In my previous blog I decided to impose a moratorium on my winter weather complaints. I live in an area nicknamed: “The Frozen Tundra” so I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that we are now starting week three of temperatures in the single digits and teens. Okay, we’ve established it is bitterly cold. Now what?
This blog. I’ve decided to write a series of blogs detailing the ways we stay warm around our home. In “Winter Weather Weapons No. 2” we look at a cozy and effective alternative to the electric blanket—comforters.
When I was growing up, comforters were not nearly as popular as they are now. Our beds were covered with simple bedspreads. These days I can’t think of a single household I’ve visited where comforters are not a mainstay. Comforters offer warmth and style. They are versatile bed coverings filled with feathers, cotton, wool, silk or hypoallergenic synthetics. Some people (like my sister-in-law) have so many comforters they are able to change the look of their beds as often as they choose.
Also, the price of comforters has come down in recent years, making them an affordable choice for many homeowners. Comforters are also sold as part of bed sets (often referred to as a “bed-in-a-bag”), which also include sheets, pillowcases, and bed skirts.
A few years ago when the comforter craze was in its heyday I broke down and bought a down-filled comforter (they are considerably more expensive than cotton ones). Unless you are allergic to down, I would seriously consider purchasing a quality down-filled comforter. If cared for properly, a down comforter will last about 10 years. Experts recommend investing in goose down because the large clusters have better fluffing than duck down.
Whereas synthetic comforters (generally) can be machine-washed, down-filled comforters used daily should be dry-cleaned at least every few months. As I mentioned earlier, synthetic comforters can be machine-washed following manufacturer’s directions, although depending on the comforter’s size you may have to take it to a Laundromat that has larger-capacity machines. If you own another type of natural-filled comforter, such as wool, you should check the label or simply take it to a dry cleaner.
I cover all of my family’s comforters with duvet covers. A duvet cover is nothing more than a giant pillowcase, which fits over a comforter. It not only protects your comforter but it’s also easier to wash. Duvets also come in a variety of prints and colors. I find it is cheaper to purchase a couple quality comforters and several interchangeable duvet covers than to purchase multiple less-expensive comforters.
How many comforters do you own?
Related Articles:
Winter Weather Weapon No. 1—The Electric Blanket
Tips On How To Warm Up Your Home Without Touching The Thermostat