{"id":9585,"date":"2021-06-25T21:28:01","date_gmt":"2021-06-25T21:28:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alternatech.net\/?p=9585"},"modified":"2021-06-25T21:28:01","modified_gmt":"2021-06-25T21:28:01","slug":"how-to-wash-and-care-for-down-comforters-or-duvets","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/how-to-wash-and-care-for-down-comforters-or-duvets\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Wash and Care for Down Comforters or Duvets"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong>If the cover of your duvet or comforter is 100 percent cotton or a cotton blend, you can usually wash and dry it yourself. It\u2019s so easy to do at home. Keep reading for the simple step-by-step directions.\n<h4>How Often to Clean a Down Comforter or Duvet\n</h4><p>As a rule of thumb, down-filled bedding should be washed once a year. Of course, if your bedding becomes soiled, more frequent washings will be necessary.\n</p><p>For the best results, a queen- or king-sized comforter or duvet should be washed in an extra-large capacity, front-loading washer and dryer set. You can find these oversized machines at most laundromats, but be prepared to spend more than standard options. If you&rsquo;re washing a twin comforter or duvet and have a full-capacity, front-loading washer and dryer at home, you can skip the trip to the laundromat.\n</p><h4>What You&rsquo;ll Need\n</h4><p><img fetchpriority='\"high\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9603 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-14.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-14.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><h5>Equipment \/ Tools\n<ul>\n<li>Front-loading washing machine and dryer, extra-large capacity for bigger comforters or duvets\n</li><li>Drying rack or clothesline for drying\n\n<h5>Materials\n<ul>\n<li>Gentle laundry detergent\n</li><li>2 clean socks, each with a tennis ball knotted inside\n</li><li>Fabric softener sheets (optional)\n\n<h4>Instructions\n<h5>1. Put Bedding in the Washer\n</h5></h4><p><img decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9590 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-1.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-1.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Put your comforter or duvet in the washing machine, and make sure it\u2019s not folded or crumpled. Spread the bedding out as much as possible in the machine.\n</p><h5>2. Put Socks in the Washer\n</h5><p><img decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9591 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-2.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-2.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Add the socks with tennis balls to the load. These help keep the down from bunching and also add a bit of extra agitation to remove dirt, sweat, and body oils from the bedding.\n</p><h5>3. Add Laundry Detergent\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9592 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-3.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-3.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Pour a small amount of gentle laundry detergent into the machine\u2019s soap dispenser. Use half the recommended amount for an average load\u2014you don\u2019t want to end up with soap-stiffened down. Do not add bleach.\n</p><h5>4. Set the Cycle\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9593 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-4.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-4.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Set the washer to the gentle\/delicate cycle with warm water. If possible, set the machine for an extra or extended rinse cycle.\n</p><h5>5. Run the Washer\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9594 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-5.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-5.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Turn the washer on, and let it run through the full cycle.\n</p><h5>6. Check for Soap Residue\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9595 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-6.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-6.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Once the cycle is complete, check your bedding for any remaining soap. If you see suds or feel any leftover soap, rewash the bedding, this time without any detergent. Soap residue will cause clumps in your down, so make sure it&rsquo;s thoroughly rinsed.\n</p><h5>7. Remove Bedding From the Washer\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9596 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-7.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-7.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Be gentle when removing the bedding from the washer. Wet down is heavy, and you don\u2019t want to rip your comforter or duvet cover. You might notice a slight odor from the wet down\u2014this is normal. The smell will disappear once the down is dry.\n</p><h5>8. Place Bedding in the Dryer\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9597 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-8.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-8.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Put the bedding into the extra-capacity dryer. Spread the comforter or duvet out as much as possible, and then add the socks with tennis balls to the load. Their beating action will help keep the down from clumping. If you&rsquo;re using fabric softener sheets, toss just one on top of the bedding.\n</p><h5>9. Start the Dryer\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9598 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-9.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-9.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Set the dryer to the lowest heat setting, and turn it on.\n</p><h5>10. Check the Dryer and Fluff\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9599 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-10.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-10.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Every 30 minutes, stop the machine and take the bedding out. Give it a gentle fluff to keep the down evenly distributed. Make sure it doesn\u2019t feel too hot because down can scorch.\n</p><h5>11. Continue Drying\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9600 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-11.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-11.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>Expect it to take three or more hours for your down-filled bedding to completely dry. If you end the process before the down is entirely dry, it\u2019s quite possible you\u2019ll end up with mildew and odor. You\u2019ll know it&rsquo;s dry when the down feels light and evenly spread throughout the comforter or duvet.\n</p><h5>12. Finish Drying on a Clothesline\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-full' wp-image-9601 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-12.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-12.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>To finish the drying process, you can opt to hang the bedding on a clothesline in a warm, dry area inside or outside. A bonus for white comforters and duvets is that the sun&rsquo;s rays can brighten the fabric and lighten stains.\n</p><h5>13. Make Your Bed\n</h5><p><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"size-large' wp-image-9602 aligncenter src="%5C%22http:%5C/%5C/alternatech.net%5C/wp-content%5C/uploads%5C/2021%5C/06%5C/how-to-wash-down-comforter-13.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"\"' width='\"1000\"' height='\"667\"' srcset='\"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter-13.jpg' https: sizes='\"(max-width:'>\n</p><p>If you have a duvet, slip it back inside its cover once completely dry, and make your bed with your freshly cleaned bedding.\n</p><h4>Storing Down Comforters and Duvets\n</h4><p>Some people enjoy down bedding year-round, while others prefer to store it away during warmer months. If you do decide to pack your down items away, they must be clean and thoroughly dry before they&rsquo;re stored. For protection, wrap the down bedding in cotton\u2014a laundry bag works wonderfully\u2014and place it in a well-ventilated closet.\n</p><h5>Repairs\n</h5><p>Fixing a hole in your comforter or duvet is worth the effort as it can be expensive to replace. For smaller holes, an iron-on patch is a quick and effective solution. If you have a larger tear, try hand-stitching the fabric together or adding a patch made of similar material.\n</p><h5>Treating Stains on Down Comforters and Duvets\n</h5><p>If you have any stains on your bedding, it&rsquo;s a good idea to spot-treat them before machine-washing. To address the fabric directly, adjust or shake the down filling away from the spot. Next, wet the area using a spray bottle of water, and then apply a stain remover of your choice. Pat the fabric with a clean white rag, and let it sit for 20 minutes. If the stain needs more work, try rubbing the fabric together or using a toothbrush to scrub away the soil. Repeat if necessary, and then begin the washing process.\n</p><h5>Tips for Washing Down Comforters or Duvets\n<ul>\n<li>Don\u2019t wash down bedding in a machine with an agitator\u2014you\u2019ll end up with a damaged, clumped comforter or duvet.\n</li><li>Never add liquid fabric softener to the washing machine when washing a down comforter or duvet because it can permeate, coat, and ruin the down\u2019s fluffiness.\n</li><li>Washing a down comforter or duvet can take longer than you think. Bring a book or another activity to the laundromat to keep yourself occupied for a few hours.\n</li><li>Take advantage of laundry day to also wash your mattress pad and bed skirt. You\u2019ll go to sleep in a completely fresh bed and eliminate dust mites and other allergens.\n</li><li>Down is meant to be washed over and over again, so don&rsquo;t worry about cleaning your bedding too much.\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If the cover of your duvet or comforter is 100 percent cotton or a cotton blend, you can usually wash and dry it yourself. It\u2019s so easy to do at home. Keep reading for the simple step-by-step directions. How Often to Clean a Down Comforter or Duvet As a rule of thumb, down-filled bedding should\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":9589,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"%%title%%","_seopress_titles_desc":"If the cover of your duvet or comforter is 100 percent cotton or a cotton blend, you can usually wash and dry it yourself. It\u2019s so easy to do at home. Keep reading for the simple step-by-step directions.","_seopress_robots_index":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21],"tags":[61,124,30,159,46,31],"class_list":{"0":"post-9585","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-tie-life-style","8":"tag-cleaning-tips","9":"tag-clothes-tip","10":"tag-household-hacks","11":"tag-laundry-tips","12":"tag-life-hacks","13":"tag-tips"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/how-to-wash-down-comforter.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9585","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9585"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9585\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9589"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9585"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9585"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/legendstitch.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9585"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}</p></li></ul></h5></li></ul></h5></li></ul></h5></strong></p>