The unthinkable trick to easily put the duvet in the washing machine.

#### Step 5: Wash on a Gentle Cycle
Now, it’s time to wash the duvet. Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cool or lukewarm water. This is important because high heat can damage the filling and fabric of the duvet. You should also use a mild detergent that is appropriate for delicate fabrics or down, if applicable.

Avoid using too much detergent, as this can leave residue on the duvet, which may be difficult to rinse out. Use the same amount you would for a regular load of laundry, and ensure the detergent is well-dissolved in the water.

#### Step 6: Dry the Duvet
Once the wash cycle is complete, carefully remove the duvet from the washing machine. You’ll notice that it is still rolled up tightly, which is good news because this means the duvet has been properly agitated in the wash.

Next, you’ll need to dry the duvet. You can either tumble dry it or hang it up, but we’ll explain both options:

**Tumble Drying**: If your duvet is machine-dryer-safe (check the care label), place it in the dryer on a low heat setting. Add a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff up the duvet as it dries and prevent the filling from clumping together. This will help the duvet maintain its shape and keep the filling evenly distributed. The drying process may take a few hours, so be patient and check the duvet regularly to make sure it’s drying evenly.

**Air Drying**: If you don’t want to use the dryer or your duvet isn’t suitable for machine drying, you can air dry it by hanging it on a clothesline or laying it flat on a clean surface. Make sure the duvet is fully spread out so that air can circulate evenly and help the duvet dry faster. Flip it over occasionally to ensure that both sides dry evenly.

### Why Rolling Works So Well

At this point, you may be wondering why rolling the duvet up in this manner makes such a difference in the washing process. There are several reasons why this trick is effective:

1. **Maximized Space in the Washing Machine**
By rolling up the duvet, you reduce its bulk and allow it to fit more easily into the washing machine. This ensures that the duvet can move around freely in the drum, which is crucial for proper cleaning. The agitation of the machine helps remove dirt and grime from every part of the duvet.

2. **Preventing Clumping and Damage**
Rolling the duvet prevents the filling from shifting around too much in the machine. If the duvet were left unrolled and thrown in the machine in a lump, the filling could bunch up in one area, which would not only make it hard to clean but could also cause the duvet to lose its loft. Rolling it evenly ensures that the filling stays distributed and the duvet maintains its original structure.

3. **Better Detergent Distribution**
When a duvet is rolled, the detergent has a better chance of evenly coating the fabric and reaching the filling. This helps clean the duvet more thoroughly compared to when the duvet is stuffed into the machine in an uneven lump.

4. **Reduced Stress on the Washing Machine**
Washing a duvet in a machine that’s too full can stress the machine’s motor and lead to potential damage over time. Rolling the duvet into a compact form helps distribute the weight more evenly, reducing the load on the machine and improving the washing process.

### Additional Tips for Washing Duvets

While rolling up the duvet is a game-changing trick for making the washing process easier, there are a few additional tips to ensure the best results:

– **Check the Care Label**: Always check the care label for specific washing instructions. Some duvets require special care, such as dry cleaning or hand washing, so it’s important to follow the guidelines to avoid damaging the duvet.
– **Use a Large Washing Machine**: If possible, try to use a larger washing machine, especially for king-sized duvets. The more space the duvet has to move around, the better it will be cleaned.
– **Don’t Overload the Washer**: Make sure the duvet has enough room to move freely in the drum. Overloading the washing machine can lead to uneven washing and potential damage.
– **Use Gentle Detergent**: Use a detergent that is specifically designed for delicates or down feathers, as harsh chemicals can damage the fabric and filling.
– **Dry Thoroughly**: Duvets need to be dried thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew from developing. Ensure that the duvet is completely dry before putting it back on the bed.

### Conclusion

Washing a duvet doesn’t have to be a struggle. By rolling it up tightly before placing it in the washing machine, you can significantly simplify the process, reduce the risk of damage, and ensure that your duvet gets cleaned effectively. This simple, unthinkable trick saves time, energy, and frustration, making it an essential step in caring for your bedding. So, next time your duvet needs a wash, remember to roll it up and let your washing machine do the work for you—your duvet (and your back) will thank you!