How to wash a duvet (2024)

They're bulky and can be awkward to handle but follow this how to wash a duvet guide to keep yours clean, fresh and in great condition.

How often?

Ideally, duvets should be washed at least once a year. Check the care instruction label before washing. And look out for any weak spots and repair them first.

Wash well

• Most duvets are machine-washable but before you attempt to squash it into your machine make sure that the drum capacity is big enough and that you don't overload it. As a rough guide most 7kg capacity machines will cope with a 10-tog double. But check with the machine's manufacturer first if you are in any doubt.
• Use about one third of the usual amount of detergent and wash at as high a temperature as the care label allows (above 60°C will kill dust mites).
• Shake out while damp to redistribute the feathers/filling evenly and leave to dry thoroughly.
• Keep dust levels down by shaking and airing duvets frequently, and occasionally vacuuming with the soft brush attachment on the lowest possible setting.

Stain removal

Spills on duvet casings should be dealt with immediately. Ease the filling away from the affected area and tie off the casing with an elastic band. Sponge with a mild detergent to remove the mark. Rinse with clean water and blot as dry as possible with paper towels.

Cleaning a quilt

• Valuable antique and heirloom quilts should always be taken to a specialist company for cleaning.
• But if you're confident a quilt is safe to wash, fill a clean bathtub with cold water and add a little gentle, fragrance-free, undyed liquid detergent and 1⁄2 cup of white vinegar. Put the quilt in the tub and gently move it around. Leave for about 10 minutes, then drain and refill with fresh water.
• Repeat until the water comes up clean and suds-free. Allow as much water as possible to drain, then roll up the quilt and squeeze very delicately – too much pulling can damage the seams.
• Take the quilt outside and lay it out on a clean white sheet. Cover with another sheet and leave until completely dry.
• Never hang a quilt from a washing line; it places too much stress on the seams and can displace the filling.