Your Duvet Needs a Wash-More Often Than You Think, Tests Reveal
Recent investigations confirm what many suspect: our duvets aren’t as clean as they appear. A study by Ökotest subjected 17 duvet models to repeated wash cycles-each going through the machine five times-and found none emerged unscathed.Issues ranged from clumping and volume loss to discoloration,despite twelve models still receiving a “good” rating and five others achieving “satisfactory” or “sufficient.” This underscores the importance of regular cleaning for both hygiene and longevity.
Maintaining a clean sleep surroundings is crucial for overall health, and duvets, often overlooked, harbor notable amounts of dead skin cells, dust mites, and bodily fluids. While a complete overhaul isn’t necessary weekly, consistent care can dramatically improve sleep quality and reduce allergy symptoms. Beyond the duvet itself, proper care extends to pillows, which also require routine cleaning to eliminate sweat, tears, and saliva buildup.
Ökotest recommends choosing a duvet size that extends 20 to 30 centimeters beyond your body length. For someone 1.70 meters tall, a duvet of at least 1.90 meters is ideal.
Pillows, too, benefit from regular washing-approximately four times a year-but the method depends on the filling. Always consult the care label for temperature and wash cycle guidance. Specialized neck support and latex pillows require removing the filling before cleaning, with only the cover going in the machine. For cherry pit pillows, remove the pits and wash the cover by hand or in the washing machine.
Ultimately, prioritizing regular cleaning of both duvets and pillows isn’t just about hygiene; it’s an investment in better sleep.
