Wondering How to Wash a Comforter? Here's What You Need to Know
Let's face it: Washing your bedding is a time-consuming endeavor. And chances are, we aren't doing it often enough, because it's perhaps the most lengthy and involved of all the laundry tasks. But when we do it, it arguably yields the most satisfying results. After you've organized your laundry room and cleaned your washing machine so that it's fresh and sparkling, it's time to strip the bed and take that heavy comforter out of its duvet cover. Here's how to wash a comforter, plus some handy tips to make cleaning that bulky comforter go a little more smoothly.
Can you wash a comforter?
Okay, fair question. You need to check the tags first. Your comforter most likely sports tags on one of its four corners. Read through and take note of any special instructions, like water temperature, dryer temperature, and more. (Unfortunately, if the tag says "dry clean only," the rest of these tips may not prove very useful. It's best to heed this advice and head to your local dry cleaner for a comforter consultation instead.)
Use a stain removal pen or spray to address any problem areas before washing the comforter. Adding an extra boost to stubborn stains is crucial to achieving optimum cleanliness. Also, be sure to check for any ripped seams or holes, and repair before washing to prevent the filling from coming out during the cleaning process.
How often should you wash a comforter?
Household cleaning experts recommend washing the comforter two to three times per year in order to prevent unwanted dust and other allergens from accumulating inside the fibers.
How do you wash a bulky comforter?
Before turning the washing machine on, place the comforter in the machine to make sure your machine allows adequate space. If the comforter is too large or just barely fits, it could become scrunched and compressed during the wash cycle, which would prevent proper cleaning. (When in doubt, seek out a commercial-size machine at your local laundromat.)
Follow the instructions on the comforter's manufacturer tags to select the correct water temperature and cycle settings. Use your favorite detergent, unless otherwise noted on the tags, and run the cycle as directed.
Can I put my comforter in the dryer?
Again, it's best to check the manufacturer's tags for care instructions, especially regarding your dryer's heat levels, but many comforters can go in the dryer with no problem. Upon removing the comforter from the washing machine, be sure to shake it out in order to redistribute any displaced filling as much as possible before starting the drying process.
How do you keep a comforter from getting lumpy?
Depending on your comforter's size and type, your chances of achieving a perfectly even drying cycle are slim, but there are a few extra steps you can take to make sure your comforter stays as fluffy and lump-free as possible. First, set a timer for every 30 minutes during the drying cycle. Pause the cycle, remove the comforter, and shake it out as best you can in order to redistribute the filling.
Another secret weapon: dryer balls. These wool magic-workers can serve as a surprisingly effective method for maintaining even, thorough drying. Toss them in at the start of the cycle for optimum results. (No dryer balls on hand? Tennis balls can be used instead!)
After removing it from the dryer, be sure to hang it in a warm, dry place to eliminate leftover moisture before placing it back on the bed or inserting into any duvet cover.
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