How to Wash a Comforter

How to Wash a Comforter Detergent  Enzyme-based laundry detergent Water Temperature Cold to Warm Cycle Type Permanent Press Drying Cycle Type Low heat or Air-Dry Special Treatments Pretreat Stains How Often to Wash Seasonally

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

How to Wash a Comforter

1. Pretreat Stains and Repair Rips

   • Check the comforter for stains while it is still spread out on the bed.
   • Place a small amount of an enzyme-based laundry detergent on the stained areas and work it into the fabric with your fingers or a soft-bristled nylon brush.
   • Allow the detergent to work for at least 15 minutes before you put the comforter in the washer.
   • While you're waiting, check for any rips or tears that may become worse during the washing process and repair them.

   The Spruce / Ana Cadena

2. Select the Washer Settings and Add Detergent

   • Set the washer's water temperature to cold or warm water.
   • Select the largest load capacity and the delicate or gentle cycle.
   • Use slightly less than your regular amount of detergent. Excess detergent can be difficult to remove from the comforter's inner fibers.
   • Do not add liquid fabric softener because it can cause spotting on bulky loads. To soften the fabric and aid in removing soapy residue, add 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar to the final rinse cycle.

   Tip

   The best type of washer to use is a front or top-load washer without a center agitator to accommodate the bulk of the fabric.

   The Spruce / Ana Cadena

3. Wash the Comforter

   The comforter can be washed with similar colors and fabrics to help balance the washer.
   

   The Spruce / Ana Cadena

4. Dry the Comforter

   • Give the comforter a good shake when you remove it from the washer to help reduce wrinkles and promote more even drying.
   • Add 2 or 3 wool dryer balls to the dryer to help fluff the comforter filling.
   • Tumble the comforter on low heat. Check it frequently and don't over-dry.
   • Check the comforter for damp spots before placing it back on the bed or storing it.
   • The comforter can be dried on an outdoor clothesline or draped over a drying rack.

   Tip

   If you don't have wool dryer balls, you can use clean tennis balls instead.

   The Spruce / Ana Cadena

How Often to Wash a Comforter

If you have a down or down alternative comforter, or a simple duvet cover, it can be washed more frequently, such as weekly when you do your sheets. If your comforter is heavier and does not have a removable insert, it should be washed seasonally. If you have pets who sleep on the bed, you may want to wash the comforter more often.

Storing a Comforter

When not in use, store a comforter in a cotton bag (an old pillowcase works great) to protect it from dust. Store in a climate-controlled area of your home and avoid the basement or attic where temperature and humidity can fluctuate. Always make sure the comforter is completely clean and dry before storing it to prevent mold and mildew from forming.

Treating Stains on a Comforter

Spot clean stains between washings. Remove blood, other bodily fluids, or food stains with a paste made from baking soda and water. Rub the paste on the spot, and use a damp, clean white cloth to blot it away. Use a dry cloth to blot up the moisture, and then dry quickly with a handheld blow dryer. If baking soda doesn't work, use a laundry stain remover applied with a damp cloth. Rinse by blotting the area with a cloth dampened with water.

Repairing a Comforter

If your comforter has a small rip or hole, it can usually be repaired by hand. If the tear is significant and you aren't good with a needle, contact a professional tailor. To hide a repair, purchase a duvet cover.

Tips for Washing a Comforter

• Pretreat stains and repair any rips before washing.
• Use an enzyme-based detergent to effectively remove stains and soil.
• Dry on low heat with wool dryer balls in the dryer to fluff the comforter and prevent wrinkles.
• Be sure to read the care tag attached to the comforter. Some fabrics require dry cleaning and should not be washed. When you take your comforter to a dry cleaner, be sure to point out and identify any stains to get the best final results.

FAQ

• Is it better to wash or dry clean a comforter?

  You should read the care label on your comforter to determine the best cleaning method, however, dry cleaning tends to keep comforters protected for longer as they are not being submerged in water.

• Can you air dry a comforter?

  Yes, but it might take longer. If you plan on air-drying your comforter indoors, squeeze out as much water as you can and lay it on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area with a lot of natural light.

• Can the washing machine ruin my comforter?

  If your comforter has been washed very frequently, is on the older side, or has pre-existing tears and thin spots, yes, it can be damaged further by agitating it in a washing machine. To avoid this, mend all tears before washing, or hand wash instead.