Tackling the laundry pile is already a big chore, but when it's time to refresh your bedding, that chore doubles! Not only are comforters and quilts bulkier, but they also face different challenges, like lumpy fillings, tears, or stitching coming undone.
Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about your bedding coming out of the wash a mangled mess — with some know-how, you can keep your bedding fresh and in perfect snuggling condition! And with Ginno's Kitchen & Appliance by your side, we’ll show you how to properly care for your bulky comforters, quilts, and blankets from start to finish!
1. Know Your Fabrics
Keeping your bedding in the best shape starts with knowing what it’s made of! Different materials demand specific care to stay in top shape, so it’s essential to know what bedding you have!
- Synthetic Fabrics like polyester and microfiber are more durable, so they handle warmer washes, but it’s best to use moderate temps and a gentle cycle to help them last longer.
- Natural Fabrics like wool or down need a cold water wash and delicate cycle with mild detergent to preserve the natural oils and fluffiness. But cotton quilts work best with warm water and gentle detergent to maintain their color and texture!
- Special Fabrics like silk or bamboo require extra care; these work best with a cold wash on the gentle cycle to avoid shrinking (although silk might benefit more from handwashing!).
2. Pre-Wash Preparation
Getting your bedding ready for a wash isn't just about tossing it into the machine. A little prep work can significantly affect how clean and intact your bedding comes out. Here’s what to focus on before the wash cycle begins:
- Inspect for Damage: Before anything else, give your bedding a good once-over. Look for any tears or loose threads and repair them to prevent more damage caused by the wash.
- Spot Cleaning: Stains can be stubborn, so tackle them before a full wash. Use a stain remover or a mix of water and gentle detergent to treat any spots.
- Choosing the Right Detergent: Opt for a gentle or fabric-specific detergent that can clean effectively without being harsh. For example, use a wool-safe detergent for woolen blankets or a non-bio detergent for sensitive skin.
3. Washing Machine Tips
When it's time to wash your bedding, the right approach with your washing machine can make all the difference. Here are a few tips to ensure that your bulky items come out clean and in great shape:
- Machine Size: The capacity of your washing machine matters greatly for bulky items. Typically, a machine with at least a 4.5 cubic feet drum is recommended for king-sized comforters.
- Setting Selections: The proper wash cycle is vital to protecting your bedding. While the gentle cycle is perfect for delicate materials, heavier bedding, like thick cotton comforters, might benefit from the 'heavy' or 'bulky' cycle. T
- Washing Balls: These are designed to be used in both washers and dryers. They help agitate the filling of comforters, preventing clumps and ensuring even distribution of fabric and detergent for a thorough clean.
Pro Tip:
Always check the care label for the recommended washing instructions — these are your best starting point!
4. Drying Your Comforter and Quilt
Properly drying your comforters, quilts, and bulky blankets is crucial to preserving their fluffiness and ensuring they last for years. Here's how to do it right:
- Use Low Heat in the Dryer: Select a low or medium heat setting to prevent damage to fibers, especially in synthetic or down-filled items. High heat can cause shrinking and damage the filling.
- Dry in Spacious Dryer: Ensure your dryer can handle the bulk. A dryer with at least 7 cubic feet capacity is ideal for large comforters and quilts.
- Dryer Balls: Place a few clean dryer balls in the dryer with your bedding. These help to break up any clumps in the filling and distribute it evenly, keeping your comforter or quilt fluffy.
- Multiple Drying Cycles: For very bulky items, consider starting with a timed dry of 30 or 40 minutes, then reposition and shake out the bedding, and set for an additional 20 to 30-minute intervals. Once the bedding is dry to the touch, finish with a 10 to 15-minute air fluff cycle with no heat to remove lingering damp spots and improve fluffiness!
5. Maintenance Between Washes
Even when they're not being regularly washed, keeping your comforters in their best condition requires extra care — maintenance between washes! Here’s how you can care for your bedding to ensure it stays fresh and lasts longer:
- Fluff Regularly: Shake out your bedding weekly to maintain loft and eliminate moisture.
- Air Out Frequently: Use the air fluff or no heat cycle on your dryer for 10 to 15 minutes to remove dust and reduce odors in your bedding. Add wool or plastic dryer balls to the cycle to help fluff up the bedding and prevent clumping.
- Store Properly: Use breathable cotton storage bags and keep them in a cool, dry place. Avoid plastic, which traps moisture.
- Check Seasonally: Remove bedding from storage periodically to fluff and air out, preventing mustiness and maintaining freshness.
Fresh & Fluffy
There's nothing like diving into a fresh, fluffy comforter at the end of a long day; that’s why keeping your bedding in the best fluffing condition possible is essential! So, if you don’t have the right size laundry appliances to handle your bedding or are tired of inconsistent laundry results, it’s time to find your upgrade at Ginno's Kitchen & Appliance! We carry loads of large-capacity washers and dryers from all the top brands with the features to make laundry day easy!
Need help finding the right machines for your laundry care? Give us a ring or pop by — our experts are always happy to help!