A duvet cover is an oversized pillowcase that is used to protect the duvet core (the soft blanket inside), but sometimes, figuring out how to put on a duvet cover can be challenging and tedious. Luckily, we have the trick to put on a duvet cover with ease.
How Does a Duvet Cover Work?
The duvet cover is placed over the inner lining and fastened with buttons, string or zippers. And the best part: duvet covers keep the liner clean for longer, saving you the hassle of washing a heavy quilt every time you wash your sheets (or paying double as much to get it to a dry cleaner).
Before You Begin: Choose the Right Duvet Cover
For the right look and fit, make sure that the size of the duvet cover matches the size of the mattress and duvet core. If you skip this step, the sides of the duvet cover may sag if the core is too small and vice versa, and if the core is too large, the inner layers will pile up.
Duvet cover size guide:
- King duvet: 104″ x 90-94″
- Large duvet: 88″ x 90-94″
- Double duvet: 64″ x 68-88″
Duvet covers are also available in a variety of materials, including polyester, cotton, linen, silk, and flannel. To choose the right material, first consider your sleep preferences. For example, if you tend to heat up while sleeping, choose a material that will keep you cool at night, such as cotton. In that case, you can search for brands that design duvets according to temperature regulation. Or, if you have allergies or sensitive skin, look for duvet cover materials that won’t irritate you.
In addition, some duvets require more care than others. For example, linen is more prone to wrinkling than polyester. However, polyester or synthetic fibers tend to build heat (not suitable for hot sleepers).
Usually, cotton sheets are a foolproof choice because they become more breathable and softer after each wash. In addition, cotton sheets are safe for sensitive skin and are available in anti-wrinkle versions. Cotton sheets can be more expensive, especially for high thread counts.
How to Put a Duvet on a Duvet Core
The easiest way to put on a duvet cover is to use the roll-up method. Also known as the “sushi roll” or “Mexico burrito method,” this method is one of the quickest and easiest ways to put on a duvet cover.
1. Lay everything flat
The first step in putting on a duvet cover is to lay the duvet core flat on the bed. Next, turn the duvet cover over and place it directly on the core. Find the end of the duvet with an opening and make sure the opening is at the foot of the bed.
2. Align the inside page and the cover
Align each corner of the duvet cover with the inner core so that they are stacked on top of each other exactly.
3. Tie knot
Do you see loops or strings on the duvet cover? Tie the rope to each corner loop of the duvet. Some liners and duvet covers have as many as eight ropes (four corners and four middle ropes), while most have only four corners. Make sure the rope is tightened. This will ensure that your duvet liner stays in place while you sleep.
4. Start scrolling
Pick up the closed end of the head of the bed and start rolling the duvet cover and duvet core together until you see the shape of the sushi roll. Continue rolling until all the material is covered. At this point, the only part you should be able to see is the open end of the duvet cover.
5. Fold it
Now fold one side (the open end of the duvet cover) onto the entire roll you just formed. Continue folding until the entire duvet core is folded.
6. Launch
Start unfolding the duvet cover until the duvet core and duvet cover are flat again. Make sure all four corners are aligned.
7. Shake it
Go back to the open end of the duvet core. Grasp the duvet cover and duvet core with both hands and shake it (or shake it a few times). If you find that any of the locations are not aligned, manually locate the sections by hand.
8. Close your cover
Depending on the characteristics of the duvet cover, seal the end of the duvet cover in place with a zipper, lacing or button. Shake it again and lay the duvet cover/liner combination flat on the bed. You’re done! Once you practice changing your duvet cover, the process becomes easier.
Benefits of Duvet Covers
Although the process of learning how to place a duvet cover on a duvet core is tedious, duvet covers offer convenience, design, and control, all of which are features that traditional comforters can’t offer.
For example, when design inspiration strikes, you can transform a duvet cover into a new look in a matter of minutes. Even better, you have control over the material. In the cold winter, use flannel duvets; When spring comes, choose linen. In addition, it is easier to wash the duvet cover with your laundry than it is to wash the entire bed of quilts at home or at a dry cleaner.
Duvet covers are more personalized than traditional quilts. In addition, duvet covers take up the same amount of space as a fitted sheet (while a duvet may require an entire wardrobe or box to store it). However, it takes an extra step to put on a duvet cover than to lay it flat on the bed. And because it requires extra attention, it may not be the best option for everyone. In these cases, a quilt is always a reliable necessity.