We often change our sheets, but what about the duvet? Even though it is protected by a cover, over time it accumulates dust, mites, and dirt.
If you’re wondering how often and how to wash your duvet effectively, here are all the necessary tips to keep it clean and extend its lifespan.
How often should you wash your duvet?
It is recommended to wash your duvet once or twice a year, ideally during seasonal changes. This cleaning helps eliminate bacteria, allergens, and any stains that may have accumulated.
If you suffer from allergies or if incidents occur (such as stains or odors), feel free to wash your duvet more frequently.
Also, keep in mind that it is advisable to replace your duvet every 8 to 10 years. Over time, even regular maintenance may not be enough to preserve the hygienic qualities and comfort of the filling.
Precautions before washing
Before washing, inspect your duvet for any holes in the covering: a hole that isn’t repaired can release the filling during washing and damage the washing machine.
Repair these small defects with a few stitches. Then check the care label: it contains important information about whether your duvet can be washable by machine or hand, as well as the maximum temperature it can withstand.
In case of stains, make sure to pre-treat. Shake the duvet to dislodge fibers from the stained area, then gently dab with a soft sponge and a suitable cleaner. Acting quickly is crucial to prevent the stain from setting in.
Washing your duvet in a machine
If your washing machine has a sufficient capacity (at least 5 kg for a standard duvet), you can wash your duvet directly at home. Follow these guidelines:
- Choose the right program: a cotton or white cycle is ideal, but the temperature should be appropriate. For a synthetic duvet, do not exceed 40 °C; for a natural duvet (down or feathers), you can go up to 60 °C.
- Rinse thoroughly: ensure an intensive rinse to eliminate all traces of detergent.
- Spin gently: a gentle spin (less than 1000 rpm) helps preserve the cover and filling.
- Add washing balls or tennis balls: they prevent the filling from clumping together and maintain the duvet’s loft.
If in doubt or if your washing machine is too small, laundromats are an excellent option: they have large-capacity machines designed for bulky linens.
Washing a duvet by hand
If you prefer to wash your duvet by hand, be prepared for a physical task! Fill a bathtub with warm water and add a suitable amount of detergent.
Submerge the duvet and knead it gently to clean it thoroughly. The spinning stage is the toughest, as a wet duvet becomes very heavy.
Get help to remove excess water, then lay it flat on a clean surface or a large drying rack. Count on several days for it to be perfectly dry.
How to dry your duvet effectively
After washing, proper drying is essential. If you use a dryer, ensure it has sufficient capacity to accommodate your duvet. Choose a medium-temperature program (maximum 60 °C) and add drying balls to prevent clumping of the filling.
If you opt for air drying, lay the duvet flat in a well-ventilated area. Shake it regularly to maintain its loft and ensure even drying.
Make sure it is completely dry before storing it away to avoid mold growth.
How to store your duvet after washing
If you do not put your duvet back on the bed immediately, store it in an airtight cover to protect it from moisture and dust. Vacuum-sealed bags are particularly useful: they reduce volume and prevent allergen accumulation.
With these tips, your duvet will remain clean, comfortable, and ready to provide you with cozy nights for many years to come.
