How do you know when you need a new comforter?

Author: Mrs. Elna Hudson  |  Last update: Monday, June 23, 2025

When to Toss Them: 15 to 25 years. Luckily, we can expect comforters to last longer. “Because it doesn't have to support weight the way pillows and mattresses do,” according to Stewart, “your comforter should last 15 to 25 years if you keep it covered and air it regularly.” No way you'll remember how long you've had it ...

How often should comforters be replaced?

Every 1-2 weeks: For blankets that come into direct contact with your skin, such as bed sheets and comforters, changing them every 1 to 2 weeks is generally recommended. This helps reduce the buildup of sweat, body oils, and allergens.

How do you know if you need a new comforter?

If your duvet or comforter feels lumpy and has lost its ability to retain heat, this is a sign that you need to invest in new bedding. It is generally recommended that duvets and comforters be switched out every 3-4 years, and washed as frequently as every fortnight.

When should you throw out a down comforter?

A down comforter should last between 10 to 15 years. However, some factors can influence their life. The top 3 influential factors in a comforter life are: The quality of the down comforter.

Should I throw away my old comforter?

Conclusion. An old comforter doesn't have to go to waste. From donating to recycling and repurposing, there are plenty of ways to extend its usefulness. Whether you decide to turn it into a picnic blanket, a dog bed, or donate it to a shelter, your comforter can serve a new purpose.

Duvet vs Comforter - What's The Difference?

How long does the average comforter last?

When to Toss Them: 15 to 25 years. Luckily, we can expect comforters to last longer. “Because it doesn't have to support weight the way pillows and mattresses do,” according to Stewart, “your comforter should last 15 to 25 years if you keep it covered and air it regularly.” No way you'll remember how long you've had it ...

Should I out my comforter in the dryer?

You can evenly dry your comforter by carefully loading it into the dryer, selecting a bulky cycle setting and customizing the cycle temperature—if possible—to a low or no-heat setting. Rebalance and fluff your comforter and reload it into the dryer periodically to promote even drying.

How often should you get a new down comforter?

The best quality down comforters can last up to twenty years, while down alternative comforters have a shorter life expectancy—about five to ten years.

What to do with a worn out down comforter?

Check with Local Recycling Centers: Some recycling centers accept down feathers and can direct them to manufacturers who use them in new products. Partner with Textile Recycling Programs: Some programs specialize in repurposing textiles, including comforters, by recovering and reprocessing the down filling and fabric.

Should you vacuum your comforter?

By compressing your comforter down, they can damage the feathers. You can get away with using a vacuum bag so long as you leave around a bit of air in the bag so you don't fully compress the feathers. Make sure to shake and fluff the duvet when you remove it from storage to help it regain its loft.

How often should a comforter be washed?

A comforter protected by a duvet cover should be washed two or three times a year, while one without a protective layer should be washed every one to two months. Learning how to wash a comforter at the right times may help extend its life and keep irritants like dust mites and dirt at bay.

How can you tell if a comforter is good quality?

Fill power refers to the measurement of loft, or fluff. It is the true measure of quality and it is tested by measuring the amount of space 1 oz of down takes up. The more space it takes; the higher the fill power. A higher fill power will give you a lighter, more fluffy comforter for a given warmth level.

Why does my comforter get fuzzy?

Pilling is what happens when cotton fibers break and tangle, resulting in the tiny little fuzzballs or "pills" of fiber that appear to be stuck on the fabric. Pilling can occur with any fabric that is subject to abrasion when using or washing.

How often do hotels wash the comforters?

Typically, hotels wash their bedding once every week including various kinds of comforters, sheets, and pillows. However, they often swap out the pillowcases and linens between the guests. It's a common practice that the hotel comforters are rarely automatically changed – unless a guest requests it.

When to throw away bed sheets?

Sheet lifespan depends on the material and whether it's used daily, bi-weekly or seasonally. If you use a sheet set every day of the year, you'll need to replace it after about two years. However, luxury cotton sheets, like percale and sateen, can offer another year or so of use.

Should I put my comforter in the washer?

Use the bulky or delicate cycle.

Whether you're removing stains or just refreshing, choose a wash cycle based on the recommendations on your comforter's care label and how dirty it is. If your comforter is elegant or flimsy, or if your washer isn't so gentle on clothes, you can use the delicate cycle.

How do you refresh a down comforter?

Place your comforter in a large capacity dryer. Add a few clean tennis balls wrapped in white socks. The tennis balls will help break up clumps as the comforter tumbles. Use a low heat setting and check every 15-20 minutes.

Do down comforters get moldy?

Mildew and mold can ruin a down comforter (and your day), so please make sure your comforter is completely dry before storing. Don't store your comforter in plastic.

Why is my down comforter shedding?

Sitting directly on top of the down comforter for long periods of time flattens the comforter, eventually leading the filling to disperse causing the comforter to leak of feathers.

When to buy a new comforter?

Comforter. How often you replace your comforter depends on its material, but it can have a lifespan of up to 15 to 20 years. "To ensure longevity, it is crucial to wash and fluff your comforter regularly," says Dills.

How many years should a comforter last?

Normally, a comforter can last for 15 to 25 years. The differences in the longevity depend on these criteria: The sleeper's restlessness, how often the people lie on the bed, and the product's quality.

How often should you wash your sheets?

"Regular washing, or about once every one to two weeks, is recommended to maintain cleanliness and a healthy sleep environment," says Harris. Once a week if you don't use a top sheet. Once a month if you do. Once a week if you don't use a top sheet.

Is it okay if my comforter is a little damp?

While it's generally not advisable for sheets or bedding to be damp, slight damp may be tolerable if it's a rare occurrence and the bedding can be adequately dried. However, prolonged damp can lead to hygiene issues and may contribute to the growth of mould or mildew.

How often should you wash your comforter?

How often should you wash your comforter? Assuming no spills or excess dirt sully your comforter, and the comforter does not have a protective duvet, try to wash it every one to two months. If the comforter does have a duvet, you'll be okay to clean it a few times a year.

What is the best washing machine for comforters?

The best washing machines for comforters are a front load washer or a High-Efficiency(HE) top-loader.

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