How to Prepare Bedding for the Washing Machine

A load of bedding in the washing machine can take up far more room than expected once it is wet, and this directly affects the wash. Before putting sheets, pillowcases and covers into the drum, sorting the items and checking zips, buttons and the load volume can prevent common issues and improve cleaning results.

Why should bedding be sorted before washing?

Sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers and towels vary in size and weight. If they are all placed in the machine together without accounting for these differences, some items may wrap around one another, restricting the proper circulation of water and detergent.

Separating particularly bulky items also helps stop the drum from becoming overfilled. The load needs enough room for the pieces to move throughout the cycle, always within the capacity specified by the washing machine manufacturer.

What difference can zips make?

Duvet covers and other items with zips should be zipped up before they are washed. An open zip can catch on other pieces, raising the likelihood of snagging and fabric wear as the drum moves.

It is also worth inspecting buttons, elastic and seams before starting the cycle. Damaged items may deteriorate further in the wash. Where the care label gives specific guidance, it should take priority over general advice.

How should you prepare bedding for the washing machine?

Before beginning the wash, shake out each item to remove anything left between the folds and check its care label. Then fasten the zips and place larger pieces in the drum without packing them in too tightly.

Avoid loading more laundry than the appliance is designed to hold. For very bulky articles, such as duvets, check the manual to confirm that the machine has a suitable capacity and cycle. If there is not enough room for an item to move freely, a properly equipped launderette may be the more suitable option.

Who needs to adapt these precautions, and when?

Washing machines with smaller drums require particular attention to the volume of bedding. A duvet that appears to fit while dry can occupy much more space after absorbing water, limiting movement and placing greater strain on the appliance.

Delicate fabrics, filled items and bedding with special finishes must also be washed according to their care-label instructions. Adjusting the temperature, cycle, number of items and washing product for the material helps protect the fabrics and prevents all bedding from being treated in the same way.