This Struggle-Free Method for Putting on a Duvet Cover Works Every Time

Few feelings quite compare to snuggling up under freshly washed bedding. But actually putting that clean bedding onto your mattress can be a pain point for many—especially when it comes to putting on a duvet cover. Rather than a one-piece comforter, a duvet cover is a protective, aesthetically pleasing slip that goes over a duvet insert and is usually machine washable. Although it's a practical piece of bedding, duvet covers can be tricky to get back over their inserts. Luckily, there is a tried-and-true method for this bedding task that works every time.

Duvet Cover vs. Comforter

Considering the struggle many people encounter when putting a duvet cover on, you may wonder why someone would opt for this type of bedding over a classic comforter. "The purpose of a duvet is to protect the down comforter insert which can only be professionally cleaned," says Melissa Poepping, the founder of The Chemical Free Home. "A duvet is such a time saver in the end and provides a much cleaner environment." Since a conventional comforter is typically dry-clean only or is too big for household machines, it usually gets washed less than is recommended. "You can simply slip off a duvet cover and launder this monthly or bi-monthly," says Poepping.

Why It's Important to Put Your Duvet Cover on the Right Way

Finding a struggle-proof way to put your duvet cover on doesn't just simplify the task, it also protects your bedding in the long run. "Many duvet covers have become quite ornate with embroidery, lace, and fabrics, and by learning how to properly put them on, we maintain the integrity of the finer fabrics," says Poepping. Additionally, putting your duvet cover on incorrectly can cause the down comforter to get twisted and lumpy, which will in turn affect the aesthetics of your bedding.

Using the Right Size Duvet Cover

Before putting your duvet cover on, make sure you have the right size cover for its insert. "Using a king size duvet cover for a much smaller bed size and vice versa will end up making your bed look messy, and make you uncomfortable," says Malaika Lubega, a professional organizer, interior decorator, and the owner of Huza Home Concepts. "If the duvet is too small inside the cover, it will shift around, especially if the duvet cover doesn't have ties to hold the duvet inside."

How to Put Your Duvet Cover On

Once you've verified you have matching sizes, put your duvet cover on by following the steps below.

Roll the Duvet Cover

• Lay the duvet cover on the bed over your fitted sheet, making sure it's inside out; the duvet's opening should be at the bottom of the bed.
• Place your insert on top of the inside-out duvet cover, making sure all sides and edges align.
• Tie the corners of the duvet cover to the corner tags of the insert, if your bedding has them.
• Working from the head of the bed, roll the duvet and insert downward toward the foot of the bed, keeping both sides at an even, tight roll.

Invert the Duvet Cover

• Once you reach the end of the bed, twist and invert the bottom opening of the duvet cover around both ends of the insert (whether you start on the left or right side doesn't matter).
• The correct side of the duvet cover will now be facing out. Close the duvet cover with the zipper, buttons, or other accompaniments to prevent the insert from falling out.

Unroll the Duvet Cover

• Unroll the bedding back towards the head of the bed; the correct side will remain facing up.
• Smooth out any wrinkles and bumps, making sure the bedding is laying smooth and flat.