How to Wash a Duvet Cover (The Easy Way!)
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Time to read 7 min
Washing a duvet cover should be simple—but it often leads to shrinking , wrinkles , or a frustrating battle to get it back on. Whether your duvet cover is cotton, linen, or another fabric, knowing how to wash a duvet cover properly keeps it clean, fresh, and long-lasting.
In this easy guide, you’ll learn:
✅ The best way to wash a duvet cover
✅ How often to wash your duvet cover
✅ How to dry your duvet cover (without shrinking it!)
✅ Different cleaning methods
✅ Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them!)
💡 Pro Tip: Tired of struggling with traditional duvet covers? Our Beddley Effortless Duvet Cover opens on three sides—making it 10x easier to remove, wash, and replace. Shop the collection now.
Table of contents
Why Washing Your Duvet Cover Matters How Often Should You Wash a Duvet Cover? Different Methods for Cleaning Duvet Covers How to Wash a Duvet Cover (Step-by-Step) How to Dry a Duvet Cover (The Right Way!) How to Wash Different Types of Duvet Covers Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Duvet Covers Eco-Friendly Tips for Washing Duvet Covers FAQs: Duvet Cover Washing Tips Ready to Make Laundry Day Easier?
Why Washing Your Duvet Cover Matters
Your duvet cover collects body oils, sweat, dust, and allergens (hello, pet owners!). Regular washing keeps your bedding clean, fresh, and long-lasting.
It also helps preserve the quality of your duvet insert , reducing the need for dry cleaning.
How Often Should You Wash a Duvet Cover?
For most people, washing your duvet cover every 1-2 weeks is ideal.
If you:
- Sleep directly under your duvet without a top sheet
- Have allergies or sensitive skin
- Share your bed with pets
…then washing it weekly is a smart move.
Guest beds or infrequently used covers can be washed every month.
Different Methods for Cleaning Duvet Covers
Some people wonder how to wash a duvet cover at home, while others ask how to wash a duvet cover in a washing machine. Good news: there’s a method for everyone!
Here are the three most common ways to clean your duvet cover, depending on your fabric type and personal preference:
1. Hand Washing
Hand washing is the gentlest method, perfect for delicate or luxury fabrics.
Here’s how:
- Fill a large basin or bathtub with cold water.
- Add a mild detergent (preferably one designed for delicates).
- Submerge your duvet cover and soak for 30 minutes.
- Gently agitate by hand, then rinse thoroughly.
- Squeeze (don’t wring!) out the water and lay flat or hang to dry out of direct sunlight.
👉 Pro Tip: Hand washing is perfect for maintaining the quality of linen and silk duvet covers.
2. Machine Washing
Machine washing is convenient and works for most duvet covers, including Beddley’s easy-change duvet covers, which are designed to withstand frequent machine washes while maintaining their luxurious feel.
- Zip it closed to avoid tangling.
- Wash on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water.
- Use a mild, eco-friendly detergent.
- Dry on low heat or hang dry for best results.
👉 Bonus: Our patented zipper design makes removing and replacing your duvet cover 10x faster, so laundry day is a breeze!
3. Dry Cleaning
Professional dry-cleaning may be the best choice for delicate fabrics (like silk) or duvet covers with embellishments, embroidery, or intricate designs.
- Dry cleaning helps prevent shrinkage and damage to delicate fibers.
- If your duvet cover’s care label says “dry clean only,” trust the experts!
👉 Pro Tip: If you’re ever unsure, it’s worth asking your cleaner about the fabric care before committing.
How to Wash a Duvet Cover (Step-by-Step)
1. Check the Care Label
Always read your duvet cover’s care instructions first!
Beddley's Oeko-Tex certified cotton duvet covers are designed for easy care. But labels tell you specific temperature, cycle, and drying instructions.
2. Pre-Treat Any Stains
Spot-clean any spills before throwing it in the washer.
- Natural stains? Try a baking soda paste or diluted white vinegar.
- Tough stains? Use a gentle stain remover that’s safe for colored fabrics.
3. Zip It Up
This reduces tangling in the wash.
4. Choose the Right Washing Cycle
- Use a gentle/delicate cycle.
- Wash in cold or warm water (hot water may shrink cotton or linen).
- Select a mild detergent without bleach or brighteners.
- Skip the fabric softener.
How to Dry a Duvet Cover (The Right Way!)
Many people ask, “Can I put my duvet cover in the dryer?”
Absolutely! But knowing how to dry a duvet cover properly makes all the difference in preventing shrinkage and maintaining its softness.
1. Air Drying (Best for Delicate Fabrics)
Air drying is the gentlest method, ideal for cotton, linen, and silk covers.
- Hang on a clothesline or drying rack.
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Shake it out halfway through to reduce wrinkles.
- Ensure good airflow to prevent odors.
2. Machine Drying (Quick & Convenient)
Perfect for busy schedules!
- Check the care label first.
- Use a low heat or delicate cycle.
- Add wool dryer balls or clean towels to absorb moisture and speed up drying.
- Do not overload —give it room to tumble freely.
- Check every 10-15 minutes and remove promptly when slightly damp.
- Hang to finish drying and avoid wrinkles.
3. Ironing (Optional)
For that crisp, hotel finish:
- Use a steam iron on low to medium heat.
- Always check the care label first.
- A handheld steamer works well for delicate fabrics.
💡 Pro Tip: Quick Steps for Drying Your Duvet Cover Without Shrinking It!
Read the care label first.
Shake out the duvet cover before drying to minimize wrinkles.
Dry separately from heavy items for even airflow.
Use low heat and add wool dryer balls to speed up drying and keep the fabric fluffy and soft.
Check frequently—every 10-15 minutes is ideal.
Remove slightly damp and hang to finish air drying for best results.
Iron or steam if you want a crisp, wrinkle-free look.
How to Wash Different Types of Duvet Covers
Not all fabrics are created equal! Here's how to care for each:
Cotton Duvet Covers
- Wash: Cold or warm water
- Dry: Low heat or air-dry
- Note: Prone to wrinkles—remove promptly!
Linen Duvet Covers
- Wash: Cold water
- Dry: Air dry or tumble dry low
- Notes: Linen softens over time. Avoid high heat to prevent shrinking.
Microfiber Duvet Covers
- Wash: Cold water
- Dry: Low heat or air-dry
- Note: Quick-drying, easy-care
Silk Duvet Covers
- Wash: Hand wash or dry clean
- Dry: Lay flat or hang dry away from sunlight
- Note: Use a silk-specific detergent to maintain luster
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Duvet Covers
-
Overloading the Washer
➡️ Your duvet cover needs space to move for an effective clean. -
Using Too Much Detergent
➡️ More soap doesn’t mean cleaner! Excess detergent can leave a residue. -
Skipping Stain Pre-Treatment
➡️ Always spot-treat stains before washing to avoid setting them. -
Drying on High Heat
➡️ High temps can shrink natural fabrics and damage fibers. Stick to low heat. -
Not Zipping the Cover Closed
➡️ If your duvet cover isn't zipped, it can twist or trap other laundry inside.
Eco-Friendly Tips for Washing Duvet Covers
At Beddley, sustainability matters. Here’s how you can wash your bedding while being kind to the planet:
🌿 Wash with cold water: It saves energy and still gets your duvet cover clean.
🌿 Choose eco-friendly detergents: Look for biodegradable, non-toxic options.
🌿 Air-dry when possible: Reduces energy use and extends fabric life.
🌿 Wash full loads (without overloading!): Efficient water and energy usage.
🌿 Skip fabric softeners: They can coat the fibers of your duvet cover and reduce its breathability while increasing its flammability. It's best to avoid using it for fleece and flannel.
FAQs: Duvet Cover Washing Tips
How Do You Wash a Duvet Cover for the First Time?
Wash separately in cold or warm water on a gentle cycle.
Can You Put a Duvet Cover in the Dryer?
Yes! Use low heat and remove promptly to avoid wrinkles.
How Do You Keep a Duvet Cover Looking New?
- Wash regularly
- Avoid bleach
- Dry on low heat
- Rotate your covers
Can You Put a Duvet Cover in the Washing Machine?
Yes! Most duvet covers, including Beddley’s patented Easy-Change® designs, are machine washable. Use a gentle cycle, cold or warm water, and a mild detergent to protect the fabric and prevent shrinking.
Do not overload your washer so your cover can move freely.
At What Temperature Should You Wash a Duvet Cover?
We recommend cold to warm water (30°C to 40°C / 86°F to 104°F). Avoid hot water unless the care label says otherwise—it can shrink natural fibers like cotton and linen.
How Often Should You Wash a Duvet Cover?
You should wash your duvet cover every 1-2 weeks. If you have pets, allergies, or sleep without a top sheet, consider washing it weekly to keep your bedding clean and hygienic.
How Long Does It Take for a Duvet Cover to Dry?
- Depending on your fabric type and dryer, machine drying on low heat takes about 30-40 minutes.
- Air drying can take several hours to overnight, depending on airflow and humidity.
Remove promptly from the dryer to prevent wrinkles.
How Do I Prevent My Duvet Cover from Wrinkling?
- Shake out your duvet cover before drying.
- Tumble dry on low heat and remove while slightly damp.
- Hang or lay flat immediately after drying.
- Use a handheld steamer or steam iron on a low setting for a crisp finish.
How Do I Store a Duvet Cover Properly?
Store your duvet cover in a cool, dry place, folded neatly in a breathable cotton bag or fabric storage box.
Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause mildew.
Changing a Duvet Cover Is a Hassle—What’s the Easiest Way?
Traditional duvet covers can be frustrating. That’s why we created the Beddley Effortless Duvet Cover®, with a patented three-sided zipper that makes changing your duvet cover 10x faster and easier.
No more stuffing or struggling—just zip, flip, and you’re done!
➡️ Discover the Beddley Easy-Change Duvet Cover
Ready to Make Laundry Day Easier?
Washing and caring for your duvet cover doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right tips—and the right duvet cover—you can keep your bedding clean, fresh, and hassle-free. Enjoy a healthier, more hygienic sleep environment.
➡️ Make bed care effortless with the Beddley Effortless Duvet Cover, designed with a patented three-sided zipper that makes changing and washing your duvet cover 10x faster.
Shop Now and experience the easiest way to care for your bed.
