Clumping and shrinkage are the biggest risks of washing and drying comforters incorrectly. Clumping happens when the filling bunches up in certain areas, leaving other spots thin and uneven. Shrinkage, on the other hand, is when the fabric or filling contracts due to excessive heat, leaving your comforter smaller and oddly misshapen.
These problems often come down to this: using the wrong techniques or skipping key steps in the drying process. In this guide, we walk you through the best practices to keep your comforter looking fresh, feeling fluffy, and smelling really great.
Prewash Preparation
Preparing your comforter before washing is a critical step to ensure effective cleaning and to avoid damage to the fabric or filling. Proper preparation also helps remove stains, prevents clumping, and ensures a longer lifespan for your comforter.
Step 1: Check the Care Label
The care label provides you with all the information you need regarding cleaning. Whether it needs hand washing or machine washing, follow the instructions to avoid shrinkage or damage.
Step 2: Inspect for Stains
Look for stains and pretreat them. Use a mix of hydrogen peroxide and mild soap for effective stain removal, especially on delicate fabrics like cotton or sateen.
Step 3: Remove the Duvet Cover
Take off your duvet cover before washing. This protects your comforter from tangling in the machine and ensures the cover gets a thorough cleaning on its own.
Step 4: Shake Out Dust and Lint
Give your comforter a good shake to remove dust, pet hair, or debris before starting the wash. This prevents grime from settling deeper into the fabric during the cycle.
Step 5: Close the Zippers and Fix the Tears
Fasten any zippers or buttons to avoid snags, and repair small tears to stop them from getting worse in the wash. Delicate fabrics like silk and wool especially need this extra care.
Washing Tips
Washing a large comforter can feel like tackling a giant, but the right tips make all the difference. If you want to avoid clumping, shrinkage, or damage, you need to be strategic. From choosing the proper detergent to managing water temperature, these practical tips help you keep your comforter clean, fresh, and cozy without sacrificing its quality.
01 | Use a High-capacity Machine
Large comforters need room to move in the machine. A commercial washer is perfect to ensure even cleaning and prevent fabric stress.
02 | Choose the Right Detergent
Opt for a mild laundry detergent to protect the fabric. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can weaken fibers and cause irritation to the skin.
03 | Wash on a Gentle Cycle
Use the delicate or gentle cycle to minimize agitation. This is especially important for down comforters and polyester blends, which can lose their structure under heavy stress.
04 | Stick to Warm or Cold Water
Keep the temperature at warm or cold settings. Hot water can shrink fabrics and damage delicate fillings, especially with materials like memory foam or down.
05 | Add Clean Tennis Balls During the Spin Cycle
Throw in a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls during the spin cycle. These help break up clumps and redistribute the filling evenly.
06 | Double Rinse for Freshness
Comforters often trap detergent in their layers. A second rinse removes any remaining soap, ensuring better cleanliness and avoiding stiffness.
Drying Your Large Comforters
After giving your comforters a wash, properly drying them is just as important as the washing process itself. Poor drying techniques can lead to clumping, shrinkage, or even unpleasant odors if moisture lingers in the filling. A little extra care and the right approach help you keep your comforters soft, fluffy, and in great shape for years to come.
Use a Large Dryer
A spacious dryer is essential to give your comforter room to tumble. Overcrowding the drum traps moisture and leads to uneven drying.
Set the Heat to Low
Use low heat to prevent shrinkage and protect delicate textiles. High heat can ruin the filling and weaken threads in materials like cotton or wool.
Pause and Fluff Regularly
Remove your comforter every 20–30 minutes to fluff it up. This keeps the fiber evenly distributed and prevents clumps from forming.
Finish with Air Drying
Once the dryer cycle is done, lay your comforter flat in a well-ventilated area to finish drying completely. This ensures no hidden moisture lingers, which could cause mold or mildew.
Check for Damp Spots
Before you consider the job completed, feel around the comforter for damp patches. Return it to the dryer or air-dry further if necessary to avoid unpleasant odor or bacteria growth.
Skip Fabric Softeners
Fabric softeners might seem like a good idea, but they coat the fibers and reduce fluffiness. Stick to dryer balls for a softer finish.
By following these tips, you avoid common drying pitfalls like clumping or shrinkage, ensuring your comforter stays in excellent condition. Proper drying doesn’t just maintain the look and feel of your bedding—it also extends its lifespan and keeps it fresh and hygienic.
Simple Comforter Maintenance Tips for Longer Freshness
Proper maintenance of your comforters is essential to keep them fresh longer and to extend their lifespan. Regular care can prevent dust, dirt, and allergens from settling in while keeping your comforter soft and cozy. The best part? It doesn’t take a ton of effort—just a few smart habits make a big difference.
01 | Use a Duvet Cover
A duvet cover is your comforter’s first line of defense against dirt, dust, and spills. Wash it weekly to maintain better hygiene and reduce the need for frequent washes.
02 | Air It Out Weekly
Hang your comforter outside on a sunny day to eliminate odor and fluff the filling. Sunlight naturally kills bacteria and keeps your bedding fresh.
03 | Shake It Daily
A quick fluff each morning redistributes the filling and prevents clumps. It also helps maintain the comforter’s plumpness and appearance.
04 | Spot Clean Stains Immediately
Blot stains as soon as they happen with a mild cleaning agent like vinegar or soapy water. Quick action stops stains from setting and causing permanent damage.
05 | Store Properly When Not in Use
Keep your comforter in a breathable bag during the off season. This prevents moisture buildup and protects it from debris and dust mites.
06 | Keep Pets Off the Bed
As much as you love your furry friends, they bring dirt, fur, and even bed bugs into your bedding. Invest in a cozy pet bed to keep them comfortable without sacrificing your comforter’s cleanliness.
07 | Rotate Comforters Seasonally
Switch between lighter and heavier comforters depending on the weather. Rotating them reduces wear and tear, keeping all your bedding in better shape.
Don’t Risk Shrinkage and Clumping—Trust Troy Cleaners for Expert Comforter Care!
If you’re unsure about washing and drying your comforters, why take the risk? Let Troy Cleaners expertly clean them for you instead! We specialize in cleaning a range of home essentials, not only comforters, but also blankets, pillows, sheets, duvets, linens, and more!
With our help, you no longer need to worry about uneven drying, clumping, or excessive water use from hand washing. Our professional care ensures your bedding stays fresh, cozy, and perfect for your bedroom sanctuary.
Visit us at 1629 Garfield Street, Port Huron, Michigan, 48060, or get in touch today:
📞 Call us: (810) 321-4838
📧 Email us: info@troycleaners.com