Your Guide to Washing Your Down Comforter / DIY Guide to Washing your Down Comforter

The down comforter adds a warm and cozy feel to your bedroom. However, they tend to get dirty after using them for a while. Most down comforters come with a how to wash a down comforter suggestion from the manufacturer. Follow these steps to get the best result when washing and drying your down comforter. Cleaning your down comforter is sure way to save up on cash compared to having it professionally cleaned. Here is a systematic guide on how to clean your down comforter at home.

Some of the things you need to clean the down comforter include;

• Mild detergent

• Wool dryer ball or Tennis balls

• Extra-large capacity front-loading washing machine

• Extra-large dryer

Although washing a synthetic comforter is tricky, the upside is that they will come out beautifully.

How to Wash a Down Comforter

Step 1: Preparation and caring for the comforter

1. Check your comforter for dents and stains

Spread out your down comforter to look out for worn stitching, stains, rips, or mold. Look out for loose feathers or other stuffing. In case your down comforter is worn out, repair all the torn areas with a needle and thread that matches your comforter. After that, spot clean any stains you may have realized using an enzymatic cleaner or a color-safe bleach. However, pull the cover away from the down to prevent the cleaning agent from damaging the down.

2. Remove it from the bed

Take your down comforter to a clean, dry place that has water-resistant floors such as the laundry room, bathroom or patio Most comforters come with an over blanket or comforter shell that is used to keep your duvet clean. The duvet cover zips around the comforter to protect it from stains. If your duvet is not dirty or stained, then no need to wash it as you can clean the cover only

3. Right-sized front loading washing machine

Most down comforters are bulky. Hence, you need to look for an extra-large front loading machine. A top loading machine is not recommended since its agitators, which are found in the middle of the machine may rip or stress the fabric of your comforter. It is advisable that you take it to a local Laundromat if this is the case. Most Laundromats have heavy-duty front loading machines.

Do not jam-pack the comforter into a small chamber. Find one that is large enough to fit your comforter comfortably. Place your comforter into the chamber. Ensure that it leaves some space to allow the water and detergent reach every corner of your comforter.

Step 2.Washing

1. Place the down comforter into the front loading washing machine

Put warm water and mild detergent into the hole of the washing machine and then press on the delicate cycle. If your comforter is white, it is safe to add bleach. Do not use hot or cold water as this may damage the down. Submerge the comforter into the water as far down as possible. 

2. Rinsing

Use the rinse cycle twice to ensure that all the detergent is completely washed out. Before pulling the comforter from the washing machine to squeeze out some of the water and then place it into the spin well. 

Step 3: Drying

1. Unload the comforter from the machine

You will realize that your down comforter looks flatter smoother and less bulky than usual. If your comforter is white, you may realize some discoloration. Do not worry as this is due to the wet down fluff and it should clear after the comforter dries.

2. Air Drying

Although air-drying takes longer than electrical drying, your down comforter is less likely to shrink or damage the fabric. Lay out your comforter in a clean, sunny area and give it time to dry completely. Do not line-dry your comforter since it may develop mildew if left hanging in the breeze.

3. Drying machine

In case you decide to use a drying machine, avoid setting the cycle to high heat. Use the low hit to reduce the risk of shrinkage. Toss the tennis balls or dryer balls along into the dryer with the comforter. They will help break up the feather clumps as it dries, as well as speed up the process.

4. Check periodically and wait until it is completely dry

Whatever method of drying you choose, keep checking on the comforter to confirm that everything is ok. Fluff and distribute the comforter to make sure that it is drying evenly and not in patches. If you notice clumps, it means that the comforter is not completely dry. Let it out to dry until no clumps are felt.