As the last warm breeze of the Great British summer gives way to the crisp chill of autumn, it’s time to tackle one of the most satisfying seasonal rituals: swapping out your summer duvet for a winter one.
If you’re anything like us, this small act signals that the cosy season has well and truly arrived. And who doesn’t love snuggling up under a thick, warm blanket when the temperature starts to drop?
the great duvet switcheroo
There’s nothing quite like that first night under your winter duvet. After months of sleeping under one that’s light and airy, the weight and warmth of a thicker cover feels like a giant, fluffy hug.
But before you get there, there’s a little bit of prep involved.
why bother with the switch?
Why do we even bother switching? Could we not just pile on extra layers when it gets cold?
And yes, you could absolutely do that. But there’s a reason seasonal bedding exists. Summer duvets tend to be lightweight, breathable, and are specifically designed to keep you cool when the nights are warm.
Winter duvets, on the other hand, are all about trapping that heat in to keep you warm when the temperatures plummet. They’re often filled with more down or synthetic fibres which creates a loftier, more insulating cover that keeps you toasty right through those frosty mornings.
Plus, let’s be honest — switching up your bedding just feels right. It’s like swapping your iced coffee for a pumpkin spice latte or dusting off your favourite chunky sweater and popping it on again for the first time in 6 months.
the transition: a few quick tips
Okay, we won’t bore you with a massive long list of stuff you need to do when switching out your duvet – like cleaning your mattress or bed frame, or vacuuming under the bed. Those are tasks that you can, if you please, save for another day. Here are our four essential tips for anyone switching out their summer duvet in favour of a winter one (or vice versa):
- Clean before you store: Before you stuff your summer duvet back in the closet, make sure it’s clean. Most duvets – ours included – can be machine washed. But if you’ve got one that’s especially delicate, it might be worth a trip to the dry cleaner. Trust us on this – it’s worth the extra effort! You don’t want to pull out a musty duvet when spring rolls around again.
- Storage matters: Try to stop yourself just shoving your summer duvet into any old space. Instead, store it in a breathable cotton bag (or a pillowcase will work fine if you have one large enough). Doing this helps to protect it from dust while allowing it to air out a bit. Plastic storage bags are to be avoided wherever possible. These can trap moisture which has the potential to lead to mildew, which is just a total vibe killer.
- Freshen up your winter duvet: If your winter duvet’s been in hibernation for a while, it might be in need of a little ELC. A quick tumble in the dryer on low with a couple of tennis balls can help fluff it up. If it smells a bit musty, airing it out for a few hours on a dry, sunny day works wonders too.
- Consider a new cover: A new duvet cover can totally change the look and feel of your bedroom. Plus, it’s a super easy way to embrace the new season without breaking the bank. Think rich, deep colours or patterns that transport you to a cosy winter retreat.
the final touch: make your bed the cosiest bed in town
Once your winter duvet is ready, it’s time to start making your bed as inviting as possible. Add in some extra throws or blankets, pile on the pillows, and maybe even pop your hot water bottle close by so you’re well-prepped for those extra chilly nights.
Don’t forget to stock up on your favourite warm beverages too! Remember, there’s nothing quite like curling up in bed with a hot cup of herbal tea, or a mug of cocoa while the wind howls outside.
embrace the change
Switching out your duvet isn’t just about staying warm at night — it’s also about embracing the change of seasons and creating a space where you can unwind and relax.
So, go ahead, make the switch, and enjoy every snuggly minute of it. Winter is coming, but with the right duvet, you’ll be ready to face it head-on, one snug-as-a-bug night at a time.
Until next time, eve sleep.