Washing a comforter isn’t as tough as it looks. You can wash happily either machine-wash or hand-wash the comforter at home.
But, if the label on comforter says – Dry Clean Only – then let the professionals handle it. Because certain materials like silk can get damaged easily.
Or else, you can follow the simple steps mentioned in this article. We have also mentioned some handy tips as well that let you complete the task effortlessly.
Is it Really Ok to Wash the Comforter at Home?
Yes, you can wash a comforter but not as often as you wash your bedsheet.
Before washing it, make sure to check the tag/label first to know the water temperature, dryer temperature and many more.
Usually, comforters have to be washed 2 – 3 times a year (if you use them year around) to keep them fresh and clean. Or else they will become home to several allergens and pollutants.
How to Wash a Comforter?
Washing a comforter is not as difficult as you feel. All you need is to follow these 6 simple steps to wash the comforter easily in the right way. We have mentioned these steps clearly for your information.
1. Read the comforter’s label:
Before you decide to throw it inside the washing machine, it’s always best to check the care label on the comforter. The label contains manufacturer’s instructions on how to wash a comforter. For instance, materials like silk or wool will shrink or damage if washed in the washing machine.
- In case, if the label says Dry Clean Only, it’s best to follow those instructions and let professionals handle it.
- If the label instructs you to machine wash, don’t forget to read the prerequisites of the machine wash. This includes cold water/normal water to wash. A few comforters (like down comforters) are meant to be hand-washed.
2. Remove Stains and Repair Tears:
You should treat any kind of stains present by washing the comforter.
- For removing stains (or Spot treating), you should initially move its filling away from the stained area. Then treat the area with a cleaning solution like a mix of baking soda and water (or) diluted Woolite.
Check for any loose threads or torn seams to repair them before placing them in a washer or dryer. This will prevent any further damage (like filling coming out during the cleaning process).
In case, if the color of your comforter is white, consider using bleach as it will freshen the white color.
- All you need is to mix 1/2 cup of bleach with 2 gallons of cool water. Soak the comforter in bleach solution for 5 minutes before placing it in a washing machine.
3. Use the Right Washing Machine:
Place the comforter properly inside the washing machine. Also, the washing machine should have enough empty space even after putting this comforter in it, to rotate around for thorough washing.
If there isn’t adequate space, the filling may become compressed during the wash cycle. Thus, it won’t get cleaned completely.
Avoid putting clothes along with the comforter in the washing machine while washing. Since comforters are bulky, you should use a large capacity commercial washing machine or opt for a local laundromat/dry-cleaner.
4. Choose Proper Detergent and Wash Cycle Settings:
It is best to choose a mild and natural laundry detergent while cleaning the comforter. Also, you should follow the instructions provided on the bottle of the detergent.
For washing cycle setting, choose a gentle or delicate cycle. Add an extra rinse to remove any soap residue or more water.
Check the label on your comforter to know its recommended temperature setting. This will help you to wash it effectively without any damage.
Using either cold or warm water for washing your comforter will protect the fabrics and colors. Whereas hot water will clear dust mites and other debris but shrink the down material or duvet cover.
5. Dry the Comforter:
Once you have completed washing the comforter, it is time to shift them to the dryer.
Add/Toss down fluffer rings or dryer balls or even tennis balls along with the comforter at the start of the cycle. This will allow the inside fillings of the comforter to get distributed evenly (without clumping).
Make sure to dry the comforter at the right temperature (dryer’s heat levels, prefer low setting) mentioned on the care label. Or you can allow the comforter to dry outside for several hours. Leaving any part damp or wet may lead to mold and mildew growth.
6. Remove and Fluff the Comforter from the Dryer:
After every half an hour or so, you need to take out the comforter from the dryer and fluff it well. This fluffing will ensure that the inside filling of a comforter is well-distributed.
After that, return the comforter to the dryer and continue this cycle. This process will ensure that the comforter will dry evenly.
How Often Should you Wash a Comforter?
As per household cleaning experts, you should wash the comforter once a year, if it is protected with a duvet cover. If not using any duvet then wash it 2 – 3 times a year.
Most experts recommend using a duvet to cover the comforter and keep dirt at bay. You can also use anti-allergen duvet covers to protect them against dust mites. Simply, wash the duvet cover weekly, as needed.
If you are not using a comforter, then place it in an airtight linen bag after washing and drying it thoroughly. Store in a cool, dry area. It will prevent dust and unwanted allergens that settle in the comforter and its fabrics. So, regular washing will keep your bed and yourself fresh, clean & healthy.
How to Keep a Comforter from Getting Lumpy?
Depending on the size and type of your comforter, you can achieve a perfect even drying cycle. But you have to follow a few tips to keep your comforter stay lump-free and fluffy.
- Simply, set the timer for every 30 minutes during your drying cycle.
- Remove the comforter and shake it as much as you can to redistribute the filling.
- Also, you can toss dryer balls before starting the cycle for an even and thorough drying.
- After that, hang the comforter in a warm, dry place till moisture is eliminated.
- Place it back on the bed or insert it into any duvet cover.
How to Hand Wash the Comforter?
Hand-washing a comforter is a little bit trickier. Most of the household washing machines won’t have adequate size to accommodate large and heavy comforters. So you can try the below hand-washing strategy.
- Fill a clean tub with cold water and some mild detergent and hand-mix the water to create a soapy solution.
- Check the comforter for stains and pre-treat stains by using a solvent-based stain remover.
- Use a soft-bristled brush or your hand to work on the stain. Leave it for at least 15 minutes before washing the comforter.
- Let the comforter sit in this soapy water for about 30 minutes. Give a gentle scrub with your hands before draining out those water.
- Refill the tub with cold clean water and place this comforter in this water and rinse off to clear away any soap suds hanging around.
- Drain the tub again and roll the comforter a couple of times to wring out the water.
- Shake it out to make the feathers or filling not to clump up before hanging it.
- Dry them out in the sun as much as possible to keep away the growth of mold and mildew.
- While the duvet/comforter cover can be removed and washed easily once a week.
How to Keep the Comforter fresh Between Washes?
It is important to keep the comforter clean & fresh in between the laundry loads. For this, you can use a steamer to cut back on wrinkles, odor and bacteria between washes. But never use iron or starch a down comforter because they damage the filling and feathers. If you want to give a scent boost to the comforter then use any fabric spray to keep it smelling fresh.
Conclusion:
Comforters keep you warm in the harsh winter months. We hope you understand the importance of comforters and how to clean and care for them. We suggest you follow these steps for cleaning your comforter to extend its life and keep your family happy and healthy.
Still, having any queries on how to clean and care for a comforter? Then share with us in the below comments section. We will soon respond and resolve your query.
