How To Wash a Duvet Cover: Care Tips and Tricks

To wash your duvet cover, start by reviewing the care label, laundering it carefully, and drying it thoroughly before use or storage. Regular laundering keeps your duvet cover fresh, helping it protect your insert or comforter while bringing style to your space. Explore this guide for care tips that minimize wrinkles and extend the life of your duvet cover.

1. Know How Often To Wash Your Duvet Cover

While you only need to wash a comforter twice per year, a duvet cover should be laundered more often because it comes into direct contact with your skin, hair, and body oils every night. If your bed is primarily used for sleeping, wash your duvet cover every two to four weeks. If you often read, watch television, eat in bed, or share the bed with pets, you may need to wash it weekly or whenever it becomes visibly soiled. 

Duvet Cover Tip: If you spill something on your duvet cover, remove and wash it promptly to keep stains from setting and liquids from reaching the comforter inside.

2. Check Whether You Can Wash Your Duvet Cover in the Washing Machine

While you should always refer to the manufacturer's care instructions before washing, many duvet covers can be machine-washed. Check the care label first to confirm the recommended wash cycle, water temperature, detergent, and drying method for your specific bedding. Before tossing it in the wash, take a few minutes to prepare your duvet cover using these tips.

Before You Wash Why It Matters
Remove the comforter or duvet insert. Allows the duvet cover to wash and dry thoroughly while protecting the insert.
Zip or button the duvet cover closed. Helps prevent tangling and reduces stress on the fabric during the wash cycle.
Pretreat stains if needed. Improves stain removal without repeated washing.
Wash with similar colors. Helps prevent color transfer or fading.
Leave room in the washer. Gives the duvet cover space to move freely for a more effective clean.