Every good homemaker knows that regular laundering of bed sheets and pillowcases is important for good health. But what about the rest of your bedding? With a few tips, you can add pillows, duvets and comforters to your laundry to-do list. Not only will you extend the life of these items, but you will also rest easier knowing they are as squeaky clean as can be. Learn how to wash a comforter and keep your entire bedding fresh!
The first step – read the tags on each item carefully. For example, latex or down pillows can not safely be washed. Down-filled or synthetic, be it pillows, comforters or duvets can be washed – with care.
Duvet covers, in most cases, can be washed with sheets, pillowcases, and pillow protectors. It is recommended that pillows, duvets and comforters be washed every three to 6 months.
Insider Tip: Invest in pillow protectors. They add an extra layer of protection between the pillowcase and the pillow, keeping the pillow cleaner longer.
Washing
Gentle cycle
Max load capacity setting – but don’t overload the machine
Cool water for duvets and comforters, Warm for pillows
Use extra spin cycles to remove as much water as possible before drying
Be sure to remove the pillowcases/duvet covers before washing and re-read the washing/care instructions on the item before laundering. Gentle cycles and gentle detergents work best here for duvet cleaning. Avoid bleaches or whiteners as they can do more damage than good to down or synthetic fibres. Set your machine to the max load capacity, but don’t overload the machine. More water is better. For example, if your duvet fills your machine, consider the larger capacity machines available at most laundromats as an alternative. To get better results, there must be lots of water but not lots of load on the machine. When it comes to pillows, two at a time to balance the machine is recommended.
Rinse and rinse again for two reasons. First, all soap residue must be removed for healthier sleep. And second, drying is much easier and more thorough, with most of the moisture removed.
Drying
Low heat
Frequent shaking or fluffing
Don’t overload the dryer
The more delicate the fibres, the greater the care needed in drying. Again, knowing the material is key here – read the tag! Low heat for duvets/comforters and either low or air is recommended for most pillows.
For fluffier results, every ten minutes or so, remove the items, shake them out, and reposition them in the dryer.
Insider Tip: For the fluffiest pillows, duvets or comforters, invest in dryer balls. In addition to shaking the items a few times while drying, dryer balls will enhance your results!
Between Washings
Care between washings can not only keep your duvets and comforters fresher but also extend their lifespan. Remove the duvet cover, shake out the duvet or comforter and place in dryer. As before, don’t overload the machine. Every few minutes, shake the item out and reposition in the dryer for another few minutes. In half an hour, you’ll have a fresher, fluffier bed covering. Dryer balls will help here too!
Insider Tip: Concerned about germs, pet hair, or other unwelcome nasties? Start with a high heat setting for the first two cycles before dropping back to cool or low. Remember to remove frequently and shake out.
Check out our Toronto cleaning services we offer or call us on 647-799-1075. We are open 24 hours.
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