With the low temperatures of winter, there is no bed that does not have a good duvet so that you sleep soundly and feel rested the next day. However, many people hesitate to think about when they need cleaning and if it can be done at home or if they always need to be taken to the dry cleaners. From Mr. Jeff, a Spanish start-up of international laundry franchises, they explain some tricks to keep in mind to clean it at home and be able to rest without worrying about the cold.
They ensure that although we think that pajamas, sheets and duvet covers act as a shield, bacteria continue to reach the comforter. In fact, a comforter that hasn't been washed or cleaned for a year can contain more than 20.000 dust mites, which can harm our health.
In addition, it is recommended to always use it with a duvet cover that protects them from stains, sweat and various residues, to avoid this accumulation. That's why experts recommend washing your duvet every six months or, at most, once a year.
When and how to wash them?
If you decide to go to war on your own, you will need to choose the type of cleaning based on two factors: the type of comforter you have and the size of your washing machine. Duvets filled with natural materials (for example, feathers and down) and synthetics can be washed at home, as long as the capacity of the washing and drying equipment (not forced) is taken into account, because they can be damaged. For example, a washing machine with a 20-pound capacity drum should be more than enough for a king-size comforter.
The next thing they advise is to look closely at the label. This type of fabric should not be washed at temperatures above 50°C, so when in doubt, it is best to choose the cold program. When choosing detergent, you should also pay attention. Special products for delicate clothes should always be used and never softeners or products that contain bleach or lighteners that can weaken the fabric. If the garment appears grayish and wrinkled after washing, don't worry, a good drying will restore its usual fluffy appearance.
The key? dry it well
It is better to dry them well, otherwise the filling may begin to rot. Natural-filled duvets should always be dried in the dryer, while synthetic-filled duvets can be air-dried. In this case, it is recommended to always do it avoiding direct contact with the sun.
If you opt for a dryer, special attention should be paid to the process temperature. Also, inserting two or three tennis balls next to the comforter can help redistribute the feathers inside and prevent them from bunching up. Once the cycle is finished, you should wait for it to cool down and air it to check it in detail and make sure it is completely dry.
If it is necessary to repeat the drying cycle, it is essential to ensure that the wet areas are exposed and are not squeezed or crushed in the center when reinserted into the dryer. It is very important that the garment is completely dry before putting it away or putting it back on the bed to avoid the proliferation of bacteria or other microorganisms that take advantage of humid environments.
Tips to keep it perfect
Undoubtedly, good maintenance is the best care we can give to a quilt and, in addition, it will allow us to wash it less frequently. In this sense, it is recommended to always use a duvet cover to keep it clean and prevent dust from escaping. The experts at Mr Jeff recommend washing the covers once a week to keep bacteria away. Another recommendation is to shake it frequently to oxygenate its interior. When you go to store it in the closet because the heat arrives, you have to store it in its original cover or, if not available, in a cotton cover to prevent the feathers from coming into contact with dust. .
