Get our simple step-by-step instructions for washing and drying your down comforter at home regardless if you have a top or front-loading washing machine! Plus, save money by not going to the dry cleaner!
It's just about winter here in Indiana and I have my down duvet on the bed to keep us warm at night.
For years I avoided using down because I thought it would be too much trouble to take care of. But, once I started using one I realized it's pretty easy to clean a down comforter at home with just a few steps, because they are machine washable.
The duvet cover helps keep the down bedding clean of any stains and you just need to wash it occasionally.
How To Wash A Down Comforter At Home
Place the down blanket into the washing machine making sure it's evenly distributed.
Use a wash cycle with cold water. It's doesn't have to be the gentle cycle.
Once the machine has filled up with water then you can add your mild detergent (one that is suitable for delicates). Run through the normal cycle.
Drying Your Down Comforter
After the machine has finished running you will want to dry the comforter. I don't recommend letting a down comforter air dry because the drying time takes too long and it could mildew in the process.
It's usually best to dry it in the dryer on medium or low heat. If you have wool dryer balls (or clean tennis balls) it's a good idea to toss those in with the load to help it dry faster. You can also add dryer sheets if you would like.
Set a timer for about 30 minutes, take it out and give it a good shake since they tend to ball up during the drying cycle.
Repeat until it's totally dry.
Place it back on your bed or store it if you only use it during the colder months.
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Helpful Tips
Using cold water ensures that the comforter will not shrink. Dry on a low setting as well to prevent shrinkage.
We don't recommend the delicate cycle because depending on the size of your comforter or duvet insert, it may not get rid of all of the excess water.
Use a gentle detergent that is made for delicates. I use Woolite for delicates on some clothes, but recently I have been using The Laundress Delicates Wash. I love the scent of and it does a great job of getting out the oils without damaging the down filling.
During the drying process, the down feathers may tend to clump up so keep checking on it about every 30 minutes until it is dry.
Skip using bleach, this could damage the down fibers.
If you don't have a large washer you can always clean the comforter at a local laundromat, since they have a commercial-sized washing machine.
Use a gentle stain remover on the affected areas if necessary before starting.
After the washing process, if you notice that the down items are still soaking wet, run it through an extra rinse cycle.
For best results, always check the care label before starting. Many times, there will be specific instructions because not all down bed linens are made from the same materials.
Avoid dry cleaning. This process uses harsh chemicals and can damage fine fabrics.
Don't use fabric softener. It will squish the down material and won't be as fluffy.
If you don't have a front-loading machine, and have a top-loading machine with an agitator, you may want to rotate it so it has plenty of room during washing.
Use a duvet cover to protect it from tough stains and body oils. This will also help to keep it from trapping dust mites.
We also use a flat sheet (aka top sheet) which helps to keep things a little more clean without constantly having to wash the down-filled items so often.
This is the best way we have found to wash your fluffy comforter in your home washing machine. It's a great way to avoid professional laundering, because that can get costly! With proper care your down-filled comforter will last for years to come!