Duvets will be cleaner without using your washing machine after 1 simple task in August

Cleaning bedding that's not bed sheets or pillows and pillow cases can be a real hassle, particularly with bulky items like duvets and mattress toppers. Those fortunate enough to own a large drum washing machine can easily clean most duvets using the specific duvet setting. However, even then, the entire laundry process is long, and drying duvets can be a nightmare.

In summer, during dry weather, bedding experts at My Luxury Sleep recommend an easy task that will "help to kill unwanted bacteria and germs" festering on your duvet. They said that now is the "perfect opportunity to air out and freshen your duvet like never before".

Airing out your bedding helps to remove moisture and odours that can accumulate over time, whether from sweat, spills, or environmental factors

This prevents the growth of mould, mildew, and bacteria, which can lead to unpleasant smells and potential health issues, like respiratory issues.

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. The pros pointed out: "A mix of sun and shade is ideal. A nice breeze is great as well. 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 or a clean, taut rope is "the best option", but if you don't have one, 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.

As a last resort, you can also spread your duvet out on a large, clean surface. You'll just need to flip it over every so often to keep it drying evenly and thoroughly.

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.

Next, you'll need a place to gently hang or spread your duvet. A clothesline or a clean, taut rope is "the best option", but if you don't have one, 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.

As a last resort, you can also spread your duvet out on a large, clean surface. You'll just need to flip it over every so often to keep it drying evenly and thoroughly.

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.