How often should you wash duvets, pillows and bedding?
Wash sheets and pillowcases about once a week, and duvet covers every one to two weeks. Duvets, comforters and pillows need washing far less often: a few times a year is a common guide, and more often for allergy sufferers or homes with pets. Always follow the care label on each item.
A simple schedule
| Item | Common guide |
|---|---|
| Sheets and pillowcases | About once a week |
| Duvet covers | Every one to two weeks |
| Blankets and throws | Every month or two, depending on use |
| Duvets and comforters | A few times a year |
| Pillows | A few times a year |
| Mattress protectors | Every month or two |
These are general guides, not rules. Wash more often in hot weather, if you have allergies, if pets sleep on the bed, or after an illness. The care label on each item always comes first.
Why do duvets need professional cleaning?
Two reasons: size and drying. A double or king duvet does not have room to move in most home washing machines, so detergent does not rinse out properly. And a duvet that is still damp in the middle will smell and the filling will clump. Bulky bedding needs a large machine and enough drying time to dry all the way through.
Does the filling matter?
Yes. Down and feather duvets need a gentle wash and thorough drying to keep the filling loose. Synthetic fillings are more forgiving but can still clump if they are dried too hot. Check the label, and tell us the filling when you book so we can treat it correctly.
How can I keep bedding fresh between washes?
- Always use a duvet cover and pillow protectors. They are much easier to wash than the duvet itself.
- Pull the duvet back for a while each morning so the bed can air.
- Repair small tears in the seams before washing, so the filling stays inside.
- Store spare bedding completely dry, in a breathable bag rather than sealed plastic.
Questions and answers
Can a duvet go in a home washing machine?
A single duvet may fit a large home machine, but doubles and kings usually need a bigger commercial machine to wash and rinse properly. Check the care label and the capacity of your machine.
Do you collect duvets and pillows from home?
Yes. Duvets, comforters, blankets and pillows are collected and delivered back for free in Abu Dhabi.
Source for care label symbols: GINETEX, the international association for textile care labelling.
