Washing a camel hair duvet — without it felting. This is possible if you follow three rules: low temperature, wool program, wool detergent. We'll show you step-by-step how to properly care for your duvet.
We are the BEFA editorial team. Since 1994, we have been manufacturing camel hair duvets in Limburg an der Lahn — and answering daily customer questions about care. The most frequent: "Can I even wash my camel hair duvet?" The answer: Yes — but only rarely, and correctly.
How Often You Really Need to Wash Your Camel Hair Duvet
Less than you think. Camel hair is self-cleaning due to the lanolin (wool fat) it contains and neutralizes odors. Our recommendation as manufacturers:
- Daily: Turn down the bed, air the duvet for 15–20 minutes.
- Weekly: Air the duvet by an open window for 2–3 hours.
- Semi-annually: Shake out the duvet outdoors and hang it (no direct sunlight, as UV bleaches the fiber).
- Every 1–2 years: Full wash or dry cleaning.
If you sleep with a washable duvet cover and air the duvet daily, a high-quality camel hair duvet can often be used for 2–3 years without a full wash.
Step-by-Step: Washing a Camel Hair Duvet in the Machine
Step 1: Check Requirements
- Washing machine with at least 6 kg capacity (for 135x200 cm). For 155x220 or larger: at least 8 kg.
- Read the care label — our BEFA camel hair duvets are machine washable. This may differ for other brands.
- The duvet must have enough space in the drum; do not stuff it in.
Step 2: The Right Detergent
- Wool detergent (liquid, enzyme-free, pH-neutral). No heavy-duty detergent — the alkalis it contains damage the fibers.
- No fabric softener — it forms a film around the fibers and deprives them of their natural breathability.
- Dosage: Only half of the amount stated on the package. Residues are difficult to rinse out.
Step 3: The Right Program
- Wool program or hand wash program.
- Maximum 30 °C. Hotter temperatures wash out the wool fat and cause the fibers to felt.
- Low spin speed: maximum 600 rpm. Better: no spin at all.
- Activate extra rinse cycle to completely remove detergent residues.
Step 4: Removing from the Machine
The duvet is very heavy after washing. Lift it flat (do not pull it up by the edge) to avoid shifting the filling. Work with two people if possible.
Drying without Felting
Drying is crucial. If dried incorrectly, even a perfectly washed camel hair duvet can still clump.
- Dry flat on a drying rack or a clean surface. Do not hang — the weight of the water will pull the filling downwards.
- Well-ventilated room, not in direct sun (UV damage), not on heating (fiber breakage).
- Turn multiple times — every 4–6 hours, so both sides dry evenly.
- Drying time: 24–48 hours, depending on filling weight and room climate.
- During drying, fluff the filling several times by hand to prevent clumps from forming.
Can I use the dryer?
Only in an emergency and only on the delicate program at a low temperature (maximum 30 °C). Dry with tennis balls in cotton socks — they mechanically fluff up the filling. We still recommend air drying, as dryers dull the fiber tips over time.
Alternative: Dry Cleaning
If you don't want to risk machine washing — or don't have a large enough machine — you can have the duvet professionally cleaned:
- Only choose cleaners with a designation for down and natural fibers.
- Cleaning method: Perchloroethylene (P) or the more modern hydrocarbon cleaning (F).
- Costs in Germany in 2026: €25–45 per duvet, depending on size and region.
- Delivery time: 3–7 business days.
Advantage: No risk of felting, quick return, professional result. Disadvantage: Higher cost than home washing.
5 Care Tips Between Washes
- Air daily: Fold back the duvet for 15 minutes after getting up, allow moisture to evaporate.
- Change duvet cover regularly: Every 1–2 weeks. The cover protects the filling from sweat and skin oils.
- Air in the sun once a year — but in the shade, not in direct UV radiation.
- Store correctly between seasons: In a breathable cotton storage bag, not in a plastic cover. Cedar wood or lavender sachets against moths.
- Treat stains immediately: Spot clean with lukewarm water and a drop of wool detergent, then air dry. No dry cleaning agents, no rubbing.
Internal Guides
- Camel Hair Duvet: 7 Disadvantages Honestly Analyzed
- Camel Hair vs. Down Duvet: The Honest Comparison
- View all BEFA Camel Hair Duvets
About BEFA — Manufacturer since 1994
BEFA has been manufacturing high-quality bedding since 1994 in Limburg an der Lahn. Our camel hair duvets are made from 100% pure camel hair, are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, and bear the NOMITE seal for house dust allergy sufferers. All products are manufactured in our own production — no middlemen, no contract manufacturing. Learn more about BEFA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash a camel hair duvet at 60 °C?
No. Camel hair felts at temperatures above 30 °C and loses its structure. Maximum 30 °C on the wool program.
How long does a camel hair duvet need to dry after washing?
24 to 48 hours, lying flat in a well-ventilated room. Turn and fluff multiple times.
Is dry cleaning better than washing at home?
It is gentler, but more expensive. If you have a large washing machine and enough space to dry, you can wash at home. If you have neither, you should have it cleaned professionally.
Can I use fabric softener?
No. Fabric softener clogs the fibers and deprives the camel hair duvet of its breathable properties.