Down comforters are great; they’re soft, comfortable, and will keep you warm during the cold winter months.
But are they machine washable? What’s the best way to clean them? Can you use fabric softener? For the answers, be sure to keep reading. We’ll be going over how to wash a down comforter in detail below.
Table of Contents
ToggleBenefits of Cleaning Down Comforters
Cleaning your down comforter regularly has numerous benefits. For one thing, it’ll keep allergens at bay, which will promote better sleep. Not only that but it’ll also extend the lifespan of the down comforter by removing body oils from the fabric.
Spot cleaning stains as soon as they appear will also help keep your bedding looking fresh and new longer, while avoiding potential damage caused by harsh chemicals used in heavy-duty stain removers.

If done right and coupled with good usage habits like removing makeup before bed or keeping pets off the bed, it can drastically reduce the need for frequent washing thereby saving time spent doing laundry over time.
Preparing Your Down Comforter for Washing
The first step in getting your down comforter clean is preparing it properly. This means you need to pay attention to the care tags on the comforter and gather all necessary supplies.
Spot Cleaning Stains
If there are stains on your comforter, you’ll want to treat them first before washing.
Step 1: Remove the Duvet Cover

Carefully unzip or unbutton the duvet cover, gently pulling it away from the corners of the comforter.
Step 2: Create a Detergent Solution

In a small bowl, dissolve a bit of ACTIVE Detergent in warm water to create a solution.
Step 3: Apply the Detergent Mixture to the Stain

Using a soft bristle brush, gently apply the detergent mixture to the stain. Remember not to scrub too hard; you don’t want to disrupt those delicate feathers.
Step 4: Rinse the Stain

Rinse the stain with cool water afterwards.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Small bowl
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent
Our powder detergent excels at removing sweat and body oils which makes it a great choice for washing down comforters.

15% Off Your Order on Amazon
×Click below to reveal the 15% off coupon for your entire ACTIVE purchase on Amazon.com
Machine Washing Your Down Comforter at Home
If you have a large capacity washer in your laundry room or access to a laundromat with triple-load machines, it’s entirely possible and safe to wash your down comforter at home.
If not, you may need to bring it to the dry cleaner or have the comforter professionally laundered.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
Step 1:
Carefully place the comforter inside the machine, making sure it’s evenly distributed.

Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. It’s designed to remove dirt and stains from all types of fabrics including down-filled items.
Don’t add any fabric softener.

Step 3:
Run a gentle wash cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot water as it can cause fabric shrinkage.

Given the bulkiness of the comforter, it’s best to run an extra rinse cycle – that will ensure that all of the soap suds are washed away.
Drying Your Down Comforter After Washing
Once your comforter is washed, the next crucial step is drying. Properly drying a down comforter will make sure it stays fluffy and warm for a long time.
Supplies:
- Dryer balls

Step 1:
Carefully take the wet comforter out of the washing machine.

Step 2:
Tumble dry the comforter with low heat.
For the best results, add a few wool dryer balls. They will help break up the wet clumps of filling during the cycle.
If the comforter isn’t entirely dry after one cycle, run another (or more). But remember: use only low heat.
Caring for Your Down Comforter Between Washings
Fluffing your comforter daily helps maintain its loft. By redistributing the down, you will keep it fluffy and comfortable.
Importance of Using a Duvet Cover

A duvet cover is like a protective shell for your comforter. It will shield it against dirt, stains, and sweat that could harm the delicate down filling. Plus, it’s much easier to wash than the entire comforter.
Choosing quality duvet covers can extend the time between full-blown washes by years. Just remember to launder them regularly – ideally every week or two.
You might be asking: how does storing my comforter properly fit into this? Well, think about moisture or odor buildup over time – not pleasant at all. Storing in breathable cloth bags keeps things fresh while preventing damage from harsh environmental factors.
Professional Cleaning vs. Home Washing
Deciding between having your down comforter professionally cleaned or washing it at home is a common dilemma. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages.
The Cost Factor
The cost of professional cleaning services can be steep, especially for large-sized comforters. On the other hand, washing at home using a quality laundry detergent from ACTIVE can save you money in the long run.
Convenience and Time-Saving
Dropping off your bedding at dry cleaners may seem convenient but remember to factor in travel time and waiting days for pick-up.
Maintaining the Quality of Your Down Comforter

Washing the comforters at home means that you have control over how gently or harshly the bed linens are handled.
If anything, the most important thing is to use a gentle laundry detergent, like the one by ACTIVE as it won’t harm the down material.
Ultimately, the choice between professional cleaning and home washing comes down to your comfort level with handling large bedding items and personal preference.
How to Wash a Down Comforter – FAQs
Can I put a down comforter in a home washing machine?
Yes, you can wash your down comforter in a washing machine. But make sure it’s large enough to accommodate the bulk of your comforter without squishing.
Can a down comforter be put in the dryer?
Absolutely. You can dry your down comforter using low heat. Tossing clean tennis balls or wool balls into the mix helps keep fluffiness intact.
How do you wash a down comforter without ruining it?
To avoid damage, use cold water and gentle detergent for washing. Opt for a delicate cycle on machine settings and never bleach or iron your down piece.
How do you fluff a down comforter after washing it?
Gently shake out clumps from washed-down items while still damp. When drying, add clean tennis balls or wool balls to help maintain loftiness and redistribute fill evenly.
Can you wash a down comforter with chlorine bleach?
No, chlorine bleach and other chemicals are not recommended as they can damage the down material.
Is dry cleaning necessary for down comforters?
If you can, take the comforter to a laundromat instead. Dry cleaning is generally not recommended as the harsh chemicals and solvents can cause damage to the down.
SAVE
15% off
Your Next ACTIVE
Purchase on Amazon
15% Off Your Order on Amazon
×Click below to reveal the 15% off coupon for your entire ACTIVE purchase on Amazon.com
Limited Time Offer
