Choosing the right bedding for your kid is essential to ensure they sleep well. As your kid grows into a toddler, you should get them out of their sleeping bags and introduce a toddler’s bed to their rooms. And a toddler’s bed requires the best duvet! So, we suggest that you find a year-round duvet to begin with. 

However, we won’t be surprised if you tell us that you have no idea where to start looking and what to look for. 

To choose the best duvet for your toddler, it is essential to keep a number of things in mind. And after reading this guide, you will be fully equipped with the knowledge to begin your quest to look for the perfect duvet. 

Let’s begin!

Things To Look For When Choosing Best Toddler Duvets

1. Opt For A Light Duvet 

Both babies and toddlers like to wriggle and play in their beds all throughout the night. As a result, there’s a higher chance of kids feeling hotter than we adults do. And in the morning, you might find them waking up on the other side of the bed. 

Besides, they are not old enough to get up and change out of their Marvel pyjamas in the middle of the night if they feel hot. Therefore, it is essential to choose a cooler cot bed duvet for your kid. To help your child sleep peacefully through the night, you can opt for a 4.5 tog duvet for summertime and a 7.5 tog duvet for winter. 

While choosing the cot duvet, you need to also keep the room temperature in mind. If you have just shifted to a new house in a tropical region, a 4.5 tog duvet might serve the purpose all year round. And on colder nights, you can just add an extra blanket and let your kid wear their favourite pyjamas. But if you stay in colder regions, consider going for a wool duvet.

2. Go For Natural Materials

Another way to ensure that your kid does not feel hot at night is to stay away from cheap synthetic duvets. We suggest opting for duvets that are made up of natural fibre, such as organic cotton, which feels wonderfully soft. 

Natural fillings are always the safe option when it comes to toddler duvets. They are made with organic materials and will never put your child at risk. Most of the duvets with natural fillings either have British wool or organic cotton in them. These options are quite breathable and do not weigh down on your kid. 

Organic and natural fillings also make for great all-seasons duvets. They trap the heat in winters and facilitate proper ventilation during summers. 

3. Choose Synthetic Duvet Filling Wisely

Synthetic filling is a great bet when you are on the lookout for a lighter duvet for your younger children that can regulate their body temperature. The polyester filling has an open and airy texture which traps the heat. And because the material is not heavy, your child won’t feel uncomfortable. 

As such, we suggest that you consider this option, especially for the colder months.

However, many parents do not consider synthetic filling for their toddler’s duvet to reduce the risk of allergies. But if you have already bought one, consider putting an outer bamboo cover or something similar on it to make it more comfortable for your little allergy sufferers.

And if you’re yet to get one, always check if the duvet comes with a British Allergy Foundation seal, there’s no way your child will face allergic reactions. 

That said, if your child shows serious allergy symptoms, we suggest you do not consider this option. Some options (like synthetic duvets) can come with feather fillings as well, which should also be avoided if your child suffers from allergies. In case your kid has very sensitive skin, do some research and find naturally hypoallergenic materials for the duvet. 

We’d strongly recommend getting an anti-allergy duvet to ensure that they get to enjoy a night of undisturbed sleep. 

4. Opt For Washable Materials 

Try getting your hands on a washable duvet (especially one that can be machine washed) if you want to avoid trouble at night. Kids soiling their beds in the middle of the night is nothing new, and that often leaves the parents in a frenzy. Now, imagine being stuck with a winter duvet in a toddler bed that takes hours to dry!

When a duvet is dirtied, you will have to immediately give it a wash in your washing machine. Hence, you should opt for a duvet and pillow that does not take too long to dry or can be tossed in a tumble dryer. 

5. Choose A Cot Bed Size Duvet

To ensure that the duvet does not fall out of your toddler’s cot, go for a cosy duvet that is a little larger than the cot size. The universal size of kid’s duvets is 120×150 cm. However, if your kid’s cot is small in size, you can consider opting for a single-sized duvet instead. To sum it up, always try to make sure that the duvet is of the right size. 

If it is bigger than what it should be, your kid might end up feeling hot at night. 

Cot Duvet Options To Consider

After consulting experienced parents and searching the market for the best toddler duvets, we have come up with some of our favourite options that you can try. Let’s take a look!

1. Panda Kids Duvet

If you are looking for a lower tog duvet, we suggest that you give this product a try, which is made of bamboo microfibre (50% bamboo and 50% microfibre filling). This makes it an antibacterial option, which helps prevent the build-up of mildew and dust mites. 

Plus, it’s suitable for both the summer and winter months, as it adjusts to your kid’s body temperature and the weather outside. This duvet has the standard 120x150cms dimension and should fit your kid’s cot perfectly. However, to be safe, always take the dimension of the cot beds before making the purchase. 

2. John Lewis Toddler Pillow and Duvet

When it comes to your kids, there’s no doubt that you will always choose nothing but the best. And this is a lightweight duvet that can be the ideal first buy for your kid’s cot. The best part is that it comes with a pillow set too!

Moreover, we were impressed with the quick-dry feature of the duvet. Even if your kid soils it at night, it won’t be too much trouble to wash and dry it in a short time. And because this is machine-washable, you do not even have to put too much effort into cleaning it. 

This is 100% cotton and can be used as a coverless duvet. 

What To Remember For Choosing The Best Toddler Duvet

You might get the perfect cot bed for your kid when they are of the right age. However, without a suitable duvet, their bedding will stay incomplete. When choosing a duvet for your toddler’s cot bed, make sure that it is not too heavy and lets your kid wriggle without any hindrance. 

If you are buying a duvet that comes with a pillow set, it is important to first check if the pillows are soft. Hard pillows can cause neck aches in children. 

Moving on, we came across a lot of parents who have a hard time saying no to their kids wearing their favourite pyjamas to bed. No doubt, pyjamas are highly tempting during the winter months. However, they might make your kid feel hot at night. And as you must know, feeling too hot or cold can lead to your kids having a night of disturbed sleep. 

Whatever the outside temperature is, you should always choose bedding that suits the temperature inside the room. 

As we have already mentioned before, some of the most important things to consider when selecting a duvet are its weight, washability and material. Trust us; they are extremely crucial in determining how well your child will sleep at night. 

Frequently Asked Question

1. Can a duvet make a toddler sick?

A big part of your toddler’s health is dependent on how well they sleep at night. Unless they get a good night’s sleep, there’s always a chance that they will fall sick. Some kids are more sensitive than others, and certain duvet fillings might trigger allergic reactions. So, to tackle this problem, we suggest that you use only those options that come with antiallergic features. 

These duvets are built in a way that they effectively prevent the build-up of dust, mites, fungi and bacteria. 

2. Should you tuck your toddler’s duvet in?

Absolutely! It is natural for kids to wriggle and throw off the duvet at night. To prevent that from happening, it is best to tuck the duvet in between the bed frame and the mattress. This will keep the duvet in place, and your toddler will have enough room to move freely under the duvet. 

3. When to introduce a duvet to a toddler? (NHS Guideline)

We suggest that you follow the NHS advice and prevent babies under one year of age from using duvets and pillows. Kids who are below one year of age cannot move freely in their beds and risk suffocation if there are duvets or pillows around. 

Once your kid is over 18 months, you can consider introducing a duvet to their bedding. And you should only introduce a pillow when your toddler’s head is wider than their shoulders. That is when they will really enjoy resting their head on a pillow. 

4. Is it necessary to use duvet covers?

While there is no strict rule to using a cover for your toddler’s cot, we suggest using one that is soft and plush, and adds extra comfort. If your kid has sensitive skin, we suggest that you choose a linen or cotton cover. 

Pre-washed linen covers are soft right from the beginning and do not collect lint. Therefore, you can use them for a long time. 

Another reason to add a duvet cover to your child’s bedding is that it makes maintenance super simple. If your toddler dirties the cover, you can simply take it off the duvet and give it a quick wash. This won’t be possible if there is no cover and you have to wash the entire duvet. Also, it goes without saying that the covers dry much faster than the duvets. 

5. What tog duvet should a three year old have?

As we have mentioned before, when introducing a duvet to your child, select one that comes with a 4.5 rating. However, as your toddler grows up, you can gradually increase the tog. On average, for a three-year-old, a duvet with a 6-tog rating might be the best bet. 

We suggest that you do not go above a 10.5 tog rating, as that might make your kid feel uncomfortable at night.

Final Words

With that, we have finally reached the end of this informative guide!

We understand that every kid is different, and there is no one better than you to understand your toddler’s requirements the best. However, we must tell you that a duvet is not the only factor that determines how well your child sleeps. 

To ensure they get good sleep and stay healthy, try to build a proper bedtime routine for them. You can add block curtains to their room to keep natural light out during the warmer months. Following a proper bedtime routine will improve your toddler’s nights and mornings too. 

Until next time, take care of your little ones!

Let’s dive in and discover some of the answers you are searching for.

What type of duvet do you need?

You are at a point where you will buy a new duvet, but what do you choose? The choice of fillings is enormous and to be honest, the price range is staggering, so what do you need? There are a few factors to consider when selecting a duvet filling.

Ok, let’s start with natural fillings:

• Wool. Wool is maybe the new kid on the block for duvet filling and a filling that you would not normally associate with a duvet. However, the wool-filled duvet has so many benefits, such as being allergy-free. It may supersede the more traditional duvets fillings. Medium priced
• Feather. If you are of a certain age, you may have been only too happy to see the back of your old feather duvet. Prickly feathers poking through the duvet was not the best idea for sleeping well. But feather duvets are back in fashion for a good reason. They are warm and luxurious. Medium priced
• Down. A more exclusive product than feather duvet fillers, down provides warmth and luxury. Mid to high-end price
• Silk. Could you really afford a silk-filled duvet? Well, the answer is yes you can. You can experience the luxury of the silk duvet and enjoy the whole experience of sleeping under an exclusive product. Expensive
• Bamboo. Your thoughts can be heard throughout the cosmo. Yes, bamboo is a duvet filler, and what’s more, if you have sensitive skin, this ubiquitous natural product may be the duvet for you. Medium priced

What do synthetic duvet fillers have to offer?

• Hollowfibre. If you have thoughts about sleeping on a cloud, then the hollow fibre duvet filler will make you feel like you are lying on top of a fluffy cloud, and you experience a lightweight, very warm duvet. Fits mots budgets
• Microfibre. You will be stunned by the microfibre duvet. It’s linked to sleeping under a down duvet, with its additional weight and silky feel. A real winner in the synthetic lineup. Affordable

What is the best material for a duvet inner?

It’s a personal choice. Personal choices are often driven by budget, so duvet fillers become a secondary consideration.

If you are not on a budget, you should look closely at a down-filled duvet. Down is soft and fluffy and will provide years of good use.

Down is the perfect medium for trapping air within the duvet that forms part of the tog rating or thermal insulation properties to keep you warm on the coldest nights.

If down is your preferred choice, then it would be remiss of you not to take a careful look at microfibre. Microfibre is often compared to down and feather duvet fillers.

Microfibre contains a very fine denier filling that is silky smooth and has excellent thermal properties like down feathers.

Microfibre duvets can be purchased at a fraction of the cost of purchasing a down duvet.

What is the best duvet for night sweats?

A breathable duvet filler is needed for a person who has night sweats. Natural fibres like down, feather, or even bamboo fillers are recommended if you sleep hot and tend to sweat at night.

Natural fillers are said to provide up to 4 times more airflow through the filler media than synthetic products.

The two best products are Hungarian goose down duvets for a breathable duvet to eliminate sweating while sleeping or Wool duvets fillers.

Duvets made from wool are incredibly versatile and provide a warm and breathable duvet experience to the user.

Microfibre is an alternative considering its breathable characteristics. Microfibre synthetic material is a good all-around substitute for natural duvet fillers and should be considered due to its feel and cost point.

Which duvet is best for winter and summer?

The duvet has a tog rating that suits you best. When talking about winter duvet fillers, you must talk about tog values. 

A good all-season tog value is 10.5 regardless of the duvet filling.

Natural filler mediums have the advantage of being slightly weightier than synthetic fillers, adding a dimension of comfort and warmth.

Down is an obvious choice for warmth during the colder season, but you should not discount the use of wool as a natural filler for a duvet.

Everyone knows that wool has terrific insulation properties and plays an enormous role in our day-to-day clothing. Hence, it is hardly a surprise to think of it as an excellent duvet filler, and it’s hypoallergenic!

Do synthetic duvet filers make a good winter duvet? Yes, they are excellent at providing warmth and comfort through colder winter nights.

You can expect comfort and a toasty night’s sleep if you use hollow fibre as a duvet filler. However, it does tend to sleep on the hot side, so you may find yourself flicking the duvet off your body to cool down at times.

Microfibre duvets fillings. Microfibre is the exception to the rule. Microfibre offers many of the benefits of natural duvet fillers. It breathes, it’s more weighty than its other synthetic filler counterparts and feels like a premium down duvet.

Which duvet filler is best for you?

Suppose you have allergies, and the selection criteria narrow to synthetics and wool. If you have a tight budget, head straight for the microfibre duvet, it’s a great value and feels special.

Hungarian down would be a great place to start your search if you are not constrained by budget. It’s rated as the best duvet filler for good reasons. Soft, warm and longevity are just a few reasons you might select this duvet.

• How is bamboo turned into fabric?
• Is bamboo viscose the same as 100% bamboo?
• Is bamboo better than cotton?
• What are the benefits of a bamboo duvet?

Let’s get into it.

Does bamboo make a good duvet filler?

Yes, particularly if you have sensitive skin and suffer from allergies. Bamboo may seem like an odd choice for using as a duvet filler, but it has some unique properties that make it perfect for some of you.

Suppose you are allergic to wool and down duvets and hate the thought of having to use synthetic fibres as a duvet filler due to their limitations and minimal disposal options. In that case, bamboo is an excellent choice for you.

Do you know that bamboo is a filler that is perfect for vegans? Bamboo fillers are 100% botanical sources and are a sustainable product.

How is bamboo turned into fabric?

Bamboo is processed in two ways, mechanically and chemically. Bamboo is harvested and then shredded into fine bamboo chips.

Part of the shredding process crutches the cell structures of the bamboo, which creates bamboo fibres. These fibres are combed out of the process and sent for further processing.

As the bamboo is slowly turned into a pulp, it is mixed with hydrogen peroxide to bleach the material before full-fibre recovery commences.

A sulphur compound is added to the pulp to agglomerate the pulp and strengthen the bamboo fibres.

The pulp enters a series of centrifuges and cellulose washing plants to remove any chemicals before being flattened and compressed, ready for machining.

Is the bamboo mixed with other materials?

It can be, but it’s mainly mixed with rayon. You may be thinking, why mix the bamboo with rayon; this will only change the characteristics of the virgin material.

Well, rayon is a by-product of releasing the cellulose fibres from the process. These cellulose fibres are further processed into the material rayon. Rayon can come from several sources, such as wood used in the paper industry and cotton processing.

So, the rayon used in bamboo fillers and from the bamboo makes the product 100% sustainable.

Is bamboo viscose the same as 100% bamboo?

Yes. Bamboo is a synonym for all products obtained during bamboo processing. Bamboo rayon and bamboo viscose are the same things.

The viscose part of the process may suggest synthetic fibres are being used, but nothing is further from the truth.

Viscose is a term that describes the treads created by the bamboo in a certain stage of the process.

Is bamboo better than cotton?

Better? It is different and has different properties from cotton. You will be surprised to read bamboo is more absorbent than cotton and is more breathable.

Bamboo is a sustainable product. Some bamboo species grow at an incredible 1.5 inches per hour! Most species take just 90 days to reach full maturity to be ready for harvesting.

Bamboo is environmentally friendly. It does not need pesticides to grow and takes very little management.

While cotton needs a lot of attention while growing, it needs to be watered frequently, and the use of pesticides is needed for viable crops.

Is bamboo a quilt duvet?

In the strictest terms, it’s a quilt because the filer is placed in quilted pockets. However, the duvet has become a generic term for quilts and vice versa. 

In many ways having quilted sections in a duvet is preferable, it means the product remains where you need it to be and is easier to plump for softness.

What are the benefits of a bamboo duvet?

Cool when it’s hot, hot when it’s cold. There are many advantages to sleeping under a bamboo duvet.

• Bamboo is eco-friendly and sustainable.
• Bamboo duvets are lightweight and comfortable.
• Bamboo duvets help your body regulate temperature.
• A bamboo duvet prevents skin rashes. The filler is antimicrobial and keeps dust mites out.
• Due to its incredible breathability properties, it is hard for mould to establish in bamboo duvets filler.
• Bamboo is anti-fungal.
• Bamboo does not have any odour.
• Bamboo helps you sleep soundly through the night.
• Affordable.

As you can see, bamboo duvet fillers are a force to be reckoned with in just about every aspect.

Is a bamboo quilt warm enough for winter?

Yes, they are exceptional at trapping air and providing high insulation levels. Bedding made from natural fibre bamboo provides natural thermo-regulation properties that are great for regulating body temperature throughout the night.

They may feel lightweight, but they all comply with the tog value marked on the packaging, the same as every other duvet sold in the UK.

For a good all-year-around bamboo duvet, select a 10.5 tog.

Can you machine wash a bamboo quilt?

Yes, easily. It will depend on the size of your washing machine drum and the size of the bamboo duvet, so it’s recommended that you use a laundromat machine for the best wash.

But compared with other duvets washing a bamboo duvet is much easier. It is not as bulky and is generally lightweight.

Throw your bamboo duvet in similar colour bedding and wash on a gentle cycle with a mild washing detergent.

Dry in a tumble dryer on low heat or let the duvet dry naturally outside a line.

Are bamboo duvets expensive?

They are affordable. If comparing a bamboo duvet with another premium duvet with the same tog value and thermal properties that is hypoallergenic, then no, the bamboo duvet is cheap in comparison.

Here is an example of prices for bamboo duvets parched online:

• Super-king size: £141.59
• King size: £115.28
• Double: £115.37
• Single: £97.84

Prices from Amazon.co.uk

Should you buy a bamboo duvet?

Yes. Given all of its benefits and properties, it would be hard to think of a reason why you would not consider purchasing a bamboo duvet.

Bamboo may not be for you if you prefer to sleep with more weight.

We answer all the FAQs, such as:

• Is it the tog value that is wrong
• What is the coolest duvet filling
• Is bamboo a good alternative for keeping you cool at night?
• Why are you suddenly getting hot at night?

Let’s Jump in.

Why is the duvet making me so hot?

Night sweats are a combination of duvet filler and tog rating. If you are experiencing night sweats, it’s worth taking a look at the duvet’s tog rating.

A good all-year-round duvet in cooler climates like the UK is a 10.5 tog. This tog value should give you the best of both worlds, warm in the winter months and not so hot in the months that transition from winter to spring and autumn to winter.

Here is a table of tog values to help you make your choice:

So what about the filling? You will need a breathable filling, which allows airflow through the duvet, so your temperature is regulated.

While most duvet provides some breathability, some are worse than others for making you overheat.

If you have a synthetic hollow fibre duvet, you will have enjoyed the light, fluffy feel of the duvet, but you will notice it sleeps hot, and you can sweat.

What is the coolest filling for a duvet?

Hungarian goose down provides excellent warmth and breathability to regulate your body temperature. It is possibly the most expensive option for duvet filling, making larger duvets over £1000, so let’s get realistic and look at some affordable alternatives.

While Hungarian down provides 3 to 4 times more air circulation within the duvet, there must be an alternative or alternatives that are more affordable with similar characteristics.

It may surprise you that microfibre may be a good choice for you if you are on a budget. Microfibre duvets fillings are frequently likened to a more expensive duvet filler due to their soft and slightly weighty feel.

Moving up the price scale but still an affordable option is wool-filled duvets. Again wool is not associated with being a cooling product. Still, the truth is wool, when used as a filler in a duvet, provides outstanding breathability and wicks moisture from your body, keeping you cool through the night.

Is duck down warmer than wool?

It depends on the tog value. Duck down is a fantastic insulator and will keep you warm if you have the correct tog value for the time of year and climate.

Duck down is lightweight and breathable. Down is known to be warmer than wool. But when it comes to duvet fillings, wool comes into its own with its unique natural abilities to wick away moisture and regulate body temperature.

Wool has a major advantage over down duvet fillers because wool can be easily cleaned and is washable.

What is the most breathable fabric for a duvet cover?

Linen is the perfect choice for many duvets. It is not often considered when it comes to duvets, but the type of fabric containing your duvet filler plays a role in how hot you get under the covers.

Many duvets covers for containing feathers and down are high-grade, tightly woven fabrics that frankly add to some of the heat retentions, making you sweat through the night.

Choose a duvet cover that is breathable and soft to the touch, so you are comfortable in bed.

Is bamboo or wool duvet better?

They both have similar properties. If you are a purist, go for the wool duvet filler. Wool has gained an unstoppable reputation in the duvet market and is overtaking goose down to become the go-to for duvet fillers.

However, Bamboo duvet fillers are on the heels of wool fillers, so let’s take a look at this material. 

Has anyone ever looked at bamboo and thought that would be an excellent choice for my duvet? Maybe the far east countries but not the UK.

Bamboo is mixed with synthetic materials such as polyester to make it pliable. Bamboo has fantastic wicking properties and can keep you cool through the night, so don’t throw it to one side until you have investigated further.

Bamboo is the best choice of duvet filler if you live in a warm climate, meaning it must be good at regulating body temperature and help with your night sweats.

How can you stop excessive sweating while sleeping?

If night seats are plaguing you, you may need to address some underlying problems, such as the room’s ambient temperature. Use a fan, and turn down the thermostat. Turning down the thermostat may help you sleep without sweating and save a few pounds in cash.

If you feel secure in your bedroom, open a window or two to let some nighttime air fill the bedroom, the cooling effect may have the desired outcome you are looking for.

Use a fan, a fan facing you will keep the air circulating, and the gentle breeze on your face should prevent sweats from becoming an issue. Fans are fine to run through the night, a pedestal fan will be best suited for your purposes.

If possible, sleep naked or with lightweight PJs that are breathable.

Why are you suddenly getting hot at night?

It may have nothing to do with your duvet. If you suddenly start to sweat at night, you may have underlying health issues and should consult your doctor.

Hormone fluctuations can make your body temperature rise, causing you to sweat and is common among females, particularly at night.

Certain medications can cause your body temperature to rise, such as drugs to treat diabetes.

There are some misconceptions about using weighted blankets over duvets, so let’s take a close look and answer some of the most commonly asked questions that will include:

• Who benefits from a weighted blanket?
• Does a weighted blanket help with anxiety and depression?
• Do you need a duvet with a weighted blanket?
• Table to help you select the correct weighted blanket for you

Settle back, and let’s begin.

What is the best way to sleep with a weighted blanket?

Sleep on your back if possible. Weighted blankets are used for a purpose, which is often to make you feel more secure when in bed. 

Weighted blankets are fantastic in many ways, but they are not for everyone as the weight can become oppressive and sometimes claustrophobic.

If you can sleep on your back, you will get even pressure across your body. For side sleepers, the weighted blanket can lose some effects as the surface area is reduced to just the side of the body.

Who gets the most benefits from a weighted blanket?

Lots of sleepers, but it does have specific uses. If you lead an uncontrolled stressful life, you may need a weighted blanket to help you become calm when you go to bed. 

Weighted blankets can help soothe the central nervous system and have defined therapeutic benefits for illnesses and syndromes.

If your child has attention deficit disorder (ADHD) or is hyperactive, then a weighted blanket may help with sleep issues.

Weighted blankets; anxiety and depression

Weighted blankets can help with anxiety and insomnia! Anxiety and depression, when out of control, are a vicious circle of lack of sleep which increases the levels of depression. 

So many people with this condition are just given medications that subdue the nervous system, and often the medications are addictive to some degree.

A weighted blanket may help manage feelings of stress and anxiety. Since stress and anxiety often interfere with sleep, the benefits of a weighted blanket may translate to better sleep for those suffering from stressful thoughts.

However, weighted blankets offer a real alternative to reduce anxiety, depression, autism, bip[olar disorder and ADHD symptoms.

Is using a weighted blanket considered safe?

Many people find that adding a weighted blanket to their sleep routine helps to reduce stress and promote calm. In the same way as a hug or a baby’s swaddle, the gentle pressure of a weighted blanket may help ease symptoms and improve sleep for people with insomnia, anxiety, or autism.

Weighted blankets are fine for people who can use their strength and physicality to remove the blanket if they become too hot or even are in danger of suffocation.

Weighted blankets are specifically designed for children with sleep disorders and other issues. However, younger children such as toddlers should not sleep under a weighted blanket or play with the blanket due to the risk of entrapment and suffocation.

What are weighted blankets?

Blankets are designed to be heavier than normal blankets. Weighted blankets have two styles: they are either quilted or knitted.

The duvet-type blanket with quilted sections is filled with glass beads, plastics, or ball bearings to precisely give the desired weight.

Knitted blankets use heavy, dense yarn to achieve the weight needed for the patient.

Weighted blankets are not just for the bed. If you like to chill out on the sofa, you can use them there and use them anywhere you feel comfortable relaxing.

Do you need a duvet with a weighted blanket?

Not for warmth. You might imagine a weighted blanket or quilt could be quite warm, and using a duvet underneath is kind of redundant and may introduce the possibility of overheating.

Some people do prefer to use a duvet under a weighted blanket for extra comfort, particularly if you are not familiar with sleeping under dense wool blankets.

If you use a duvet under a weighted blanket, select a duvet with a lower tog, so you do not overheat when sleeping.

Can you put a weighted blanket in the duvet cover?

Yes, depending on the sizes. If your duvet cover is a close match to a weighted blanket, then yes, you can place the weighted blanket inside the cover.

How long does it take to get used to a weighted blanket?

About 4 weeks. When you first get a weighted blanket, you may feel stifled and claustrophobic, so you will need to get used to the additional weight in increments.

Cover your legs and then slowly, inch by inch, pull the weighted blanket further up your body. Getting used to a new habit takes a few weeks typically.

You will soon get used to the additional weight and then feel the benefits of a weighted blanket.

Are weighted blankets warmer than other blankets?

Yes, Weighted blankets are heavier than normal blankets and are made of dense material to give the weight needed.

You may find them a little scratchy if you are used to a soft duvet cover so consider placing the blanket inside the duvet cover.

How do you know which weighted blanket to choose?

You country a blanket that is approximately 10% of your body weight. It’s a simple formula: if you weigh 75 kilos, select a blanket that is 7.5 kilos, which is 10% of your body weight.

However, you can choose a weighted blanket that you feel will give the best results and help you sleep better.

Weighted blankets start at 3 kilos and ending at around 12.5 kilos, so there is a wide range to choose from.

Below is a table to help you select the correct weight for your weighted blanket.

We cover: 

• Are Hollowfibre duvets warmer than microfibre?
• Which is easiest to clean?
• Are these duvets suitable for kids?

Plus, much more, let’s get into it now.

What’s the difference between hollowfibre and microfibre duvets?

Hollowfibre duvets create warmth by using air trapped between the hollowfibre spaces to create insulation. This is similar to how a feather-down duvet keeps you warm at night.

Hollowfibre is a slightly denser material to work with, but its air-retaining thermal properties feel fluffy and quite luxurious.

Microfibre is a finer denier than hollowfibre, making it feel silky smooth to the touch. For this reason, it is often a substitute for more expensive duvet options in hotels.

The microfibre duvet has a weightier feel which some people like the reassuring comfort while sleeping.

Both hollowfibre and microfibre are synthetic duvets and are machine washable. For larger duvets, it’s best to wash in a laundromat with larger drum sizes.

Are Hollowfibre duvets warm?

Yes, a hollowfibre duvet can be incredibly warm. If you like to feel toasty in bed on those cold winter nights, then the hollowfibre duvet could be the duvet you have been searching for.

The air trapped within the hollow fibres adds additional thermal insulation properties. To be frank, hollowfibre duvets can become overwhelmingly hot if you select a higher tog rating above 10.5.

You will notice your hollowfibre duvet has a lofty sumptuous appearance due to the properties of the hollowfibre.

Are microfibre duvets warm?

Yes, a microfibre duvet is warm and helps regulate your body temperature. Microfibre duvets give a warmth that is controlled due to their breathable material. It’s often considered akin to a more expensive down duvet.

When you sleep under a microfibre duvet, you will first notice that it is a reassuring weight to keep you snuggled up in bed.

The fine denier of microfibre allows the duvet to provide wonderful plumpness while you enjoy the silky smooth texture of the material.

Unless you are an aficionado of fine duvets, you may be mistaken for thinking microfibre is an expensive down duvet!

Are hollowfibre and microfibre duvets hypoallergenic?

Yes, but both do need freshening up twice a year. Both duvet materials are great for those who suffer from allergies around the house.

However, hollowfibre is less breathable than microfibre duvets, so this could cause a problem with the duvet retaining a small amount of moisture over time which could see moulds growing, which could eventually become sufficient to cause an allergy flare-up.

Duvets can often miss the laundry process, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for laundering with these synthetic duvets.

What are the benefits of hollowfibre duvets?

There are many benefits to hollowfibre duvets. That’s why they are popular. Let’s take a close look at just some of the benefits of sleeping under a hollowfibre duvet:

• Affordability: Hollowfibre duvets are undoubtedly good value for money and, if laundered and taken care of, will last you many years.
• Easy to maintain: hollowfibre duvets are easy to maintain and wash; what’s more, they are easy to dry, which is always a major consideration when deciding to wash a duvet.
• Durable: hollowfibre is a synthetic material and, as such, can accept a lot of punishment while retaining its thermal properties
• It’s lightweight: If you hate feeling pinned down in bed by your bedding, then hollowfibre is the ideal solution for you.
• Allergen-free: Hollow fibre repels allergens if maintained by the manufacturer’s recommendations.

It’s a great all-around budget duvet.

What are the benefits of microfibre duvets?

Microfibre duvets share some of the benefits with hollowfibre duvets. This is why microfiber is a popular choice for your bed:

• It’s a fantastic value compared with other duvets that give a similar feeling of opulence and comfort.
• It is easy to maintain, as you would expect with a synthetic duvet. It’s machine washable and dries fast outdoors or indoors, don’t tumble dry synthetics.
• Like hollowfibre, microfibre is a durable material, and its woven structure makes for a robust lightweight duvet that can extend many years of service if taken care of
• Microfibre has a reassuring weightiness that could be compared to a down-filled duvet.
• Breathable and hypoallergenic.
• It’s as soft to the touch as down and can be difficult to differentiate between the two duvets.

Exceptional value for money.

Should you use hollowfibre or microfibre duvets for kids?

It depends on age, but it’s a no for infants. Infants should be in a cool sleeping environment. Babies and infants often do not need a duvet; if they do, it should be the lowest tog rating.

Infants sleep hotter than adults, their metabolism is different, and they eat more during the day (more frequently, not the amount), which causes a higher body temperature.

Infants being too hot at night is connected to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Too many layers resulting in overheating can be fatal.

What are the microfibre and hollow fibres made from?

Plastics, such as polypropylene. It may seem amazing how plastics can become so soft to the touch. It’s a useful way of recycling plastic products that would otherwise stay buried in a landfill for eternity or very close to.

But don’t worry, the process had completely sanitised the plastics long before they were used in a duvet.

Which is the best choice for you: hollowfibre or microfibre?

It comes down to personal preference if you consider that both products are priced very similarly. So the price would not be a deciding factor.

Both are equally as good as each other in terms of allergens to prevent you from coughing and sneezing.

Both duvets are warm on a cold night.

So how do you choose? Well, if you prefer lightweight and feeling extra toasty, it must be the hollowfibre duvet.

If you like the feel of luxury and silky smoothness with that extra weight, then it has to be the microfibre duvet.

We discuss the issues and provide some solutions for disposing of your used duvets and pillows. 

Read on if you want to stay on the right side of the law with:

• Where can you take your old duvet for free?
• Can to dispose of pillows and duvets in your bin.
• Are feathers from your duvet good for the garden?

How do I dispose of old duvets in the UK?

Your disposal options are limited. Who would have thought that disposing of used pillows and duvets would be so difficult in 2022? 

What happened to all the talk of sustainability and environmental drives to clean up the planet?

Well. Not lost, but you will need to make some effort to dispose of a used duvet and pillows and maybe think out of the box a little.

Is there an animal charity close to your home? If so, check if they can use the discarded items, these types of charities are working nationwide with centres that need bedding materials desperately but have no funds for new bedding.

As a society, you know that an increasing number of homeless struggle to survive during the cooler months before the country even gets into winter.

Approach the high street charity stores and see if they will take your clean, used duvets and pillows.

Why is there not a recycling route for duvets and pillows?

Investment has not been forthcoming. To be truthful, you should be able just to put your duvet and pillows in a recycling bin and forget about them. Still, some municipal refuse facilities are less than welcoming when it is their total responsibility to deal with the problem.

Part of the problem is the waste stream is not segregated at the source, say synthetics in one pile and organics such as down and feathers in a separate pile.

Dealing with feathers has notoriously been difficult as feathers tend not to compost very well in the short term.

However, feathers can be used in plastic manufacturing and help provide structural rigidity to plastic components. The components incorporating feathers are moulded similarly to standard plastic products.

Does anyone take old duvets?

Donating pillows and duvets is the way to go. If you can donate your used pillows and duvets and give them a new lease of life, this is the best way of your disposal route.

Or, you can look for take-back schemes from retailers. Retailers like Dunhelm will take your old duvets and pillows, providing they are clean and free from blood stains.

If the duvet or pillow has a tear, they will still take it and release you of the burden of disposal. Dunelm offers an excellent service because there is a Dunhelm in every major city, so you should not have to travel too far for your disposal route.

You can simply use the Dunelm store locator to find a branch near you.

Nothing is sent to the landfill.

Does RSPCA take duvets?

Yes, if they are clean. When donating to a charity such as the RSPCA, it is important not to dump your old smelly bedding on these charities. Deliver clean bedding that can be used within their organisation.

Your donation will be welcomed with open arms as they provide comfort and warmth to abandoned animals.

How do you bin a duvet?

Seal duvets and pillows in bags before you place them in a bin. Sealed in a red bag or black bag. Your bin collection service should take them away. If you have a lot to dispose of, you may wish to stretch it out over a few weeks or try a different disposal method.

You should not try to place a duvet or pillows in the recycling bin.

How do you throw away pillows?

In a bin sealed in a bag. If you have feather or down pillows and a garden, you could compost the feathers yourself. Composted feathers make great fertiliser.

Mix the feathers with your other compost and cover them with a tarp or piece of old material to speed up the composting process.

Can I throw a duvet in the bin? Yes. If your pillows are synthetic, you will be left with no choice but to bin them as garbage. They will possibly head straight for the landfill.

Are feathers good fertiliser?

Yes, feathers are fantastic fertilisers. Most would think the humble feather has little to offer in terms of fertiliser, but the truth is the feather is a powerhouse of nitrogen.

By composting feathers from your pillows and duvets, you can eliminate the need to buy expensive nitrogen-rich fertilisers. The feathers have all you will need.

Once composted, the feather compost can be mixed into a liquid and watered onto your favourite flowers and veg.

Can you put bedding in the clothes bank?

Not duvets or pillows. If you have sheets and blankets, duvets, covers, and pillowcases are perfect for the clothes bank, but filled materials like duvets and pillows are not accepted.

It would be possible to split the liner and release the filling for composting if it is feathers or down, but any other material will need to go to the landfill.

Can you burn old duvets?

No, definitely not. Burning household waste in the garden could see you issued an enormous fine from the local council.

The laws date back to the Environmental Protection Act of 1990.

The act states Under this Act, it is an offence to dispose of rubbish in any way that may cause pollution to the environment. Or if it causes harm to people’s health, such as by burning it. This means you must not burn waste that can create excessive smoke and fumes. 

Your duvet and pillows will be coated with flame retardants that burn the gas off even more toxic fumes and smoke than standard material would have done.

We cover, and much more: 

• Are weight and warmth part of the tog value?
• What is the highest tog rating you can get?
• What tog is for all-year use?
• How to increase your warmth in bed.

Settle in as we start.

What is a tog value?

Tog is a unit of thermal insulation of a given area. There is more to tog values than meets the eye, so don’t think for one moment it is a bunch of guys just sleeping under duvets in the cold and comparing notes.

Tog was developed by the textile industries Shirley Institute in Manchester way back when to standardise the warmth of materials.

The name tog is thought to come from the Greek toga, meaning clothes.

Do you know there is a formal calculation for your duvets tog value? The basic unit of insulation coefficient is the RSI, (1 m2K/W). 1 tog = 0.1 RSI.

A tog is 0.1 m2K/W. In other words, the thermal resistance in togs is ten times the temperature difference (in °C) between the two surfaces of a material when the heat flow is equal to one watt per square metre.

What is the highest duvet tog?

15 is the highest tog value for your duvet. Tog values start at 1, which is the lowest rating and could be used on a balmy summer’s night.

However, if you need an extra warm duvet for the winter, you will be hard pushed to find a tog rating higher than 13.5, which should be more than adequate for providing warmth.

Below is the common table representing the seasons and the recommended tog value for your warmth.

Does duvet weight affect the warmth and tog?

No, various types of fillings are heavier than others. It seems that the heavier a duvet, the higher the tog value, but duvet fillings have different properties.

When you select your duvet for warmth during the winter months, you will be faced with an array of materials that can be overwhelming and confusing.

The warmer duvets trap a lot of air in between the filling. This creates a thermal barrier and is the ideal solution for keeping warm.

If you look at synthetic duvets such as hollowfibre or microfibre, they are lightweight but have exceptional insulation properties that keep you warm on the coldest night.

So, don’t consider the weight of the duvet when making your choice. Trust the tog value.

Do you only need one duvet for all seasons?

In the UK, yes. If you live in a warm or temperate climate, then you may decide to use a couple of different tog values and change as the seasons change.

However, in the UK, it is rare to experience more than a couple of weeks of blisteringly hot weather, and when you do, you ditch the duvet for a bed sheet as anything else would be too warm.

Given the climate uncertainty of the UK climate, it makes sense to select an all-year-round duvet recommended as a 10.5 tog.

The 10.5 togs will provide you with enough warmth on the coldest night, assuming your windows are closed, and there is no draft howling through your home.

But there are other considerations to take into account.

How cold or hot do you run?

It’s not a crazy question. You will not be surprised to find out we are all different, including body temperature.

There has been a debate for some time on how body temperature differs, but there is a premise widely regarded as being accurate, and it’s this.

The lower your muscle mass relative to the surface area of your body can make you feel cold. We know this is true as the elderly reduce muscle; they always seem to be on the chilly side, even on warm days.

Females also tend to sleep on the cooler side, which you can assume is directly correlated to muscle mass compared to males.

If you are in a category that runs cold upgrading your duvet tog, it’s not worth rolling the dice to tough out the long winter nights.

Can you sleep with two different tog values on your bed?

Yes, some more expensive options. If your budget is not constrained, pure wool duvets have the option to tie different tog duvets together.

You could also select two single duvets for a double bed with different tog values; you can kill two birds with one stone, sleep comfortably at your body heat and cease the endless battle for the duvet!

How to know what tog duvet to buy?

Some factors need to be considered. Generally, you can assume the tog rating works perfectly and is reliable.

Select your tog based on the season:

• 1-4.5 tog. Perfect for warm nights through the summer
• 7-10 tog. Consider this tog for changing seasons, late spring to early autumn
• 12-15 tog. For those nights when sleeping in Siberia may seem like a better option
• 10.5 tog. This is the sweet spot for most sleepers in the UK and northern Europe

Still feeling chilly at night?

Add an extra layer. It sometimes happens when the cold snap arrives that you just can’t get warm enough, so what can you do?

By adding a blanket over the duvet, you will find the insulation increases dramatically and should be more than enough to have a toasty night’s sleep.

We will cover some of the salient points you need to consider before taking your duvets to the dry cleaners, such as fillings.

Find out: 

• Prices for duvet-cleaning
• How often you should clean your duvet
• Can you dry clean down and synthetic duvets
• Does dry cleaning damage your duvet

Let’s dive in.

How much does it cost to dry clean a duvet in the UK?

Prices will vary with location and type of filling. If you live in London, you will pay more for dry cleaning a duvet than in Halifax or anywhere north of the M25.

Here is a representation of what price you can expect to pay for your duvet to be dry cleaned:

How many times a year should I clean my duvet?

It depends on how often the duvet is used. If your duvet is in a spare room, it will not need cleaning so frequently ( if not used, store in a breathable bag away from dust.

Your duvet will stay cleaner if your duvet cover is replaced frequently. It makes sense to replace your duvet cover weekly or at least once every couple of weeks. This will prevent the ingress of dust into the duvet filling.

If your duvet has normal daily use, then it’s safe to assume that washing is only needed twice per year.

However, your duvet should be cleaned at least quarterly if you sleep hot and tend to sweat at night. Sweat may introduce mould into the filling and cause an allergic reaction.

If your duvet smells peculiar, it’s time for a clean.

Does dry cleaning involve steam?

Yes, in small amounts. Dry cleaning is based on chemicals, and you will notice a chemical smell that you will need to air out of the duvet before using it to sleep under.

How does dry cleaning work?

It’s a simple process involving solvents. Solvents are vaporised and enter your duvet. The solvent attacks the dirt, and crime dissolves it.

The solvents are then vacuumed to a holding tank where the dirt and grime particles are separated, and the process starts over again until the cleaning cycle has finished.

How should a duvet smell after dry cleaning?

It will have a chemical odour only. Invariably you have cleaned your duvet with solvents, and as such, there will be a residual solvent odour that will disperse in a short time.

If your duvet smells of anything else, the dry cleaning process was unsuccessful, and you should return the duvet for further cleaning.

Can you take a down feather duvet to the dry cleaners?

No. If you need your feather or down duvet cleaning, tackle it to the laundry and ask them to wash it conventionally.

Although dry cleaners will dry clean your down or feather duvet, it’s best to wash them conventionally.

Feather and downs trap air. That’s what makes them perfect for duvets. They will also trap the dry cleaning chemicals known to be carcinogenic.

If you dry clean your down or feather duvet, it is important to let it off-gas in a well-ventilated room or still outside in the fresh air for 4 or 5 hours.

Can you dry clean synthetic duvets like Microfibre?

Check the care instructions. Most microfibre duvets do not need to be dry cleaned. They are best washed in a mild soapy detergent in a large washing machine drum.

Microfibre forms a mat inside the duvet and, although light and breathable, use the microfibres to retain air to give it some of its warmth qualities.

Dry cleaning solvents could replace the air pockets within the microfibre matrix, making the microfibre duvet hazardous. If you dry-clean your microfibre duvet, it will need to air in a well-ventilated room or on a line outside to allow toe solvents to disperse.

Does dry cleaning remove stains?

Not all stains. Dry cleaning is great for removing grease and oil-based stains due to its primary cleaning method being a solvent-based chemical.

If you have human body fluid stains such as blood, dry cleaning is not so effective, and spot cleaning is recommended to remove the stains.

How do I make my duvet fluffy again?

Making your duvet fluffy again can be a challenge. Shaking and teasing the internal filling. If you have washed your duvet at home and it’s line-dried, then you can place it in your tumble dryer on a cold setting and place three tennis balls inside the dryer. Put the tennis balls in socks to avoid marking your duvet.

After 20 minutes, pull the duvet out and repeat the cycle until you have the desired fluffiness you require.

If you can’t get your duvet in the tumble dryer, you will need to shake the duvet, lay it flat, and tease the filling apart by pulling upwards.

If there is a clump of filling in the corner of the duvet, you will need to break the clump by pulling it apart and then trying to disperse it across the duvet.

Can you wash a duvet that says dry clean only?

It’s not recommended. If you inadvertently get a stain on a dry clean only duvet, it’s fine to spot clean the stain with minimal water and a microfibre towel to blot out the excess water.

What happens if you wash dry clean only?

You could see some shrinkage. If your duvet is marked dry clean only, it’s there for a reason, and the reason normally is that the filling or outer of the duvet will not react well with water and detergents.

If the filling shrinks, it will lose its properties of being warm and comfortable. If the outer shrinks, it will not look so good inside your duvet cover.

Stick to the care instructions, and you will not go wrong.

Will dry cleaning damage your duvet?

No. Dry cleaning does not damage fabrics. If anything, it keeps fabrics in good condition and preserves them, giving them a longer life cycle.

It may seem like a step back in time but include the kids and have some fun.

Learn how to:

• Wash your duvet in the bath
• Learn how to dry your duvet while it’s very wet, so it’s not destroyed
• Should you bleach your duvet?
• How to remove yellow stains from your duvet

Can I wash the duvet by hand?

Yes. It can be hard going, or fun, whichever you choose to do. You just never appreciate your washing machine until you can’t use it!

Most duvets (other than singles) don’t really wash well in a domestic washing machine. The tub is too small for the cleaning action to take place.

And then, you come to spin the duvet, and the washing machine wants to self-destruct due to the imbalance of weight distribution.

So, what’s your choice? It’s easy if you are up for rolling up your sleeves and jeans.

Here are the steps you will need to follow for how to wash a duvet in the bath

• Get up early. It’s going to take a few hours
• Fill your bath half full with tepid water
• Swirl some low foam detergent in the bath, so it fully dispersed
• Soak your duvet, make sure every square inch is submerged for a good cleaning and leave for a few hours and let the detergent start working
• After a few hours, give it a good agitation, then drain the water and detergent
• Fill the bath half full and add detergent again, and now it’s time to get serious
• Make sure your feet are clean (let the kids join in) and trample the duvet within an inch of its life
• You may need to repeat this process a few times until the water looks clean
• Drain the bath and rinse in the same fashion. Once rinsed and free from detergent residue, you will need help squeeze or ring the water out of the duvet, be careful at this stage. You don’t want to crush the filling

How do I get a soaking wet duvet dry?

It takes planning. Unlike using your washing machine, you will need to plan washing your duvet due to the amount of time needed to get it clean and dry on the same day.

The best way to dry a wet duvet is to spread the duvets across a rotary line, so the corners are drooping down.

If you don’t have a rotary line, a standard line with the use of some garden chairs for support will suffice.

Your main objective is not to allow the filling to clump together in one area of the duvet. This will prevent the duvet from drying.

Can you pretreat stains?

Yes, it’s important to take this step for the best cleaning of your duvet. Pretreating soiled areas of the duvet makes sense, so get to it.

Everyone gets stains on their duvets, from kids jumping into bed with you or spilling a drop of coffee. It happens, so spot clean before you soak any stains that may be stubborn.

Can you use bleach on your duvet?

Why not? If your duvet has lost its colour and needs brightening up, then add some bleach to the mix, but be careful bleach can destroy some fabrics, so read the care label first.

You can also use lemon juice, borax, and any other whitening product you want to try, as long as it’s not overwhelming.

If the bleach smell is strong, you must keep rinsing the duvet until the strong smell disperses.

Can you bleach a down duvet?

You need to be careful. You may find bleach is too aggressive for down and will cause damage. Down is a delicate product and needs to be treated gently in terms of chemicals.

If you want a deep clean, you could use white vinegar or lemon juice just to give the detergent that extreme oomph to get the job done.

Keep in mind you are washing your duvet for a couple of reasons: first, because you feel it’s getting grubby and needs sprucing up a little, and second, to keep the allergens out of the filling.

So a little aggression is required.

How do I get the yellow out of my duvet?

Try using white vinegar. The truth is duvets do tend to turn yellowish over time, and it’s not your fault or because you have not showered.

Duvets breathe and pull moisture from your body. Over time the discolouration of the duvet outer (even with a good duvet cover) happens, and there is little you can do to stop it.

To freshen up the whiteness of your duvet cover, use white vinegar. Vinegar has long been used as a cleaning product and can work wonders while replacing more aggressive bleach-based detergents.

White vinegar is great for neutralising odd smells that sometimes emanate from duck-down duvets.

How do hotels keep their duvets so white?

They have a different washing protocol. You would like to expect and think that when you check into a hotel room, the bedding is spotlessly clean. So, let’s assume it is.

A hotel duvet has the potential to be washed every day of the week if the guest turnover is sufficiently high, so the washing process is more frequent, and they are washed in commercial or industrial washing machines.

A hotel duvet gets the first wash, then a wash with fabric conditioner and then is bleached in an endless cycle until it loses all of its suitable properties to be a hotel duvet.

Is it better to wash or dry clean a duvet?

It depends on your duvet. If your care instructions ask for dry cleaning, you must only dry clean. Washing may shrink the filler rendering it useless.

If your care label says machine wash, that’s the best way to clean your duvet.