Quick Answers
There are a few common places to store a comforter when it’s not on your bed:
– In a linen closet or bedroom closet on a shelf
– Folded at the end of the bed
– In a chest or trunk at the foot of the bed
– On a closet shelf or rod if it’s vacuum sealed in a bag
– In an under-bed storage container
When you aren’t using your comforter on your bed, you need a place to store it neatly and keep it clean. Comforters tend to be large, fluffy and bulky, so you can’t just jam them in a small space and forget about them. Properly storing a comforter when it’s not in use helps preserve its quality and prevent damage. This article will discuss the best places to store an unused comforter and tips for keeping it in great condition.
Why It’s Important to Store Unused Comforters Properly
Comforters are investments that you want to make last. A quality down or down-alternative comforter can cost over $100 easily. You don’t want that money wasted by improperly caring for your comforter. If stored poorly, comforters can easily get dirty, dusty, compressed, ripped or chewed on by pets. By properly storing comforters, you can avoid these issues and keep them clean and fluffy for years to come.
Protecting Comforters from Dirt, Dust and Damage
When comforters are just thrown in a heap on the floor or crammed into a small space, they are exposed to all kinds of dirt, dust and potential damage. Dirt and dust will embed in the fabric over time and be difficult to clean. Pets may chew on or claw comforters left on the floor. Improperly stored comforters can get tossed around and ripped. By neatly folding and storing comforters in clean, protected spaces, you can prevent exposure to dust and damage.
Best Places to Store Unused Comforters
Here are the top recommended places to neatly store comforters when they are not in use on the bed:
Linen or Bedroom Closet Shelf
One of the most popular storage spots for comforters is a shelf in your linen closet or bedroom closet. This keeps the comforter easily accessible and close at hand. Choose a high shelf so the comforter doesn’t drag on the floor. Fold the comforter neatly and place it directly on the shelf. If you want an extra layer of protection, store the folded comforter inside a large cotton pillowcase or comforter storage bag.
Chest or Trunk at Foot of Bed
For a decorative storage option, place your folded comforter inside a storage chest or trunk at the foot of your bed. Look for a chest big enough to accommodate the full size comforter without cramming it in. Choose a lidded chest made of a material like faux leather or wood that will keep out dust. Store any extra blankets or linens in the chest as well. Just don’t overload it too much or the comforter may get crammed and misshapen.
Vacuum Sealing Bag
To really compress and contain a comforter for storage, you can vacuum seal it in a large bag designed for bedding. This removes all the air so the comforter is flattened and takes up very little space. Vacuum sealed comforters can be tucked away neatly on closet shelves or rods. Just be sure not to keep them sealed too long, as compression can damage the filling over time.
Under-Bed Storage Bin or Bag
For an out of sight storage solution, slide your comforter into a storage bin or bag designed to fit under your bed. Look for an enclosed plastic bin or cloth storage bag that zips shut and has handles for pulling it out easily. This utilizes unused space under the bed to stash bulky comforters. Just be wary of pets using under-bed areas as hiding spots or clawing at the container.
Folded at End of Bed
If you don’t have much closet space and want your comforter within arm’s reach, you can simply fold it neatly and place it on your bed when not in use. Lay the comforter at the foot of your made bed, folded in half or thirds. You can then easily grab it when needed for sleeping. Just be sure to smooth it back out if it gets wrinkled.
Tips for Properly Storing Comforters
Follow these tips when storing your comforter to keep it in top condition:
– Always dry a comforter fully before storage. Storing a damp comforter can lead to mildew growth.
– Fold the comforter neatly according to its size. For a large comforter, fold into thirds. For smaller comforters, fold in half.
– Refold comforters every few months if storing long term. This prevents creases from setting in the fabric.
– Use fabric protection spray designed for bedding to help repel dust mites and stains. Reapply every few months.
– Store comforters in breathable cotton cases or bags. Avoid plastic which traps moisture.
– Fluff and reshape comforters after long term storage. Shake them outside or in the dryer to freshen.
– Vacuum seal comforters using special bedding bags, expelling excess air. Do not leave sealed for more than a few months.
– Clean comforters before seasonal storage to remove accumulated dust and allergens.
How Often To Replace Stored Comforters
With proper storage and care, most comforters will last around 5-10 years before needing replacement. Signs your stored comforter needs retirement include:
– Visible holes, tearing, or fabric pilling
– Lumping, shifting, or thinning of fill
– Pervasive stains that resist removal
– Musty, damp smell from mildew
– Presence of allergy triggers like dust mites
– Discoloration or fading of fabric
– Fill clumping due to loss of fluffiness
As long as a stored comforter remains fluffy, supple, stain-free and allergen-free, it should be fine to keep using. Make sure to periodically check comforters for any deterioration if storing long term. Aim to replace most comforters after around 7 years. Higher quality down comforters tend to last closer to 10 years with proper maintenance.
Alternative Comforter Storage Solutions
If you are short on closet and under bed space, get creative with comforter storage using these options:
– Hang on wall with decorative hooks
– Roll up with cords in closet or utility room
– Fold into under couch storage ottoman
– Place in decorative basket, trunk or hope chest
– Hang on wall-mounted folding drying rack
– Fold up small and store in empty suitcase
– Use space-saving vacuum storage bags
– Stuff loosely in plastic under-bed bins, duffel or laundry bag
The main goal is protecting comforters from dust, dirt, moisture and damage. As long as you can safely store them in a clean, dry place, the storage method is flexible based on your space. Just avoid overly cramming comforters into containers not designed for bedding.
Maintaining Comforters Not in Regular Use
For comforters used only seasonally or as backups, you’ll need to take extra steps to keep them fresh and damage-free while in storage since they are not regularly aired-out and cleaned.
Here are some tips for maintaining comforters stored long term:
– Unfold and shake out the comforter outside every few months
– Refold in a different manner to avoid creases embedding
– Put unused comforters in the dryer on air fluff periodically
– Spray with fabric protection and anti-dust mite spray before storage
– Place cedar blocks or sachets in storage containers to repel moths
– Make sure comforters are thoroughly clean before seasonal storage
– Store in breathable cotton cases rather than plastic
– Inspect regularly for any pilling, holes or stains developing
– Vacuum seal for space but do not leave sealed for more than a few months
By fluffing, airing out, spraying and refolding comforters not used often, you can keep them fresh and damage-free over years of storage.
Signs It’s Time to Replace a Stored Comforter
While well-stored comforters can last for many years, they eventually wear out and need replacement. Here are key signs your stored comforter should be retired:
– Thin, clumpy or lumpy spots from fill shifting
– Visible holes, tears, unraveling seams or shredding fabric
– Pervasive stains that resist removal with washing
– Pilling fabric that balls up or feels rough
– Musty, damp odor indicating mildew
– Visible dust, dirt, pet hair or allergens
– Loss of fluffiness and filling
– Discoloration or fading of fabric
– Presence of mold, bugs or insect eggs
– Discomfort due to allergies when using
As long as your stored comforter remains fluffy, supple, clean smelling and allergen/pest free, keep using it. Once the fabric shows damage or the fill loses loft, it’s time to replace it. Most quality comforters last 5-10 years with proper maintenance.
Conclusion
To get the most use out of your comforters and maintain their quality over time, be sure to store them properly when not in use. Fold comforters neatly and keep them in clean, dry spaces safe from dust, dirt, moisture and damage. Use options like closet shelves, under bed bins, chests or vacuum sealed bags. Refold and fluff comforters periodically if storing long term. With attentive storage and care, your comforters can remain fluffy and damage-free for years before needing replacement. Just be diligent about checking for any signs of deterioration like holes, stains or allergens developing. With the right storage and maintenance, your comforter investment will last for seasons to come.
| Storage Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Linen Closet Shelf | – Easily accessible – Breathable |
– Takes up shelf space – No protection from dust |
| Chest/Trunk | – Decorative – Protects from dust |
– Bulky – May compress comforter |
| Vacuum Bag | – Compressed – Protects from dust |
– Can damage fill if sealed too long |
| Under Bed Bin | – Utilizes unused space – Enclosed protection |
– Hard to access – May get dusty underneath |
