I’m a cleaning expert – how to wash your comforter without spending money at the dry cleaners

WHEN laundry day comes around, there are trickier items that can benefit from being dry cleaned, but your comforter shouldn’t be one of them.

The chemicals that are used when dry cleaning aren’t good for your comforter, so another solution should be considered.

Luckily, Jessica Ek of the American Cleaning Institute keyed in on everything you need to know about washing your comforter on your own.

This insight will keep your comforter super cozy and ensure that you don’t have to spend money on a pricier dry cleaning trip.

Make sure your washing machine is a good size to contain the comforter

Laundry machines are not one size fits all, so don’t force your comforter into your machine if it clearly won’t go in.

Head over to a laundromat where the washers and dryers are likely big enough to accommodate your blanket.

It’s also essential that you use the right amount of detergent to prevent the blanket from getting destroyed by the liquid.

Spot treat your comforter between washes

Ek stated that small spots can be cleaned up with a dab of mild detergent and some water to avoid doing a full deep clean every time you make a bit of a mess on your sheets.

How to properly wash a down comforter

You want to start by checking the label. Try not to cut it off to ensure you have it for future use.

If you absolutely must for aesthetic reasons or because they’re simply pesky, be sure to place the labels in a specific area for safekeeping to return to on wash day.

Now that you have your washing instructions down, it’s time to pretreat any stains using an enzyme spot remover, being sure to pull the fabric away from the filling so it doesn’t absorb any of the removers.

With your comforter ready to be washed, set the cycle to gentle and select cool for the temperature.

This will make sure the feathers inside remain untampered and your comforter isn’t heat damaged. Use a mild laundry detergent for this step.

After removing your comforter from the washing machine the first round, if you notice any more spots, Ek recommended repeating the steps above to get your comforter looking as good as new.

Now that your comforter is squeaky clean, it’s time for the drying process.

Check your tag to see if your comforter can be placed in a dryer. If so, put it in the dryer with low heat or on fluff.

Tennis or dryer balls can be used to make sure the down is evenly distributed as it drys.

How often to wash a down comforter

If you purchase a comforter cover, you can wash it more frequently than your comforter.

It will take less hassle than washing your comforter, and you will only have to wash the actual comforter just two to four times a year, according to Ek.

Ek also spoke on the longevity of the comforter: “Washing a cover is a lot easier than washing a comforter and can help ensure your comforter lasts longer.”