It’s essential to properly clean your hard-working down bedding before putting it away for summer. Given its bulkiness, you may want to consider taking it to a local laundromat that offers large machines specifically for bulky items. This will avoid potential issues that may arise from trying to fit it into your apartment’s washer.
When washing your down bedding, opt for a mild laundry detergent and use a small amount. After completing the wash cycle, machine dry on low heat with wool dryer balls to restore its fluffiness. For down comforters, periodically removing them from the dryer to shake them out can help ensure even drying.
When it comes to how often you should wash your down bedding, comforters should be washed only as needed, at most twice a year, to avoid stripping the feathers of their natural oils and loft.
To protect your comforter and maintain its cleanliness, use a duvet cover and wash it weekly. For down pillows, washing them in the washing machine every 3 to 6 months is recommended to remove bacteria and dead skin that can cause unpleasant odors.
There are three ways to take extra special care of your down bedding:
Let it Breathe
Don’t overlook the effectiveness of allowing fresh air and sunlight to maintain cleanliness and freshness! You can refresh any bedding item filled with down by airing it out outside, and feel free to repeat this process as often as necessary.
To ensure down bedding stays dry and fresh, hang it outside after washing and drying, even if it appears completely dry. The circulating fresh air will help dry out any trapped clumps of moisture in the feathers.
Target Stains
Don’t feel the need to wash the entire blanket or pillow for a minor stain. Apply a small amount of Dawn dish soap and warm water directly to the stain, then blot it with a clean, damp cloth to eliminate the blemish and any soapy buildup.
Stay Calm
When your down bedding is wet, the natural hues of the feathers will become more visible, and you may notice shades of dark brown inside your comforter or pillow. Don’t panic! Down feathers come in brown or white with black edges, which can resemble mold under certain lighting conditions. However, as your bedding dries, it will revert to its usual appearance.
By following these easy guidelines, you can ensure that your down pillows and comforters remain in excellent condition for many years to come! Learn how to care for your down bedding and read our blog for more apartment living tips!
