Since winter has officially ended, itÌs a natural time to "spring clean" your comforters and bedspreads.

But how do you wash them? You may have noticed that permanent cleaning labels are not required on home furnishing fabrics, which means comforters and bedspreads are sold with care instructions on a temporary label or on the packaging. Without proper directions, it's a risky business to wash them yourself.

Trust the job to the dry cleaning professionals at Door To Door Cleaners. Not only are comforters and bedspreads often too large for your home washing machine, but youÌll avoid the disappointment that can come with washing them at home.

Prevent Color Loss

• Ask the experts at Door To Door Cleaners to test your comforter or bedspread for colorfastness. This will help determine the best cleaning process —laundering or dry cleaning. Keep in mind that cleaning can cause color loss or diminish the fabric's original brightness.
• Clean all your matching or coordinating bed items (dust ruffle, pillow shams and drapery) at the same time and with the same process. This will prevent color variances within the set.

Stop Shrinkage

• Slight shrinkage can occur if fabric is not completely preshrunk. This may cause the comforter or bedspread to fit differently or appear too small. However, rest easy that the experts at Door To Door Cleaners take steps to keep shrinkage to a minimum.

Store it Right

• Once your cold-weather bedding is cleaned, be sure it's stored properly.
• Choose a clean container, not a plastic bag. To prevent fading, moisture and mildew, store seasonal items in a dark, dry area. Items made of down should be stored loosely to promote air circulation.

Make Bedding Last Longer

• Since bedding is a long-term purchase, consider adding a duvet cover to your comforter. It can extend the comforter's normal life of five to six years. Plus, it offers more fashion options and is easier to clean.
• Shake your down comforter each morning to maximize loft and durability.
• Vacuum your comforter or bedspread to avoid dust from gathering.
• To keep your room fresh, clean your outer bedding at least once a season and again before it's stored.