A well-cared-for duvet can make all the difference in creating a healthy and comfortable sleep environment. Regular washing not only prolongs the life of your duvet but also helps maintain hygiene by removing dust mites, allergens, and daily wear. Follow this guide to learn the best practices for cleaning your duvet effectively.
Can You Wash a Duvet?
Yes, you can wash a duvet! However, the method depends on the duvet's type, material, and filling. Always check the care label for specific instructions. Improper washing can lead to clumping, damage to the filling, or even mildew, so it's important to follow the appropriate care steps for your duvet type.
Can You Put a Duvet in the Washing Machine?
For most duvets, yes! Always check the care label first. Here are key considerations:
- Washing machine capacity: Ensure your machine is large enough to prevent compression. For example, a 7kg drum can typically handle a double duvet, while a king-size duvet may need a 10kg drum.
- Cycle and temperature: Use a gentle cycle with water temperatures as indicated on the care label.
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Detergent use: Opt for a mild, non-biological detergent to protect duvet fibres.
How to Wash a Duvet in the Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Check the Care Label: Find details about water temperature, cycle type, and drying instructions.
- Pre-Treat Stains: Apply a gentle stain remover on visible spots and let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
- Choose the Right Washing Machine: Ensure adequate drum size for proper movement.
- Set the Cycle and Temperature: Use a gentle cycle with an extra rinse to avoid detergent build-up.
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Dry Immediately: Air-dry or tumble dry as soon as possible to prevent mildew.
How to Wash a Duvet in the Bath
If your duvet is too delicate or large for a washing machine:
- Prepare the Bath: Fill with lukewarm water and add mild detergent.
- Submerge and Soak: Press the duvet gently to ensure it absorbs the solution; let it soak for 10–15 minutes.
- Agitate Gently: Use your hands to work out dirt, but avoid twisting.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Refill the bath with clean water until the soap is gone.
- Remove Excess Water: Press out water carefully or use a towel to absorb it.
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Air-Dry Flat: Turn the duvet occasionally to ensure even drying.
Drying a Duvet
Can You Put a Duvet in the Dryer?
Yes, but only if the care label permits. Synthetic duvets often fare well on low heat, while down or silk duvets require air drying to prevent damage.
How to Dry a Duvet
- Tumble Dry: Use a low heat setting and dryer balls to maintain fluffiness.
- Air Dry: Lay flat or hang on a drying rack, turning regularly.
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Check for Dampness: Ensure it’s fully dry to avoid mildew.
Duvet Care Instructions by Filling Type
How to Wash a Down Duvet
Depending on the care label, you can typically wash on a gentle cycle at 40°C, using a third of the normal detergent. Tumble drying is recommended to prevent clumping and restore loft.
For machine washable down and down like duvets, take a look at Shaw’s duvet collection.
How to Wash an Anti-Allergy Duvet
Machine wash at 60°C to eliminate allergens. Use a low heat setting for tumble drying to maintain hypoallergenic properties.
For a duvet that’s especially designed for allergy defence that keeps up performance after frequent machine washes, take a look at Shaw’s anti allergy duvets.
How to Wash a Microfibre Duvet
Use a gentle cycle at 30–40°C. Avoid excess detergent to keep the duvet breathable and soft. For a more thorough, hot wash that maintains breathability and performance after several 60°C cycles, it's essential to choose a microfibre duvet with Smartfil®.
After washing, if permitted by the care label, tumble dry on a low heat setting until the duvet is completely dry. This helps maintain its light, airy structure and prevents clumping. For best results, add dryer balls during the drying process to keep the microfibre evenly distributed and to reduce static.
How to Wash a Silk Duvet
Handwash with cold water and silk-safe detergent, or machine wash on a delicate cycle if specified. If machine washing is allowed, use a delicate cycle with cold water (30°C maximum). The safest silk duvet to wash in machines are ones that blend silk fibres with Smartfil®, which can be found at Shaw’s by the Fine Bedding Company. Always wash the duvet on its own and use only a silk-safe, non-biological detergent in a reduced amount (about a third of what you’d typically use). Avoid tumble drying; air dry in the shade.
Where to Buy Washable Duvets in Ireland
For high-quality, easy-care duvets, explore Shaw’s collection of washable duvets. From down and silk to anti-allergy options, find the perfect duvet for every need.
More on Duvet and Bedding Care
Can You Wash a King-Size Duvet in a 7kg Washing Machine?
It’s generally not recommended. Use a machine with at least a 9kg capacity to ensure proper cleaning.
How Often Should You Wash Your Duvet?
Every six months is ideal, but increase frequency to every three months for those with allergies, pets, or children.
Additional Resources
Discover more tips for duvet care by checking out our tog guide and duvet size guide.
Keep your duvet fresh and cosy year-round! Explore Shaw’s collection of high-quality duvets and discover comfort like never before.