Can you wash a comforter in a washing machine? As a comforter regular user at home, you may have asked yourself this question before. The answer is yes, you can wash a comforter in a washing machine, but it depends on the type of comforter you have.
Some comforters are labeled as dry-clean only, and these should not be washed in a washing machine. However, if your comforter is machine-washable, you can save money and time by washing it at home.
In this article, we’ll cover the different types of comforters, the best practices for washing them, and some helpful tips to ensure your comforter comes out looking and feeling as good as new.
So, read on to learn more if you’ve spilled something on your comforter or it’s just due for a wash!
Key Takeaways
- You can wash a comforter in a washing machine if it is machine-washable.
- Use a mild laundry detergent and choose a gentle or bulky cycle with cool or warm water.
- Dry your comforter thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Table of Contents
Can You Wash A Comforter In A Washing Machine?
If you’re wondering whether you can wash a comforter in a washing machine, the answer is usually yes. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before you toss your comforter into the machine.
Firstly, you need to check the care label on your comforter. The label will tell you whether your comforter is machine-washable and what settings and detergents you should use. if the label says “dry clean only,” you should avoid washing your comforter in a machine and take it to a professional cleaner instead.
Assuming your comforter is machine-washable, the next thing you need to consider is the size of your comforter and your washing machine. Most washing machines can handle comforters up to a certain size, but if your comforter is too big, you may need to take it to a laundromat or use a commercial-sized machine.
When washing your comforter, it’s important to use a gentle laundry detergent. Woolite is an ideal choice, but any mild detergent will do. Avoid using too much detergent, which can leave detergent residue and suds on your comforter.
To prevent your comforter from clumping or losing shape, use an extra rinse cycle and set the water temperature to cold or warm. If your comforter is made of delicate materials, such as silk or wool, you should use a delicate or hand-wash cycle instead.
Finally, to help fluff up your comforter and remove any lingering odors, you can add six wool dryer balls or tennis balls to the dryer. Alternatively, add half a cup of distilled white vinegar to the rinse cycle to soften the fibers and remove any detergent residue.
Related: Can you wash a duvet insert?
How To Wash A Comforter In A Washing Machine
If you’re wondering whether you can wash your comforter in a washing machine, you can! Washing your comforter regularly will help keep it clean and fresh, and it’s easy to do with the right approach.
- Step 1: Check your comforter for rips, tears, holes, or loose threads. If you find any damage, you should repair it before washing to prevent further tearing or leaking of the filling.
- Step 2: Pre-treat any stains on your comforter with a stain remover or a mild detergent. You can also soak your comforter in cold water for 30 minutes to loosen up dirt or grime.
- Step 3: To wash your comforter, ensure it fits in the washing machine without being tightly packed. If it’s too large, consider a laundromat or professional cleaner.
- Step 4: To wash your comforter, use a gentle or delicate cycle with mild detergent and cool or warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softener.
- Step 5: Start the washing cycle and let the machine work to wash your comforter. The cycle may take up to an hour based on your comforter size and weight. Add an extra rinse cycle to remove all detergent residue and suds. Use a cup of distilled white vinegar to help remove odors and bacteria, if needed.
Following these steps, you can safely and effectively wash your comforter in a washing machine. Just be sure to check the care tag and follow any specific instructions for your comforter’s materials and filling.
Related: Can you wash a crochet blanket?
Can I machine wash a king-size comforter?
Generally speaking, most king-size comforters can be washed in a washing machine if they fit inside the machine and the machine has enough capacity to handle the load. However, some king-size comforters, such as silk, wool, down, or feather-filled comforters, may require special care or professional cleaning.
When washed in a washing machine, these comforters are more delicate and prone to shrinking, clumping, or losing shape.
Therefore, before you wash your king-size comforter in a washing machine, you should always check the label for the manufacturer’s recommendations. The label will tell you whether your comforter is machine-washable and what settings and detergents you should use.
A king-size comforter typically measures 102 inches by 86 to 88 inches. However, this may vary depending on the brand and style of your comforter. A king-size duvet cover may measure 230 x 220 cm / 90 x 86 inches3. You should measure your comforter before washing it to ensure it fits in your machine.
If your comforter is machine-washable and fits in your washing machine, you can follow these steps to wash it properly and safely in a washing machine:
- Step 1: Check your comforter for rips, tears, holes, or loose threads. If you find any damage, you should repair it before washing to prevent further tearing or leaking of the filling.
- Step 2: Pre-treat any stains on your comforter with a stain remover or a mild detergent. You can also soak your comforter in cold water for 30 minutes to loosen up dirt or grime.
- Step 3: Load your comforter into the washing machine. Make sure it is evenly distributed and not too tightly packed. You may need to fold or roll your comforter to fit it inside the machine. If your comforter is too large or bulky for your machine, you may need to take it to a laundromat or a professional cleaner instead.
- Step 4: Select the appropriate settings for your comforter. Unless the label specifically instructs otherwise, you should use a gentle or delicate cycle with cool or warm water. You should also use a mild detergent suitable for your comforter’s material and filling. Avoid using bleach, fabric softener, or harsh chemicals that can damage your comforter or cause allergic reactions.
- Step 5: Start the washing cycle and let the machine work. Depending on the size and weight of your comforter, the cycle may take up to an hour or more to complete.
Can I Put A Comforter In The Air Dryer?
After washing your comforter in a washing machine, you need to dry it thoroughly before using it again or storing it. Otherwise, your comforter may develop mold, mildew, or unpleasant odors.
The best way to dry your comforter is to air dry it outside on a clothesline or a drying rack. This way, your comforter can get enough ventilation and sunlight to dry naturally and evenly. You should also fluff your comforter occasionally to prevent clumping and restore its loft.
However, air drying your comforter may only be possible or convenient for some. If you live in an apartment or a humid climate, you may need more space or time to air dry your comforter. In that case, you can also use an air dryer to speed up the drying process.
But can you put a comforter in the air dryer? The answer is it depends. Not all comforters are suitable for air drying. Some materials or fillings may shrink, melt, or catch fire when exposed to high heat. Therefore, you should always check the label for the manufacturer’s instructions before putting your comforter in an air dryer.
If your comforter is air dryer-safe, here are some tips you can follow to dry it properly and safely in an air dryer:
- Step 1: Make sure your comforter is not too wet or dripping. You can use the spin cycle of your washing machine to remove excess water from your comforter.
- Step 2: Load your comforter into the air dryer. Make sure it is not too crowded or twisted. You may need to fold or roll your comforter to fit it inside the air dryer. If your comforter is too large or bulky for your air dryer, you may need to take it to a laundromat or a professional cleaner instead.
- Step 3: To dry your comforter, use low or medium heat and a gentle or fluff cycle. Add dryer or tennis balls to the dryer to fluff it up and prevent clumping. Avoid using dryer sheets or fabric softeners that can leave residue or cause allergies.
- Step 4: Start the drying cycle and check your comforter periodically. Depending on the size and weight of your comforter, the cycle may take up to an hour or more to complete. You should also fluff your comforter occasionally to prevent clumping and restore its loft.
When your comforter is dry, please remove it from the air dryer and shake it gently to fluff it up. You can also use a lint roller or a vacuum cleaner to remove any lint or dust from your comforter.
How Often Should You Wash A Comforter?
The frequency of washing your comforter depends on several factors, such as how often you use it, how dirty it gets, and how sensitive you are to allergens. Generally speaking, wash your comforter at least once every three months to keep it clean and fresh.
However, you may need to wash it more often if you use your comforter without a duvet cover or a top sheet, sleep with pets or children on your bed, spill food or drinks on your comforter, sweat a lot at night, or have allergies or asthma.
To extend the time between washes, you can also take some preventive measures, such as:
- Use a duvet cover or a top sheet to protect your comforter from dirt and stains,
- Change your bedding regularly, and wash it separately from your comforter.
- Vacuuming or shaking your comforter weekly to remove dust and debris.
- Spot-cleaning any stains on your comforter as soon as possible.
- Store your comforter in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place when unused.
Should You Wash A New Comforter?
If you have recently purchased a new comforter, you may wonder if you should wash it before using it for the first time. The answer to this question depends on the type and quality of your new comforter.
Some new comforters may have been pre-washed or treated with chemicals to make them softer, fluffier, or more resistant to wrinkles and stains. Unless you have allergies or sensitivities to certain fabrics or substances, these comforters may only need to be washed after use.
However, washing your new comforter before using it for the first time is recommended, especially if it has been stored in warehouses or shipped in plastic bags for a long time.
These comforters may have accumulated dust, dirt, germs, or odors during transit or storage. They may also have loose threads, excess dye, or excess filling that can cause irritation or discomfort.
By washing your new comforter before use, you can remove any impurities or residues and make it more comfortable and hygienic. It also helps eliminate the fragrance of being packaged for a long time and adds a pleasant smell to your bedding.
How To Treat Stains On A Comforter
Stains are inevitable in using a comforter, but that doesn’t mean you must live with them forever. With the right steps, you can treat stains on your comforter and restore its appearance and quality.
If you spill something on your comforter, here are some steps you can take:
- Step 1: The first step is to act quickly. Blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Do not rub or scrub the stain, which can spread it further or damage the fabric.
- Step 2: Apply a laundry stain remover or a mild detergent to the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes. Depending on the type of stain, you can also use some natural remedies like vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, or hydrogen peroxide. Be sure to check the care label of your comforter to ensure the product you are using is safe for the fabric.
- Step 3: After letting the stain remover sit, rinse the stained area with cold water and check if the stain is gone. If not, repeat the previous step until the stain is removed.
- Step 4: If the stain is particularly stubborn or has been left untreated for a long time, you may need to spot-clean the area with a soft-bristled nylon scrub brush. Be gentle and avoid using too much pressure to prevent damaging the fabric.
- Step 5: You can wash your comforter in a washing machine once the stain is gone. Follow the care label instructions and use a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid using too much detergent or fabric softener, as this can cause buildup and damage to the fabric.
Sometimes, stains can lead to mold or mildew growth on your comforter. If you notice any signs of mold or mildew, it’s important to address the issue immediately. You can use a mold and mildew remover or treat your comforter to a professional cleaner.
Blood stains can be particularly difficult to remove from a comforter. If you have a blood stain, try mixing cold water and salt or hydrogen peroxide to break down the stain. Be sure to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric.
Happy washing!
Frequently Asked Question
How do you wash a large comforter in the washing machine?
Check the label for instructions to wash your comforter, pre-treat any stains, load it into a large enough washing machine, and use a gentle cycle with mild detergent and cool or warm water. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener.
Can I wash the comforter in a 7kg washing machine?
Whether you can wash a comforter in a 7kg washing machine depends on the size and material of your comforter. A 7kg washing machine can typically handle a load of 7kg of dry weight, equivalent to about 35 shirts or a double duvet. However, some comforters may be heavier or bulkier than others, especially when wet.
Can I wash a queen-size comforter in my washer?
To wash a queen-size comforter, use a large capacity washer of at least 3.5 cubic feet and avoid using a washer with an agitator.
Can you wash the comforter in the washing machine top loader?
To wash a comforter in a top-loader, check the care label, pre-treat stains, use a large capacity washer without an agitator, wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent and add clean tennis balls, then dry on low heat or hang until fully dry.
Why is my comforter stiff after washing?
Your comforter may become stiff after washing due to using too much or too little detergent, washing with hard water, hand-washing the comforter, or drying the comforter for too long or on high heat.
To prevent or fix these problems, follow the care label instructions, add white vinegar or baking soda to the wash cycle, use a water filter or softener, fluff the comforter before and after washing, and dry it on low heat with clean tennis balls.
