- First things first, load the comforter into the washing machine. Next, add in a mild soap or, better yet, a soap specially formulated for down—yes, such things exists!
- Set the washer to run with warm water on a delicate cycle. If there’s an extra rinse option, enable it.
- Immediately transfer the comforter to a high-capacity dryer. Set the dryer to operate on low heat, and toss in either dryer balls or clean white socks stuffed with ...
- As the comforter dries, be sure to check on it every now and again, particularly at the beginning of the cycle.
- Keep the comforter in the dryer until it is bone-dry and the down has returned to being soft and fluffy.
What is the best way to wash a down comforter?
To clean your down comforter at home, start by machine washing it with warm water on a delicate setting. When it's finished washing, run it through a rinse cycle twice to make sure all the detergent is out of it. Then, take your comforter out of the machine and hang it somewhere to air dry.
What setting on a dryer to dry a down comforter?
Method 1 Method 1 of 2: Drying with a Machine Dryer Download Article
- Choose a dryer that’s big enough to handle the job. ...
- Set the dryer on a low heat setting. Even in a large dryer, a bulky comforter may become stuck in one place for a while.
- Add a couple of tennis balls to the dryer. ...
- Hit pause on the drying cycle to shake up any lumps. ...
How to wash a comforter without ruining it?
Products you'll need:
- Laundry detergent: Our pros recommend Tide's Hygienic Clean Liquid Laundry Detergent.
- Spot remover: In our tests, Shout's Advanced Action Gel worked really well, even on set-in stains.
- Dryer balls: To make sure your comforter dries completely, we like Smart Sheep's reusable dryer balls.
Can You Dry Clean a down comforter?
It is better to wash a down comforter and we recommend avoiding dry cleaning because the chemicals aren’t suited to down. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t take your down comforter to the dry cleaner – but for professional laundering.
Can a down comforter go in the washing machine?
The answer is yes, but it must be done correctly or you could damage your comforter. To properly wash a down comforter, you will need a few things: A commercial washer and dryer. Gentle laundry detergent (Woolite is ideal)
How do you wash a down comforter without ruining it?
Load your comforter into the washing machine, along with soap or detergent, and run it through a delicate cycle with cold or warm water. Sukalac said you should wash it a second time on a quick cycle, with no soap, to rinse any detergent residue from the down inside.
Can you put a down comforter in the washer and dryer?
Guide to washing your down comforter If the wash water is too hot, the down can singe or burn. Too cold, and the down can clump and lose some of its soft touch. A warm cycle wash is the ideal middle ground for a down comforter.
What happens if you wash a down comforter?
Don't wash down bedding in a machine with an agitator—you'll end up with a damaged, clumped comforter or duvet. Never add liquid fabric softener to the washing machine when washing a down comforter or duvet because it can permeate, coat, and ruin the down's fluffiness.
Can you dry a comforter in the dryer?
Down comforters should be dried in large capacity dryers if possible. Put your comforter in the dryer with your three tennis balls to help the down dry uniformly. You can also add a dry towel to absorb the excess moisture and remove it when you fluff the comforter.
Is it better to wash or dry clean a down comforter?
Taking a down comforter to the dry cleaner We do not recommend to have your comforter dry cleaned because the harsh chemicals are not good for the down. But, dry cleaning is the sure way to prevent any shrinkage so we put that option on the care tags.
How do I make my down comforter fluffy again?
1:483:02How To Re-Fluff Your Comforter - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipDefinitely take it to a commercial washer at a laundromat or a washer and dryer make sure it has theMoreDefinitely take it to a commercial washer at a laundromat or a washer and dryer make sure it has the room to expand.
What cycle should I wash my down comforter on?
What Is the Best Wash Cycle for Down Comforters and Other Down-Filled Items? Use a gentle- or delicate-cycle setting and a minimal amount of mild laundry detergent with your load. Choose lukewarm water, as hot or cold water can be hard on the down. An extra rinse cycle can help ensure all soap is removed from the down.
How do you wash a comforter without it getting lumpy?
Step 1: Fill half of your tub with cold or warm water. Step 2: Pour a cap of mild laundry detergent into the water and mix it in with your hand. Step 3: Immerse your comforter and gently swirl it through the water. Step 4: Let your comforter soak for 10 minutes.
Can you wash a down comforter that says dry clean only?
If you've ever wondered if it's okay to launder your down comforter, the answer is yes. You can absolutely wash a down comforter without spending upwards of $80, depending on the size and how dirty it is, to have it dry cleaned professionally.
Can you put a down alternative comforter in the dryer?
Since down alternative comforter are so large and luscious, they need ample time to dry. Set your dryer to low heat and add dryer balls, tennis balls, or even a clean pair of tennis shoes to help fluff up your down alternative filling and keep it from clumping together.
How do you dry a down comforter without a tennis ball?
Don't have tennis balls? You can use balls of aluminum foil in a pinch. For extra drying power, throw a dry, clean bath towel into the dryer, as well. After 15-20 minutes, remove the towel but don't take the tennis balls out.
How to wash a down comforter
Being in the know about how to wash a down comforter (or, how to wash a pillow and clean a mattress) correctly will ensure it stays hygienic, but preserves its fluffy and even fill. Follow this expert guide.
1. How to wash a down comforter in a washing machine
Before you put a down comforter into the washing machine, check the tag. ‘Most product undergoes extensive quality testing based on the retailers’ standards, says CEO of New Sega Home Brian Delp, who has extensive experience in bedding across a wide range of manufacturers and brands.
2. Check for stains and tears before washing
Also important when considering how to wash a down comforter is checking its condition. ‘Carefully inspect your comforter for any spots or stains before loading it in the washing machine,’ says Alan Weiner, COO of Elegant Strand. ‘If you see any, use a stain treatment in line with your manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Add the detergent
Always use a gentle detergent to wash a down comforter. You can use a detergent specifically designed for down if you prefer. ‘Do not use softeners or additives like bleach so as not to impact the integrity of the fill,’ says Brian Delp. Fragranced detergents shouldn’t be used either.
4. Which wash temperature and cycle to use for a comforter?
Follow the instructions on the tag when it comes to how to wash a down comforter, including on wash temperature. As a rule, the water should be warm; avoid cold or hot options.
5. What about rinsing a comforter?
Being savvy about how to wash a down comforter includes knowing that thorough rinsing is very important to remove detergent from the down filling. ‘An extra rinse cycle can help get out any remaining suds,’ says Karin Sun.
6. Dry your comforter thoroughly
Be mindful that just like the washing machine, your dryer should have a large capacity to accommodate a comforter.
How to store down comforter?
Wrap the down comforter in breathable cotton to store it. A king-sized cotton sheet will work if you don't have a cotton storage bag. Properly storing your down comforter will preserve its quality for years to come. Make sure the down comforter is completely dry before storing it. Do not store down in a plastic storage bag.
How to wash a comforter in a washing machine?
Load the comforter (by itself) into an extra-large, front-loading washing machine and select the water temperature. Every comforter is a bit different, so be sure to check the temperature setting and detergent suggestions on the comforter label. When in doubt, put the machine on the gentle or delicate cycle using cool or warm water. Make sure that the machine is able to perform multiple rinse cycles and add a minimal amount of a mild detergent. Using too much detergent or not allowing it to wash out can reduce the warmth and softness of the down comforter.
How long do down comforters last?
However, we admit that there are a few steps involved to allow for optimal use and longevity. With proper care, your down comforter can last for years. When the time comes to wash your down comforter, we recommend that you check the care instructions ...
How to get rid of stiffness on comforter?
Using a small amount of mild detergent and two rinse cycles will guarantee that all the detergent is rinsed out. If detergent remains on the comforter, it can cause stiffness and faster wear on the comforter. Step 3: To dry, tumble dry on no heat with a tennis ball or clean sneaker.
What is the best place to store down feathers?
Plastic promotes moisture and can create mildew not only on the surface, but also in the down feathers. A well-ventilated closet on the top shelf is the ideal place for storage. Ensure that nothing is on top of it that will crush the down feathers.
Can you bleach down comforters?
Please note: The Company Store® down alternative comforters should not be dry cleaned, bleached, ironed, or steamed. This will damage the comforter and reduce its softness.
Can you wash down comforters with too much detergent?
Make sure that the machine is able to perform multiple rinse cycles and add a minimal amount of a mild detergent. Using too much detergent or not allowing it to wash out can reduce the warmth and softness of the down comforter.
What do you need to wash a down comforter?
Washing a down comforter does not require anything beyond a mild detergent and dryer balls.
How to get down comforter out of a comforter?
Step 1: Use the right dryer. Stick to a large, front loading dryer. Similar to the wash cycle, stick to the delicate, low-temperature settings. Intense dryer temperatures, even more than intense water temperatures, can damage the down — taking the comfort out of the comforter — so patience is key.
How many times a year should you clean your down comforter?
Sans any major spills, you should clean your down comforter once every one to two years.
How to dry a comforter?
Once it’s dry, hang the comforter from a clothesline, or drape it across some chairs, to air it out on all sides. Let it hang for an hour or so, then put it back on your bed, and enjoy!
How long does it take for a down comforter to dry?
Drying your down comforter requires a lot one thing: patience. Depending on the size of your comforter, it can take anywhere from two to four hours to fully dry.
Why is my down comforter clumping?
Like intense temperatures , intense spin cycles, agitation, and general tossing can lead to clumping, bunching, twisting, and tearing — all in all, an uneven clean for your down comforter. A long, gentle cycle avoids all those potential issues and leads to a nice, even clean.
Can you clean down comforters?
One of the most intimidating bedding items to clean is the down comforter. Made of feathers and plumules from ducks and geese, down comforters can seem unwieldy to clean. They’re big, heavy, delicate, white, clumpy, and temperature-sensitive — meaning many people simply drop their comforter off at the dry cleaners to avoid dealing with it altogether. But that’s no bueno, considering the harmful chemicals they’ll use — chemicals that’ll off-gas into your bedroom air and even directly into your face as you snuggle up and get cozy.
Step 1: Find a front load washer
A top load washer will also work – as long as it does not contain an agitator. Whether you use a front load washer or top load washer, it’s important that the comforter has enough space to spread out evenly inside.
Step 2: Use the Gentle Cycle
Set the machine to the gentlest setting available. Use only a small amount of detergent (if it’s concentrated detergent, use even less). Set the water temperature to warm (not hot) for better cleaning, or cooler if it’s not that dirty.
Step 3: Machine or Air Dry
One of the reasons to air dry rather than machine dry is that air drying will ensure a more even distribution of the down, while machine drying will sometimes cause clumping. Air drying also allows you the possibility of washing your comforter if the comforter’s care tag prohibits machine drying.
What is a down comforter?
A down comforter is a lightweight, breathable way to keep yourself warm and cozy at night. Plus, down comforters are ultra-versatile: simply swap out your duvet cover when you feel like it to tweak your bedroom's aesthetic. While down comforters offer some unique benefits, they're also a little more complicated to care for than, say, basic quilts. In addition to the duvet cover, you'll also need to wash the down comforter itself.
How to get yellowing out of comforter?
For food spills or yellowing due to sweat, you'll want an enzyme-based stain remover. Apply the stain treatment directly to the comforter, working it into the fabric with your fingers or a dedicated stain brush.
Can you put down comforters in the dryer?
Be sure to give the comforter a once-over before throwing it in the dryer. "Down comforters can fold and trap soap in the wash, so once the wash cycle is complete, be sure to check for soap residue," Bowen says. "If you spot any, rinse and spin on gentle again."
Can you wash down comforters?
Luckily, all you need to safely and effectively launder your comforter is a little time and a bit of strategy. Here's everything you need to know about how to wash a down comforter, according to three laundry and cleaning experts. Learn about how to keep your down comforter feeling fresh and cozy for the long haul.
How to store comforters?
Store your comforter in a breathable bag, such as cotton, so it gets adequate airflow. Skip plastic storage bags, which trap moisture and don’t provide sufficient airflow.
What happens if you leave moisture in a comforter?
When the cycle is complete, remove the comforter and check that it is completely dry. If there is any moisture left, you may end up with mold or mildew damage.
How to make a comforter look flat?
This is normal, so don’t fret. Simply fluff your comforter by hand or in the dryer to restore loft, air it out a bit, then top your bed for a fresh, cloudlike look. If fluffing doesn’t do the trick, consider how old the comforter is. If the down fill has broken down, it may be time for a replacement.
Why do you need a duvet cover?
Duvet covers are a decorative way to shield against dirt, pet hair, and other debris while protective comforter covers help block allergens and keep spills from seeping into your comforter. We recommend using a comforter cover to protect your down bedding, but it is especially important for people whose pets share the bed or who spend time reading or eating in bed. The cover will protect against damage, keeping it in better shape, longer.
Does weight affect comforter life?
The weight will damage the down and make it break down faster, reducing your comforter’s lifespan.
Can you wash a down comforter in the washer?
Here’s some great news: you can wash a down comforter in the washing machine—if the care instructions on the label state that your comforter or duvet insert is machine-washable. When you provide proper care for your down comforter—including following recommendations for laundering, storage, and use—it can last many years. While nothing replaces the manufacturer’s recommendations, use these care instructions and tips to keep your comforter in top shape season after season.
How to treat stains on down comforters?
If you have any stains on your bedding, it's a good idea to spot-treat them before machine-washing. To address the fabric directly, adjust or shake the down filling away from the spot.
How to get rid of a wet down duvet smell?
Remove Bedding From the Washer. Be gentle when removing the bedding from the washer. Wet down is heavy, and you don’t want to rip your comforter or duvet cover. You might notice a slight odor from the wet down—this is normal. The smell will disappear once the down is dry. The Spruce / Ana Cadena.
How to keep down from clumping?
Place Bedding in the Dryer. Put the bedding into the extra-capacity dryer. Spread the comforter or duvet out as much as possible, and then add the socks with tennis balls to the load. Their beating action will help keep the down from clumping. If you're using fabric softener sheets, toss just one on top of the bedding.
How much does a laundromat charge per load?
You can find these oversized machines at most laundromats, but be prepared to spend more than standard options—some laundromats charge as much as $6 per load. If you're washing a twin comforter or duvet and have a full-capacity, front-loading washer and dryer at home, you can skip the trip to the laundromat.
How to fix a hole in a duvet?
Fixing a hole in your comforter or duvet is worth the effort as they can be expensive to replace. For smaller holes, an iron-on patch is a quick and effective solution. If you have a larger tear, try hand-stitching the fabric together or adding a patch made of similar material.
How long does it take for down to dry?
Continue Drying. Expect it to take three or more hours for your down-filled bedding to completely dry. If you end the process before the down is entirely dry, it’s quite possible you’ll end up with mildew and odor. You’ll know it's dry when the down feels light and evenly spread throughout the comforter or duvet.
How to get a stain out of a shirt?
Pat the fabric with a clean white rag, and let it sit for 20 minutes. If the stain needs more work, try rubbing the fabric together or using a toothbrush to scrub away the soil. Repeat if necessary, and then begin the washing process.
How to clean a comforter with soap residue?
Comforters should generally be washed on a bulky or bedding cycle using cool or warm water. Use a small amount of mild detergent and, if your washer allows , select the extra rinse option to completely remove soap residue from the comforter.
What are the fillers in comforters?
Comforters are categorized by the type of materials they’re filled with. Popular fillings include down, polyester, wool, cotton and silk. The most common fillers are down or polyester and both can be washed at home. It’s a common misconception that down comforters have to be taken to a dry cleaner, but—unless the label specifically instructs ...
What is a duvet cover?
A duvet is an insert that works as the fill for a protective case or duvet cover. Remember to remove your duvet cover before washing—duvets should be washed separately per our steps above and covers can be washed with other bedding.
Can you wash a comforter at home?
Can you wash a comforter at home? You can, and you should! Comforters don’t get as dirty as other bedding, but they harbor allergens that can affect sleep. That’s why it’s important to know how to wash a comforter the right way. Luckily, washing a comforter, even a down one, is almost as easy as tackling a load of laundry. Not only does a clean comforter feel and smell great, but it also prolongs the life of the fibers and fabric. Learning how to wash a comforter at home is easier than you think.
Can you leave a comforter wet?
Leaving any part of the comforter damp or wet can lead to mildew growth and mold. Due to their large size and bulky fill, drying a comforter can take a few extra steps.
Is it easy to wash a down comforter?
Luckily, washing a comforter, even a down one, is almost as easy as tackling a load of laundry. Not only does a clean comforter feel and smell great, but it also prolongs the life of the fibers and fabric. Learning how to wash a comforter at home is easier than you think.
Can you machine wash a comforter?
If the label gives you the okay to machine-wash, be sure to follow any specific instructions, such as using cold water or a specific cycle. While a comforter’s care label should provide information, the next steps for how to wash a comforter will apply to most fabrics and fills.
