How to Wash a Comforter in the Washing Machine Using Martha's Method

Your bed is a sanctuary, making thoughtfully caring for the pieces that dress it essential. A clean, fluffy, well-cared-for comforter instantly transforms a bedroom. It feels fresher. It looks crisper. And it invites you to unwind at the end of a long day in a welcoming, soothing space. "Your bedroom is your own private comfort zone," Martha says in her book, The Martha Manual: How to Do (Almost) Everything―Expert Strategies For Organizing, Celebrating, Cleaning, Decorating, and More. "It's the first and last place you see each and every day—and you spend (on average) one-third of your life there. Make it count, and not just in terms of threads."

But comforters can be intimidating to wash at home, whether they’re filled with down, feather, or synthetic fibers. The good news? With the right method and attention to detail, you can safely wash most comforters in your washing machine for easy-to-achieve cleanliness year-round. 

Here's your guide to how to wash a comforter in the washing machine, according to Martha’s practical advice.

How Often Should You Wash Your Comforter?

"Launder comforter covers or bedspreads and coverlets monthly (weekly if you forgo a top sheet)," advises Martha. "Even those filled with down and feathers can be laundered at home at least once a season," she adds in decorvow's Organizing.

Seasonal washing maintains freshness without overworking or damaging the stitching and fill inside. Between washes, frequently airing out the comforter and using protective covers will keep it in its best condition. You may need to increase your cleaning frequency if you sleep with pets, have allergies, or tend to sweat at night.

How to Wash a Comforter in the Washing Machine

Before you start, take a moment to prep by checking the care label and removing the comforter cover. Then, follow Martha’s trusty advice as outlined in decorvow's Organizing.

1. Check the Care Label: This is essential for success. While many comforters are machine-safe, others recommend professional cleaning, and it’s essential to follow that guidance to avoid damaging the fill or fabric.
2. Ensure Your Washer Is Suitable:  A large-capacity washing machine is ideal for washing bulkier items like comforters. Top-loading machines with central agitators may not be able to spin or move properly if the drum is too small.
3. Launder Alone: “Remove from covers and wash one comforter at a time,” says Martha. “Do not overload.” This will allow the comforter to be washed and rinsed thoroughly, preventing uneven distribution and stress on your machine. 
4. Choose the Correct Cycle: “[Wash] in warm water, using a mild detergent and an extra rinse cycle,” says Martha. Comforters are thick and hold detergent easily, so that extra rinse helps ensure nothing lingers in the fill.
5. Opt for the Fastest Spin Cycle: Comforters can retain a surprising amount of water, making drying a prolonged process. “Use the fastest spin option to remove as much water as possible for faster drying,” writes Martha.
6. Tumble-Dry on Low Heat: Comforters—especially down-filled ones—are sensitive to heat, so dry with care. "Tumble-dry on low heat until thoroughly dry," Martha advises, "especially for down and feather, to prevent mold."
7. Use Towels or Tennis Balls for Faster Drying: To help the process along, Martha recommends a tried-and-true trick. "Adding a few clean, dry towels will help speed up drying," she says. "Throw in a few clean tennis balls (stuffed in clean white cotton socks) to keep the filling from clumping."
8. Check for Dryness Often: Even when the outer shell feels dry, the inside may still be damp. Cycle, check, shake, and repeat until the comforter is completely dry.

And if your comforter isn't machine-washable, according to the manufacturer's instructions? "If you opt to have them dry cleaned, take them to a place that avoids chemical solvents," adds Martha. Noted!