frequent contact with face and mouth
• Reduced exposure to allergens and irritants

If blanket gets soiled: Wash immediately, don’t wait for laundry day.

Situations Requiring More Frequent Washing

You Have Pets

Recommendation: Wash 50-100% more often than standard schedule.

Why: Pets add:

• Hair and dander (major allergens)
• Outdoor dirt and debris
• Pet odors
• Potential fleas or pests

Practical approach:

• Pets sleep on blankets: Wash weekly
• Pets occasionally on blankets: Wash every 2 weeks
• No pets on blankets: Standard schedule

Pro tip: Use a dedicated pet blanket over your nice blankets. Wash the pet blanket weekly, protecting your other bedding.

Someone Is or Was Sick

During illness: Wash every 2-3 days if person is actively using the blanket.

After recovery: Wash immediately once person is better, then return to normal schedule.

Germs linger: Viruses and bacteria can survive on fabrics for hours to days. Frequent washing during illness prevents:

• Reinfection of sick person
• Spreading illness to others in household
• Prolonged recovery time

Hot water wash recommended (if fabric allows) to kill germs effectively.

You Have Allergies or Asthma

Recommendation: Wash weekly regardless of blanket type.

Why it matters: Dust mites, their waste, pet dander, and pollen accumulate in blankets and trigger symptoms. Regular washing reduces:

• Dust mite populations
• Allergen buildup
• Respiratory irritation
• Nighttime symptoms

Additional tips:

• Wash in hot water (130°F+) to kill dust mites
• Use allergen-proof covers on blankets
• Dry completely to prevent mold

You Sweat at Night

Hot sleepers: Wash bed blankets every 5-7 days.

Why: Sweat creates the perfect environment for:

• Bacterial growth
• Odor development
• Dust mite proliferation
• Skin irritation

Solutions:

• Choose breathable blanket materials
• Wash more frequently
• Use moisture-wicking blanket liners
• Consider lighter bedding

You Have Young Children

Active kids mean messier blankets: Wash every 1-2 weeks minimum.

Common culprits:

• Food and drink spills
• Sticky hands
• Playing on blankets
• Bathroom accidents
• Outdoor play residue

Don’t wait for visible stains—dirt builds up before you see it.

Factors That Affect Washing Frequency

Climate and Season

Hot, humid climates: Increase washing frequency by 50%.

• More sweating
• Higher humidity supports bacterial growth
• Mold and mildew risk

Dry, cool climates: Can extend time between washes slightly.

• Less sweating
• Lower bacterial growth rate
• Dust still accumulates (wash regularly)

Seasonal adjustments:

• Summer: Wash more often (weekly for bed blankets)
• Winter: Can go slightly longer between washes
• Allergy seasons: Increase frequency to weekly

Blanket Material

Different fabrics have different needs:

Synthetic (fleece, microfiber):

• Wash every 2-3 weeks
• Trap oils and odors faster
• Can handle frequent washing

Natural (cotton, linen):

• Wash every 2-4 weeks
• More breathable
• Durable for frequent laundering

Delicate (wool, cashmere, silk):

• Wash every 2-3 months
• Over-washing damages fibers
• Spot clean and air out between washes

Weighted blankets:

• Wash covers every 2-3 weeks
• Wash inner blanket every 2-3 months
• Labor-intensive due to weight

How Many Layers You Use

Sleeping directly under one blanket: Wash weekly.

Multiple layers (sheet, blanket, comforter):

• Bottom layer touching skin: Weekly
• Middle layer: Every 2-3 weeks
• Top layer: Monthly

More layers = different schedules for each layer based on skin contact.

How to Properly Wash Blankets

Washing frequency matters, but so does washing correctly.

Always Check the Care Label First

Before washing any blanket:

• Read manufacturer’s instructions
• Note water temperature limits
• Check if machine washable or dry clean only
• Look for special detergent requirements

When labels are missing: Default to cold water, gentle cycle, and air dry for safety.

General Washing Guidelines by Material

Cotton and linen blankets:

• Machine wash warm or hot water
• Regular detergent
• Tumble dry low or air dry
• Can handle frequent washing

Fleece and microfiber:

• Machine wash cold water
• Gentle cycle
• No fabric softener (reduces absorbency)
• Low heat or air dry

Wool blankets:

• Hand wash or wool cycle
• Cold water only
• Wool-specific detergent
• Lay flat to dry (never hang—stretches)

Weighted blankets:

• Check if machine washable
• Remove cover and wash separately if possible
• Large capacity washer needed
• Air dry or low heat (high heat damages weights)

Cashmere and silk:

• Hand wash or dry clean
• Cold water, gentle detergent
• Never wring or twist
• Lay flat to dry

Pre-Treatment Tips

For stains:

• Treat immediately—don’t let set
• Blot (don’t rub) fresh spills
• Use appropriate stain remover for fabric type
• Let sit 10-15 minutes before washing

For odors:

• Add 1/2 cup baking soda to wash
• Or 1/2 cup white vinegar in rinse cycle
• Air blanket outside before washing

Drying Best Practices

Air drying (best for blanket longevity):

• Hang over shower rod or clothesline
• Lay flat on clean surface for heavy blankets
• Ensures no heat damage
• Takes 24-48 hours

Machine drying:

• Use low heat only
• Add wool dryer balls to fluff
• Remove while slightly damp to finish air drying
• Check every 20 minutes to prevent overheating

Never:

• Use high heat (shrinks and damages fibers)
• Over-dry (makes fabric stiff and brittle)
• Leave in dryer when done (wrinkles and odors)

Signs Your Blanket Needs Washing Now

Don’t rely solely on schedules—watch for these indicators:

Visual signs:

• Visible stains or spots
• Discoloration from body oils
• Pet hair accumulation
• Dust visible when shaken

Smell test:

• Musty or stale odor
• Body odor noticeable
• Pet smell
• Any unpleasant scent

Feel test:

• Feels oily or greasy
• Texture changed (rough or stiff)
• Less soft than usual
• Sticky spots

Health indicators:

• Increased allergy symptoms
• Skin irritation
• Waking with stuffiness
• Respiratory issues worsening

When in doubt, wash it. It’s better to overwash slightly than sleep in dirty blankets.

Seasonal Blanket Care

Before Storing (Spring/Summer)

Always wash blankets before storage:

1. Wash according to fabric type
2. Ensure 100% completely dry
3. Fold (don’t stuff) to prevent creases
4. Store in breathable containers (not plastic)
5. Add cedar blocks or lavender (moth deterrent)
6. Store in cool, dry place

Why this matters: Storing dirty blankets:

• Attracts moths and pests
• Sets stains permanently
• Creates odors
• Allows mold growth if any moisture present

Before Using Again (Fall/Winter)

Wash stored blankets before use:

• Even if washed before storage
• Removes dust from storage period
• Refreshes fibers
• Eliminates any storage odors

Quick refresh option: If blanket was properly stored and looks clean, tumble in dryer with damp towel for 10 minutes to remove dust.

Special Care for Luxury Blankets

Cashmere Blankets

Washing frequency: Every 3-4 months maximum.

Why less is more: Cashmere fibers are delicate. Frequent washing:

• Causes pilling
• Reduces softness
• Shortens lifespan

Between washes:

• Air outside monthly (2-3 hours)
• Use cashmere comb for pills
• Spot clean small stains

Weighted Blankets

Removable cover: Wash cover every 2-3 weeks, inner blanket every 2-3 months.

No removable cover: Every 4-6 weeks or as needed.

Washing challenges:

• Weight stresses washing machines
• Requires large capacity washer
• Long drying time

Alternative: Professional cleaning for very heavy blankets (25+ lbs).

Electric Blankets

Most important: Check if machine washable (many newer ones are).

Washing frequency: Every 4-6 weeks during use.

Special care:

• Disconnect all cords and controls
• Use gentle cycle, cold water
• Never wring or twist
• Air dry completely before reconnecting
• Inspect wiring before and after washing

Older electric blankets: Spot clean only or dry clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wash blankets too often?

Yes, over-washing can damage fibers, cause fading, and shorten blanket lifespan. However, for blankets with direct skin contact, the hygiene benefits outweigh minimal wear from weekly washing. Decorative and delicate blankets shouldn’t be washed more than monthly unless soiled.

Should I wash new blankets before using?

Yes, always wash new blankets before first use. Manufacturing leaves chemical residues, excess dyes, and warehouse dust on fabrics. Washing removes these irritants and softens the material. Use cold water and mild detergent for first wash.

How do I know if my blanket is too dirty?

Trust your senses: if it smells off, looks stained, or feels different, wash it immediately. For blankets without obvious signs, stick to the recommended schedule. Washing too infrequently leads to allergen buildup you can’t see but still affects your health.

Can I wash all my blankets together?

Only wash blankets of similar fabrics, colors, and care requirements together. Never mix delicates (wool, cashmere) with durable fabrics (cotton, fleece). Separate dark and light colors to prevent dye transfer. Heavy blankets wash better alone with more agitation room.

What if my blanket is too big for my washing machine?

Take oversized blankets to a laundromat with large-capacity machines, or hand wash in a bathtub. Alternatively, many dry cleaners offer blanket washing services. Forcing an oversized blanket into a small machine can damage both the blanket and your washer.

Do pet blankets need special treatment?

Wash pet blankets separately from human bedding to avoid hair transfer. Use hot water when possible to kill bacteria and remove oils. Consider using enzymatic detergent designed for pet odors. Pre-treat with lint roller to remove excess hair before washing.

Quick Reference Guide

Create your personal blanket washing schedule:

✅ Bed blankets (touching skin): Every 7-14 days

✅ Couch throws (family use): Every 14-21 days

✅ Decorative blankets: Every 60-90 days

✅ Baby blankets: Every 7 days

✅ Guest blankets: After each use

✅ Weighted blanket covers: Every 14-21 days

✅ Seasonal blankets: Before storage and before reuse

Increase frequency if:

• You have pets
• Someone is sick
• You have allergies
• You sweat at night
• Young children use blankets

Decrease frequency for:

• Display-only blankets
• Delicate materials (cashmere, silk)
• Infrequently used guest room blankets

The Bottom Line

Most bed blankets need washing every 1-2 weeks, while decorative throws can go months between washes. The right frequency depends on:

• How much the blanket touches skin
• Whether you have pets or allergies
• The material type
• How often it’s used

When creating your washing schedule:

• Start with these guidelines
• Adjust based on your lifestyle
• Watch for signs blankets need cleaning sooner
• Don’t overwash delicate fabrics

The simplest approach: Wash bed blankets with your sheets, throw blankets monthly, and decorative blankets seasonally. Adjust as needed for special circumstances like illness, pets, or allergies.

Clean blankets aren’t just about appearance—they directly affect your sleep quality and health.

About Palladecor: We help you maintain beautiful, clean home textiles with practical care guides and expert advice for every fabric type.