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How to Wash a Doona (or Quilt) the Right Way
Updated
January 9, 2024
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Updated
January 9, 2024
Did you know that your doona can hide more than meets the eye? Therefore, before getting up close and personal with your doona, you should wash it thoroughly. Granted, the job may seem daunting, but this post has gotten the solution for you. Read on and get the lowdown on how to wash your doona precisely (and almost effortlessly).
Well, this big fuzzy baby calls for delicate care, and they are typically machine or hand wash compatible. However, in both cases, you must follow the right procedures to maintain your doona’s durability and efficiency.
The following ingredients are suitable for both hand washing and machine washing -
You must check two key factors before putting your doona in the machine. First, does it hold that machine wash-compatible label? You can’t machine wash a doona with a dry-clean-only label. Next, check your washing machine’s capacity so your doona doesn’t force it to bite off more than it can chew. If both these factors are good to go, you can try the below-mentioned 5-step hack.
Put doona in the machine: If you have ever washed a doona in the washing machine, you know how tricky the job is. Commonly, doonas get bunched up during a cycle. Thus, put two tennis balls when loading your doona into the washing machine. Tennis balls facilitate even weight distribution, preventing your doona from bunching up.
Add detergent: Next, you need to add the plant-based detergent to the detergent dispenser. In addition, fill the fabric softener compartment with a non-abrasive, natural softener. Avoid using chemical-packed detergents, as they may ruin the quality of your doona’s fabric.
Power on: Now, power on your machine and wash your doona on a gentle cycle.
Dry it up: Once washing is over, proceed forward and tumble dry your doona. Avoid using high temperatures to avoid shrinkage.
Sundry: Finally, let your doona dry under direct sunlight. It will help bring out the maximum freshness and rejuvenating linen scent.
Well, washing a doona with your bare hands is definitely not child’s play. The job is, indeed, way more tough than machine washing. However, the following hacks can make your job hassle-free.
Fill your bathtub with water: Instead of the washing bucket, fill your bathtub with warm water.
Add detergent: Now, get a plant-based detergent and add it to the water. Wait until the solution turns soapy.
Wash: Next, submerge your doona in the bathtub and squeeze it gently and thoroughly. After 15 minutes of washing, you can drain your bathtub and refill it with clean water.
Rinse: Soak your doona in clean water and rinse it thoroughly. Check carefully if it needs more rounds of cleaning.
Squeeze excess water: Roll your doona and remove excess water when you are done with washing and rinsing. This quickens the drying process.
Sundry: Finally, you need to lay your doona under direct sun and wait until it's adequately dried.
Related: Check out the best doonas in Australia.
Feather doonas are extremely comfortable. However, they are arguably the fussiest piece to launder. You should avoid putting them in a washing machine as they may not withstand vigorous friction. Therefore, if your feather doona is wet wash compatible, you can turn to the bathtub method, ensuring the gentlest cleaning.
Woollen doonas, on the other hand, are more prone to shrinkage. Besides, it can develop wear and tear if you fail to handle it properly. Hence, exercise caution while putting your woollen doona in the washing machine. Set the temperature under 300 degrees Celsius. Besides, use cold water for washing.
To avoid damage, you can hand wash your wool doona. Furthermore, you shouldn’t leave it for sun-drying as it may lead to shrinkage.
Just like your clothes and sheets, your doona also requires regular maintenance. However, how often you would clean them depends on the following factors.
Usage: If you play with your doona for eight long hours every day, you should wash it at least once a month. If you share your doona with your furry kid, you should clean it every 15 days.
Exposure: If your doona is more exposed to sweat and other body fluids, you may need to wash it every 3-4 weeks. On the other hand, when you suffer from diseases, you should consider washing your doonas at least twice a week.
Material: The fabric of your doona may influence the maintenance routine. Carefully read the care instructions to understand the right gap.
If your doona hardly sees better days with fewer stains, you may need to spot-clean it immediately. The following methods can make stain-removal hassle-free and less labour-intensive.
Tea/Coffee/Juices: You can mix distilled vinegar with dish soap and water and apply it liberally on the stained area. This mixture works best for juice, coffee, cold drink, or tea-induced stains.
Blood: Blood stains are ornery, and you should clean them immediately. Apply a mild laundry detergent on the stained area and let it sit for the next 30 minutes. You can also apply hydrogen peroxide for better results.
Lipsticks/Colours: Gently remove the excess material using a butter knife. Now, dab the area using isopropyl alcohol. Finally, rinse gently with cold water. Leveraging this method, you can also remove chocolate and ketchup stains from your doona.
Cleaning your doona is essential to avoid bacteria and mite-induced diseases. The shared hacks may simplify your job. Thus, don’t hesitate to try them. Start with reading the labels on your doona to prevent unnecessary mishaps. Always use natural softeners and plant-based detergents to avoid damage.