Luxury bedding is an investment in better sleep, comfort, and wellness — and like any investment, it needs proper care to last. Washing and drying high-end sheets, duvet covers, pillowcases, and down products requires a bit more attention than tossing everything into a hot cycle. But with a few simple steps, you can keep your bedding feeling just as soft, breathable, and beautiful as the day you bought it.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean your luxury bedding the right way — so you can protect its integrity and enjoy that indulgent sleep experience for years to come.
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Step 1: Check the Label (Always!)
Before anything else, take a moment to read the care label on your bedding. Even within the luxury category, care instructions may vary depending on material (cotton, linen, silk, bamboo) or construction (sateen vs. percale, filled vs. unfilled). If your bedding came from Down To Basics™, follow our detailed care instructions for optimal results.
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Step 2: Use Cool or Warm Water — Not Hot
Heat can weaken fibers and cause shrinkage, fading, or pilling — especially in premium natural fabrics like Egyptian cotton or bamboo. Instead:
- Wash in cold or warm water (no hotter than 104°F / 40°C)
- Choose a gentle or delicate cycle to prevent abrasion
- Avoid overloading the washer — give sheets room to move
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Step 3: Go Easy on Detergent
Less is more when it comes to cleaning luxury bedding. Too much detergent can leave residue that dulls fabric and attracts more dirt.
- Use a mild, liquid detergent free of enzymes, bleach, or optical brighteners
- Skip fabric softeners — they coat fibers and reduce breathability
- Add an extra rinse if you’re using a front-loading washer
Tip: For whites, a scoop of baking soda or ¼ cup of distilled white vinegar can help brighten without harsh chemicals.
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Step 4: Air Dry or Tumble Low
To preserve the softness, structure, and drape of your bedding:
- Line dry or tumble dry on the lowest heat setting
- Remove promptly to prevent wrinkles
- For crispness without damage, iron on low while slightly damp (if desired)
For down comforters and pillows:
- Dry on low heat with clean tennis or dryer balls to fluff the fill
- Allow several hours and shake gently between cycles
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Step 5: Wash Bedding Separately from Towels or Clothing
Luxury sheets deserve their own space in the wash. Towels and zippers can cause friction and pilling — and mixing linens with other fabrics can trap lint.
Always wash bedding in its own load, sorted by color and fabric type.
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How Often Should You Wash?
- Sheets & pillowcases: Every 1–2 weeks
- Duvet covers: Every 2–4 weeks
- Down comforters: 1–2 times per year, or as needed
- Pillow inserts: Every 3–6 months (depending on usage)
- Featherbeds or mattress toppers: Every 6–12 months
Pro tip: Rotate sheet sets to reduce wear and extend the lifespan of each set.
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Taking good care of your luxury bedding doesn't require complicated routines — just thoughtful attention to fabric, temperature, and detergent. These small adjustments help preserve softness, prevent damage, and keep your bed feeling fresh, cloud-like, and indulgent night after night.
Sleep is sacred — and so is your bedding. Care for it well, and it will care for you.