also, down comforters are heavenly! so if you need an excuse to get a new one, there ya go.

With that said, maybe buy some matching pillowcases and a dust ruffle for the bottom of the bed. Good luck!

If you want the duvet to look fluffier, you can use a comforter or down comforter (or down alternative) underneath.

Something to remember is that MOST new fabrics have a “sizing” on them to protect from dirt, moisture, etc. The sizing also helps a new item retain its “crisp” feel and appearance.

This needs to be removed. A regular laundering is all that is required. I’d suggest using a detergent made especially for delicate items (Woolite or Delicare, etc.) in cool or cold water and a gentle cycle … and then add a cup or so of distilled white vinegar to the rinse. Vinegar is a natural fabric softener … you won’t need to use liquid fabric softener at all.

Make sure the item is thoroughly rinsed, then hang to dry or tumble dry on low heat (read the laundering instructions … cotton and linen are both natural fibers, and could shrink … to see what method is recommended).

The duvet cover will get softer the more you use it, too.

* Be gentle when laundering linen: use a gentle wash cycle or handwash and use just a little gentle soap. We like Ivory Snow (powder), but some people swear by Woolite, some people like Orvus Quilt Soap (available at some Quilt stores as well as many Saddle and Tack shops!) and some even use their favorite shampoo. Whatever you use, follow the package directions. Place delicate, embroidered or fringed linens in a lingerie bag before putting them into a washing machine.
* Use cool to warm, not hot, water. Wash colored linens in cool water. Soft water is important: Hard water forms a soap scum that make linen stiff and dull.
* Launder stains when fresh. If allowed to set, stains may be permanent.
* Use oxygen bleaches (hydrogen peroxide) for white linen. Experiment to see how much is needed. Chlorine bleaches can cause yellowing.
* Try a couple of tablespoons of cream rinse for your hair in the final rinse cycle. Linen is cellulose fiber, and many swear this makes their linen more lustrous.
* If hand washing, rinse very thoroughly. Removal of all soap will help prevent large brown spots on linen, which are caused by oxidation of cellulose by residual soap.”

As far as the dryer..I would avoid it if possible- it could shrink the fabric. It’s best to hang out on a line in your yard, or if that’s not an option. hang it up over the shower rod/door.