A down comforter is basically a cloud you sleep under. Washing a cloud sounds tricky. It's mostly about having a big enough machine and a bit of patience.

Quick answer: use a large front-load washer, a gentle cycle, cool or warm water, one sheet and an extra rinse. Dry on low with wool dryer balls until completely dry.

Do you have a big enough machine?

The comforter needs room to move. If you have to stuff it in, use a big front-loader at a laundromat (read it). Top-loaders with a center post can tear the fabric.

The method

1. Check for tears and stitch them first. Feather escapes are no fun.
2. Use a gentle cycle with cool or warm water.
3. Add one sheet. Too much detergent gets trapped in the down.
4. Run an extra rinse and an extra spin.

Drying, the long part

• Use low heat. High heat can scorch down.
• Add wool dryer balls to break up clumps.
• Pull it out every 30 minutes to fluff and shake.
• Be patient. It can take three hours or more.

If it smells even a little musty, it's still damp inside. Keep going.

How often?

A few times a year is plenty if you use a duvet cover. Wash the cover weekly or every other week.

FAQ

Can I wash a down comforter at home? Yes, if your washer is big enough for it to move freely.

How do I dry a down comforter? Low heat, dryer balls and frequent fluffing.

How often should I wash a comforter? A few times a year with a cover.

Can I use a top-loader? Only if it has no center agitator and lots of room.