A silk-filled duvet is a comforter, used especially in cooler temperatures, for a variety of reasons. Silk-filled duvets have hypo-allergenic properties, an ability to stay warm in colder temperatures and cooler when the temperature rises, and are very comfortable. When it comes to comforters, the Chinese and Japanese elite have preferred silk-filled duvets for many centuries.
Silk-filled duvets are becoming widely available. Some people prefer a silk-covered duvet, as silk is resistant to dust mites. Most manufacturers will tell you that a silk-filled duvet won't be totally dust mite free, because the covers of most duvets are made of cotton or a cotton blend. Wash most of your bedding in hot water once a week to help control dust mites.
Aside from being hypo-allergenic, a silk filled duvet adjusts to body temperature and air temperature. This is because silk allows body heat to dissipate. Other comforters simply trap heat which then builds up and can leave you feeling overheated.
While most comforters will break down over time, a long-fiber silk-filled duvet will not. If you take care to properly maintain your duvet, it will last for years. Short-fiber silk-filled duvets are not as durable as long-fiber duvets, nor do they regulate body temperature as well. Chopped silk and short-fiber silk-filled duvets do not have the layers and intricate weaving that makes up a long fiber silk-filled duvet. It's the layers of the long-fiber duvets that make the duvet warmer and allows for better heat management.
Before you toss your silk-filled duvet in the washing machine, you'll want to know some basics about cleaning. Some manufacturer's guarantees may be void if you do use a conventional washing machine to clean your duvet. Because silk is a natural fiber, chemical cleaners should not be used to clean your duvet. Traditionally, silk-filled duvets should be cleaned by sunning them. Lay your duvet out in the sun for the day. This should be all that's required. However, if you find you need to clean your duvet, talk to your dry cleaner.
Dry cleaning is not recommended, however there are some dry cleaners that have wet cleaning washers that are made for silk duvets. These specialty washing machines are becoming very popular across the U.K. and Europe. Always check with your manufacturer for recommended cleaning processes if you find that you do need a full cleaning for any reason.