How To Wash A Comforter The Right Way (No Lumps!)

by John Griffith
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Comforters can seem intimidating to wash at home. They are big, they are delicate, and they are expensive. So, the stakes are high. However, you can wash a comforter safely at home, you just need to know how. That’s why we are here to help! While comforters don’t get as dirty as the other bedding, they can still harbor bacteria, allergens, and dirt which you don’t want affecting your sleep. That’s why it’s recommended to give them a good wash from time to time. By doing this at home you can save yourself some money from dry cleaning or a trip to the laundromat. So, read on to see how to wash a comforter the right way.

Comforters can seem intimidating to wash at home

pile of comforter on bed

How To Wash A Comforter

Cleaning your comforter should be done at least once or twice a season. Of course, it depends on how heavily it’s being used. And while you may be concerned that washing your comforter may leave it lumpy, less fluffy and ruined, there is nothing to worry about. You can have a fresh, fluffy comforter in a matter of hours by following all the advice we gathered from cleaning experts.

Cleaning your comforter should be done at least once or twice a season

cat sleeping between comforter

#Supplies

Before you get starter there are some universal supplies you need to have ready for cleaning your comforter properly. Most things you probably already have in your home or at least a version of them and are easily found at the store as well. You don’t need any fancy cleaners, just some basics.

  • Mild laundry detergent
  • Stain remover
  • Dryer balls (tennis balls work also)

Most supplies you probably already have in your home

pouring detergent into washing machine

#Read The Label

This step is very, very important and shouldn’t be skipped! Checking the care label will ensure that your comforter doesn’t get ruined in the cleaning process. See if the comforter is machine washable or dry-clean only. Check if it has any other instructions. Should you use a specific cycle or water temperature? Make sure you get all the information. Keep in mind that depending on the material, some comforters are best left to professionals. So, if it says dry cleaning only, it’s best to take it to the cleaners.

Checking the care label will ensure that your comforter doesn’t get ruined

label with cleaning instructions

#Check Your Washing Machine Size

Once you’ve confirmed your comforter is machine washable, the next important step is to check if your machine can take the load. We don’t want to ruin your comforter and the machine in one go. Your machine should be big enough that the comforter has room to move around the machine. You don’t want it stuck in one position or caught under the agitator.

Check if your machine can take the load of the comforter

washing machine in wet place

#Inspect and Treat The Comforter

Okay, so you can wash the comforter and the machine can handle it. Now it’s time to give your comforter a good inspection. Check for any holes, tears, loose seams, or other types of damage. You need to repair these before putting it in the machine as they can get worse during the washing process. Also check for any stains that may need treating. If you do have any stains, use a spot cleaner. But remember to always move the filling away from the stained area before you begin treating it.

Check for any stains that may need treating

how to wash a comforter doing spot treatment on clothing

#Load Into Washer

You’ve treated the stains and repaired any tears. Now it’s time to load the comforter into the washer. As we mentioned, it should have enough space to move around, so it can get clean and not just wet. If you have a top load machine with an agitator, it’s recommended to let the comforter fall loosely around the post. This will help keep the load balanced.

The comforter should have enough space to move around

person putting clothes in washing machine

#Set The Cycle

Once you’ve loaded the comforter, you need to add a small amount of mild detergent. If you want to add any softener, it’s best to check the tag again if you can, before pouring it in. When that’s done, you need to set the cycle. The tag can help you figure out what cycle would be best. But in general, comforters are best put on a bedding or bulky cycle with cool or warm water. This type of cycle has a slower spin that ensure your items won’t get flattened. Experts recommend adding an extra rinse cycle to make sure all soap residue is washed away.

Comforters are best put on a bedding or bulky cycle with cool or warm water

putting machine on a cycle

#Drying a Comforter

Now that the comforter is washed, it’s time to dry it. Proper drying is crucial. You can air dry it or place it in the dryer. If you use a dryer it’s recommended to use dryer balls to help prevent any clumping. Use a low temperature and shake out the comforter mid-cycle, as well as turn it around to ensure it gets dried all around. You may need to run a few cycles to dry it completely.

You can use tennis balls instead of dryer balls

how to wash a comforter dryer nalls in the dryer with comforter

This was how to wash a comforter the right way, so it’s nice and fresh and without any lumps. We hope you found this article useful. Now you can enjoy a crispy comforter that is just as comfy and warm as it was when you bought it.

This was how to wash a comforter the right way

how to wash a comforter rolled up orange sheets

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John Griffith

John Griffith is a young, passionate journalist. Writing has been John’s hobby ever since he was a boy. He has worked in some of the UK’s most successful news portals over the course of his professional career but found his forever home at Archzine.