In this step-by-step guide, we will explain how to store a comforter, thus protecting your investment and ensuring cozy comfort for years to come.

Cleaning

Before storing your comforter, you must make sure that it is completely clean and 100% dry. If you store a comforter with lingering body oils, sweat, or dirt, it can lead to permanent stains and give rise to mold and mildew growth.

Hence, you must follow the care instructions on the care label to see if your bedding needs professional laundering by the dry cleaner or can be cleaned in a washing machine at home. If you plan on washing your down duvet insert at home, be patient with the drying process. The thumb rule is that the down bedding must be bone-dry before storing, as even a hint of dampness can cause mustiness.

Comforter Storage Solutions

The golden rule of down comforter storage is that the natural fibers of down need to breathe.

Use a Breathable Bag

The best way to store your goose down comforter is by keeping it in a large linen or cotton storage bag. These fabric bags promote air circulation, preventing the humidity level from rising, thus reducing moisture buildup and keeping the down fresh. You can even keep the comforter in the storage bag it originally came in. If you don’t have any of this, you can use a large, clean cotton sheet to wrap around the comforter as an alternative.

Avoid These Packing Methods

Refrain from storing it in a plastic bag, plastic storage container, vacuum-sealed bag, or vacuum storage bags. Plastic tends to trap moisture and humidity, which can cause the down to turn yellow and develop a musty odor. The compression bags or vacuum bags can crush the delicate down feather clusters, permanently damaging their ability to loft and insulate.

The Folding Approach

You should fold the comforter insert in a way that minimizes the fill crushing and reduces tight, sharp creases.

1. Lay the comforter flat on your bed.
2. Gently fold it in thirds lengthwise, like you would a letter.
3. Loosely fold it again in thirds or in half, depending on the size of your storage bag.

The key is to keep the folds as loose and airy as possible to protect the down clusters.

Storage Space

The ideal storage environment should be cool, dry, and dark with good air circulation.

What To Do

A good storage tip is to keep your bedroom essentials in the linen closet, the top shelf of a bedroom closet, or inside a clean, dry cedar chest. You can throw in some cedar chips to protect your bed linen from pests.

What NOT To Do

Avoid keeping them in basement storage, attics, or garages, as temperature and humidity fluctuate dramatically in these places. Keep it out of direct sunlight, which can cause the fabric to turn yellow over time. Lastly, don’t stack heavy items on top of your stored comforter, as the weight can compress the down.

How to Revive Your Comforter After Storage

Shake it Up

After taking your down comforter out of its storage boxes, give it several vigorous shakes to help redistribute the fill.

Fresh Air

Let it air out for a few hours to restore its freshness. Simply hang it outside on a dry, breezy day.

Dryer Fluff

To achieve an extra boost of loft, toss it in the dryer on a no-heat, air fluff cycle for 15-20 minutes. Add a few wool dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help break the down clusters and bring back the cloud-like fluff.

Final Words

By taking a few extra minutes to store your down comforter properly, you are not just putting away a blanket, but preserving a cherished source of comfort. When in use, try using a duvet cover to protect your comforter with loops from accidental spills or dirt to prolong its use during the season. By following these steps, you can ensure that your comforter will be just as luxurious and inviting when you need it.