Care of Down Comforters

Spot-clean your down comforter as needed.

Down comforters add an elegant touch to the bedroom decor while also providing warmth as you rest. This type of comforter can often be costly, making it important to properly care for the comforter in a way that causes no damage or deterioration. The correct cleaning routine will get you years of use from the down comforter while keeping it in an attractive, like new condition.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum cleaner
• Cleaning rag
• Laundry detergent
• Washing machine
• Dryer

Instructions

1. Vacuum the down comforter every few weeks or as needed. Flip over the comforter and vacuum the underside as well. Stay away from any fringe or embroidery as the suction from the vacuum can often cause damage or fraying of these decorations.

2. Spot-clean as needed according to the care instructions on your comforter. Often you can spot-clean with a damp cloth, and typically you can also add a drop of laundry detergent for added cleaning power.

3. Wash the comforter as needed, according to its cleaning instructions. Most down comforters can be washed in a washing machine. To best wash the comforter, the material needs plenty of room to move freely, so if you have a smaller washing machine, take the comforter to a laundromat where you can use an oversized commercial washer.

4. Add a capful of your regular laundry detergent to the washing machine. Use of a liquid detergent works best as a powder detergent often leaves behind flaky residue on the comforter.

5. Set the machine on a large load size and cold water cycle. Allow the wash cycle to complete, and dry as recommended. Instructions typically recommend air drying or tumble drying on a low-heat setting. If using the dryer, remove the comforter and shake every 10 minutes or so, so the down feathers do not overheat.