Your duvet has been washed and comes out of the machine. Now the next question: does it go in the tumble dryer, or do you hang it on the washing line? Both can work perfectly well, as long as you go about it the right way. Because one thing matters more than the method: a duvet must be completely dry before you use it again or put it away. In this article you will read the pros and cons of both methods and get practical tips to make your duvet fluffy and fresh.
Why proper drying is so important
A duvet contains a lot of filling, and that filling retains water after washing. On the outside a duvet can already feel dry while it is still damp inside. If you then put it on the bed or in the cupboard, it can start to smell musty and the filling can clump together. So always take the time to let your duvet dry completely.
Option 1: Drying in the tumble dryer
The pros
- Fast and weather-independent. You do not depend on sun or wind.
- Fluffy result. The tumbling motion shakes the filling loose.
- Handy if you have one duvet. You can use it again the same day.
What to watch out for
- Check the label. Not every duvet can go in the tumble dryer. Snoozella duvets can go in the dryer on a normal programme.
- Give the duvet room. A large duvet in a small dryer dries slowly and unevenly.
- Shake it in between. Take the duvet out of the dryer halfway through, shake it up and put it back in. That way the filling is evenly distributed.
- Check at the end. Feel especially in the middle and in the corners. If it is still cool or damp there, it needs a bit more time.
Tip: dryer balls
Some people use dryer balls or a few clean tennis balls in the tumble dryer. They move with the duvet and help keep the filling loose. It is not a must, but it is a handy aid.
Option 2: Drying on the washing line
The pros
- No energy use from a dryer. Wind and sun do the work.
- Fresh outdoor air. Many people love the smell of laundry that has hung outside.
- Suitable for every size. Even a large duvet fits on the line.
What to watch out for
- Choose the right moment. A dry, preferably windy day works best. Start in the morning, so the duvet can dry all day.
- Spread the weight. Hang the duvet over two or more lines, so it does not hang from one point and the air can flow along it.
- Turn and shake. Turn the duvet over a few times and beat or shake it, so the filling does not sink to the bottom.
- Bring it in on time. If it gets damp in the evening, bring it inside and let it finish drying on a drying rack in a well-ventilated room.
Drying indoors
No garden or balcony? A large drying rack in a well-ventilated room also works. It does take longer, and it helps to open a window. Bear in mind that the duvet releases a lot of moisture indoors.
Tumble dryer or washing line: a quick comparison
- Speed: the tumble dryer is usually faster.
- Cost: the washing line is free; the dryer uses electricity.
- Fluffiness: the dryer shakes it as it goes; on the line you have to shake it yourself.
- Weather: the dryer always works; the washing line only in suitable weather.
Many people combine both: first some time on the line, then a short spell in the dryer to fluff up the filling and remove the last bit of moisture.
Start with a good wash
Good drying starts in the washing machine. Choose a spin speed of about 1000 rpm, so that a good amount of water is already out of the duvet before you start drying. Use a drum that is large enough: for Snoozella duvets 5 kg for 140x200 and 160x200, 7 kg for 200x200 and 10 kg for 240x200. You will find all the steps in the washing instructions.
Tip: two duvets
No tumble dryer, or do you always prefer to dry on the line? Then a second duvet is a smart investment. While one duvet dries at its own pace, you sleep under the other. View all washable duvets; you can also deliberately choose a second colour for some variety.
Read also
- How often should you wash your duvet?
- Washing a duvet at the launderette: how to go about it
- 240x200 duvet without a cover: will it fit in your washing machine?
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my duvet is completely dry?
Feel in the middle and in the corners, and squeeze the filling. If it no longer feels cool or damp anywhere and the filling is fluffy, it is dry.
Can a duvet dry in full sun?
It can, but prolonged strong sunlight can make colours fade over time. A spot with wind and some shade is often ideal.
My duvet smells musty after drying. What now?
That usually indicates it has been damp for too long. Wash it again and make sure it then dries quickly and completely.
