How to sort "Crunchy" Bedding?

[CarpeJugulum]

DS is now in a duvet. I purchased a cover from John Lewis - 100% cotton.

First time I washed it was in the nice sunny weather and I hung it outside to dry - when it came in it was very crunchy and hard; but I put it down to drying outside.

I've just washed it again and tumble dried it - but it's still crunchy.

How can I make it softer for DS (who is used to soft grobags)? I'm loath to start using fabric conditioner on his clothing and bedding, but think it may be the only solution.

Anyone any ideas?

you can use white vinegar as a natural alternative to fabric softener. use in the same way - a good slosh in the fabric softener compartment.

the vinegar smell goes as the fabric dries, just smells nice and fresh.

I think some bedding stays crunchy, regardless of how it's washed. I prefer it crunchy and I have two IKEA covers that are years old and still crunchy, but other IKEA covers that have gone soft after the first wash and stayed that way. I'm not sure what the difference is - thread count maybe?

pure cotton, unless a very fine material, will be harder. It will eventually wear, but by the time it's soft, it might be faded and worn out.

p.s. Are you in a hard water area, and are you sure you have rinsed all the soap out, including any resident sludge in the machine?

Nope, NE Scotland so not the water quality.

Will have a go with vinegar - is it just clear malt vinegar you mean when you speak of white vinegar?

fabric conditioner works (sorry! I was an avid avoider for years but i would never not use it now)

i always tumble dry towels and bedding to avoid the crunchy feel...

Iron it when it's damp (I never iron bedding btw, but it does soften it).

mmm, I love nice crisp fresh bedding...