These days, especially due to the homebound times, it is likely you are spending more time in bed than usual, so it is time to clean your bedding and comforter. And no with no intentions to shame, but you almost certainly can’t remember the last time you probably did. When we think of a comforter, we most often think of comfort- the soft, fluffy, and plush covers keep us warm and cozy. But did you know that they are also perfect hosts for dust mites and other things that collect over time, increasing the chances of an allergic reaction? Keeping your comforter clean is vital to your health, and, what's more, the lifespan of the blanket itself. While it may seem an unwieldy task at first, rest assured that giving your down or down-alternative comforter a good wash is a very doable task and you can do it right at the comfort of your home. 

Read on to find out ways to clean a comforter

Read the label

Before you throw it within the washing machine, check the care label to determine the manufacturer's instructions to wash a comforter. Some materials, like wool or silk, will be damaged or shrink in the washer, so if the label says ‘dry clean only,’ it’s best to let the professionals handle things. If the label gives you the okay to machine-wash, make certain to follow any specific instructions, like using cold water or hand washing.

It's also worth mentioning that down comforters can be washed, as well. It is a common misconception that down comforters need to be taken to a professional laundry, but- unless the label specifically instructs otherwise- you can wash it on your own. Livpure’s all-weather comforters can be washed in a machine comfortably, so you don't have to worry about running to cleaners again and again. 

Remove stains and repair

Spot-treat any stains before washing. Move the filling from the stained area into a corner and treat it with a cleaning product like diluted Vanish or a combination of sodium hydrogen carbonate and water. You’ll also want to test for any torn seams or loose threads and repair them to prevent further damage within the washer and dryer.

Use a good washing machine

Make sure your comforter fits in the washing machine with room to spare. It is best to clean a comforter on its own, no matter how tempting it is to throw in some more clothes and finish everything in the same cycle. You have to give the blanket the maximum amount of room possible. If the blanket doesn’t have enough space, the filling may become compressed and therefore the thing might not get completely clean. For the case of a good fit, choose an outsized commercial washer at your local laundromat or a big washing machine at your friend’s house, if yours is very small. 

Use good detergent

Use a light or natural detergent, following the instructions on the bottle. Select the gentle or delicate cycle and add rinse if possible. The label on your comforter may recommend a temperature setting. Cold or warm water will protect colors and fabrics, while lukewarm will kill dust mites if you don’t plan on machine drying.

Dry the comforter with laundry balls

Once your duvet has gone through the wash, transfer it to the dryer or start the drying cycle. Add laundry balls for better effect and drying. 

Remove and fluff

Remove the comforter from the dryer every half hour and fluff to redistribute the filling. Return to the dryer and continue the cycle. This can make sure that the comforter dries evenly.

Try  hand-washing 

Comforters are a bit trickier to hand-wash, but if you've got no access to a washer straight away or have a broken one, you'll be able to make it work with a tub. First, assure that your tub doesn’t have any grime hanging around. Scrub it down with an all-purpose cleaner or a bleach alternative. Then, top off the bathtub with cold water and add a gentle detergent. Hand-mix the water to make a soapy solution. Leave the duvet in the soapy mixture for about half-hour before removing it and draining the soapy but dirty water.

Refill the bathtub with clean, cold water so place the comforter back within the water to get rid of the other soap suds hanging around. Then drain the bathtub again and roll the comforter up a pair of times to extract the maximum amount of water possible.

To dry your comforter without a dryer, you’ll have to shake out a small amount to be sure the feathers or filling aren’t clumping up before you hang it. It is suggested to drape it over a bath or a drying rack- anywhere it's suspended and may dry as quickly as possible to stay mold and mildew from growing.

Keep it fresh 

It’s even as important to keep your comforter clean between laundry days, especially if you’re using it every day. One expert trick is employing a steamer to cut back on odor, wrinkles, and bacteria between washes. Never iron or starch a down comforter- that can melt or damage the feathers and filling. If the comforter needs a small amount of a scent boost, regardless of what the material is, use the other fabric spray you've got readily available. Livpure’s all-weather comforters are made with no artificial chemicals and hence, you do not have to worry about any foul odor. 

How often should you wash a comforter?

Blankets do not need to be washed as often as sheets need to be washed, but they should be kept clean. Check the tag or your comforter’s care guidelines for more information. Allergy sufferers may want to wash their comforter more frequently. If you want or need to wash your comforter frequently, consider using a duvet cover, which can protect your comforter and be easier to clean than the comforter itself. Household cleaning experts recommend washing the comforter two to three times per year to prevent unwanted dust and other allergens from accumulating inside the fibers.

With Livpure’s all-weather comforters, you don't need to worry about allergens- the comforter is made from hypoallergenic materials but is as soft and plush to touch as you want it to be. It is the best comforter online. Read how to choose a comforter.

Conclusion

It is just not as easy to maintain as buying a comforter online. But following our easy and simple tips, you can achieve it with minimum effort. Keep your duvet clean and healthy to get a night of good sleep, every night.