This content was originally published on OldHouseOnline.com and has been republished here as part of a merger between our two businesses. All copy is presented here as it originally appeared there.
If you’re like most people, you’re probably familiar with the feel of a wonderfully soft and fluffy duvet. Did you know that your duvet needs regular washing to stay at its best? If you don’t, then this post is for you.
In this post, we’ll show you how to wash a duvet correctly. We’ll walk you through all the steps, from preparation and pre-treatment to drying and storage. With our help, you’ll be able to keep your duvet clean, fresh, and looking like new for years to come.
Choosing the Right Detergent and Washer
The type of detergent you choose for your duvet is important for preserving the fabric of the bedding. When possible, choose a detergent specifically formulated for use on delicate fabrics. It may be necessary to use a small amount of bleach. Similarly, it’s vital to be aware of any special instructions printed on the care label of your duvet.
The amount of detergent used will depend on the size and type of washer being used. It’s typically recommended that no more than a few teaspoons of detergent be used. Too much detergent can leave a soapy residue on the duvet and reduce its softness and quality.
Choose a high-capacity washer to wash your duvet to give it enough space to move freely during the cycle. Be sure to select an appropriate setting when beginning the washing process.
Pre-washing Preparations
Before washing, take time to read the care tag printed on your duvet. The tag may provide special instructions related to laundering, such as whether pre-soaking is necessary, or what type and amount of detergent should be used during washing.
Before placing it in the washer, inspect your duvet for any stains, tears, or areas that need extra attention during cleaning. Use a brush or lint roller to remove lint or pet hair from the surface before laundering. This is important for keeping dirt and debris out of other items you might be washing with it in the same cycle.
Washing the Duvet
After prepping and inspecting your duvet, place it in the washer with similarly colored items like sheets or towels. Avoid overcrowding as much as possible to allow each item space to move freely during washing. This will help prevent unnecessary stress from being placed on fabric items like a duvet during cleaning cycles.
Once all items have been loaded into the washer, select an appropriate setting for laundering. Different types of machines may have different settings available, so if no specific setting for laundering is provided, use cold water with a gentle cycle instead for the best results.
Drying the Duvet
After washing has been completed, allow all items, including your duvet, to spin until excess water has been removed from each item. This will help lessen drying time when transferring items from the washer to the dryer. If possible, avoid wringing out any fabric items by hand as this can lead to stretching or pulling due to improperly handled fabrics, such as those found in a duvet cover or duvet inserts.
Once spinning is complete, transfer all items into a dryer set on low heat. Depending on its size and material composition, it may take over an hour for each load to fully dry. Check all loads periodically throughout drying cycles to avoid over-drying.
Post-washing Cautions
Duvets and duvet inserts or covers are made with synthetic materials like polyester blends and down comforters which require gentle handling when laundering and drying. Overcrowding can cause excessive friction among items during cleaning cycles. To prevent damage during washes, make sure you select an appropriately sized washer. This will ensure that less stress is placed during cleaning processes which could damage sensitive materials.
Overall, washing your duvet doesn’t have to be a difficult or time-consuming task. By taking the time to read the care label, choosing the right type and amount of detergent, and selecting an appropriately sized washer and setting, you can provide your duvet with the gentle care it needs to last for years to come. With a few simple steps and precautions, you can keep your duvet looking and feeling like new.
