Keeping your bedding clean is essential for a good night’s sleep. But one question that pops into every homeowner’s mind is:
Can I wash a comforter in a washing machine without ruining it?
The answer is yes—if you do it the right way. In this guide by ADapplianceFix.com, we’ll walk you through how to wash and dry your comforter safely at home.
Can You Wash a Comforter in a Washing Machine?
Yes, most comforters—including down, polyester, and cotton-filled ones—can be washed in a large-capacity front-load or top-load washer. Just make sure to check the care label before you begin.
How to Wash a Comforter in a Washing Machine (Step-by-Step Guide)
Keeping your comforter fresh and clean doesn’t require a trip to the dry cleaner. Most comforters are totally safe to wash at home—as long as you follow a few simple steps.
Whether it’s down-filled, synthetic, or cotton, this guide will help you safely wash your comforter in the washing machine and keep it fluffy and fresh for years to come.
Before You Start: Read the Label
Check the care tag sewn onto your comforter. It tells you:
- Whether it’s machine washable
- Recommended water temperature
- Drying method (tumble dry, air dry, etc.)
If it says “dry clean only,” don’t risk it—take it to a professional.
What You’ll Need:
- Mild liquid detergent
- A large-capacity washing machine (ideally front-loading)
- A few clean towels
- Dryer balls or clean tennis balls (for drying)
- Optional: Stain remover
Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Comforter
1. Inspect & Pre-Treat
Check for rips, loose threads, or stains. Patch any damage and spot-treat stained areas with a stain remover.
2. Load the Washer Properly
- Fold or roll the comforter loosely and place it in the drum.
- Add 1–2 clean towels to help balance the load during spinning.
3. Add Detergent
Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softener, especially for down-filled comforters.
4. Choose the Right Settings
- Cycle: Delicate or gentle
- Water Temp: Cold or warm (based on label)
- Spin Speed: Low or medium
- Extra Rinse: Yes, if possible – helps remove soap residue
How to Dry a Comforter
Use a Dryer (Low Heat)
- Tumble dry on low heat
- Add dryer balls or tennis balls to keep the filling from clumping
- Every 30 minutes, pause the cycle and shake out the comforter to help it dry evenly
Still damp after drying? Hang it up to air dry completely before storing or using.
Common Questions About Washing Comforters
How often should I wash my comforter?
Every 3–6 months. More often if you have allergies, pets, or sweat at night.
Can I use a regular washer?
Only if it’s large capacity (4.5 cu. ft. or more). If your machine is too small, go to a laundromat or wash it professionally.
Should I use hot water?
No—stick to cold or warm to protect the fabric and filling.
Can I skip the dryer balls?
They’re optional, but highly recommended to keep your comforter fluffy and evenly dried.
What if my comforter smells musty after washing?
It probably didn’t dry all the way. Toss it back in the dryer with low heat and balls, or air it out in the sun for a few hours.
Final Tips
- Never store your comforter while damp
- Use a duvet cover to reduce how often you need to wash it
- Don’t overload your machine—it can damage both washer and comforter
Need More Home Appliance Tips?
For more helpful laundry and appliance care guides, check out adappliancefix.com—a trusted resource for keeping your home running smoothly.