How to Wash a Comforter at a Laundromat

Home washers rarely handle a queen or king comforter well. Large-capacity laundromat washers — 40 pounds and up — let bedding move freely, which is what actually gets it clean.

Start by checking the care label, treating any stains, and closing zippers or ties. Load the comforter loosely so it can tumble; a machine packed to the door washes poorly.

Use a mild detergent and a warm or cold cycle unless the label says otherwise. Skip fabric softener on down bedding, which coats the fill and reduces loft.

Dry on low or medium heat with dryer balls, and pause to fluff and redistribute the fill every 20 minutes. Down and microfiber bedding often need two dryer cycles — make sure it is fully dry before storing to prevent mildew.