Caring For Down

While some down items provide washing instructions, it is generally accepted that virtually all home washers and dryers are unsuitable to properly process down items, particularly down comforters, blankets and quilts.

One popular down comforter brand’s washing instructions recommend manually running the washer and dryer in 30 second starts and stops, soaking for an hour, hand squeezing in between cycles and then constantly monitoring a two hour drying cycle. Since moisture and mildew are major concerns with down, great care must be taken to be sure it is thoroughly dry.

Professional wet cleaning or dry cleaning (depending on the age, condition and construction of the item) is the best way to guarantee that your down will be fluffy, puffy, dry and clean.

All down comforter manufacturers recommend you clean your down at least once a year.  This will extend the life of the product and keep it in pristine condition for use.