How to Wash a Comforter: Tips for Fresh, Clean Bedding

A comforter is more than just a blanket; it’s typically a thick, quilted layer designed to add warmth and a touch of softness to your bed. Typically filled with down, feathers, or soft synthetic fibers, it comes ready to use, and helps enhance your bedding with both comfort and style.

Along with its cozy feel, a comforter can contribute to creating a relaxing bedroom environment. Its warmth, weight, and visual appeal can help make your space feel more inviting, giving your bed a complete and comfortable look at the end of the day.

Over time, even the best comforter gathers dust, sweat, and body oils, which is why it’s helpful to know how to clean or properly wash a bed comforter. Regular washing can help reduce buildup and keep your comforter feeling fresh.

No need to stress, Lysol^® Canada is here to help make the process straightforward. Read on to learn simple steps for cleaning a comforter safely and effectively so you can maintain bedding that feels clean, comfortable, and inviting.

How Often Should a Comforter Be Washed?

A comforter is a quiet companion on your bed, gathering dust, body oils, and everyday buildup over time. Even if it appears clean, it often needs more than just surface-level care to stay in good condition.

Many people wash their comforter two to four times a year, depending on their routines and preferences. If you have pets, tend to sweat, or experience sensitivities, you may find that more frequent cleaning helps keep it feeling fresher.

How to Wash Comforter in Washer: Step-by-Step Instructions

The steps are as follows:

Step 1: Remove the duvet cover

Since the duvet cover sits closest to your skin, it generally needs more frequent washing than the comforter itself. Start by removing it and washing it separately according to its care instructions. This helps keep both the cover and the comforter feeling fresher when you put everything back together.

Step 2: Read the care label

Before washing your comforter, check the care label. Materials like down, down alternative, wool, cotton, and silk all have different care requirements.

Down comforters often need a gentle cycle and mild detergent, while many synthetic or cotton-filled comforters can be machine washed more easily. Following these fabric-specific instructions can help you care for your comforter properly and maintain its overall feel and quality.

Step 3: Spot clean and repair if needed

Before placing your comforter in the washer, give it a quick check for stains, spills, or areas that look worn. Spot cleaning can help address visible marks and may reduce the need for frequent full washes.

To spot clean, gently shift the filling away from the stained area, lightly dampen the fabric, and apply a mild detergent. Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot or brush the area until the stain begins to lift. Rinse lightly and blot dry.

Once the stain is treated, look for any loose stitching or small tears. Making minor repairs beforehand can help protect the comforter during the wash cycle.

Step 4: Choose cycle settings, temperature, and detergents

When it’s time to wash, choose settings that provide a gentle, thorough clean. Always refer to the care label for guidance. Many comforters do well on a bulky, bedding, or delicate cycle, and adding an extra rinse can help remove residual detergent and debris.

Cold or warm water is often recommended, as hot water may affect certain fillings, causing clumping or changes in texture.

Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent formulated for delicate fabrics. If you want added protection, you can include Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant - Crisp Linen in your routine.

This fabric-safe formula contains 0% bleach and works even in cold water to kill 99.99% of viruses and bacteria that detergents may leave behind* keeping your fabrics hygienically safe.

5. Air-dry comforter

To finish the washing process, air-drying your comforter is a gentle way to help maintain its shape and loft. Lay it flat on a clean surface or drape it evenly over a large drying rack so air can circulate through the fabric and filling.

Avoid hanging it from one end, as the weight of moisture could stretch or distort the fabric. This method allows the comforter to dry evenly while minimizing clumping and damage, keeping it soft and ready for use.

^*vs detergent alone; Always read and follow the label.

FAQs

Should you choose a gentle cycle or a heavy-duty wash for the comforter?

Use a bulky or bedding cycle if your comforter is larger or needs more water and gentle agitation. For lightweight, fragile, or delicate materials, a gentle or delicate cycle is often better to reduce stress on the fabric. Always check the care label for guidance.

Can comforters be air-dried outdoors, and will the sun affect the fabric or colour?

Air-drying outdoors can help your comforter feel fresher and may offer natural antimicrobial benefits. To protect colors and fabric strength, it’s best to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area rather than in direct sunlight.

What temperature setting should you use when washing a comforter?

Cold or warm water is usually recommended to help prevent shrinkage or changes to the filling. Avoid hot water unless the care label specifically allows it, and always follow the care label for the most accurate instructions for your comforter’s material.

What precautions should you take when washing a comforter with metallic threads or embroidery?

Comforters with metallic threads or embroidery need extra care to avoid snagging, fading, or tearing. Hand washing is generally the safest approach, but if using a washing machine, select gentle settings and take steps to protect delicate details.