How to Wash Duvet Cover - A Complete Guide

There's nothing quite like snuggling up in a clean, fresh duvet cover at the end of a long day. Besides, your bed is the one place where you spend almost a third of your life, so it's important to keep it clean and comfortable. 

One of the key components to ensuring a good night's rest is having clean and fresh bedding, chief of which is the duvet cover.  But washing your duvet cover can be a daunting task. Fear not, because we've got you covered. 

In this ultimate guide, we'll share with you some essential tips and tricks to make washing your duvet cover a breeze. We'll cover everything from choosing the right detergent to drying techniques, and we'll even share some bonus tips to help keep your duvet cover looking and feeling like new for years to come. When you’re done reading this, how to wash a duvet cover will be crystal-clear.

So if you're ready to say goodbye to dingy bedding and hello to a good night's sleep, read on for our top tips on how to clean your duvet cover like a pro. Let's get started on the journey to a clean and comfortable bed!

What Is A Duvet Cover

A duvet cover is a removable, protective fabric cover designed to fit over a duvet or comforter, which in turn is a type of bedding that consists of a soft, flat bag filled with down, feathers, wool, or synthetic fibers. The duvet cover protects the duvet from dirt, stains, and wear and tear, similar to the way a pillowcase protects a pillow from the elements.

One of the greatest things about duvet covers is that they can be removed and washed as needed. The ease/difficulty of removing them is another story which we will address later in this article and give you a ridiculously simple solution for. 

Using a duvet cover is a popular bedding choice because it allows for easy customization of the look and feel of the bed. Using a duvet cover can help extend the lifespan of your duvet, making it a smart investment for your bedding collection.

What To Consider Before Washing Your Duvet Cover

Before washing your duvet cover, there are a few things to consider. 

First, check the care label on your duvet cover for specific washing instructions. Some duvet covers may be machine washable, while others require dry cleaning. If your duvet cover is machine washable, be sure to check the recommended temperature and cycle settings. 

Secondly, consider the type of detergent you'll be using. It's best to use a mild detergent that's specifically designed for washing bedding. Harsh detergents can damage the fibers of your duvet cover and cause colors to fade. 

Finally, take into account the size of your duvet cover. Duvet covers can be quite large, so make sure you have enough space in your washing machine to accommodate it with room to tumble freely. Overcrowding your washing machine can lead to poor washing results, wrinkles and damage to your duvet cover.

Different Methods For Cleaning Duvet Covers: Hand washing, Machine washing, and Dry cleaning

Some people ask how to wash a duvet cover at home. Others ask how to wash a duvet cover in a washing machine. Well, there are several effective methods you can employ when it comes to how to clean your duvet cover.

Here are the three most common methods:

1. Hand washing: Hand washing is the gentlest way to clean your duvet cover. Fill a large basin or bathtub with cold water and add mild detergent. Soak the duvet cover in the water for at least 30 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly. Squeeze out the excess water, and hang the duvet cover to dry. 
2. Machine washing: Machine washing is the most convenient way to clean your duvet cover. Follow the steps below to wash your duvet cover in a washing machine.
3. Dry cleaning: If your duvet cover is delicate or has intricate details, it's best to take it to a professional cleaner for dry cleaning.

How To Wash A Duvet Cover In A Washing Machine: Step by Step Guide

1. Secure the duvet cover: Zip up or button up any closures on the cover to prevent damage.
2. Check the care label: Before you clean your duvet cover, check the care label for washing instructions on the best way to clean it and at what temperature. If the label says dry clean only, take it to a professional cleaner.
3. Pre-treat stains:  If there are any stains on your duvet cover, pre-treat them with a stain remover or a paste made from baking soda and water.
4. Choose the right detergent: We recommend using a mild, fragrance-free detergent to clean your duvet cover. Place the duvet cover in the washing machine and add the detergent following the instructions on the detergent bottle. 
5. Machine settings: Set the washing machine to a gentle cycle at the recommended temperature for your duvet cover. The gentle cycle will prevent the duvet cover from getting tangled or damaged and washing with cold water helps avoid shrinking or damaging the fabric.
6. Thorough rinse: Rinse the duvet cover thoroughly to remove any detergent residue.

How to Dry A Duvet Cover

Many often ask… can I put my duvet in the dryer? Absolutely! However, when it comes to drying your duvet cover, air drying is the best option.  If possible, hang it on a clothesline or a drying rack. 

Avoid hanging it in direct sunlight, as this can cause the colors to fade.

If using a dryer, use a low heat setting. A high heat setting can damage the fibers of your duvet cover and cause shrinkage. 

If your duvet cover requires additional smoothing,  you can use a steam iron on a low heat setting or a handheld garment steamer to remove any remaining wrinkles.

Be sure to check the care label first, as some duvet covers may not be suitable for ironing.

To clarify, here are the steps to follow so you know how to dry your duvet cover properly:

1. Read the care label: Remove it from the washer and check the care label on the duvet cover for any specific instructions for drying. Some duvet covers may need to be air-dried or dried on a low heat setting to avoid damage.
2. Shake out the duvet cover: Give the duvet cover a good shake to diminish any wrinkles or folds.
3. Separate the duvet cover: Don't dry your duvet cover with other items like towels or clothing, as this may cause it to get tangled, wrinkled or not dry evenly.
4. Proper dryer setting: Set your dryer to a low or medium heat setting, or delicate cycle, depending on the care label instructions. High heat can damage the duvet cover and cause it to shrink.  
5. Fast drying trick: Add a few clean, dry towels to the dryer along with the duvet cover to help absorb moisture and speed up the drying process.
6. Check the duvet cover regularly: Check the duvet cover every 10-15 minutes to ensure the drying is even. If you notice any particularly damp areas, redistribute the cover and continue drying.
7. Remove promptly: Remove the duvet cover from the dryer once it is mostly dry to prevent wrinkles, and hang it up to air-dry completely. This will help prevent wrinkles and ensure the fabric dries evenly and is easier to iron if needed.
8. Iron if necessary: If your duvet cover is wrinkled after drying, you may iron it on a low heat setting to avoid damaging the fabric. Make sure to check the fabric care instructions to ensure ironing is safe.

By following these steps, you can ensure your duvet cover will continue to look and feel great wash after wash. Overall, the key to drying duvet covers is to be gentle and avoid using high heat, which can damage the fabric and cause shrinkage.

Tips For Washing Your Duvet Cover

Knowing how to wash a duvet cover is essential and these tips come in handy:

• Wash your duvet cover separately from other laundry to avoid tangling and damage.
• Use a color catcher sheet to prevent colors from bleeding or fading.
• Avoid using fabric softener, as this can coat the fibers of your duvet cover and reduce its breathability, while increasing its flammability. It's best to avoid using it when laundering fleece and flannel.
• If using a front-loading washing machine, place the duvet cover in a laundry bag to prevent it from getting caught in the door.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Washing Your Duvet Cover

Knowing how to clean a duvet cover means you know the steps to take to preserve the integrity of your duvet cover. For those who don’t here are a few mistakes to avoid:

1. Overloading your washing machine: Overloading washing machine can lead to poor washing results and damage to your duvet cover. 
2. Using hot water: Washing your duvet cover in hot water can cause shrinkage and damage to the fibers.
3. Using too much detergent: Using too much detergent can leave residue on your duvet cover and reduce its breathability. 
4. Using chemicals: Using bleach or other harsh chemicals can damage the fibers of your duvet cover.
5. Using fabric softeners: Fabric softeners can damage the fibers of your duvet cover and reduce its lifespan.
6. Using high heat: High heat drying can damage the fabric of your duvet cover and cause it to shrink.

Not checking the care label: Not checking and following the instructions on the care label may lead to damage or shrinkage of your duvet cover.

Here are Some Common Questions People Ask

• How Often To Wash A Duvet Cover?

In general, it's recommended you wash your duvet cover every two weeks or more frequently if you have allergies, sensitive skin or you sweat a lot during the night. On the other hand, if you use a top sheet or sleep in pajamas, you can stretch out the time between washes, so you don’t have to worry about how often to wash your duvet cover. 

If you have pets that sleep on your bed, you may also need to wash your duvet cover more often.

It's essential to wash your duvet cover regularly to avoid the accumulation of dirt and bacteria.  If you neglect to clean it for an extended period, it could become a breeding ground for germs. So, to keep your bedding clean and hygienic, make sure you wash your duvet cover regularly.

Apart from washing your duvet cover regularly, there are other things you can do to keep it clean for longer. 

Keeping your bedroom clean and free from dust and dirt is one of them. Dust and dirt can accumulate on your duvet cover over time, leading to allergies and other health issues. Therefore, it's essential to keep your bedroom clean.

• Can You Put A Duvet Cover In The Washing Machine?

Yes, you can put a duvet cover in the washing machine.  In fact, this is the most convenient and efficient way to clean it. However, before throwing it in the washing machine, make sure you read the care label on the duvet cover to ensure that it is safe to machine-wash it, as some fabrics may require special care. For example, some duvet covers may need to be washed on a gentle cycle, while others may need to be washed in cold water.

• How long does a duvet cover take to dry?

 The drying time for a duvet cover can vary depending on several factors, including the material it’s made of, the thickness of the fabric, humidity levels, and the drying method used. In general, duvet covers made from lightweight materials like cotton or polyester tend to dry faster than heavier fabrics like flannel or velvet.

If you're using a machine dryer, the drying time for a duvet cover can range from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. It's best to set the dryer to a low or medium heat setting to avoid shrinking or damaging the fabric. To speed up the drying process, you can add clean, dry towels or dryer balls to the load, which helps to absorb moisture and facilitate faster drying.

If you prefer air-drying, it may take longer for the duvet cover to dry completely. Hanging the cover outdoors on a sunny day can help expedite the process, but it still might take several hours or even a full day for it to dry completely, depending on the weather conditions. Avoid direct sunlight keeping in mind it may cause the fabric to fade.

It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and the actual drying time can vary. It's always a good idea to read the care label instructions for the most accurate information on drying.

• How Do I Prevent My Duvet Cover from Wrinkling?

Here are some tips to prevent your duvet cover from wrinkling:

1. Use the right washing settings: Always follow the care instructions on your duvet cover’s care label. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. 
2. Hang dry or use low heat: After washing, remove the duvet cover from the machine as soon as possible to prevent wrinkles from setting in. Hang it up to air dry or use the lowest heat setting on your dryer. Avoid over-drying, which can cause wrinkles.
3. Iron or steam as needed: If your duvet cover still has wrinkles, you can use an iron or steamer to smooth them out. Make sure to use the appropriate heat setting for the fabric and always iron on the reverse side to prevent damage to any prints or embroidery.

By following these tips, you can keep your duvet cover looking smooth and wrinkle-free for longer.

• How Do I Store My Duvet Cover?

Once your duvet cover is clean and dry, it's time to store it if you’re not using it right away. Fold it neatly and place it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in a damp or humid area, as this can cause mildew and odors to develop.

• Changing The duvet Cover Is Pure Hassle. What Do I Do?

The underlying issue many people have when they wonder how to wash a duvet cover is rooted in the foundational problem of how difficult it is to use a duvet cover.  At Beddley, we know the pain too well. Changing a duvet cover does not have to be stressful. That’s why we invented the Effortless Duvet Cover™ that opens and closes on three sides with our three-side zipper design. 

No more stuffing your duvet into a tight space or enduring the frustration of tackling you duvet cover. The Beddley duvet cover opens wide on three sides, so removing and putting back your duvet cover on the duvet or comforter is as easy as removing and spreading out your bedsheet. Check out the Revolutionary Beddley super easy duvet cover today and step up your bedding hygiene game. You will no longer dread laundry days!

Conclusion

Washing your duvet cover doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right approach and especially the right duvet cover, it can be a breeze.

Now that you know how to wash a duvet cover, how often to wash a duvet cover,  how to dry a duvet cover, how often to change a duvet cover and a lot more, it’s clear to you that with a little bit of care and attention, your duvet cover will look and feel like new for years to come. 

By following these simple tips, you can maintain the longevity and hygiene of your duvet cover and enjoy a good night's sleep in clean and hygienic bedding. Happy washing!