How to Wash Duvets and Pillows

10. 12. 2025

We wash duvets and pillows less often than clothes, yet they can harbour much more than you might think. Dust mites, sweat and allergens accumulate unnoticed, and their impact on sleep quality can be significant. Regular washing doesn't have to be complicated – you just need to know a few basic rules for washing duvets and pillows correctly. You can easily wash them at home in your washing machine without damaging the filling or causing them to lose their shape.

The best way to wash duvets and pillows is to choose a gentle cycle, the right temperature (ideally 60 °C), a mild detergent without fabric softener, and ensure they are thoroughly dried. Memory foam pillows should not be washed in a washing machine and need to be cleaned by hand. If you avoid common mistakes such as overloading the washing machine or insufficient drying, your bedding will stay fresh, hygienic and in good condition for years. The first step is choosing the right detergent – ISSENCIA laundry sheets are ideal for delicate fabrics as well as larger loads of laundry.

How to Wash Duvets and Blankets in the Washing Machine

If you've ever wondered how to wash a duvet in the washing machine, start by checking the care label. The care symbols will tell you whether the item can be machine washed:

Wash tub symbol = machine washable
Number inside the wash tub = maximum washing temperature (30°, 40°, 60°)
Crossed-out wash tub = do not machine wash
Dots inside the wash tub = 1 dot = cold water, 2 dots = warm water, 3 dots = hot water
Line underneath the wash tub = gentle cycle

Most modern duvets – particularly those with synthetic fillings such as hollow fibre or microfibre – can be machine washed, but it is always important to follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

To wash your duvet correctly, follow these basic steps:

Wash duvets separately – the best way to wash a duvet is on its own. Do not add other textiles to the load. This gives the duvet enough room to move freely in the drum and allows it to rinse thoroughly.
Use a low spin speed – an important step when washing a duvet without damaging it is to use a low spin speed (400–600 rpm).
Choose the right programme – when washing duvets, always select a delicate cycle or, where appropriate, a wool programme. These programmes are gentle on the filling and minimise the risk of deformation.
Choose the right washing temperature – if the material allows it, wash at 60 °C. This temperature is recommended for optimal hygiene as it effectively eliminates dust mites and bacteria. If the care label recommends washing at no more than 40 °C, do not increase the temperature.
Use the right detergent – choose a mild detergent without fabric softener, ideally one suitable for filled textiles. ISSENCIA laundry sheets are a suitable choice because they dissolve easily even at lower temperatures and leave no residue behind.

After washing, we recommend running one additional rinse cycle to thoroughly remove any remaining detergent.

How to Wash Down and Feather Pillows

Follow these steps to wash down and feather pillows correctly:

Check the care label – always start by checking the care instructions. Most down and feather pillows can be washed in a washing machine, ideally at 40–60 °C, but always follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Choose the right detergent – use a detergent specifically designed for down and feathers or a mild liquid detergent without enzymes or fabric softener to avoid damaging the delicate structure of the filling.
Choose a gentle cycle – select a gentle programme with a low spin speed (400–600 rpm) and an extra rinse to ensure that all detergent residue is thoroughly removed.
Dry them properly – after washing, tumble dry the pillows with dryer balls (special plastic or wool balls designed for tumble dryers) to prevent the down and feathers from clumping together. If you don't have a tumble dryer, air-dry the pillows away from direct sunlight and shake them regularly during drying to redistribute the filling.

How to Wash Memory Foam Pillows

Basic care guidelines for memory foam pillows:

Never wash them in the washing machine – if you're wondering how to wash a memory foam pillow, there is one essential rule: never put it in the washing machine. Foam is a delicate material that can become damaged or lose its shape during washing.

Wash only the removable cover – most memory foam pillows have a removable cover that can be safely machine washed according to the care label, usually at 30 °C on a gentle cycle.
Clean by hand only when necessary – if you need to clean the pillow itself, use a damp cloth with a small amount of mild cleaning solution and gently wipe the stained area. Avoid soaking the foam or making it excessively wet.
Dry it properly – allow the pillow to air-dry naturally, away from direct sunlight and radiators.
Regular care – memory foam requires gentle handling, but these pillows should also be aired regularly to keep them fresh, hygienic and in good condition.

How to Dry Duvets and Pillows After Washing

Thoroughly drying duvets and pillows is the final but essential step in washing them correctly. If moisture remains trapped inside, it can lead to mould or an unpleasant musty smell. Ideally, use a tumble dryer on a gentle cycle at a temperature of up to 40 °C. Add a few dryer balls or clean tennis balls – these help aerate the filling and prevent it from losing its volume. During drying, remove the duvet or pillows several times and gently shake them to redistribute the filling evenly.

If you don't have a tumble dryer, lay your duvets and pillows flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated room or in a sheltered outdoor area. Avoid direct sunlight, which can damage the fabric or cause colours to fade. Turn them regularly while drying and check whether any areas are still damp. Thorough drying is essential for maintaining both hygiene and comfort.

The Most Common Mistakes When Washing Duvets and Pillows

Although duvets and pillows are washed only occasionally, many of us make mistakes when caring for them that can shorten their lifespan or reduce sleeping comfort. How to wash pillows and duvets correctly in a washing machine is a common question, so let's look at the most frequent mistakes:

Using the wrong programme or temperature – different types of filling have different care requirements. Excessively high temperatures can cause shrinkage or damage the material, while temperatures that are too low may not effectively eliminate bacteria and dust mites.
Using the wrong detergent – harsh bleaches and heavily fragranced detergents can damage the filling, leave residue behind and cause skin irritation.
Overloading the washing machine – when there isn't enough room in the drum, water and detergent cannot circulate and penetrate the material evenly. This can result in poorly washed areas or clumps forming in the filling.
Insufficient drying – damp filling can develop a musty smell or even begin to grow mould. Drying should be thorough and unhurried to ensure that no moisture remains inside.
Ignoring the care label – manufacturers often provide specific care recommendations. Failing to follow them can damage the material or cause the item to lose its shape.

Proper care doesn't have to be complicated – simply avoid these common mistakes and choose a gentle washing method that will keep your bedding fresh, clean and comfortable.

Clean Sleep Starts with Proper Washing

Remember that quality sleep is the foundation of a good day. Give yourself the comfort you deserve. For complete comfort in your bedroom, don't forget to take regular care of your bed linen – read our article How to Wash Bed Linen and Pillowcases. Explore our complete range of products and create a care routine that will help you enjoy peaceful nights in a clean and fresh environment.