You do not buy a duvet every year. But how long does a duvet actually last? And how do you know it is time for a new one? In this article you will read which factors determine its lifespan, which signs tell you your duvet needs replacing and how good care helps you enjoy your duvet for longer.
How long does a duvet last?
There is no fixed answer to that. In advice you often come across a guideline of about five to ten years, with synthetic duvets usually at the shorter end and down duvets lasting longer with good care. But those figures are explicitly an indication. How long your duvet lasts depends strongly on how you use and care for it.
What determines the lifespan?
The material
Down, wool and synthetic fibres such as microfibre each behave differently. One filling is more prone to clumping, another to moisture or to losing its resilience.
The use
A duvet that is used every night wears faster than a duvet in the guest room. People who get warm and sweat a lot also ask more of a duvet.
The care
Regular airing, shaking and washing according to the instructions helps keep the filling fluffy. Washing too hot, too much detergent or insufficient drying can actually make a duvet age faster.
The construction
A duvet that is well quilted keeps the filling in place better. That helps prevent thin spots and clumps.
Signs your duvet needs replacing
- Clumps or thin spots. The filling is unevenly distributed and can no longer be shaken back into shape.
- The duvet has gone flat. It feels less fluffy and retains less warmth than before.
- You are more often cold or too warm. If the duvet no longer feels comfortable, while your bedroom has not changed.
- A lingering smell. If a musty smell does not disappear even after washing and proper drying.
- Visible wear. Tears in the seams, loose stitching or filling coming out.
- Stains that will not come out. Especially with light-coloured duvets, this can be a reason to replace it.
The shake test
Give your duvet a good shake and lay it flat on the bed. Does it rise up nicely and is the filling evenly distributed? Then there is probably nothing wrong. If it stays flat and you feel clear clumps or empty compartments, it is time to have a look around.
How to make your duvet last longer
- Air it daily. Fold back your duvet in the morning and open a window, so moisture can escape.
- Shake it regularly. That keeps the filling fluffy and evenly distributed.
- Follow the washing instructions. For Snoozella: a maximum of 60 °C, about 1000 rpm, and a drum that is large enough. Read the washing instructions.
- Go easy on the detergent. Too much detergent rinses out less well and can make the filling stiff.
- Always dry completely. In the tumble dryer with a shake in between, or fully on the line.
- Store it clean and dry. Use a breathable bag and a dry place.
You can read how often it is best to wash in our article how often should you wash your duvet.
What do you do with your old duvet?
Do not just throw an old duvet away. A clean duvet in reasonable condition can sometimes get a second life, for example as a blanket for a pet, as a protective layer when moving house or at an animal shelter that collects textiles. Ask your local council how best to hand in textiles in your area.
Warranty at Snoozella
Snoozella duvets come with a 1-year warranty. Read on the warranty page what it covers. And if you are not sure whether a new duvet suits you? Then you get a 30-night sleep trial.
Is your current duvet due for replacement? View all duvets without a cover. Because you wash them as a whole, care is simple.
Read also
- How often should you wash your duvet?
- Microfibre or down: which duvet suits you?
- Bothered by house dust mites? How to keep your bed fresh
Frequently asked questions
How often should you replace a duvet?
There is no fixed term. About five to ten years is often mentioned as an indication, but above all look at the condition of your duvet: clumps, flatness and wear are clear signs.
Can I make a flat duvet fluffy again?
Sometimes it helps to wash it according to the instructions and then dry it well with a shake in between. If it stays flat, replacing it is often the best choice.
Does a washable duvet last less long because you wash it more often?
A washable duvet is made to be washed regularly. Follow the washing instructions and it can handle that well.
