The correct cleaning method depends on the duvet's shell fabric, construction, size and filling. Always check the care label before cleaning.
Should a Down Duvet Be Dry-Cleaned or Washed?
Even when the care label permits machine washing, BIG Living strongly recommends prioritising an experienced professional dry-cleaning service for premium down duvets. Compared with washing at home, suitable professional dry cleaning can reduce the rubbing and pulling caused during washing, rinsing and spinning. This helps preserve the down-proof shell and seams over time and lowers the chance of down escaping through the fabric or needle holes.
If the Care Label Permits Machine Washing
- Use a machine with adequate capacity: The duvet needs enough room to move freely inside the drum. Larger or thicker duvets may require commercial-capacity equipment.
- Follow the permitted cycle and temperature: Use the gentle cycle recommended on the label and never exceed its maximum water temperature.
- Use a suitable amount of mild detergent: Avoid excess detergent and fabric softener, which may remain in the down and shell fabric.
- Follow the care symbols: If the label says not to bleach or iron, follow those instructions.
How Should a Down Duvet Be Dried?
If the label permits low-temperature tumble drying, add clean dryer balls or clean tennis balls placed inside cotton socks to help redistribute the down and reduce clumping. Pause periodically to shake out the duvet, and continue until the filling is completely dry. If household equipment cannot move and dry a large duvet thoroughly, use a suitable professional service.
Washing Temperature for BIG Hong Kong-Made Down Duvets
BIG's Hong Kong-made summer, all-season and winter down duvets can be machine-washed up to a maximum of 60°C. This is the upper temperature limit, not a requirement to use 60°C for every wash. Follow the individual care label for other ranges.
For everyday care, change and wash the duvet cover regularly. Wash the duvet insert according to its own care label.
Everyday Care and Storage
- Shake the duvet gently each day and air it in a well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight.
- Make sure the duvet is completely clean and dry before storage.
- Avoid long-term vacuum-compressed storage: Sealing a duvet before it is completely dry may cause odour or mould, while prolonged heavy compression can cause clumping and make it harder for the down to recover its loft. Use the supplied canvas bag or another breathable storage bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid sharp objects, excessive pulling and unnecessary frequent washing.
When to Use Professional Help
Consult an experienced professional service if the duvet is too large, the care label requires professional cleaning, suitable washing or drying equipment is unavailable, or the shell is damaged.
Check the individual details in the BIG Living down duvet collection. If you are comparing a new duvet, read How to Choose a Down Duvet or What Is Down Fill Power?
