Deciding what size washer you need to properly clean a king-size comforter can be a confusing process. King-size comforters are large and bulky, so you’ll need a washer that can accommodate their size. Here’s a detailed guide on picking the right washer size for washing king-size comforters.
Overview of King-Size Comforters
First, let’s go over some basics about king-size comforters that will impact what size washer you need:
- Dimensions: A standard king-size comforter measures 104” x 88”. Some oversized options go up to 120” x 98”.
- Thickness: Comforters tend to be fluffy and thick to provide warmth. They often measure 1-6 inches thick when laid flat.
- Fill Material: Common fill materials include down, down alternative fibers, wool, cotton, polyester, silk. Fill material impacts thickness and weight.
- Weight: Due to their large size and fluffy fill, king comforters are heavy. They usually weigh 15-30+ pounds.
So in summary, a typical king-size comforter is very large, thick, and heavy compared to other types of bedding. This makes it challenging to wash properly in an average size home washer.
What Washer Size Options Are Available?
When shopping for a washer, you’ll see they come in different tub capacity sizes. Here are the most common washer tub sizes:
- Compact: 1.5-2.2 cubic ft capacity
- Standard: 3.1-3.5 cubic ft capacity
- Large Capacity: 3.6-4.5 cubic ft capacity
- Extra-Large Capacity: 5.0+ cubic ft capacity
Washers with higher cubic feet capacity have bigger tubs that can handle larger, bulkier items like king-size comforters more easily.
In addition to tub size, some washers also have wider tub openings which help accommodate bulky comforters. Top loaders often have wider openings than front loaders.
Minimum Washer Size for King Comforters
At a bare minimum, you’ll need a standard size washer with at least 3.5 cubic ft capacity for washing a king-size comforter. However, a washer this size will be a very tight squeeze and makes loading/unloading difficult.
The comforter will be tightly jammed into the washer tub, which can lead to uneven cleaning and wear and tear over time. For easier use, consider sizing up.
Recommended Washer Size for King Comforters
While you can make a standard 3.5 cubic ft washer work for a king comforter, it’s highly recommended to size up to at least a large capacity model.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a washer tub at least 1 cubic ft larger than your comforter’s size.
Since a standard king comforter is approximately 12 ft wide x 7 ft long x 0.5 ft thick (84 cubic ft in volume), look for a washer with a minimum of:
- 5.0 cubic ft tub for a front loading washing machine
- 4.5 cubic ft tub for a top loading washing machine
These washer sizes will provide ample room for the comforter to move and tumble freely, leading to a deeper clean.
With extra space, the comforter will be less tightly packed. This reduces wear and tear on both the comforter fabric and washer mechanics over time.
Loading and unloading will also be much easier with a more spacious tub. No more struggling and cramming!
Features That Help Clean King Comforters
In addition to tub capacity, certain washer features also help tackle king-size comforters:
- Wide tub opening: Look for a washer with at least a 12” opening to easily load the bulky comforter. Top loaders tend to have wider openings.
- High spin speed: 1100+ RPM spin helps extract more water to cut down on dryer time for heavy comforters.
- Steam option: Steam helps sanitize and refresh comforters.
- Bulky/bedding cycle: This slower, gentle cycle is tailored for large bedding items.
- Fabric softener dispenser: Helps evenly distribute softener on comforters.
- Internal water heater: Hot water helps detergents dissolve better for improved cleaning.
- Stainless steel tub: More durable for dealing with large comforters over time.
Prioritize washers with multiple combinations of these helpful comforter washing features for best results.
Top Washer Picks for King Comforters
Here are some excellent washer options that can handle king-size comforters with ease:
1. LG WM9000HVA – 5.2 cu. ft.
- Extra-large 6.2 cubic ft capacity
- Steamy cycle for sanitization
- TurboWash feature for faster wash times
- 12” tub opening for easy loading
2. Maytag MVWC565FW – 4.5 cu. ft.
- Large 4.5 cubic ft capacity
- Deep fill option for more water to wash bulky items
- PowerWash cycle provides extra cleaning action
- Stainless steel wash basket
3. Samsung WA50R5200AW – 5.0 cu. ft.
- Extra-large 5.0 cubic ft drum
- VRT Plus technology for smooth, quiet operation
- Super Speed wash finishes cycles faster
- Steam cycles sanitize bulky bedding
4. Whirlpool WTW8127LC – 4.5 cu. ft.
- AccuWash system senses soil levels for optimal cleaning
- Built-in water faucet for pre-treating stains easily
- Bulky items cycle tailored for bedding
- Advanced vibration control for smooth, quiet operation
5. Electrolux EFLS627UTT – 4.4 cu. ft.
- Adaptive dispense system customizes detergent use
- LuxCare Wash tuned for bulky items like comforters
- TumbleFresh option gently tumbles clean laundry
- Built-in Wi-Fi for smart app monitoring and control
Frequently Asked Questions
What size washer tub do you need for a king-size comforter?
You’ll need a minimum of a 3.5 cubic ft washer, but it’s recommended to size up to at least a 4.5-5 cubic ft tub for the best results when washing a king comforter. The extra space allows the comforter to tumble freely.
Can I wash a king-size comforter in a standard washer?
Technically yes, you can wash a king comforter in a standard 3.5 cubic ft washer. But it will be a very snug fit and make loading difficult. The comforter also may not wash as thoroughly. It’s better to opt for a large or extra-large capacity model.
What happens if you wash a king comforter in a too-small washer?
Washing king-size comforters in a washer that’s too small can lead to several issues:
- The comforter may become jammed, unbalanced, or balled up, leading to uneven cleaning results.
- It will wear out the comforter fabric faster over time due to friction.
- The washer motor will strain against the bulky load, possibly shortening its life.
- Detergent residue or dirt may get trapped in bunched up areas of the comforter.
- Stuffing the comforter tightly into the tub can bend feathers or degrade fill material.
Should I get a top-load or front-load washer for washing king comforters?
In general, a top-loading washer is better for king comforters since they typically have a wider tub opening for easier loading. But you can use a front-loading washer as long as the tub capacity is large enough. Pay attention to the door opening size if opting for a front-loader.
What wash settings should I use for a king-size down comforter?
It’s best to wash king down comforters on a gentle cycle using cool or warm water. Be sure to use a mild detergent and add a fabric softener or mild vinegar during the rinse to help retain fluffiness. Air or tumble dry on low.
Can I wash and dry a king-size comforter at a laundromat?
Yes, most coin-operated laundromats offer large capacity washers and dryers designed for washing bulky items like king-size comforters. Just be sure to check the machine tub size before using. Some laundromats also have wider machines with cargo doors to easily load large comforters.
Conclusion
Washing a bulky king-size comforter takes a large washer for the best cleaning results. While you can technically use a standard size 3.5 cubic ft washer, we strongly recommend investing in at least a 4.5-5+ cubic ft washer. The extra tub capacity allows the comforter to tumble freely, preventing wear and tear. Prioritize washers with wide openings, strong spin speeds, steam features, and bedding or bulky item cycles too. With the right sized washer, you’ll keep your king-size comforter fresh and perfectly cleaned.