What’s better than a toasty warm bed on a Canberra winter’s night? If you answered “nothing” then you’re right.
As the frost settles, heaters are cranked, hot drinks are brewed and many of us turn on our electric blankets ready for its warm embrace and a cosy night’s sleep.
Those who discover the joys of electric blankets frequently like to share their love with the world, such as this blogger who writes:
“Today I have the chance to tell you how much I love you, Electric Blanket. I don’t have a name for you: my love transcends the need for labels. Every night you bring me such pleasure and comfort, my love is renewed.”
Far from dropping in popularity, electric blankets are increasingly being seen as a good investment for people wanting an extra bit of warmth without heating the entire house.
But like any investment, electric blankets need maintenance and cleaning.
Not all electric blankets are created equal, so it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the specific cleaning requirements of yours.
Unless the instructions specifically state that a blanket should be dry cleaned, avoid doing so because solvents can damage the wires and inner workings.
Some electric blankets feature waterproof heating elements, making them fully immersible and safe to wash by hand or machine with a neutral detergent in cold water. Even if this is the case, control boxes and cords will need to be removed and the blanket checked thoroughly for any damage or splitting before washing.
Spin drying at high speed is a no-no. Hairdryers and heaters should never be used to dry electric blankets. The best method is either line drying (no pegs or pins) or tumble drying, where instructions permit, on low temperatures and for a short period. The dryer has to be large enough to allow the blanket to move freely.
For all other blankets only clean the blanket when soiled – sponge lightly and allow them to dry naturally on a flat surface.
The size and weight of many electric blankets makes it difficult for them to be laundered at home, especially when, like most blankets, they should be cleaned at the start of the season, and at the end before storing, and at least once during winter (although more frequently if people are ill or obviously if someone bleeds or has an accident).
If this all sounds like too much work, just bring your electric blanket into Ainslie Laundrette. We’re Canberra’s specialists when it comes to winter bedding and we’ll take care of your marvellous piece of bed-warming technology like it was our own.