How to Wash a Down Blanket

Down blankets are a timeless addition to any bedding collection, they are lightweight, breathable, and effortlessly luxurious. Whether layered beneath a heavier comforter during cooler months or used solo on warm summer nights, their versatility and natural warmth make them a year-round favorite.

With the right approach, your down blanket can maintain its loft, comfort, and elegance for years to come.

Professional vs. At-Home Cleaning: What’s Best for Your Blanket?

Professional Laundering

For those who prefer a hands-off, worry-free approach, a professional launderer (not a traditional dry cleaner) can ensure your down blanket is thoroughly cleaned without compromising its quality. Be sure to confirm that your provider offers wet-cleaning services, as dry cleaning solvents can be harsh on natural down. While dry cleaning may be listed on care labels as an option to prevent shrinkage, it is not the preferred method for preserving the integrity of natural down.

How to Wash a Down Blanket at Home

If you have a full-size washer (front-loading machines are ideal), you can wash your down blanket at home. For larger sizes like queen or king, consider using a laundromat to ensure ample space for movement during the wash.

Washing Guidelines

• Water Temperature: Cold water is preferred to minimize shrinkage (fabric may shrink up to 8% in hot water).

• Spin Speed: Use the highest setting to remove excess moisture.

• Detergent: Choose a gentle, additive-free detergent made for delicate fabrics.

• Optional Whitening: Use only non-chlorine bleach if needed.

• Fabric Softener: Not recommended, as it can coat and flatten the down fill.

Drying Guidelines

• Heat Setting: Use your choice of hot, warm, or low heat.

• Dry Time: Expect multiple cycles on low heat.

• Add Dryer Balls or Clean Tennis Balls: These help speed up drying and maintain loft (though noisy, they’re safe for the dryer).

• Signs It’s Not Dry Yet: A damp smell or clumping signals the blanket needs more drying time.

• Dryer Sheets: Optional for freshness.

• Avoid Line Drying: Uneven drying can lead to damp spots and clumping.

• No Ironing or Steaming: These can damage delicate fabrics and down fill.

  • Note: Machines with central agitators may cause fabric tearing if the blanket wraps around the spindle. Always ensure your blanket is evenly distributed throughout the cycle.

How Often Should You Wash Your Down Blanket?

Frequency depends on how you use your blanket and whether it’s protected by a duvet cover.

When used as a top layer:

• With a duvet cover: Every 3–5 years

• Without a cover: Every 1–2 years

When layered beneath another comforter:

• Wash every 3–5 years

Between washes, spot cleaning is ideal for maintaining freshness. Gently move the down away from the soiled area before cleaning to prevent dampening the fill.

Daily & Seasonal Care Tips

• Daily: Fluff your blanket each morning to keep down lofty and breathable.

• Monthly: Wash your duvet cover to preserve the cleanliness of your blanket.

• Yearly: Check for any spots or stains and spot clean as needed.

• Every 2–5 Years: Refresh with a full wash, depending on use.

Storage

When not in use, store your down blanket in a breathable cotton bag or fabric storage case, never plastic. Allow it to rest in a space with good airflow, and avoid compressing it to maintain its loft. When you're ready to use it again, a few good shakes will bring it right back to life.

Restful Nights are waiting for you…

Explore our full collection of down and alternative blankets and bedding designed for enduring luxury and everyday comfort.