How to wash a duvet in the washing machine?
Can you wash a duvet in the washing machine? How often? How to wash a goose down duvet? Can a duvet be dried in a tumble dryer? Here are some useful tips to keep them in perfect condition over time.
With the end of the winter season, it's time to wash your duvet.
Better to wash at home or take it to a laundry?
In this guide, you will find all the tips for washing your duvet in the washing machine, including the best method to dry and store it properly.
Many people choose to take it to a professional laundry service as dry cleaning ensures deep hygiene. However, this service can be quite expensive.
If you prefer to wash it at home, follow these practical tips to achieve impeccable results.
Each type of duvet requires a specific treatment: whether synthetic, natural down, eiderdown, or made from natural fibers, it is essential to adapt the washing method to the material.
Before putting the duvet in the washing machine, check if your appliance can handle the weight. The maximum load capacity is usually indicated near the washing machine controls.
3 fundamental rules for washing a duvet in the washing machine
- Read the label: It is important to check the recommended washing temperature. The washing symbols show a small bucket indicating whether the duvet can be machine washed, dry cleaned, or hand washed. It is best to do this right after purchasing, while the labels are still intact and easy to read.
If you are unfamiliar with the symbols, read the article on washing symbols. - Ideal temperature and spin cycle: Each duvet has a different washing temperature. If no instructions are available, 30 degrees Celsius is a good average.
- Detergents: Use mild detergents and avoid bleach or fabric softeners.
How to wash a duvet in the washing machine?
✔ Use a washing machine with a minimum capacity of 7 kg and a maximum temperature of 30/40°C. Although a dry duvet is very light, once soaked, its weight can double.
✔ Drying in 3 phases: In a tumble dryer at 50°C for 1 hour, then lay it out in an open, dry place, preferably out of direct sunlight, for 24 hours. Finally, put it back in the dryer at 50°C with a final spin cycle for 20 minutes.
✔ It is recommended to wash duvets on warm and windy days to ensure fast and even drying.
Attention: If you have a box-stitched duvet, washing and excessive handling may cause the filling to shift.
If your goal is only to remove a stain, you can treat it with warm water or a solution of water and mild soap. Then, let it air dry away from direct sunlight or strong heat sources (such as a radiator).
Finally, 2 secrets or tricks for a soft and voluminous duvet:
✔ Tennis balls: During the spin cycle, using tennis balls or special dryer balls helps keep the duvet soft and voluminous. By bouncing against the fabric, they prevent the down or filling from clumping together, ensuring an even distribution of the material. This way, once dry, the duvet will remain fluffy and comfortable, just like new.
✔ Two wash cycles: Run a second gentle wash with warm water, without detergent, for a more effective rinse.
How to store a duvet after washing? 📦
✔ To keep a natural down duvet (whether goose or duck down) in perfect condition, avoid carpet beaters, vacuum cleaners, or excessive shaking, as these could damage the feathers. Let the duvet air for at least 15 minutes each morning before making the bed to remove accumulated moisture. Shake it a couple of times a week, and at the end of the season, store it in a cotton bag—never in plastic or vacuum-packed—to protect it from dust while allowing it to breathe.
✔ If you have a synthetic or natural fiber duvet, you can use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust mites. Before vacuum-packing, make sure it is completely dry to avoid mold formation.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about washing a duvet
- Can I wash a duvet in the washing machine even if it is very large? 👉 Yes, but make sure the washing machine has a capacity of at least 7 kg.
- Can I use a tumble dryer? 👉 Yes! Use a temperature of 50°C and add tennis balls.
- How often should a duvet be washed? 👉 Once a year is sufficient, unless there are visible stains.
Are there differences in washing duvets with different fillings?
If you want to learn more about washing different types of duvets, check out our dedicated articles:
- How to wash natural down duvets?
- How to wash synthetic duvets?
- How to wash quilted bedspreads?
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