How Often to Wash a Comforter
Many comforters have removable covers that can be washed to remove body soil and stains every time you change the sheets. A thick comforter without a removable cover should be washed at least seasonally and more often if you allow pets on the bed, or if someone in the household has been sick. Always wash a comforter before storing it for the off-season.
Can You Wash Your Comforter at Home?
Down-filled comforters and comforters filled with synthetic down-alternative are easy to clean and dry at home, especially if you have a spacious washing machine. If you don’t have a large-capacity washer, head to your local laundromat. A smaller household washer could compress and distort the filler, says Allen Rathey, president of Housekeeping Channel. You can wash a comforter by hand in the bathtub, but the comforter will become very heavy and can take several days to dry. Cleaning it in a washing machine is easy, and you’ll save money by skipping the dry cleaner.
What You’ll Need
For a Down-Alternative Comforter:
Enzyme-based stain removerHeavy-duty detergentSoft-bristled brushDistilled white vinegarWool dryer ballsLarge capacity front-loading washer or top-loading washer without a center agitatorAutomatic dryer, clothesline, or drying rack
For a Down Comforter:
Gentle detergent or down washSoft-bristled brushLarge capacity washerAutomatic dryer or drying rackWool dryer balls
Remove Stains
Just as you would with any dirty laundry, pretreat stains before washing the comforter. Pretreating allows the stain remover to begin breaking down the stains and loosening them from the fibers, so that the wash water can flush them away.
How to Wash a Down-Alternative Comforter
How to Wash a Down Comforter
The down or feathers in a comforter are a bit more temperamental than synthetic poly-fill. Always use a gentle detergent or down wash to prevent stripping the natural oils from the feathers. Start by pretreating any stains, following the steps outlined above.
Tips for Keeping Your Comforter Clean for Longer
Use a removable, washable cover on your comforter and wash it regularly.Always use a top sheet, which serves as a barrier between you and your comforter. A sheet is much easier and quicker to wash than a comforter.Flip the comforter often to allow trapped moisture in the filling to thoroughly dry after each use.Freshen the comforter between washings by hanging it on an outside clothesline on a breezy, sunny day. Place the comforter in an automatic dryer on air-only between washings to remove dust and crumbs.Use a fabric refresher spray between washes to help remove odors. Spray the comforter on both sides.Blot spills and stains immediately to prevent them from seeping into the comforter filling.Keep pets off the bed.Avoid eating or drinking in bed.
Read Next: Should You Wash New Sheets (or Clothes) Before Using Them? We Asked an Expert
