How to Put On a Duvet Cover

Wrestling a fluffy insert into its cover is easily the most annoying part of making a bed - but it doesn't have to be. Once you know the right method, putting on a duvet cover takes under two minutes and comes out smooth and lump-free. Here are three easy ways to do it, including the famous "burrito roll" that hotels and housekeepers swear by.

First, what is a duvet cover?

A duvet cover is a removable fabric case that slips over your duvet insert -  think of it as a giant pillowcase for your comforter. It protects the insert, is far easier to wash than the duvet itself, and lets you refresh your whole bedroom just by swapping covers. If you're new to the layer, our what is a duvet cover buying guide breaks down everything before you buy. Now, on to the fun part - getting the insert inside without a fight.

Method 1: The roll (burrito) method

This is the cleanest, fastest technique once you've done it once:

1. Turn the duvet cover completely inside out and lay it flat on the bed, opening at the foot.
2. Place your insert on top, lining up all four corners exactly.
3. Tie the inner corner ties to the insert's corners so nothing shifts.
4. Starting at the closed (top) end, roll the cover and insert together tightly toward the opening, like a burrito.
5. Reach into the opening at the foot and flip its edges back over each end of the roll, so the opening is now right-side-out around the roll.
6. Unroll, fasten the buttons or zip, give it a firm shake, and smooth it flat.

Method 2: The inside-out (reach-through) method

1. Turn the cover inside out and reach both arms through the opening up to the two top corners.
2. With a hand in each corner from inside, grab the matching top corners of the insert.
3. Hold tight and shake the cover down over the insert - it turns right-side-out as it falls into place.
4. Tie the remaining corners, close the opening, and smooth out any bunching.

Method 3: The quick drape method

1. Lay the insert flat on the bed and drape the right-side-out cover over it, opening at the foot.
2. Line up the corners, reach in, and tie each corner tie to the insert.
3. Work the insert into the two far corners first, then the near ones.
4. Close it up, shake, and smooth. Done.

Tips to keep it from bunching

Two things make all the difference. First, use the corner ties - they anchor the insert so it can't slide into a ball at the bottom. Second, get the right size: a queen duvet cover should pair with a queen insert, not a smaller one, or you'll get sagging gaps. Not sure which size you need? Check our duvet cover size chart before you buy. A quick shake to redistribute the filling each time you make the bed keeps everything even.

Our Pick: an easy-to-dress duvet cover

Corner ties and a full closure make dressing quick - and a crisp white duvet cover in 100% Egyptian cotton is the easiest to keep clean and re-style:

• Inner corner ties + hidden closure so the insert stays put and smooth.
• 100% long-staple Egyptian cotton — breathable, soft, and durable.
• Twin through Oversized King, plus custom sizing.
• Many colors — from clean white to sky blue, teal and navy.

From $69.59.

Shop Duvet Covers

Duvet cover FAQ

Which method is easiest?
The roll (burrito) method is the fastest and neatest for most people. The reach-through method is great for larger, king-size covers.

Do I need a duvet insert?
Yes - a duvet cover goes over an insert (or comforter). The cover is the washable outer layer; the insert provides the warmth.

Why does my duvet bunch inside the cover?
Almost always because the corners aren't tied, or the cover and insert are different sizes. Tie the corners and match the sizes.

How often should I wash a duvet cover?
Every one to two weeks, along with your sheets, keeps it fresh and hotel-crisp.