Does your duvet not fit in your own washing machine, or do you not have a tumble dryer? Then the launderette is a godsend. Large machines, powerful dryers and done in a few hours. But if you have never been, it can take some figuring out. In this article you will read step by step how to wash your duvet at the launderette, what to bring and how to make sure you go home with a fresh and fluffy duvet.
When is the launderette a good idea?
- Your duvet is too big for your own machine. A 240x200 duvet, for example, needs a drum of at least 10 kg, and most households do not have one.
- You do not have a tumble dryer and the weather is not good enough to dry outside.
- You want to wash several duvets in one go, for example after a weekend with guests or at the end of the rental season.
- Your washing machine is broken or you are temporarily without one.
Before you go: preparation
Check the care label
Look at the label for the maximum temperature and whether the duvet can go in the tumble dryer. Snoozella duvets can be washed at up to 60 °C and can go in the dryer on a normal programme.
Look up the launderette
Check in advance which machines there are, how big the drums are and how you pay. Some launderettes work with coins or a card, others with an app or card payment. Opening hours also vary.
Bring this with you
- Your duvet, loosely folded in a large bag.
- Your own detergent, if you prefer. Many launderettes dose automatically or sell detergent on site.
- Means of payment: coins, debit card or the right app.
- A second large, clean bag for the way home.
- Something to pass the time: a book, your phone or earphones.
Step by step: how to wash your duvet
Step 1: Choose the right machine
Choose a machine with a roomy drum. The duvet must be able to move; if you have to push to get it in, the machine is too small. If in doubt, ask the attendant if there is one.
Step 2: Place the duvet loosely in the drum
Preferably wash the duvet on its own. Place it loosely in the drum, without rolling it up tightly.
Step 3: Choose temperature and programme
Choose a temperature that matches the label, for Snoozella a maximum of 60 °C. If you can set the spin speed, about 1000 rpm is a good choice.
Step 4: Add detergent
Use a normal dose. Too much detergent rinses out less well, especially with a bulky duvet.
Step 5: Drying
Move the duvet to a large dryer. Choose a normal programme and take a moment in between to take the duvet out, shake it up and put it back. That way the filling is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Check that it is completely dry
Feel in the middle and in the corners. If it is still cool or damp there, add another round. A duvet that is not completely dry can start to smell musty at home.
Step 7: Fold and take it home
Fold the duvet loosely and put it in a clean bag. Give it another shake at home and it is back on the bed.
You will find all the care instructions per size in the washing instructions.
Tips to save time and money
- Go at quiet times, for example during the day on weekdays. The large machines are more often free then.
- Combine several duvets, but only wash them together if the drum is really large enough.
- Spin well, then the drying time is shorter.
- Ask about a service wash if you do not have time to wait. Some launderettes offer to wash and dry your duvet for you. Make sure to pass on the care instructions clearly.
Prefer to wash at home?
Do you go to the launderette more often because your duvet is too big for your machine? Then bear in mind that the smaller sizes 140x200 and 160x200 already fit in a 5 kg drum, and 200x200 in a 7 kg drum. Some couples with a 180 cm bed therefore deliberately choose two separate duvets. Check the size guide to see which sizes fit your bed.
Looking for a duvet that is made to be washed regularly? View all washable duvets without a cover, in four sizes and five colours.
Read also
- 240x200 duvet without a cover: will it fit in your washing machine?
- Drying a duvet: tumble dryer or washing line?
- How often should you wash your duvet?
Frequently asked questions
How long will I be at the launderette?
That depends on the machines and the programme. Count on one wash plus one drying cycle, and allow for extra drying time for a large duvet.
Can I bring my own detergent?
At many launderettes, yes. Some machines dose automatically; read the information on site or ask.
Can I take the duvet home damp and let it dry there?
You can, but the duvet is heavy when wet and dries more slowly at home. If possible, it is best to dry it straight away on site in a large dryer.
