A duvet can be expensive and difficult to clean, and a duvet protector can be a helpful addition to your bedding setup. They form a cover around your duvet, and sit underneath your duvet cover protecting your duvet during use, as well as increasing its lifespan. Duvet protectors are also generally easy to use, remove and clean.
Most duvet protectors share the same characteristics in that they are, at least to some extent, waterproof or hypoallergenic or claim to be. This does, however, vary across brands, and it is advisable to do a little research before you purchase. There are also a few additional factors you may want to consider, such as the material type, size, price, and care instructions.
(Important Facts, Studies, Advice, Considerations & FAQs In Conclusion)
| DUVET PROTECTOR | TYPE | WARRANTY | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dunelm Teflon Stain Resistant Duvet Protector | Polyester and Microfibre | NA Years | £14 |
| Soak & Sleep Ultra Fine Duvet Protector | Cotton and Polyester | 2 Years | £28 |
| Sterling Mill Quilt Duvet Protector | Polypropylene | NA Years | £13.99 |
| Single Corovin Duvet Protector | Polypropylene | NA Years | £5.73 |
| ComfortCare Microfibre Duvet And Pillow Protector Set | Microfibre | NA Years | £17.50 |
| Pinzon Cotton Duvet Protector | Cotton | NA Years | £25.39 |
1. Dunelm Teflon Stain Resistant Duvet Protector
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Teflon®-treated • 100% polyester • Soft-touch microfibre | • Those seeking spill and stain resistance • Allergy sufferers • People who prefer machine-washable linen |
The Dunelm Teflon Stain Resistant Duvet Protector has been treated with Teflon® and will protect your duvet against everyday spills and stains. This protector is made of 100% polyester and finished with a soft to the touch microfibre. It is anti-allergy and available in single, small double, double, kingsize, and super kingsize. The Dunhelm duvet protector has a zipper, making it easy to put on and take off your duvet and keep it secure and in place.
It is also machine-washable and can be tumble dried on a low setting. Customer reviews for this product are generally positive; many people comment that it has a soft and silky feel and no crinkly noise when they move. However, it’s worth noting that the manufacturers are unable to offer refunds or exchanges on this product for health and hygiene reasons unless they are returned sealed and unopened in their original packaging.
2. Soak & Sleep Ultra Fine Duvet Protector
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • 200 thread count polycotton • Teflon-treated • 2-year guarantee | • Those with a higher budget • Hot sleepers • People with allergies |
The Ultra Fine Duvet Protector from Soak & Sleep is made of a high quality 200 thread count polycotton fabric (50% cotton 50% polyester). Cotton allows your duvet to breathe and lets you benefit fully from the features of your duvet. Polyester ensures that the duvet protector is low-crease and easy-care. The lightweight material is soft, fine, and rustle-free, enabling a quiet, comfortable, well-protected sleep.
This duvet protector has been crafted with an easy-to-fasten foot-end zip and is available in single, double, king, and super king sizes. The polycotton has been treated with Teflon, which repels moisture, oil, and dust. The cover is water repellent, so long as accidents are dealt with quickly.
It is machine-washable; manufacturers recommend 30°C and no dry cleaning. A 2-year guarantee is offered on this product. This duvet protector is on the higher end of the price scale; however, customers seem very happy with their purchases - many commenting on the quality.
3. Sterling Mill Quilt Duvet Protector
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • 100% polypropylene • 100% waterproof • Machine-washable | • Those seeking a range of sizes • People with dust mite allergy/sensitivity • Hot sleepers |
The Sterling Mill Quilt Duvet Protector has been constructed to protect against bedwetting, incontinence, spills and stains. It is made of 100% durable and lightweight polypropylene and is available in a single, double, king, and super king.
This duvet protector is also 100% waterproof and dust mite proof. In addition, it is anti-allergenic and breathable. There is an easy-to-use zipper across the width of the protector, and it is machine-washable. In general, customers have highly rated this product, some highlighting that it "does the job", is easy to use, and is clean.
4. Single Corovin Duvet Protector
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Made of polypropylene • Built-in zipper • Machine-washable | • Those seeking a single size protector • People on a budget • Individuals with allergies |
The Single Corovin Duvet Protector is made of polypropylene and is water-resistant, anti-allergenic, and dust mite proof, making it a good potential option for those with allergies. In addition, this duvet protector has been constructed with a zipper which makes putting it on and taking it off very easy.
The Corovin duvet protector is machine-washable and requires no ironing. Manufacturers do mention that it is not suitable for tumble drying. Customers have, in general, rated this product highly, some people commenting on good value for money. It’s worth pointing out that some customers have mentioned that this single size is a bit larger than a regular UK single.
5. ComfortCare Microfibre Duvet And Pillow Protector Set
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • 100% microfibre • Machine-washable • No-snagging zipper | • Those seeking a protector set • Allergy sufferers • People wanting a mid-range buy |
The ComfortCare Microfibre Duvet And Pillow Protector Set is made of 100% breathable microfibre with a tight weave to shield against allergens and also helps to contain feathers from down or feather duvets. This set is available in single, double, king and super king.
A zipper is positioned slightly offset from the edge to ensure smooth zipping without snagging the edge of a duvet inside. The set is machine-washable at 40°C and can be tumble dried on low heat. The manufacturers describe this product as comfortable and mention that the materials will not add any heat to your bed. Overall, customers seem very satisfied with their purchases.
6. Pinzon Cotton Duvet Protector
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • 100% cotton • Inner-corner ties • Outer corner tabs | • Those with a more flexible budget • Hot sleepers • Allergy sufferers |
The Pinzon Cotton Duvet Protector has been crafted to combine sleeping comfort with protection. This duvet protector is made of 100% breathable cotton in a tight weave, which forms a shield against dust mites and other allergens and is waterproof. In addition, manufacturers highlight that it provides full coverage and protection from every angle.
The Pinzon duvet protector is fully zipped with the zipper positioned slightly offset from the edge to ensure smooth zipping without snagging the edge of a duvet inside. In addition, there are inner-corner ties that connect the protector to your duvet insert. This protector can be used on its own or under another duvet cover; when used with another cover, outer-corner tabs allow for easily attaching the protector to a second duvet cover.
It is available in three different sizes and is machine-washable at 60°C and can be tumble dried on low heat. Customer reviews are mostly very positive, some people mentioning comfort and quality. However, it’s worth noting that some people find the sizes not what they expected - it’s advisable to check the exact measurements before purchase.
Duvet Protector Materials
If you've had a look in stores or online, you may have noticed that duvet protectors are typically made of certain materials or a combination of them. People generally want a duvet protector to protect their duvet from spills, stains, and incontinence, so a waterproof material is important.
However, the material should also preferably be thin, soft, and not make a crinkly noise when used. Finding the right balance between comfort and effectiveness can sometimes be tricky. Different materials have characteristics that may or may not suit your needs and preferences, so it's a good idea to familiarise yourself a little with them before purchasing your duvet protector.
Polyester
Polyester fabric is a synthetic fabric made from polyester yarns or fibres made from a category of polymers (a substance or material made up of large molecules), which are in turn made from coal, petroleum and other fossil fuels. It is the shortened name for the manufactured polymer called polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Polyester is essentially a kind of plastic.
The advantages of polyester, and what makes it a good option for use in a duvet protector, are that it is durable, moisture-wicking, fast-drying, lightweight, wrinkling and shrinking resistant, recyclable and inexpensive. In addition, it is less prone to stains than some other fabrics, and it is easy to care for.
The disadvantages of polyester are that it is less soft and breathable than other fabrics, moderately flammable, and not biodegradable. Nevertheless, polyester is the most widely used fibre globally - most often used in clothing, sportswear and bedding.
Fun fact!
Polyester accounts for approximately half of the overall fibre market worldwide✓, and around 80% of the synthetics fibre market.
Microfibre
Microfibre is a synthetic fibre having a diameter of less than ten micrometres (also known as a micron, one-millionth of a metre). It is made of a specific type of polyester fibre, which is why the two fabrics share many characteristics. What makes microfibre different is that it is twice as thin as polyester.
Both materials are warm and inexpensive; however, microfibre is softer and more breathable, making it a good choice for a duvet protector. Microfibre is, however, but less durable than polyester. Microfibre is often used to make bedding, towels, and cleaning cloths.
Fun fact!
Microfibre is so absorbent✓ that it can absorb 7 times its weight in water.
Cotton
Cotton is a soft fluffy fibre that grows from the outer layer of the cotton plant's seeds. It is the most widely produced natural fibre in the world. The plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions such as the Americas, Africa, Egypt, and India. The fibre is most often spun into yarn or thread and used to make textile. Whereas most animal fibres (like wool, used in mattress toppers, or down used in goose or duck feather pillows) are made from proteins, cotton, like other plant fibres, is made from a carbohydrate called cellulose.
Cotton is known for its breathability and lightness, as well as its softness. It is also durable, absorbent, and dries quickly, making it a good choice for a duvet protector. Disadvantages include that cotton is prone to wrinkling and can shrink when washed. Nevertheless, cotton is often used for clothing, bedding, bath linens, and medical supplies.
Interesting to know...
In 2019-2020, the total global production of cotton✓ was around 122 million bales - India, China, and the United States were the largest producers, responsible for more than half of the world’s total production volume.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene is a synthetic thermoplastic polymer made from oil and natural gas production. It is one of the most versatile polymers, used both as fibre and plastic. As a textile, polypropylene is strong, easy to clean and fade and stain-resistant. In addition, polypropylene is resistant to absorbing water and moisture, is light, breathable, resistant to chemicals, has good thermal qualities, resistant to tearing, and repels allergens - all of which make it a good choice of material for a duvet protector.
Disadvantages include that it is highly flammable, and like all other petroleum-based synthetics, not biodegradable. Polypropylene fabric is most often used in clothing, food labels and packaging, and bags, amongst many others.
Did you know?
Polypropylene is one of the easiest plastics to recycle and can be re-used up to 50 times without losing its strength.
What To Look For In A Duvet Protector
Finding the best duvet protector will be dependent on your individual needs and preferences. Below we have listed a few factors that should be considered and will hopefully assist you in making the most well-suited decision.
- Material: As discussed above, different materials may have specific characteristics that you may or may not find suitable for your duvet protector. For example, some materials may be more water-resistant, and others may be better suited for people with allergies. Therefore, you will have to look for material or a combination of materials that best suit your needs.
- Noise: Many people use a duvet protector because of its water-resistant properties; however, some of the biggest complaints from people are that they make a crinkly "crisp packet" noise and have a "plastic" feel. Therefore, it will be necessary for you to carefully weigh up the pros and cons to make the best choice.
- Breathability: It is generally a good idea that your duvet protector is moisture-wicking and allows for ventilation, particularly if you're a hot sleeper.
- Good fit: Some duvet protectors come with fasteners in the corners to help prevent the duvet from moving and getting bunched up.
- Cleaning instructions: Most duvet protectors are machine-washable, and some can be tumble dried on low heat. It is always advisable to check as washing instructions vary depending on the material.
- Price: Like all bedding, duvet protectors vary in price. Generally, a higher price reflects higher quality materials and increased comfort; however, this may not always be the case. Reading customer reviews is often very helpful.
Teflon Explained
We've all most likely come across "Teflon" products, but also most likely don't know exactly what it is. Teflon® is a brand name for a synthetic chemical called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). PTFE is a high molecular weight polymer made of carbon and fluorine. It is sprayed on various items and then baked to create a nonstick, waterproof, non-corrosive and non-reactive surface. These properties make a Teflon® coating very useful in many industries such as textile, electronics, cookware, medical, surgical, and automotive.
The advantages of Teflon® coated fabrics include water and oil resistance, resistance to chemicals, easy cleaning and quick drying. It is also non-flammable and hypoallergenic. In addition, the coating does not add to the weight or change the look or feel of the fabric, which makes it particularly useful in duvet protectors.
There were, in the past, concerns regarding the safety of Teflon, which had to do with its chemical properties. Teflon® used to contain perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a risk factor for several health conditions✓. Traces of this chemical were found in some Teflon-coated cookware, and as a result, PFOA is no longer used. Teflon® on its own is safe and should not harm you, even when ingested. The only time it can be dangerous is if you plan on heating it above 300°C.
Who Should Use A Duvet Protector
Just as it may be a good idea for anyone who wants to extend the life of their mattress to consider using a suitable mattress protector, the same holds for those wanting to protect their duvet. There are, however, a few individuals who may, in particular, benefit from the use of a duvet protector.
- People with a tendency to spill liquids on their bed.
- Individuals with incontinence issues.
- People who have pets who sleep on the bed or pets with incontinence.
- Children who wet their bed.
- Those with a feather or down duvet - moisture can damage feather or down duvets. In addition, a duvet protector can stop feather quills from poking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a duvet protector?
A duvet protector is a cover that can be placed over the duvet beneath a duvet cover to protect the duvet from spills, dirt or other accidents.
How to use a duvet protector?
Duvet protectors are usually easy to slip over your duvet and are fitted with a zipper to keep the duvet inside and for easy removal. To ensure it stays in place, some duvet protectors have fasteners on the corners to attach to the duvet.
Which is the best duvet protector?
The best duvet protector will come down to individual needs and preferences; however, there are some factors such as material choice, noise, breathability, care instructions and price that should be considered.