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How to Dry a Cooling Blanket
Cooling blankets use specially designed fabrics to keep you comfortable while you sleep, and the way you dry the blanket is just as important as how you wash it. Here’s how to dry a cooling blanket so it lasts for years.
How They Work: The Science Behind Cooling Blankets
Most cooling blankets are made with bamboo, microfibre or phase-change materials, sometimes combined with moisture-wicking fibres. They’re designed to:
- Absorb excess body heat
- Let air circulate
- Wick moisture away from the skin
- Keep a steady, comfortable temperature overnight
High heat can damage the special fibres and coatings that make the blanket feel cool. Gentle, lower-temperature drying helps protect them.
Not All Drying Is Equal
Drying problems can include:
- Damage to the cooling fabric: high heat can break down fibres and coatings.
- Fading or distortion: rough handling can change the blanket’s shape and size.
- Build-up: over-drying or too much fabric softener can clog the fibres.
- Mould and mildew: damp patches can lead to mould and odours.
- Fabric wear: harsh drying wears the fabric out sooner.
Drying it properly helps it last longer.
Best Ways to Dry a Cooling Blanket
1. Air Drying: The Safest Method
Air drying is the safest option. It’s gentle on the fibres and avoids overheating and shrinkage.
Steps for air drying:
- Press firmly to remove excess water. Never wring or twist.
- Lay it flat on a clean towel, or hang it over a drying rack or clothesline.
- Choose a spot with good airflow, out of direct sun, as too much sunlight can affect some cooling materials.
- Flip it over partway through so both sides dry evenly.
Pros: gentle, with no risk of overheating. Cons: slower, and needs plenty of space.
2. Machine Drying (With Caution)
Air drying isn’t always practical, but some cooling blankets can be machine dried safely. Always check the care label first. If it says air dry only, stick to air drying.
Steps for machine drying:
- If the care label allows tumble drying, use the lowest setting, ideally “no heat” or “air fluff”.
- Add a few wool dryer balls to help air circulate and keep the fill moving.
- Stop once partway through to shake out the fill, and take the blanket out while it’s still slightly damp.
- Finish by laying it flat or hanging it up to dry completely.
Pros: quicker, and handy for larger blankets. Cons: can damage some fibres, and may cause shrinkage. [If it’s humid, drying it indoors with a fan or dehumidifier running can also help it dry faster.]
3. Combination Method
If your care label allows it, give the blanket a short tumble on the lowest heat, take it out while damp, then let it air dry. This is a quicker option that’s still gentle, especially when it’s humid outside.
Mistakes You Shouldn’t Make When Drying a Cooling Blanket
- Using high heat: over time, heat can damage the fabric’s cooling properties.
- Over-drying: even on low heat, too long in the dryer wears out delicate fabric. Take it out while it’s still slightly damp.
- Too much sun: long UV exposure can weaken bamboo and some synthetic fibres.
- Fabric softener: it leaves a film that blocks the fibres that draw moisture away.
- Wringing or twisting: this can damage the fibres and distort the shape. Squeeze water out gently instead.
- Ignoring the care label: always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to Store a Cooling Blanket After Drying
- Make sure it’s completely dry before you fold it.
- Store it somewhere cool and dry, away from damp or very hot spots.
- Don’t squash it: avoid packing it tightly or compressing it.
- Use a breathable bag: cotton bags are better than plastic, which can trap moisture and lead to mould.
- Fold it loosely to avoid creases and fibre damage.
- Keep it out of sunlight: avoid storing it near a window to prevent fading.
Long-Term Care Tips
- Wash only when needed: every 2 to 4 weeks, or when it’s dirty.
- Use a mild detergent: skip bleach and fabric softener, and use a little less detergent than recommended.
- Check it regularly: look for thinning fabric or a weaker cooling feel.
- Rotate between two blankets: swapping every few months spreads the wear and helps both last longer.
- Avoid eating in bed: fewer stains means fewer washes.
- Keep pets’ claws away: they can pull delicate fibres.
Solving Common Issues
Even with good care, a few problems can pop up after drying:
- Wrinkles: mist lightly with a spray bottle and smooth with your hand.
- Stiffness: tumble on “air fluff” with wool dryer balls for 10 to 15 minutes (if your care label allows tumble drying).
- Cooling feeling too weak: check for detergent build-up and rinse it out in the next wash, or contact the manufacturer if needed.
Clever Tips to Clean Between Washes
Spot cleaning keeps a blanket fresh between full washes:
- Find the stain or spill.
- Mix a little mild detergent with cold water.
- Gently dab the stain with a clean cloth. Don’t rub.
- Rinse with cold water, then let it air dry completely.
Deal with sweat stains promptly, because heat can set them.
Refreshing Without Washing
A quick refresh between washes keeps your blanket feeling fresh:
- Shake out dust and debris regularly.
- Sprinkle baking soda on any smelly areas and vacuum it off the next day.
- Hang it outdoors in the shade for some fresh air.
- Use a freshening spray that’s safe for delicate fabrics, without harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
Drying your cooling blanket properly helps it keep working well and extends its lifespan. Whether you air dry it or use a gentle tumble (where the care label allows), you can keep enjoying that cool feeling night after night. Small habits, like keeping the heat low and using a mild detergent, make a big difference. Treat your cooling blanket right when you wash and dry it, and it will keep feeling cool for many nights to come.
FAQs
Is it OK to tumble dry my cooling blanket?
Only if the care label allows it, and then only on the lowest heat or an “air fluff” setting. High temperatures can damage the cooling fabric. If in doubt, air dry.
How often should I wash my cooling blanket?
Every 2 to 4 weeks, or whenever it’s dirty. Washing too often can be hard on the fibres, so only wash when needed.
Can I use fabric softener when drying a cooling blanket?
No. Softener coats the moisture-wicking fibres and can make the blanket feel less cool.
How long does it take to air dry a cooling blanket?
Usually several hours. Large blankets and tightly woven fabrics can take longer. Dry it somewhere well ventilated, and make sure it’s completely dry before folding.
How do I spot-clean my cooling blanket?
Mix mild detergent with cold water, dab the stain with a clean cloth, rinse with cold water, and let it air dry fully before use.