Tips on Washing King Size Comforters

Cleaning Tags

• Read the comforter's cleaning tags before throwing it in the washing machine. The cleaning tag provides clear instructions on how to best clean the comforter and will display an icon of water with an "X" through it to indicate the comforter is not machine washable. If a water icon appears without an "X," look at the number inside of the water icon to determine the appropriate temperature for machine washing.

Wash Setting

• Clean the comforter in a front-loading machine rather than a top-loading machine as the agitator in the top-loading machine can damage the comforter by creating small tears in the fabric. Set your washer's cycle to its normal wash setting, and set an additional rinse cycle to ensure all soap is removed from the comforter. If you do not have a front-loading washer, clean the comforter in your bathtub and hand wash to safely clean it.

Detergent

• Use a mild or hypoallergenic laundry detergent to clean the comforter as some liquid detergents contain dye and fragrance that stains and permeates the comforter. A fragrance-free detergent is best for those who suffer from sensitive skin or allergies. Avoid fabric softener during the rinse cycle as this can damage the comforter.

Drying

• Wring out the comforter after removing it from the washer to eliminate any remaining moisture. Dry your comforter on a low-heat setting, and insert dryer balls or a tennis ball into the dryer to prevent the comforter from becoming flat during the drying process. A high-heat setting can shrink the down comforter and increases the likelihood of feathers poking through the shell. Remove the comforter when it is 70 to 80 percent dry, and hang it on a clothesline to allow it to dry completely.