Your bed is your sanctuary – the place where you can escape the world to rest and recharge. And few things add luxury to the experience, like a lofty down comforter.
Once you invest in a down-filled comforter or duvet, you want to make sure it lasts as long as possible. With proper care and maintenance, it will keep you warm and cozy for years. Here are the best ways to clean, maintain, and store your fluffy comforter.
How to Clean a Down Comforter
People often ask: Can you wash down comforters in a washing machine, or should you dry-clean them? Because down comforters require special care, we recommend dry cleaning. It’s the best way to protect the quality of your comforter and ensure that the filling stays intact. Gentle, organic dry cleaning is the preferred method; it protects the fabric and down fill from harmful chemicals and toxins. An organic dry cleaner uses natural laundry detergent or a mild detergent to thoroughly clean comforters without damaging them.
How Often Should You Clean a Down Comforter
One of the benefits of down comforters is that they do not require frequent cleaning. Down comforters do not need to be professionally cleaned more than once or twice a year. Add an extra layer of protection against stains using a duvet cover or comforter cover. Since covers can be easily washed at home, they will keep your comforter fresh between dry cleanings and help extend its life. If the weather is sunny and the humidity is low, it is a worthwhile idea to air your comforter outside from time to time. Additionally, regularly fluff your comforter when you make your bed. Hold it by the sides and shake it gently.
How to Maintain a Down Comforter Between Cleanings
Restore Loft
Down comforters need airflow to maintain their loft. When you make your bed, gently shake or fluff your comforter to help redistribute the down and recover its loft. For added loft, place the comforter in the dryer for a few minutes on a no-heat and air-dry setting. Try this industry secret: Add one or two clean tennis balls or wool dryer balls to the dryer to help prevent knots and reduce wrinkles.
Rejuvenate With Sunlight
Refresh your comforter by exposing it to sunlight, which allows the fabric to breathe. Lay the comforter on a flat surface in direct sunlight for a few hours on each side. Sunlight helps eliminate odors and gives the fabric a crisp feel.
Spot-Treat Stains
Stains are inevitable, so treating them quickly will keep your comforter pristine. Read the care tags before starting any spot treatment. Whenever you spot clean, shake the filling away from the stain first. Next, wet the comforter fabric before using a mild stain-remover, and let it sit for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, pat the stained area of the fabric with a clean, damp cloth until the stain disappears. This process may need to be repeated two or three times, depending on how harsh the stain is. You can also use a clean toothbrush when dealing with tough stains.
Check for Holes or Leaks
Examine both sides of your comforter from top to bottom before giving it to the cleaners. Patch any holes so that the down will not leak out. Repairs can be made easily with a household sewing kit. Gently pinch and lift the fabric enough to avoid stitching any down filling, then use a fine needle and thread to close the opening.
How to Store a Down Comforter
Fold your comforter neatly and store it in a ventilated closet. Ensure both the fabric and fill are clean and dry before storing. Avoid packing it in a plastic bag, which increases the risk of mildew. Instead, use a cotton or cloth bag so the fill can breathe and stay fresh. If possible, make sure that the comforter remains fluffy, not compressed, and avoid wringing, twisting, or pulling it. Covers can be stored separately. When it is time to take out the comforter again, shake it gently to redistribute the down fill.
How Often Should You Replace a Down Comforter
A quality down comforter will last for many years, and proper maintenance will ensure durability. Shake your down comforter every week to maintain its loft, and use a duvet cover to protect it from wear and tear. Despite their strength, down clusters are susceptible to damage if repeatedly crushed, reducing the fluffiness and warmth of your comforter. Therefore, it is a wise idea not to lay or sit on top of your comforter, as this will diminish its fluffiness and warmth. Additionally, rotate your comforter every time you wash the sheets to ensure that your comforter wears evenly. A suitable washing method and proper handling will result in a fluffy, clean comforter that you will be able to rely on for many years to come.
The Best Down Comforter for You
Whether you’re trying a down comforter or duvet insert for the first time or replacing an old one, Puredown’s bedding collection offers everything you need for a great night’s sleep. Our down comforters are made from the finest materials, ensuring a long lifespan. So if you need a king down comforter, a queen down comforter, or a different size, we have the perfect fit for you.
A down comforter is a worthy investment when it comes to ensuring the quality of your bedding, and a night of restful sleep. Remember these easy care tips to help you keep it in top condition.