Washing a quilt in a washing machine is a task that many people find difficult, but with the right preparation it can be done safely and effectively. It is very important to choose the right program, detergent and drying technique so as not to damage the filling or the washing machine itself. We will explain how to care for your duvet to ensure cleanliness and comfort.
Why is it important to wash duvets?
Regular washing of duvets plays a key role in maintaining hygiene in the bedroom and protecting the health of its users. Over time, sweat, dust and peeling skin accumulate in the filling of the duvet, regardless of its type, which provides an excellent breeding ground for bacteria, mold and mites. These microorganisms can lead to allergic reactions such as itching, coughing, runny nose or skin irritation.
Allergens are especially dangerous for people with asthma and allergies, who can cause serious breathing problems. People with hyperhidrosis need to wash more often because moisture helps microorganisms grow.
Taking care of cleanliness also affects the overall aesthetics of the bedroom and the comfort of the sleeper. A soiled duvet, even under a cover of clean bed linen, can give off an unpleasant smell and look neglected. Stains from sweat or other dirt settle in the structure of the fabric over time, so they are difficult to remove, even with the help of specialized products. The frequency of washing duvets should be adapted to their type and use. Synthetic products, which dry easily and are more resistant to moisture, can be washed no more than once every three to six months. Models with natural fillings, such as down or wool, require a more careful approach and usually only need to be renewed once every one or two years.
Ventilate the duvet regularly
It is also important to remember that stains caused by drinks and food must be removed immediately to prevent them from permanently settling in the fabric and damaging its structure. Neglecting such stains can make them impossible to remove, and fat and sugar become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. In addition to washing, it is equally important to air the duvet regularly, especially during cold and dry days. Exposure to fresh air helps to dehumidify it, restores freshness and reduces the growth of mites, thus supporting the maintenance of hygiene in the long term.
Washing duvets in the washing machine – what do you need to know?
The first step before washing duvets is to carefully check the manufacturer’s recommendation label. The information on the label indicates whether the model can be washed in a washing machine and, if so, what temperature and program will be suitable to avoid damage. Fillings such as down, feathers or wool usually require softer settings, while synthetic materials are more resistant to higher temperatures. First, check the capacity of your washing machine. A blanket that is too big reduces the washing efficiency and puts a strain on the drum. Such an overload can spoil the entire washing machine.
Choosing the right detergents is equally important in order to preserve the structure of the filling and prevent it from crumbling. It is recommended to use gentle detergents, preferably hypoallergenic liquids and powders, without bleaches or aggressive enzymes. Which could disrupt the fibers or leave a residue that is difficult to rinse off. Blankets with natural fibers, such as down or wool, require special fluids to help maintain the flexibility of the material. An excessive amount of detergent can make rinsing even more complicated. For this reason, it is always recommended to use half the amount of detergent compared to normal washing of clothes.
To prevent the filling from clumping during washing, it is a good idea to add a few laundry balls to the drum, which can be purchased at home improvement stores. Their movement during the cycle helps break up lumps in the fabric and promotes even distribution of the filling. It is equally important to set the washing machine to a moderate spin (preferably between 600 and 800 revolutions per minute). Excessive rotation can cause deformation of the seams or permanent damage to the fabric. At the end of the program, check that the washing machine has removed all excess water. Moisture in the blanket helps mold grow. Therefore, dry the blanket thoroughly to keep it hygienically clean and fresh.
How to wash a large duvet in the washing machine?
Preparing a large comforter for machine washing begins with careful folding, which helps distribute the weight evenly and prevent the fabric from shifting during the cycle. The easiest way to do this is to lay it on a flat surface and then fold it in half. If the size of the blanket is still difficult, you can repeat the folding one more time or use the technique of rolling from one edge towards the center, similar to folding a fan. This preparation not only protects the washing machine from overloading, but also enables more thorough cleaning of the filling.
The safest solution is to select a mode designed for delicate fabrics, which provides gentle movements of the drum and minimizes the risk of damage to the fabric or stitching. More and more modern washing machines also offer special programs for washing blankets and pillows. Which automatically adjust parameters such as cycle time, spin intensity and water volume. The standard temperature should be in the range of 30-40 degrees Celsius, which is safe for both synthetic and natural fillings.
In the case of anti-allergic blankets, which require the removal of a greater number of microorganisms, higher temperatures of up to 60 degrees are permissible. But such settings should only be used if the manufacturer explicitly allows it. Inappropriate parameters can lead to fiber damage, compaction of the filling or loss of its insulating properties. To be safe, it is also recommended to avoid intensive spinning and not to exceed 1000 revolutions per minute. If your washing machine does not have a special program for duvets, you can set the mode for woolen or synthetic clothes. Which is also characterized by smoother movements and less pressure on the material.
How often and how to wash the duvet? Watch out for one thing so you don’t ruin it
