Putting on a duvet cover can feel like wrestling a stubborn octopus, but with the right technique, it's surprisingly easy! This guide will walk you through the process, leaving you with a neatly made bed and a sense of accomplishment.
Why Bother with a Duvet Cover?
Before we dive in, let's quickly address why you'd even bother with a duvet cover. They're more than just a pretty face!
- Protection: A duvet cover protects your duvet from spills, stains, and general wear and tear, extending its lifespan.
- Easy Cleaning: Simply remove and wash the duvet cover, leaving your duvet fresh and clean without the hassle of washing a bulky item.
- Style: Duvet covers are an easy way to update your bedroom's look and feel without investing in a new duvet. Change them seasonally or to match your decor!
Method 1: The Lay-and-Fold Method (Easiest for most)
This method is perfect for those who prefer a less acrobatic approach.
Step 1: Prepare the Duvet Cover
Lay the duvet cover flat on your bed, inside out. This method works best if the cover is lying smoothly without wrinkles.
Step 2: Position the Duvet
Place your duvet on top of the inside-out duvet cover, aligning the corners. Make sure the duvet's top side faces the floor.
Step 3: Corner by Corner
Take one corner of the duvet cover and the corresponding corner of the duvet. Reach inside and grab the corner of the duvet, matching it perfectly to the corner of the cover. Gently pull the duvet into the duvet cover, smoothing the fabric as you go. Repeat for all four corners.
Step 4: Zip or Button it up
Once all four corners are in place, zip or button up the duvet cover. If you have ties in the corners, match those as you go to prevent shifting.
Step 5: Smooth and Fluff
Give your duvet a good shake and fluff to distribute the filling evenly. Smooth out any wrinkles for a perfectly made bed.
Method 2: The Button and Zip First Method (For those with zippers or buttons)
This technique works best for duvet covers with buttons or zippers.
Step 1: Button/Zip First
First, button or zip up your duvet cover, leaving it completely inside out.
Step 2: Lay it on the bed
Lay the inside-out duvet cover flat on the bed.
Step 3: Flip the duvet in
With the opening facing up, slowly and carefully flip the duvet into the cover, smoothing and tucking as you go.
Method 3: The Flip-and-Shake Method (For those with more dexterity)**
Step 1: Lay it out
Lay the inside-out duvet cover on the bed, smooth side down.
Step 2: Place the duvet
Place the duvet on top, aligning the corners.
Step 3: Flip and Shake
Grab one corner of the duvet and its matching corner on the duvet cover. Using quick motions, shake and flip the entire duvet cover with duvet inside. If done correctly, the duvet should be fully inside the cover.
Step 4: Final Adjustments
Smooth out wrinkles, fix any corners that might be out of place, and zip or button it up.
Troubleshooting Common Duvet Cover Issues
- The duvet is too big: Try using a slightly smaller duvet cover or folding the extra fabric neatly.
- It’s difficult to reach corners: Try a different method. The lay-and-fold method is often the easiest.
- The duvet keeps bunching up: Make sure you're smoothing out the fabric as you go.
No matter which method you choose, the key to success is patience and a little bit of finesse. With a bit of practice, you'll be a duvet-covering pro in no time!
