Smell

**Crazytown3** · 10-20-2022, 16:20

Barring anything from the maker, maybe a wash in NikWax and/or a cycle through a clothes dryer on low heat, or even no heat if the dryer has that option.

**georgecarr** · 10-20-2022, 17:32

Used to be a problem years ago, particularly with duck down. The smell comes from the detergent the down processor used to wash the down. It's the same stuff they wash dogs with, hence the wet dog smell. Typically it's much worse in damp down. If you haven't tried already you could try to dry it in a commercial dryer.

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**Adventurous_Angler** · 10-20-2022, 19:54

Originally Posted by Crazytown3

Barring anything from the maker, maybe a wash in NikWax and/or a cycle through a clothes dryer on low heat, or even no heat if the dryer has that option.

Crazytown - I'd like to avoid washing it if at all possible since it is a brand new quilt, but I can certainly try the dryer...

**Adventurous_Angler** · 10-20-2022, 19:59

Originally Posted by georgecarr

Used to be a problem years ago, particularly with duck down. The smell comes from the detergent the down processor used to wash the down. It's the same stuff they wash dogs with, hence the wet dog smell. Typically it's much worse in damp down. If you haven't tried already you could try to dry it in a commercial dryer.

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Georgecarr - That is interesting about the detergent used on the duck down, I did not know that. Also, second dryer mention. Just wondering if there is any risk with putting a quilt in the dryer...

**Crawldaddy** · 10-21-2022, 07:39

I use one of these..It gets rid of every smell in rooms, gear, etc. Id use it with your quilt in a car...

https://www.amazon.com/Enerzen-Comme...0-4513d670b6bc

**Adventurous_Angler** · 10-21-2022, 08:07

Originally Posted by Crawldaddy

I use one of these..It gets rid of every smell in rooms, gear, etc. Id use it with your quilt in a car...

https://www.amazon.com/Enerzen-Comme...0-4513d670b6bc

Crawldaddy - I have not seen this before. I take it you've had good succuss with this method on other things?

**HarveyM** · 10-21-2022, 12:16

I'd do your due diligence regarding Ozone generators...
https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quali...tors-effective
https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/prog...-air-purifiers

**Twistytee** · 10-22-2022, 17:36

Originally Posted by Adventurous_Angler

Crazytown - I'd like to avoid washing it if at all possible since it is a brand new quilt, but I can certainly try the dryer...

I’ve used Nikwax before to good effect, even on newer quilts which I purchased used (seller used one or two times and wanted to go with a different set-up). I hand wash in a bathtub per the directions on the bottle, then run through a side load washer twice only on rinse cycle, then into the dryer on no heat with felt balls to break-up the down clumps. They come-out smelling fresh and fluffed with no side effects. I’ve done it at least a dozen times will no issues.

I only have one duck down quilt and it’s made from white duck down (Hutterite), and I’ve never noticed an unusual smell. but duck down purportedly can have more of a “game scent” due to dietary habits of ducks vs geese. I have no idea if this is true and would assume George’s response above is a more accurate explanation. Regardless, I think a proper wash could help with your situation.

**oldbiker** · 10-22-2022, 19:24

Give it time. It will clear up. All new will have a particular smell until it has time to air out'

**Adventurous_Angler** · 10-22-2022, 20:52

Originally Posted by Twistytee

I’ve used Nikwax before to good effect, even on newer quilts which I purchased used (seller used one or two times and wanted to go with a different set-up). I hand wash in a bathtub per the directions on the bottle, then run through a side load washer twice only on rinse cycle, then into the dryer on no heat with felt balls to break-up the down clumps. They come-out smelling fresh and fluffed with no side effects. I’ve done it at least a dozen times will no issues.

I only have one duck down quilt and it’s made from white duck down (Hutterite), and I’ve never noticed an unusual smell. but duck down purportedly can have more of a “game scent” due to dietary habits of ducks vs geese. I have no idea if this is true and would assume George’s response above is a more accurate explanation. Regardless, I think a proper wash could help with your situation.

Twistytee - I have not washed a quilt yet, so you detailing out your process is helpful. It is also comforting to know others have washed their down with Nikwax and had success. Appreciate the advice.