How to Launder a Feather Mattress

Launder your feather bed gently to avoid damaging it and releasing its feathers.

Feather beds go on top of a mattress and provide softness, luxury and comfort. Though feather mattresses are dry-clean only for a reason, you can launder them at home if you're careful. Once a feather mattress is clean, you can put it on your bed without fear of allergies or dirt. Keeping your bed clean is one way to ensure a good night of sleep every night -- especially since you'll be resting nestled in soft, supportive feathers.

Instructions

1. Remove the cover from the feather bed. Fluff the feather bed to ensure that there are no clumped mounds of feathers, which may make it harder for it to dry.

2. Put the feather bed into a high-capacity, front loading machine.

3. Add a mild laundry detergent to the machine. Allow it to cycle.

4. Add 1/4 cup of vinegar into the rinse cycle to help remove detergent residue from the feather bed.

5. Remove the feather bed from the washer and mold it back into shape.

6. Place the feather bed in a high-capacity dryer and tumble dry on low. Include a dryer ball to help beat out feather clumps. Remove the feather bed every 20 minutes and manipulate it back into shape. Break up any clumps of feathers that might be forming. Continue until it feels completely dry.

7. Hang the feather bed someplace warm where it will get fresh air and sunshine. After 24 hours, it should be ready to be shaped back into its original shape and placed back on the bed.

Tips & Warnings

• Only wash your feather bed when absolutely necessary. Most of the time, laundering the cover should be adequate.

References

• Pacific Coast Feather Co.: Care Instructions
• Back Designs: How to Clean a Pillow or Mattress Pad
• Plumeria Bay: Down Comforter and Pillow Care