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The Thread

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How often should you replace your duvet and what are the signs it’s time for a change?

Curling up under a plump and cosy duvet is one of the best feelings and an important step in creating your sleep sanctuary. Our duvets are designed to be long-lasting, but all duvets will eventually need replacing. Discover everything you need to look out for to know when it might be time for a change, as well as looking deeper into different fabric properties and explore tips on how to extend the life of your duvet.

How often should you replace your duvet?

We offer a 10-year guarantee on our feather and down duvets and a 5-year guarantee on our synthetic collections. With the right care, your duvet should last you this duration, or longer, but there may be some instances when you need to replace your duvet sooner.
If your duvet is used every night, chances are it will need replacing sooner than one that's used less frequently, like one in a guest bedroom. Another thing to look out for is if you experience a noticeable decline in warmth, especially during the colder months, as this could suggest that the insulation has weakened.

Signs it’s time to replace your duvet

1. When your duvet loses its warmth

Over time, all duvets will naturally lose their ability to retain heat. As the filling flattens and breaks down, it can no longer trap warm air effectively.

2. When your duvet becomes lumpy and won’t plump up

This happens when the filling inside the duvet collapses, which is a natural process that occurs in all duvets eventually. The filling can shift or clump together, leaving behind uneven areas and lumps. When this happens, it’s difficult to restore the duvet to its original shape and would be best to replace it.

3. If your duvet shows any visible signs of damage or discolouration

Duvets absorb oils, dust, and other particles, which is why you should wash your duvet every six months. However, if you notice your duvet has stubborn stains, odours, or visible damage, it could be time for a replacement. A duvet with an unwashable amount of buildup can be tricky for people with asthma or bad allergies, as the dust can trigger a reaction, which could impact overall sleep quality.

4. When you notice the duvet filling coming out

Rips and holes in your duvet will affect the duvet’s insulating properties, leading to cold spots, as well as potentially leading to further damage occurring.

How often to replace your duvet based on material

Simple Table
Duck down Duck down duvets are known for their warm, soft, and long-lasting properties. They offer excellent insulation and the natural down filling has a luxury feel to it. Using a duvet cover and airing your bedding out frequently can help your duvet last longer. We offer a 10-year guarantee on our duck down duvets.
Goose down Goose down duvets are designed to offer excellent warmth and softness as the down clusters trap heat. We offer a 10-year guarantee on our goose down duvets.
Smartdown® Made from synthetic materials and designed to replicate the warmth and softness of natural down, Smartdown® duvets are a good lightweight choice. They’re also a great option for allergy sufferers, as they offer the plush feel of a down duvet without the potential allergens. We offer a 5-year guarantee on our Smartdown duvets.
Smartfil® Smartfil® duvets are made from high-performance synthetic fibres and designed to provide warmth and breathability. Lightweight and more affordable than traditional down duvets, they offer excellent insulation while remaining soft and comfortable. We offer a 5-year guarantee on our Smartfil® duvets.

How to extend the life of your duvet

To keep your duvet looking and feeling great for as long as possible, proper care is essential. Here are a few key tips to help keep your duvet plump and cosy:

  • Regular fluffing helps to maintain its loft and ensures the filling stays evenly distributed, preventing lumps.
  • We recommend washing your duvet around every six months.
  • Seasonal duvets should be stored properly in a breathable bag in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup and maintain freshness.

Key considerations for replacing duvets

When choosing a new duvet, there are three things we suggest you consider:

  • Filling: choose from natural or synthetic options based on your needs and preferences.
  • Tog rating: consider how warm you want it to be.
  • Purpose: think about your body temperature, allergies, or sensitivities and the temperature of your home.

Frequently asked questions about replacing duvets

Do duvets lose tog over time?

Yes, duvets can lose their tog value over time as the filling gradually breaks down, reducing their ability to retain warmth and insulation. To help prevent any premature loss of tog value be sure to follow the care instructions for your duvet.

How often should you air out a duvet?

It’s worth airing out your duvet every few weeks to keep it feeling fresh and plump. Moisture from body heat and humidity can get trapped in the filling and regular airing helps to remove this excess buildup. Just hang it outside in the garden or near an open window for a few hours.

What to do with old duvets?

Old duvets don’t have to go straight to landfill, there are plenty of ways to give them a second life. Instead of discarding them, consider taking them to charity shops, homeless shelters, or animal rescue centres. Many shelters and veterinary clinics appreciate old duvets for use as bedding for pets. Old duvets can also act as insulation for greenhouses or as protective covers for plants during the winter months.

How do you know a good duvet?

A good duvet will be the one that’s right for you and your individual needs and preferences. Look for a duvet that has a suitable tog rating and filling material for your body temperature, home environment and personal preference.

The Thread

Find stories to inspire you, ideas from people we admire and our expertise for a home well curated, a wardrobe well put together, a life well lived.