Duvet covers, like pillowcases for pillows, offer both protection and style at the same time. They protect duvets from air, dust, and dirt and add a decorative touch to any plain duvet cover, which is ideal for swapping styles across the seasons.

Although duvet covers don’t need any excessive care like duvets, because of their delicate texture, they require some level or proper care to last longer. If you are curious to know the basic ways to make your existing duvet covers last longer, here they are:

1.Wash your duvet covers properly

Duvet covers can be either hand or machine-washed in low to medium temperatures (ideally 30 °). It is suggested that you read the washing instructions indicated by the manufacturer. It is generally suggested that you use a bit less soap than the manufacture indicates as too much detergent/soap weakens its fibers and it will start to tear out or the colors and patterns will fade. Mild, ecological detergents that don’t have any harsh chemical ingredients are perfect for this case.

When washing, avoid mixing your duvet covers with abrasive fabrics and clothes with zipper and metallic details as this might cause pilling and abrasion to the delicate fabric.  Following the same manner, fasten the snap catches before washing so that they don’t get caught with other fabrics and cause issues. Remember, you just want to clean out any accumulated dirt and dust from your covers, you don’t want to go really heavy on washing as this will shorten the life span of your duvet covers. Ideally you should wash your duvet covers once a week.

2.Hang dry your duvet covers

After washing, drying machines are not prohibited but it’s best to use the traditional hang dry on lines method because the speed and processing of the drying machines can wear out your duvet covers faster. Make sure that the air you hang your duvet covers is fresh and not contaminated if you are going to dry your duvet covers outside. If you are going to use a dryer, make sure that the heat is set to low or use no-heat cold air as high temperatures might ruin the fabric fibers.

3.Dry Cleaning or Machine Wash

Dry Cleaning only is indicated for certain duvet cover fabrics as machine washing may damage the delicate fabric and make it shrink in size. However, for all other cases where the manufacturer hasn’t specified any dry cleaning instructions, you should wash your duvet cover in the machine as directed.

4.Store them well

If you are going to replace your duvet cover with another one, make sure you store them well. Wash them before storage and dry them out completely before storage. It’s also recommended that you store them in places where there is no moisture being present as excess moisture is unhealthy for the fabric and attracts musty smells.

5.No pets or small kids

Make sure that no pets or small kids are in contact with your duvet covers. It might sound like common sense, but you’ll be surprised how many people let their pets and kids free to ruin their delicate bedding and duvet covers. If you don’t want to throw your duvet cover or make it a duster or pillow case, don’t let any pets or small kids approach it. The same applies for storage of your duvet covers.

Last but not least, changing your duvet covers often will make them last much longer than having a single duvet cover take its course. This will also revive the decoration of your beddings and the overall ambiance of your bedroom.