What Does it Cost to Clean a Down Comforter?

Dry Cleaning Cost

• It can cost between $25 and $40, as of 2011, to have a down comforter dry cleaned, according to Hamilton Organic Cleaners. The size of the comforter and your specific location will determine the actual cost. Dry cleaners don't use harsh chemical cleaners that would remove the oils from the feathers inside, which help keep you warm. If you have a steam cleaner, you could try cleaning the comforter yourself and save yourself money.

Steam Cleaning

• Some laundromats will have a steam cleaner that looks like a front-loading washing machine, but steam cleans the down comforter as many dry cleaners do professionally. It costs $5 per load to steam clean your own comforter if your local laundromat has this service. The cost will vary between laundromats and your location.

Duvet

• Cover the down comforter with a duvet cover to keep it clean. The cover slips over the comforter and zippers shut. The cover is washable any time and as many times as you want to clean it in a washing machine. This helps prolong the life of the feathers inside the comforter. You can clean the comforter once a year if you think it needs to be cleaned if you use a duvet cover. The cost of the duvet cover ranges between $30 and $378 depending on the size and brand.

Washing Machine

• If you choose to wash the down comforter in a washing machine, you need a front-loading machine that will fit the comforter loosely, which is usually found at a laundromat. The soap you use must be mild or it will strip the feathers of the natural oils that give them the ability to provide insulation and keep you warm. Drying the comforter is even more stringent than washing it. Before you wash and dry any down comforter, you must read the label for the specific cleaning directions. The only costs to you are the price of the soap, water and utilities to operate the machine.