An electric blanket should only be washed if the manufacturer expressly authorizes it for that model. Do not assume it can be submerged based on the fabric or because the controller appears to be removable.
Identify the procedure before getting it wet
Find the model number, label, and manual. Check the cord, connections, fabric, and heating areas that are accessible without opening the blanket. If there is damage or the instructions are missing, do not try washing or reconnecting it to see whether it works.
There are models that are expressly washable: the Sunbeam BLE48, BLA63, and BLA66 manual covers removing the controls and requires the blanket and connections to be completely dry before use. Its cycles and times apply to those products, not to any electric blanket.
Follow the authorized sequence
- Disconnect it from power and separate the components only in the way described by the manufacturer.
- Confirm that the washing machine can handle the item and its volume.
- Use the exact authorized cycle, detergent, and spin extraction, without adding an extra spin on instinct.
- Dry it using the specified method; do not improvise with heaters, a hair dryer, or wringing it out.
- Check the condition and dryness of all indicated areas before reassembling and connecting it.
A surface that feels dry to the touch is not enough if the connectors still hold moisture. Do not try to repair wiring or turn it on to speed up drying. If there is an abnormality, take the blanket out of service and contact its technical support.
Reconnecting depends on the dryness and condition required by the manufacturer. If there is any damage, take the blanket out of service.