Bedding items like duvets and pillows can develop a musty smell over time because they tend to trap moisture, body oils, and dust, which build up during use. Even though we may not see it, bacteria can also contribute to that unpleasant odour. There is a way to clean and eliminate bacteria without putting duvets through the washing machine.

As dry weather has arrived and warmer days seem to be more frequent, there are more opportunities to air out and freshen your duvet like never before. You may be wondering, what is the best way to go about doing just that? Well, laundry experts at My Luxury Sleep shop have shared what to do.

The first thing you’ll need is the right conditions. It’s best to do it in the middle of a dry stretch. You want clear sunny skies and low humidity. 

If it’s cloudy or has rained recently, the air will be more humid and will not be as effective for airing out your bedding. A mix of sun and shade is ideal.

If you hang your duvet a couple of hours before the area becomes shady, you’ll be in good shape. Bright, sunny, dry and breezy is the perfect kind of day.

Next, you’ll need a place to gently hang or spread your duvet. A clothesline is the “best option”, but if you don’t have one, there is no need to fret. A drying rack will do, or even a railing or fence if you put something over it first, to keep it from snagging or getting your duvet dirty. 

Be sure to gently shake the duvet out thoroughly before hanging it, and it’s also a good idea to beat your duvet with something to fluff up the down and loosen up any dust that has accumulated in it.

The bedding gurus instructed: “This should be done on a flat surface if possible, and it’s important to be gentle so you don’t damage the interior structure of the duvet.”

Leave your duvet out for several hours (four to five is about right), and it’s best to do it in the late afternoon or early evening when the sun isn’t too harsh. 

The experts pointed out: “A little bit of sun is good, though, as it helps to kill unwanted bacteria and germs.”

They claimed: “It works like magic. You won’t believe what an improvement some fresh air can make to your bedding. Right away, the duvet will be noticeably cleaner and whiter, and since it’s not recommended to wash your duvet very often, it’s important to get out there and freshen it up every summer.”