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Down comforters can be washed at home or in a laundromat, but if not washed properly, the down can be damaged. Therefore, it is important to follow the correct procedures for machine washing and hand washing, and to pay attention to the choice of detergent and water temperature.
This article explains how to wash a down comforter, divided into "machine washing" and "hand washing." We also explain tips and frequency for drying down comforters, so please refer to it.
Things to check before washing a down comforter
To make your down comforter last longer, you need to check a few things before washing it. Here, we will explain in detail what points you should pay attention to.
Weather
Depending on the season, it can take up to 3 days to completely dry a washed down comforter. Therefore, it is recommended to check the weather forecast for several days in advance before planning to wash it. Be sure to choose a period with low humidity and continuous clear, dry days.
This prevents the down from remaining damp for long periods, reducing the risk of mold and odors. In addition, ensuring sufficient drying time helps maintain the fluffiness of the down and extends the lifespan of the comforter.
However, direct sunlight can cause the inside of the comforter to become too hot and damage the down, so drying in the shade is recommended.
Washing instructions symbol
When washing, always check the washing instructions symbol. The symbol contains precautions, but it is especially important to observe the maximum liquid temperature (water temperature during washing).
Note that the washing instructions symbols were changed in 2016, so detailed precautions may be included. Symbols from before 2016 show a washing machine, while those after show a tub.
If you check the label and there is an "X" on the tub symbol, it means that you cannot wash it at home, so please consult a professional cleaning service. By correctly understanding and following the washing instructions symbols, you can properly care for your down comforter and keep it clean for a long time.
Presence of quilting
If a down comforter without quilting is washed, the down inside is likely to shift, which can lead to a significant loss of the comforter's shape.
Quilting is a technique of layering fabrics and creating grids, similar to a down jacket. In down comforters, it is done to prevent the filling from shifting and to maintain the shape. If the down shifts, the comforter's insulation and comfort will decrease, and it will be difficult to restore it to its original state.
Therefore, when washing a down comforter without quilting, it is necessary to wash it gently and evenly, and to handle it carefully during dehydration to minimize the shifting of the down. If it is quilted, it is recommended to send it to a dry cleaner if possible.
Washing machine cycle
If using a washing machine, select the "bulky item cycle" or "comforter washing cycle." If there is no bulky item cycle, choose a delicate cycle such as "dry cycle" or "blanket cycle."
Also, it is important to always read the washing machine's instruction manual before use to confirm if your down comforter can be washed. The manual contains details on each cycle, recommended types of laundry, and precautions.
In addition, the size of the washing machine required varies depending on the size of the comforter, so you need to check in advance whether your home washing machine can handle it. Forcing a comforter into the washing machine can lead to washing machine failure, so if it does not fit in the washing machine due to its shape or model, you should hand wash it or wash it at a large coin laundry.
The correct way to wash a down comforter in a washing machine
Here, we will introduce how to clean a down comforter using a washing machine. Let's look at each step in order.
- Remove noticeable dirt
- Put in a laundry net
- Select a cycle
- Wash in the washing machine
- Dry
1: Remove noticeable dirt
First, gently brush off any dust on the surface of the down comforter. If there are noticeable stains, such as sweat stains, dilute a neutral detergent for delicate clothing with water and apply it to the stained area. The amount of detergent to use is indicated on the back of the bottle, so please check before using.
2: Put in a laundry net
When putting it in the washing machine, fold the comforter lengthwise into thirds and roll it up carefully from one end. Rolling it into a long, narrow shape prevents the down from shifting during washing.
Finally, putting the rolled-up comforter in a laundry net prevents the comforter from getting damaged and keeps it from moving around in the washing machine. Whether you use a net or not will affect the finished result, so be sure to put it in a laundry net.
3: Select a cycle
When washing a down comforter, it is important to select a cycle appropriate for the washing machine you are using. If there is no bulky item cycle or blanket cycle, the dry cycle is also acceptable.
4: Wash in the washing machine
If using a top-loading washing machine, fill the tub with water, then pause it, place the down comforter in, and press it down 5-6 times with both hands to allow it to fully absorb water.
On the other hand, when using a front-loading washing machine, there is no need to soak it in water. The washing effect is achieved by placing the comforter in a way that suits the characteristics of the washing machine. In both cases, do not leave the comforter in the washing machine after washing; remove it immediately.
5: Dry
When drying a down comforter, the key is to dry it in the shade. If it is not completely dry when you take it in, use a dryer to dry it. We will explain tips for drying in more detail later.
The correct way to hand wash a down comforter
Next, we will introduce how to hand wash a down comforter at home. The main difference is using a bathtub. It is less damaging to the down than using a washing machine, but it takes more effort.
- Fill the bathtub with water
- Add detergent
- Press wash
- Change water and rinse
- Dry
1: Fill the bathtub with water
When hand-washing a down comforter, a household bathtub is ideal. Fill it with enough water to completely submerge the comforter.
2: Add detergent
Once the tub is filled with water, dissolve about one capful of neutral detergent in the water. For detergent, we recommend a special type gentle on down or a neutral detergent for delicate clothing.
Observe the water temperature indicated on the down comforter's washing instructions label. This will minimize damage to the down and fabric while removing dirt.
Also, do not use fabric softener when washing down comforters. This is because the feathers of waterfowl are naturally water-resistant but sensitive to oil. The oil contained in fabric softener can adhere to the down, potentially compromising its insulation and elasticity.
If you wish to add fragrance, it is better to use fabric softener on bedding such as sheets or blankets, rather than on the down comforter itself.
3: Press wash
Spread out the comforter and gently press wash it with both hands, making sure the detergent is distributed throughout. Be careful not to wash it vigorously, as this can damage the fabric.
4: Change water and rinse
After hand-washing the down comforter, move on to the rinsing process. Completely change the water in the bathtub and rinse the comforter with clean water.
It is important to repeat this process until all the suds are gone. If detergent remains, the comforter may become stiff after drying or the down may be damaged.
5: Dry
Once rinsed, excess water needs to be removed from the comforter. To do this, hang the down comforter over the edge of a bathtub or container and allow it to drip-dry for about 30 minutes.
At this time, avoid wringing out the comforter vigorously; instead, let the water drain naturally. This process protects the down and shortens the subsequent drying time.
Tips for drying a down comforter
To efficiently dry a down comforter, it is effective to hang it over two clotheslines.However, sun drying can damage the comforter, so it is important to dry it in the shade in a well-ventilated area.
Once hung on the clothesline, reshape the entire comforter. A particularly important point is to gently loosen any clumped down with both hands and lightly shake the comforter by holding its ends.
This allows the down to spread evenly, allowing air to circulate and making it easier to dry. Furthermore, by fluffing the down several times during the drying process, the comforter will expand and become plump.
Frequency of washing down comforters
Down comforters generally only need to be washed once every 5 to 7 years. Frequent washing can reduce the loft of the down and impair its thermal insulation properties.
Down comforter covers are effective for preventing dirt, and regularly washing the cover helps maintain cleanliness. For everyday care of down comforters, simply spreading them out in a well-ventilated area is sufficient.
If drying outdoors, dry it in the shade with the cover on to protect the fabric from direct sunlight. If you don't have space to dry it outdoors, using a dryer is recommended. This also helps with dust mite control.
Also, when storing, be careful not to apply pressure, and avoid stuffing it into a closet or placing heavy objects on top. Careful maintenance prevents damage to the down and maintains its quality and comfort for a long time.
Brain Sleep Comforters (Duvets) that can be easily washed in a washing machine
For those who find purchasing a down comforter difficult to handle, Brain Sleep offers products that are easier to wash than down comforters.
Wash your down comforter correctly to achieve a comfortable sleep
When washing your down comforter yourself, it is important to know a few things, such as "use plenty of water" and "dry in the shade on a sunny day."
Washing frequency of "1-2 times every 5-7 years" is sufficient. However, many people may be concerned, "Is it really okay not to wash it?" given that down comforters tend to collect dust and mites.
For those concerned, Brain Sleep offers easy-to-wash comforters. If you want to achieve a comfortable sleep with a clean comforter, please consider trying one.
