Knowing how to clean a doona properly all comes down to a few key things: checking the care label, picking the right method for its material—whether that's a machine wash, a gentle hand wash, or calling in the pros—and, crucially, making sure it’s bone dry afterwards to stop any mould from setting in. Most synthetic doonas can handle a gentle cycle in the washing machine, but delicate materials like wool or down need a much softer touch.
Your Guide to a Fresh and Hygienic Doona
A clean, fluffy doona is one of life’s simple pleasures and the cornerstone of a healthy bed. But let's be honest, the idea of washing something so big and bulky can feel like a mission. It’s more than just about getting rid of a few spots, though. Over time, your doona collects everything from sweat and dead skin cells to dust mites and other allergens that can really impact your sleep and health.
This guide is here to take the guesswork out of it, walking you through the process so you can tackle this job with confidence.
Why Doona Cleaning Matters
So, why is this so important? We spend about a third of our lives in bed, which means our bedding can quickly become a breeding ground for things we'd rather not think about.
Laundry experts here in Australia generally recommend washing your doona every three to six months to keep it truly fresh. If you leave it for a year, it can become home to over 20,000 dust mites. These tiny creatures are a major trigger for allergies, asthma, and skin issues like eczema, so regular cleaning is your best defence.
For a deeper dive into keeping these unwelcome guests at bay, check out our article on understanding dust mites and protecting your sleep sanctuary in Australia.
A fresh doona isn't just a luxury; it's a key part of personal hygiene. Eliminating the buildup of dust mites and bacteria directly contributes to better respiratory health and a more restorative night's sleep.
This simple decision tree can help you quickly figure out the best way to wash your doona.
As you can see, synthetic doonas are usually fine for the washing machine, while natural fibres like wool and down need a bit more care. For anything particularly large, old, or delicate, a professional cleaner is often the safest bet.
Choosing Your Cleaning Method
The right way to wash your doona really depends on what’s inside it. Each type of filling has its own quirks and needs to be handled differently to avoid a laundry disaster.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Synthetic Fill: These are generally the most straightforward. As long as your washing machine is big enough to handle the bulk, you can usually wash them at home.
- Down and Feather: A bit more high-maintenance. Harsh detergents and high heat can cause the delicate filling to clump together or get damaged. Hand washing or taking it to a laundromat with commercial-sized machines is often the way to go.
- Wool: Wool is a fantastic natural fibre and even has some antibacterial properties, but it's notorious for shrinking or felting if you're not careful. It needs a very gentle hand wash or a specific wool cycle on your machine.
Your first port of call should always be the care tag—it’s the manufacturer's direct advice. If the tag has vanished or the writing has faded, don't worry. The material itself will be your guide.
Quick Guide Doona Cleaning Methods by Material
To make things even easier, here’s a quick summary to help you choose the right cleaning method at a glance.
| Doona Material | Recommended Cleaning Method | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic (Polyester, Microfibre) | Machine Wash (Gentle Cycle) | Ensure your machine is large enough. Use a mild detergent. |
| Down and Feather | Professional Clean or Hand Wash | Can clump easily. Avoid harsh chemicals and high heat. Requires thorough drying. |
| Wool | Hand Wash or Wool Cycle | Prone to shrinking and felting. Use a wool-specific detergent. Avoid agitation. |
This table serves as a handy reference, but remember to always double-check the care label on your specific doona before you begin. The manufacturer's instructions should always take priority.
Preparing Your Doona for a Successful Wash
Before you even think about getting your doona near water, a few minutes of prep can be the difference between a clean, fluffy result and a disaster. I've seen it happen—rushing this first stage is how you end up with shrunken wool, lumpy filling, or a torn cover.
It’s tempting to just toss it in the machine and hope for the best, but trust me, a little groundwork goes a long way.
Decode the Care Label and Check for Damage
First things first, find that care label. It’s the manufacturer's official rulebook, usually tucked away in a corner seam. Those symbols might look like a secret code, but they contain the most important information you need: the right water temperature, the correct wash cycle, and how to dry it without ruining it.
- Tub with a number: This is your maximum water temperature.
- Circle in a square: This tells you about tumble drying rules.
- A cross through any symbol: A clear "don't even think about it."
Once you know the rules, lay the doona out flat on your bed or a clean patch of floor. Give it a good, thorough inspection. Look for any small rips, loose threads, or seams that seem weak. Even a tiny hole can explode in the wash, spewing filling everywhere and creating an absolute nightmare.
Mending a small hole with a needle and thread now is infinitely easier than trying to wrangle a duvet-sized catastrophe later.
Pre-Treating Common Stains
Life happens, and doonas often show the evidence—morning coffee spills, a bit of sweat, you name it. Attacking these spots before the main wash gives you the best shot at getting them out completely. You don't always need to reach for harsh chemicals, either.
For many everyday stains, a simple paste of baking soda and a bit of water works surprisingly well. Just apply it to the spot, let it sit for about 30 minutes, and then gently dab it off with a damp cloth before you start the wash.
This targeted approach often lifts the stain without subjecting the whole doona to an overly aggressive wash cycle that could cause unnecessary wear and tear.
Final Preparations for Washing
Just before you pop it in the machine, take your doona outside and give it a vigorous shake. This does two things: it dislodges any loose dust and debris, and it helps to redistribute the filling for a more even, effective clean.
Finally, remember that cleaning your doona is part of its lifecycle. Knowing how to wash it is just as crucial as knowing how to put it away correctly for the season. For more on that, check out our guide on how to store your bedding properly to keep it fresh until you need it next.
Using Your Washing Machine to Clean a Doona
It might seem a bit ambitious to try and squeeze a bulky doona into your home washing machine, but you'd be surprised. For many synthetic and even some down doonas, it's absolutely doable. The trick is making sure your machine can handle the load and knowing exactly which settings to use.
Before you even think about putting your doona in, give your machine a quick once-over. You want a truly fresh result, so it’s worth learning how to clean your washing machine effectively to get rid of any built-up grime or old detergent.
Can Your Machine Handle It?
First things first, let's talk size. A doona needs plenty of space to tumble and get properly clean. If it's packed in too tightly, the water and detergent just can't get through, and you’ll end up with dirty patches.
A good rule of thumb is to fill the drum no more than two-thirds full. If you find yourself having to really shove and jam it in, stop. Your machine is too small. Forcing it will only lead to a poor wash and could even put your machine off balance. If you've got a king-size or an extra-plush doona, your best bet is to head down to the local laundromat and use one of their big, commercial machines.
Pro Tip: Don't just stuff it in. Fold your doona in half or feed it into the drum section by section. This helps distribute the weight evenly and stops that loud, rattling sound when the spin cycle kicks in.
Getting the Settings and Detergent Just Right
Once you're ready to wash, picking the right cycle and detergent is key to protecting your doona’s filling. The last thing you want is to pull out a lumpy, flat version of what you put in.
Here’s my tried-and-true method for a safe, effective clean:
- Detergent: I always reach for a gentle, low-suds liquid detergent. Powders don't always dissolve properly with bulky loads and can leave behind a chalky film. Be stingy with it, too—use about a third of what you'd use for a normal load of clothes.
- Wash Cycle: Stick to the gentle or delicate setting. No exceptions. These cycles have less aggressive agitation and a slower spin, which is much kinder on the stitching and the filling.
- Water Temperature: Unless the care tag specifically says otherwise, use cold or warm water. Anything over 40°C can damage synthetic fibres and cause delicate down to clump.
Here’s a little trick I’ve picked up over the years: toss a couple of clean tennis balls or wool dryer balls into the drum with the doona. They'll bounce around during the cycle, breaking up any clumps and keeping the filling evenly distributed. This works brilliantly for fleece bedding too; we have a whole guide on how to care for your snuggle fleece comforter.
And my final piece of advice—always, always run an extra rinse cycle. It's a non-negotiable step for me. This guarantees all the detergent is washed away, preventing skin irritation and keeping your doona wonderfully soft and fluffy.
Hand Washing Delicate Wool and Down Doonas
When you’ve invested in a beautiful wool or high-quality down doona, the thought of throwing it in the washing machine can be pretty daunting. And for good reason. For these delicate materials, hand washing is absolutely the safest bet to protect those natural fibres and keep your doona feeling luxurious for years.
It might sound like a massive chore, but it’s more manageable than you think, especially with your bathtub as a makeshift basin. The whole process is about being gentle. Aggressive scrubbing or twisting is the enemy here; it can easily damage the delicate clusters in a down doona or cause a wool one to felt, which would ruin its softness and loft.
Getting Your Bathtub Ready
First things first, give your bathtub a good clean. You don't want any leftover soap scum or cleaning residue transferring onto your doona. Once it’s sparkling, fill it about halfway with lukewarm water. If the water is too hot, it can shock and shrink the wool fibres, but if it’s too cold, it won’t be very effective at breaking down body oils and grime.
Now for the detergent. You’ll need a mild, pH-neutral liquid soap, preferably one made specifically for wool or delicates. Pour the recommended amount into the water and give it a good swish with your hand to make sure it dissolves completely. This is a crucial step to avoid concentrated soap sitting directly on the fabric.
Expert Tip: Never pour detergent directly onto the doona. Always mix it into the water first. This ensures an even, gentle clean and prevents stubborn soap residue from getting trapped deep inside the filling.
The Soaking and Squeezing Method
Carefully submerge the doona in the soapy water. You’ll need to press down on different sections to help it soak up the water and release any trapped air. Let it sit and soak for at least one hour—this is where the real cleaning happens, letting the water and gentle soap do all the hard work for you.
After it has soaked, it's time for the "washing" part. Instead of scrubbing, just use your hands to gently squeeze the suds through the doona. Work your way methodically across the entire thing, pressing down gently. If you want to dive deeper into what makes this material so special, you can learn more about caring for a wool quilt in Australia in our detailed guide.
Rinsing is next. Drain the soapy water and carefully press out as much as you can. Refill the tub with fresh, lukewarm water and repeat the gentle squeezing process. You'll likely need to do this two or three times until all the soap is gone. You’ll know you’re done when the rinse water runs clear.
Finally, getting the excess water out is the last hurdle. Whatever you do, do not wring or twist the doona. This is the quickest way to ruin the filling and strain the seams. Instead, roll it up like a giant sausage and press it firmly against the side of the tub to squeeze out as much water as possible before you even think about moving it.
Drying Your Doona for a Fluffy Finish
Getting your doona completely dry is the final, and arguably most important, part of the cleaning process. This is the step that restores that wonderful, cloud-like loft, but it’s also where things can go wrong. A single damp spot can quickly lead to mildew and a musty smell, undoing all your hard work.
Whether you're using a machine or the power of the sun, the goal is simple: remove every last bit of moisture while keeping the filling evenly distributed. Patience is key here. Rushing the drying phase is a one-way ticket to a lumpy, unpleasant doona.
Machine Drying with Care
If the care label gives you the green light, a tumble dryer can be your best friend for achieving that light-as-air feel, especially for down doonas. The trick is to stick to a low, gentle heat setting. High heat is the enemy—it can easily scorch delicate fillings or even melt synthetic fibres, causing permanent damage.
Here are a few tips I've picked up over the years:
- Add Dryer Balls: Toss in a few wool dryer balls or even some clean tennis balls. They bounce around inside the drum, breaking up clumps of filling and helping warm air circulate more freely.
- Shake it Out: Don't just set the timer and walk away. I always pause the dryer every 30 minutes or so, pull the doona out, and give it a really vigorous shake. This prevents wet spots from getting trapped in the centre.
- Be Patient: Depending on the size and filling, a doona can take several hours to dry completely. Don't be surprised if it takes a few cycles.
Before you even think about putting it back on your bed, do a final "pinch test." Squeeze the thickest parts between your fingers. If you feel any hint of coolness or moisture, it needs more time. It's always better to err on the side of caution and over-dry it slightly.
The Art of Air Drying
No dryer? No problem. Air drying is a fantastic, gentle alternative, and sometimes it's the only safe option for delicate materials like wool.
The ideal scenario is a sunny, breezy day. If you can, drape your doona over two parallel clotheslines to maximise airflow to both sides. It'll dry much faster this way.
If you're stuck indoors, a large clothes horse or a few drying racks will do the trick. Lay the doona as flat as possible across the top, trying to avoid any bunching. You can also hang it over a door or shower rod, but you’ll need to rotate it every few hours to make sure all sections dry evenly. This method is particularly good for preserving the unique qualities of different fills, which is why down quilts are the best choice for every season when you care for them correctly.
And a quick safety note—whether you're drying doonas or just your weekly laundry, keeping your machine in top shape is essential. For peace of mind, it’s worth reviewing these expert dryer vent cleaning tips for safer homes.
When to Let a Professional Handle the Cleaning
While washing your doona at home is certainly doable most of the time, there are situations where a DIY job just isn't worth the risk. Knowing when to hand it over to the pros can save your expensive doona from a laundry mishap and give it the proper deep clean it needs.
Think of it as protecting your investment. If your washing machine looks like it's about to burst just trying to fit a queen or king-size doona, stuffing it in is a bad idea. You'll likely get a patchy, uneven wash, and you could even break your machine. The same goes for doonas with delicate details like silk trim or intricate stitching—they can easily get snagged or ruined in a home washer, no matter how gentle the cycle.
Signs It’s Time for an Expert
Sometimes, the choice is pretty obvious. Here are a few clear signs that you should outsource the cleaning to a professional:
- Stubborn, Set-in Stains: Those old, lingering stains from body oils, a spilled morning coffee, or a glass of wine are tough. Professionals have access to specialised solvents and techniques that can lift them without damaging the fabric.
- Delicate Materials: If your doona is made from silk, premium goose down, or has fancy decorative bits, professional care is a must to keep it looking its best.
- Post-Illness Cleaning: After someone's been sick with the flu, you want to be sure that doona is completely sanitised. A professional deep clean will eradicate any lingering germs far more effectively than a home wash.
Professional cleaners use massive, industrial-grade machines that give your doona plenty of room to tumble and move. This allows for a much more thorough, even clean and helps get rid of dust mites and allergens in a way that’s hard to replicate at home.
A little insider tip: In Australia, the cost to professionally clean a doona is usually determined by its size, not its weight. That’s because the bulkier the item, the more space it takes up in their commercial machines.
For a bit of context, you might pay around $27.50 for a single doona, with larger queen and king sizes costing closer to $41.25. Many services have a minimum charge but often throw in pickup and delivery, which makes it an incredibly convenient way to look after your bedding. If you want to dive deeper, you can find more details about professional doona cleaning costs in Australia.
Doona Care FAQ
Let's face it, even when you know the basics, a few tricky questions always seem to pop up come doona washing day. I get asked about these all the time, so I've put together some quick answers to the most common doona dilemmas.
Think of this as your go-to cheat sheet for keeping your bedding fresh and comfortable.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How do I fix yellowing on my doona? | Yellow stains are usually from sweat and body oils building up. Before your main wash, try a pre-soak with a gentle, oxygen-based bleach. This is often brilliant at lifting those stains, but always—always—check the care label first to make sure the fabric can handle it. |
| Can I wash a "dry clean only" doona at home? | I wouldn't recommend it. It's a real gamble. While a very careful, gentle hand wash might work, you risk shrinking the fabric or, worse, ruining the filling inside. The manufacturer's tag is your best guide, and ignoring it could be a costly mistake. |
| Is it okay to use fabric softener? | Steer clear of fabric softener for doonas. It can leave a waxy coating on the filling, especially on natural fibres like down and feathers. Over time, this residue flattens the doona, reducing its beautiful loft and ability to keep you warm. |
| My doona filling is all lumpy after washing. What do I do? | Ah, the dreaded clumps! The best cure here is prevention: always use dryer balls. If the damage is already done, don't panic. Pop it back in the dryer on a low-heat cycle with the dryer balls and give it a really vigorous shake every 20-30 minutes. It might take a couple of cycles, but this usually breaks up the lumps. |
Hopefully, that clears up a few things! A little extra know-how can make all the difference in extending the life of your favourite doona.
If you're looking for a high-quality, easy-care doona that's perfect for the Australian climate, have a look through the collection at Manchester Factory. You can find your perfect match at https://www.manchesterfactory.com.au.