How to wash a duvet?

I know how important it is to keep my duvet clean—not just for comfort but also for hygiene and a longer lifespan. Over time, duvets can collect sweat, oils, dust, and allergens, making it essential to know how to wash a duvet properly. I often get asked whether to use a washing machine or clean a duvet without a washing machine, and if it’s possible to wash a king size duvet in a 7kg washing machine or a feather duvet in the washing machine. In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned, from bath washing and machine settings to drying techniques and how often to wash a duvet.

How to Wash a Duvet in a Washing Machine?

I usually start by checking the care label on my duvet and removing any covers. I make sure the duvet fits comfortably in my washing machine without forcing it in, because overloading can damage both the duvet and the machine. When I wash my duvet in the washing machine, I use a gentle cycle with warm water, around 40–60°C depending on the filling. I always add a mild, non-biological detergent, about one-third of the usual amount, and I avoid bleach or fabric softeners. After washing, I run an extra rinse and spin cycle to remove all detergent residue. To keep my duvet fluffy, I add dryer balls or clean tennis balls when tumble drying.

How to Clean a Duvet Without a Washing Machine?

Sometimes I don’t have access to a washing machine, so I clean my duvet in other ways. For small stains, I use spot cleaning with a mixture of mild detergent and water, gently blotting the stain rather than rubbing it. For a more thorough wash, I fill my bathtub with lukewarm water and a little mild detergent, submerging the duvet and gently moving it around. I make sure to rinse it thoroughly and press out excess water without wringing, which could damage the filling. Once rinsed, I either lay it flat or hang it in a well-ventilated area, fluffing it occasionally to keep the filling evenly distributed.

Can You Wash a King Size Duvet in a 7kg Washing Machine?

I’ve learned that trying to wash a king size duvet in a 7kg washing machine is usually a bad idea. The duvet can be too bulky, which prevents proper cleaning and can strain the machine. If I need to wash a large duvet at home, I either use a larger capacity machine or take it to a laundromat with commercial-sized washers. If a professional cleaning service is available, I sometimes choose that option for extra care, especially for feather or down duvets.

Can I Wash a Feather Duvet in the Washing Machine?

I can wash my feather duvet in the washing machine, but only if the care label allows it. I always use a front-loading machine on a gentle cycle with warm water, avoiding hot water that could damage the feathers. I use a mild detergent and run an extra rinse cycle to remove all soap. After washing, I tumble dry on low heat, adding dryer balls to maintain loft, and I shake and fluff it multiple times to keep the feathers evenly distributed.

How to Wash a Duvet in the Bath?

Sometimes I wash my duvet in the bath when it’s too delicate for the machine. I fill the bathtub with lukewarm water and a little mild detergent, submerging the duvet and gently moving it to release dirt. After draining, I refill and rinse multiple times until all detergent is gone. I press the duvet lightly to remove excess water, taking care not to twist or wring it. I always dry it immediately to prevent mildew, either flat or hung in a well-ventilated area, fluffing it occasionally for even drying.

How Often to Wash a Duvet?

I wash my duvet every six months, while my duvet covers get washed weekly or bi-weekly. Regular washing keeps dust, sweat, and allergens under control, ensuring a healthy sleeping environment. For feather or down duvets, I like to air them between washes to keep them fresh and maintain their loft. Keeping a consistent cleaning schedule makes my bed feel fresh and cozy all year round.

Duvet Washing Machine Setting

When I use the washing machine, I always select a gentle or delicate cycle with warm water, around 60°C. I never use fabric softeners, as they can damage the filling. I also add an extra rinse and spin to make sure all detergent is removed. These settings keep my duvet clean without harming the fabric or filling.

How to Dry a Duvet?

After washing, I always make sure my duvet is completely dry before using or storing it. For tumble drying, I use a low heat setting and add dryer balls or tennis balls to help maintain fluffiness. For air drying, I hang it in a well-ventilated area or outdoors in sunlight. I make sure to fluff the duvet regularly during drying to redistribute the filling and avoid clumps. Proper drying keeps my duvet comfortable, fresh, and long-lasting.

Additional Tips to follow after washing the duvet

I store my duvets in breathable bags to protect them from dust and moisture. I also fluff them regularly to maintain loft and comfort. Quick spot cleaning for small stains helps reduce the need for full washes, keeping my duvet looking fresh longer.

FAQs

Can I wash my duvet more often than recommended?

Yes, you can wash your duvet more frequently if it gets dirty or if you sweat a lot at night. Just make sure to follow the care label instructions to avoid damaging the filling or fabric.

Can I use regular detergent for a down or feather duvet?

It’s best to use a mild, non-biological detergent. Regular detergents with enzymes or bleach can damage the feathers or cause clumping.

How do I prevent my duvet from clumping after washing?

Fluff your duvet during drying, use dryer balls or tennis balls, and shake it periodically to redistribute the filling evenly. Airing it regularly also helps maintain loft.

Can I dry my duvet in direct sunlight?

Yes, but avoid prolonged exposure, especially for delicate fabrics like silk or synthetic fills. A few hours in sunlight can disinfect and freshen it naturally.

Is it safe to fold my duvet for storage?

Yes, but make sure it’s completely dry first. Store it in a breathable bag rather than a plastic one to prevent moisture buildup, mildew, or odor.