How to Wash Comforter / Duvet
What You'll Need
- Small amount
- 1
- 3-4
- Low heat
Step-by-Step Method
Verify the comforter is machine washable. A queen or king comforter typically needs a large-capacity front-loader or commercial washer. If it cannot move freely in the drum, it will not wash properly.
Spot-treat visible stains with a dab of liquid detergent worked in with your finger. Let sit 10 minutes.
Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent (less than you think). Wash on gentle or delicate cycle with warm or cold water. Run an extra rinse cycle.
Tumble dry on low heat with 3-4 tennis balls. The balls break up wet clumps of fill as the comforter tumbles. Check every 30 minutes and manually fluff clumps.
Remove from dryer. Shake vigorously. Feel every section for dampness. If any damp spots remain, dry for another 30 minutes. Using a damp comforter leads to mildew inside the fill.
- Never use a top-loading agitator washer (tears stitching)
- Never use too much detergent (clumps the fill)
- Do not air-dry a thick comforter (the interior will not dry and will mildew)
- Never fold and store a damp comforter
- Using a duvet cover allows you to wash the cover frequently and the comforter rarely. A duvet cover is the best investment for comforter longevity.
- Down comforters follow the same process as down jackets: down-specific detergent, front-loader, tennis balls.
- Store clean comforters in breathable cotton bags, not plastic (moisture traps cause mildew).
Frequently Asked Questions
Every 3-6 months if using a duvet cover (wash the cover weekly). Monthly if no duvet cover. Between washes, air the comforter in direct sunlight periodically to kill dust mites and refresh.
Sources & Methodology
Comforter washing follows the same principles as down jacket care. Tennis/dryer balls break up wet fill clumps through mechanical agitation during tumble drying.
Last reviewed: March 20, 2026