Using Shoes Instead of Tennis Balls When Washing Comforters

I just threw my full down comforter in the washer along with several pair of heavy size 9 flip flops and toddler Keen sandals. I used low suds detergent and 1/2 cup vinegar to freshen things up. I did manually move/refold the clumpy sodden mess a few times to make sure all surfaces really got clean. The flip flops and sandals went in the dryer too.

This works much better than tennis balls because they're heavier and the comforter doesn't tend to wrap them up quite so much. Just set the dryer to fluff for about and hour or so, occasionally taking the comforter out and shaking. It came out nice and fluffy and fresh.

By prematurely gray from South Jersey