How To Store Winter Bedding
April is usually the month where overnight temperatures are mild enough that you can begin to put away your heavy-duty winter bedding. But if you want your electric blankets, thick wool blankets, and down comforters to stay fresh and clean for the next six months, you shouldn't just stuff them in a closet and forget
by Jim
April is usually the month where overnight temperatures are mild enough that you can begin to put away your heavy-duty winter bedding. But if you want your electric blankets, thick wool blankets, and down comforters to stay fresh and clean for the next six months, you shouldn’t just stuff them in a closet and forget about them. Here’s how to store winter bedding the right way.
Preparation
Before storing your winter bedding prepare each piece by reading the care label or instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some general tips include:
- Remove all cords and controllers from electric blankets and heated mattress pads and store them separately.
- Hang down comforters on a clothesline in sunlight for several hours to thoroughly air and dry.
- Launder any washable items, including electric blankets, duvet covers, and woolen blankets, prior to storage in order to remove odors, sweat, and body oils and inhibit mildew growth or permanent staining.
Assessment of available storage space
Once your winter bedding has been laundered or aired and is ready to be put away, take some time to assess the amount and kind of storage space available. Be sure the storage area is:
- Cool, dry, and impervious to mold
- Large enough to accommodate the kind of containers you wish to use
- Relatively easy to access
Packing and storing
Now that you’ve washed your winter bedding and readied your storage space, you can finally pack away your blankets and comforters. We recommend:
- Using vacuum storage bags to reduce the overall size and bulk of down comforters and keep out dust, allergens, and pests
- Placing smaller items in plastic storage bins that fit neatly under the bed or on a closet shelf
- Storing delicate or handmade items in a cedar chest or decorative trunk at the foot of the bed so you can easily air them out once every four to six weeks during the offseason
Taking the extra time required to store winter bedding properly will help ensure that each piece is in great condition when you need it next as well as extend the lifespan of every item in your collection. So follow these guidelines as you change over to your spring linen in the coming days or weeks.
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