Yet, they accumulate dirt, sweat, and allergens too.

However, washing too often or the wrong way can cause fading and fraying.

To keep your comforter clean and fresh, heres how often you should plan to wash it.

white bedroom with blue bed

Credit:Adam Albright

What Is a Comforter?

The outer shell is usually made of cotton, microfiber, or velvet.

The natural breathable fabrics on the shell of the bedspread might call for different care instructions from the filling.

Comforters have an insulating air layer that traps body heat.

Because they absorb sweat, skin cells, and oils as you sleep, they can get dirty fast.

Not to mention,dust mitesand pet dander can also accumulate.

Regular laundering is key for keeping comforters hygienic.

If it’s possible for you to, wash using cold water and a delicate cycle.

As for drying, air dry or dry with low heat.

The filling impacts how to best wash your comforter and how often.

More delicate downs and synthetics usually need less frequent cleaning but a gentler touch.

Sturdier materials wool or cotton can be washed more often.

Alwayscheck the care tagfor specific details.

Cotton can handle occasional warm water cycles too.

Tumble dry on a low or medium heat setting.

These may require dry cleaning.

Dry on low or air fluff, according to the care instructions on the tag.

Add dryer balls or tennis balls to the dryer to restore fluffiness.

Freshen between washes by airing your comforter in sunlight or using ahandheld steamer.

Down Alternative

Most down alternative comforters have a polyester microfiber fill.

Their shells tend to be poly-cotton blends, flannel, or microfiber.

These easy-care fabrics are usually very simple to clean at home.

Synthetic fillings can better handle more frequent washing than natural feathers.

Machine-wash down alternative comfortersevery two to three monthswith cold water and mild detergent.

Tumble dry on a low heat setting along with dry towels, which help absorb excess moisture.

Polyester

Like down alternatives, polyester fills make machine-washing a breeze.

Wash polyester-filled comfortersevery two monthswith cold water prefs and regular detergent.

Avoid fabric softeners that can reduce fluffiness.

Wool

Brush wool weeklywith a stiff natural bristle brush to prevent matting.

Freshen up anytime by hanging outside andspot-cleaning any stains.

The same is true if you eat in bed or dont use a top cover.

If you dont have a vacuum, try a lint roller.

To keep your comforter clean between washes, invest in a washable mattress protector or waterproof comforter cover.

Stick with dark colors that can be more forgiving and spot-clean any messes immediately.

Disinfect bedding occasionally with white vinegar, baking soda, and/or asteam cleaner.

Do you’re gonna wanna Wash Duvet Covers as Often as Comforters?

you might wash mostduvet coversfar more often than comforters, about every two weeks or so.

As removable shells, duvet covers protect your actual comforter from body oils, sweat, and other gunk.

If you want to wash your comforter less frequently, a duvet is a great solution.