The Step-By-Step Guide for How to Wash a Down Alternative Comforter
If you’re wondering how to wash a down alternative comforter, you’re in luck because, unlike traditional down comforters, the majority of down alternative comforters are machine washable. However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t specific steps you need to take to extend the life of your comforter.
Down alternative comforters are super cozy, affordable, and easy to care for. Plus, down alternative comforters clean easily and are better for those prone to allergies since, according to the Sleep Foundation, the down alternative material is generally made from materials that resist mold, dust mites, and mildew.
Keep reading for step-by-step directions on washing your down alternative comforter.
Shop down alternative comforters today.
How To Wash a Down Alternative Comforter
According to Good Housekeeping, the best practices for washing your down alternative comforter are:
Step 1: Carefully Read the Label
Most down alternative comforters are machine washable, but it’s always best to be safe and read the instructions specific to the comforter you’re washing.
Step 2: Check for Stains
It’s best to take a few minutes to check the comforter for any possible stains and get them pre-treated before washing. This is important because most stains can be lifted out by pre-treating them before washing.
Step 3: Are You Using the Best Washer?
The washing machine you use will affect how thoroughly your comforter gets cleaned. Good Housekeeping recommends using the largest front-load washer without an agitator to allow the comforter enough room to move around freely. Most comforters are bulky, so washing your comforter alone in a large washer allows it to be thoroughly cleaned without risking any rips in the fabric or water and soap getting stuck in one place for too long.
Step 4: Use a Gentle Laundry Detergent and Set the Machine Properly
You should wash your comforter based on the specific washing instructions printed by the manufacturer. If there are no instructions, the best practice is to wash the comforter in cool or warm water with a gentle laundry detergent. Set the washing machine to the “bulky” setting (if your machine doesn’t have this setting, opt for the gentle wash cycle). Adding an extra rinse cycle is best to ensure that all the detergent residue is washed out.
Step 5: Make Sure It’s Clean Before You Start Drying
Once the cycle is complete, it is best to give the comforter a once-over to check that stains were removed and ensure no detergent is left behind. Good Housekeeping notes that putting a comforter in the dryer before the stains are fully removed may make the stains permanent.
Things To Avoid When Washing Your Down Alternative Comforter
According to the Sleep Foundation, you should avoid the following when washing your down alternative comforter:
-
Fabric softeners: While some may think fabric softeners would only enhance the softness of their comforter, fabric softeners can actually cause damage by causing the insulating fibers to stick together in chunks, which makes the comforter lose some of its insulation properties.
-
Harsh chemicals: Chemicals, such as sulfates, synthetic fragrances, dyes, etc., can cause damage to the filling of a comforter.
-
Bleach: Like other chemicals, chlorine bleach can damage the filling of your comforter, leading to less fullness.
How To Dry a Down Alternative Comforter
Given the bulk of the filling in a comforter, properly drying is vital if you want to avoid mold and mildew. According to the Sleep Foundation and Better Housekeeping, these are the steps you should take when drying your down alternative comforter:
Step 1: Find the Best Drying Method
For those using a machine dryer, it is best to use the largest one you can access to give the comforter lots of room. Place the comforter in the dryer and move it around, ensuring there aren’t a lot of excess areas where it is folded over or bunched up.
Some prefer to line dry their bedding, which is fine, but it’s best to only do this on a warm and sunny day (make sure the comforter is completely dry before bringing it inside).
Step 2: Don’t Overheat the Comforter
The Sleep Foundation notes that a high heat setting can damage the filling of your comforter. Therefore, it is best to use the lowest heat setting. Keep in mind that the drying process takes longer for most comforters than for sleeker bedding, especially when the required lower heat setting is used. You will likely have to run the dryer multiple times to get the blanket fully dry.
Step 3: Shake the Comforter Between Cycles
Between drying cycles, it is best to go and shake the comforter around to loosen any bunches and to check for spots that may still be damp.
Bonus Tips for Drying
Don’t use dryer sheets as they contain fabric softeners that may damage your comforters’ filing. However, consider adding some wool dryer balls to absorb excess moisture, reduce drying time, and naturally soften the fabric.
Tips and Tricks for Comforters
Stain Removal
In general, most stain remover gels you get at the store will work to remove stains. If you don’t have a stain remover on hand after a sudden spill (it happens to the best of us), use an enzyme-based laundry detergent added directly to the stain and scrub with a soft-bristled brush. Then, let the detergent sit for a few minutes and put the comforter directly into the wash.
How To Store Your Down Alternative Comforter
Between seasons, you can store your comforter in a breathable storage bag or simply fold it neatly to be stored in a linen closet. If you’re looking for a comforter suitable for all seasons, consider the lightweight Vilano down alternative comforter. This way, you don’t have to store a bulky comforter and can just add an oversized blanket or throw blanket for the cooler winter months.
How Often Should You Wash Your Down Alternative Comforter?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, while bed sheets should be washed at least every two weeks (more if you have allergies or sleep with a pet), your comforter can go as long as six weeks in between washes.
When Is It Time To Replace a Down Alternative Comforter?
When properly cared for, a down alternative comforter should last for years — especially for those who may only use them in the winter. However, since down alternatives use synthetic materials, they will likely not last as long as traditional down comforters. If your comforter is collecting snags, tears, or loose stitching, it’s time for a new one.
Properly washing and drying a down alternative comforter may take a little bit of time, but it’s a pretty easy process once you get the hang of it. At Southshore Fine Linens, you can find down alternative comforter sets in a variety of colors, designs, and prints that are reversible. Investing in an affordable comforter and learning to wash it can save money and keep you cozy.
If you want to decrease how often you need to wash your comforter, consider a duvet cover.
Sources:
Fountain, L. (2023). Down vs. Down Alternative Comforters.
Fountain, L. (2023). How to Wash a Down Comforter.
How Often You Should Wash Your Sheets (and the Gross Reasons Why). (2023).
Ueda, J. (2022). How to Wash a Comforter, According to Cleaning Experts.
