Caring for a heavy comforter requires some special considerations to keep it clean, fresh, and lasting for years. With the right washing techniques and general care, your favorite cozy comforter will remain soft, fluffy, and comfortable wash after wash.
Supplies You’ll Need
Before washing your heavy comforter, make sure you have the necessary supplies:
- A large capacity washing machine – Standard washers are often too small for king or queen-sized comforters. Find a machine at a laundromat or friend’s house that can handle the size and weight.
- Mild detergent – Steer clear of detergents with brighteners or bleach to avoid damaging the fabric. A mild, fragrance-free detergent is ideal.
- Tennis balls – Adding a package of new tennis balls helps fluff up the comforter during the wash cycle.
- A comforter bag – These oversized mesh bags protect the comforter, help it move freely, and prevent tangling.
Preparing It for The Wash
Before washing, take a few easy prep steps:
- Shake it out thoroughly – Shake the comforter outside to remove dust, pet hair, and debris. This prevents it from collecting inside the washing machine.
- Check the tag – Read the care label to understand the fabric content and follow any special washing instructions.
- Zip it up – Place the comforter inside a protective comforter bag and zip it closed. This keeps the comforter contained.
- Watch the load size – Don’t pack too much bulk into the washing machine drum. The comforter needs room to move freely.
Washing a Heavy Comforter
Follow these steps for washing success:
- Set the washing machine to a gentle/delicate cycle with cool or warm water. Hot water can damage fabrics.
- Use the recommended amount of mild detergent based on load size. Too much can leave behind residue.
- Add the tennis balls before starting the cycle. As the drum spins, they help break up clumps.
- Avoid adding other items to the wash. Washing alone allows the comforter to tumble freely.
- Select a second rinse cycle to remove all traces of detergent. Extended rinsing prevents buildup.
Drying Without Damage
Improper drying can ruin a comforter’s fluffiness. Follow these drying tips:
- Shake out the comforter and redistribute the fill before drying.
- Line dry outside if possible – the fresh air helps the fill recover its loft. Lay flat for even drying.
- When machine drying, use low heat and clean the lint filter frequently to promote air circulation.
- Add a few tennis balls to the dryer to break up any remaining clumps in the fill.
- Stop the dryer early and hang to finish drying if needed to prevent over-drying.
General Care and Maintenance
With regular upkeep, a quality comforter will last for many years:
- Fluff it frequently – Gently shake and rearrange the comforter every few weeks. This maintains even fill distribution.
- Spot clean when needed using an upholstery attachment and mild soap solution. Allow to fully dry.
- Sun it occasionally – Rotating between machine washing and sunning keeps the comforter fresh.
- Use a comforter cover to protect against body oils and spills while preserving the comforter itself.
- Store properly over summer – Clean and air out the comforter before storage to prevent mildew.
FAQs About Washing Comforters
How often should you wash a down comforter?
Wash a down comforter 2-3 times per year or whenever it looks dirty or smells. Frequent washing damages down feathers.
How do you wash a comforter too big for your washer?
Use a laundromat with oversized machines. Alternatively, take it to a dry cleaner for professional cleaning.
What happens if you don’t wash a comforter enough?
Lack of washing allows buildup of body oils, dirt, and dust mites. This can degrade fill power and trigger allergies.
Can you put a comforter in the washing machine?
Yes, most comforters can be machine washed if you use a gentle cycle, mild detergent, and cold or warm water in a large capacity washer. Refer to the care tag.
How do you dry a heavy comforter quickly?
Loading the comforter alone into a large dryer, using low heat, and adding tennis balls lets it dry evenly and quickly. Periodically shake and redistribute fill.
Why does my comforter come out lumpy after washing?
The fill needs redistributing. Shake vigorously and massage lumps before drying. Add tennis balls to the dryer to break up clumps.
Caring For Your Favorite Comforter
A high-quality comforter can become an heirloom with the proper care and washing techniques. By using oversized machines, mild detergents, low heat, and tennis balls for fluffing, you can keep your comforter fresh, clean, and comfortable for many years. Handle with care and your favorite cozy comforter will continue providing warmth, comfort, and sweet dreams for seasons to come.