How to Wash Linen Duvet Cover?
Linen Duvet Covers are undoubtedly extremely popular because of their unique texture and hypoallergenic nature. Add to that the long-lasting nature of Linen, and it makes economic sense to go with Linen Duvet covers as well.
However, when you buy such a cover, it's equally important to understand how to wash Linen duvet cover? That's what we will cover today.
Why is It Crucial to Take Proper Care of Linen Duvet Covers?
Linen Duvet Covers require proper care for the following reasons:
1. Preserves Fabric Quality
Washing Linen regularly helps remove any residue or contamination. Once that is removed, linen's breathability is restored, which means the properties of the Linen fabric can be better utilized.
2. Makes it Softer
With each wash, the pectin in Linen breaks down. This helps loosen the flax fibers, which softens it over time. However, this can only happen with duvet covers if you wash them right.
3. Keeps it hygienic
Linen Duvet covers come in direct contact with your skin, which is why they often absorb sweat and other body fluids. According to Wikipedia, Linen dries quickly compared to other fabrics like cotton. While the moisture dries up, salt residue might remain. The only way to remove it from Linen Duvet Covers is to wash them properly using the method we will cover below.
How to Wash Linen Duvet Cover?
Before we cover the exact procedure to follow while washing, it's important to know how to prep those Linen duvet covers.
Pre-wash Prep
Step 1: Check the label
The very first thing you need to do is double-check the label instructions for Linen Duvet Covers,
Step 2: Separate Different Colors
Linen doesn't usually bleed colors, especially Pure-Quality Linen like the one sold in our Linen Bedding Collection, but it's still best to separate Duvet Covers of different colors.
Step 3: Turn the Duvet Covers Inside out
Before you begin the washing procedure, it's a good idea to turn the duvet covers inside out. This helps reduce surface wear, protects prints and colors, and avoids piling if you use the washing machine.
Step 4: Pre-treat the stains
If you notice any harsh stains on Linen, pre-treat them so that even a mild detergent can remove the stain in a single washing cycle.
The simplest way to pre-treat these stains is to use baking soda paste on them.
Simply blot the stain instead of rubbing or scrubbing it, and let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing it in cold water. That will make the stain milder, which in turn will help you eliminate it while washing.
Once done, now you can wash it.
While hand washing Linen Duvet Covers is the best way forward, you can also wash them in the machine. We will cover both procedures below.
How to Wash Linen Duvet Cover?
Let's first look into the procedure for hand washing Linen Duvet Covers.
Hand Washing Instructions
Step 1: Fill a basin, sink, or tub with cool water
Fill a bucket, tub, or sink with cool water.
Step 2: Mix Mild Detergent in Water
Add a limited quantity of mild detergent to the water in the basin and mix it well. There should be no large particles of detergent visible in the water.
Pro Tip:
Always use pH-neutral detergent and ensure it's bleach-free.
Step 3: Submerge Linen
Since the Linen Duvet Covers are already turned inside out, you only need to submerge them in water and gently swirl the fabric to ensure it is well exposed to detergent and water.
Step 4: Gently wash the Linen with hands
You can gently rub the stained areas against the fabric itself to remove them. However, harsh scrubbing or using a brush isn't advisable.
Only after you have done so for most of the stained parts move to the next step.
Pro tip:
Apply very little pressure to ensure the fibers aren't agitated.
Step 5: Rinse thoroughly
Once you have rubbed most of the stained parts, drain the water and rinse the fabric under cool water. The aim is to rinse it enough to remove any leftover detergent.
Step 6: Squeeze Gently
Before drying it, just remove excess water by squeezing it gently.
Machine Washing Instructions
Hand washing Linen Duvet Covers isn't always possible. In that case, follow the procedure below to machine wash them.
Step 1: Load it right
Linen Duvet Covers should be loaded into the washer loosely without turning them into one huge pile. As highlighted above, it's wise to only wash Linen Duvet Covers of the same colors together.
The washer should never be filled to full capacity with Linen Duvet Covers. It's best to load it only to 50% of its total capacity. Doing so ensures the duvet covers do not experience significant strain or mechanical agitation, thereby minimizing wear and tear.
Step 2: Load the Right Detergent Compartment with a Mild Detergent
Whether you add detergent in the detergent compartment or put it directly into the washer, always stick to mild detergents. For more details on suitable detergents, refer to the handwashing procedure above, as the detergent requirement and compatibility remain the same.
Step 3: Choose the right washing cycle
Once you have put the detergent in, choose a gentle or short washing cycle. Since the stains have been pre-treated (as explained above), a short washing cycle should be more than enough to clean Linen Duvet Covers.
Step 4: Stick to Cold water
While washing Linen Duvet Covers, always use cold water instead of lukewarm or hot water. This helps reduce wear and tear and Linen Shrinkage.
Drying Linen Duvet Covers
Drying Linen is pretty straightforward. There are a few options you have when it comes to drying.
Option 1: Drying it on a flat surface
Simply spread it flat on a clean and dry surface indoors in a room with proper ventilation.
Option 2: Air dry it on the lines
Air-drying Linen Duvet Covers on the clothing line is also an option. Just ensure that they aren't directly exposed to sunlight, even if that means they will take longer to dry.
Option 3: Using the dryer
This should be the least favored option since it is likely to cause some shrinkage. You can put Linen Duvet Covers in the dryer, but choose a low heat and the lowest duration cycle. However, use this method occasionally and not regularly, if at all.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Washing Linen Duvet Covers
Even if you follow the procedure above while washing Linen Duvet Covers, you can end up damaging them if you don't avoid the mistakes highlighted below.
1. Not double-checking the detergent composition
Detergents often consist of harsh chemicals to improve their cleansing properties. These can include:
- Bleach
- Enzymes
- & Softeners
The problem is that such chemicals alter the pH level of the detergent, which can damage delicate fabrics like Linen. That's why, instead of just looking at the detergent's name, a better option is to check the ingredients to ensure you aren't choosing a harsh one.
2. Using Fabric Softeners
While we discussed avoiding detergents with fabric softeners above, it's equally important to avoid using fabric softeners separately.
There are 2 reasons for this:
- Linen, especially Pure Linen like the one sold by us, softens with each wash, eliminating the need for fabric softeners.
- Fabric Softeners leave behind residue, which can reduce the breathability of Linen, thereby making it less comfortable.
3. Not Turning Duvet Covers Inside Out
Not turning duvet covers inside out can cause fading or piling. Moreover, if there is any embroidery or pattern on the outer surface of the duvet covers, that design can be damaged as well.
4. Using High Spin Cycle
High spin cycle results in the Linen Duvet Covers spinning at higher speeds, which can cause strain.
According to this research report, Flax fibers do not experience any damage at lower strain rates. However, as the strain increases, some damage is noticed. Sure enough, such a large strain isn't caused in the machine, but remember that you're likely to wash a Linen Duvet Cover 50+ times during its lifetime, which means even minor strain matters and can cause damage.
You can avoid that simply by avoiding the high cycle.
5. Drying in Direct Sunlight
According to a research article, UV rays can degrade the organic components of flax fiber, especially when exposed to them for long periods of time. That's why, in daily usage, Linen isn't affected by sunlight, but if you plan on drying Linen Duvet Covers outside exposed to sunlight, you might end up shortening their life.
That's why this is a mistake you need to definitely avoid.
6. Not washing Duvet Covers Regularly
As explained above, duvet covers come into contact with body fluids and contaminants on your skin. Not washing them can alter their texture, which can, in turn, make them harsh for your skin due to the accumulated residue. For this reason, washing duvet covers regularly is extremely important.
FAQs on Washing Linen Duvet Covers
Can Linen Duvet Covers Go in the Dryer?
Yes, they can be machine-dried, but it's best to avoid that and simply air-dry them. If, at all, you are machine drying them, it's best to use low heat settings and dry them only for a limited time.
How Often Should You Wash a Linen Duvet Cover?
Linen Duvet Covers should be washed at least once a week since they come in contact with your body. If you wash them more frequently, that's even better from a hygiene point of view.
Is It Safe to Dry-clean a Linen Duvet Cover?
Yes, you can dry clean a Linen Duvet Cover, but choose a professional and experienced dry cleaner to ensure the duvet cover is well taken care of. If the right technique isn't used, it can also get damaged during dry cleaning.
Buy Premium Quality Linen
Washing Linen Duvet Covers isn't difficult if you follow the guide above. This guide will help you keep the duvet covers clean, ensure that they aren't damaged, and last for years to come.
So, if you want to go ahead and enjoy the comfort of such duvet covers, check out our Linen Bedding Collection to buy Pure Linen Duvet Covers.
