How to Wash a Down Alternative Comforter
A down alternative comforter is a comfortable covering for both winter and summer nights. Down alternative comforters are made from choice bird feathers. Their size and bulk makes them particularly difficult to wash. Simply tossing them into a typical home washing machine could damage both the down comforter and the washing machine, so special care and attention is needed to effectively wash a down alternative comforter. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Large washing machine 1/2 cup of Dawn liquid dish soap Large dryer Three clean tennis balls
Instructions
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Check the manufacturer's washing instructions on the tag of the comforter. This will help you spot any particular troubles that you may encounter in the washing process.
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Use cold water, and set the washer to a large load and the gentle cycle to prevent damage to the comforter. Add a 1/2 cup of Dawn liquid dish soap to the water. Don't use normal detergent as it may leave soap marks and not clean the feathers as well as liquid dish soap will. Allow the washing cycle to complete, don't stop the wash short, because the spin cycle will take a lot of the excess water out of the comforter.
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Place the comforter in a large tumble dryer, and set it to medium heat to complete the drying process. Do not set it to high heat, as you may end up burning the comforter. Be patient in the process.
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Add three clean tennis balls to help fluff up the comforter while it is still being tumble dried. They are firm enough to withstand the abuse and fluff up the down, but are soft enough to not cause damage to the machine or the comforter.
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Tips & Warnings
Once the comforter is dry, air out the comforter under the sun for half a day. This should help prevent any moisture from encouraging mold and mildew growth inside the comforter.
