Modern comforters have become style statement and shows of the fashion sense of the user. But sometimes question arises how to take care of these giant comforters and how to wash them. There are 3 steps to caring for a comforter; maintenance, cleaning and storage.
Continuous Maintenance
Poor maintenance may result in a build up of dust mites and allergens in your comforter. Continuous maintenance keeps the comforter clean, healthy and fresh. These steps should be taken to keep it well maintained:
Duvet or a comforter cover
Using a duvet cover keeps the comforter clean. Compared to the comforter, it is easier to remove and wash. In fact, if duvet cover is used, the comforter would need washing only once every 2 to 3 years. It is better to buy colorful duvet covers and keep updating them according to one’s tastes, rather than buying a colorful comforter and avoiding the duvet cover. Also, with a duvet cover, there is no need for a top sheet, blanket or bedspread.
Fluffing
At least 2-3 times a week the comforter must be fluffed to revitalize it. Shaking the comforter out, when making the bed will fluff it out. By providing a steady flow of air, the down will continue to loft.
Airing
The comforter should be aired out occasionally. This helps maintain its loft and keeps it fresh and clean. If airing the comforter outside is not possible, it may be put in the dryer on a fluff cycle.
Cleaning
Small stains on the comforter can be spot cleaned and dried with a hand-held hair dryer. Full scale cleaning at home or at a cleaners’ should be undertaken every 2-3 years or earlier if it is absolutely necessary. To keep the warranty intact the manufacturer’s instructions must be followed.
Dry Cleaning
It is an easy option; however, it leaves chemical residues behind and is quite expensive.
Machine wash
Almost all of our comforters are machine washable. Professional laundering is the best option, albeit it is expensive.
If it has to be home washed, a comforter should be washed in warm water using a small amount of mild liquid soap or special washing liquids available in the market. It’s better to use a front loading commercial size machine and a gentle cycle. Bleach or fabric softener should not be used since they leave a sticky residue behind that causes clumping. After the wash cycle, the comforter must be run through 2 rinse cycles so that all soap residues are removed.
Drying
The comforter should not be dried on a line since line drying does not break clumps. The down will remain in wet clumps and could develop mildew. It should be tumble dried on a low heat setting. Some tennis balls or clean canvas tennis shoes may be put in the chamber to help break up large clumps of down while drying. Drying may take several hours depending on the size and weight of the comforter. It should be completely dry because trapped moisture may cause mildew and clumping of down.
Storage
Before storing the comforter, one must ensure that it is clean. The duvet cover must be removed and the comforter should be put in breathable, cotton bag or sheet. It should not be put in a crammed space since it may cause the feathers to crush. Plastic covering should not be used since the odor may be transferred to the comforter or mildew could form. It should be stored in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area. It is also a good idea to air out the comforter every 6 months even if it is not being used.
Following these steps will provide a long life to the comforter.
Posted in Tips and Care