Winter duvets can be difficult to squeeze into a washing machine, but a bedding expert has shared a simple Scandinavian method to freshen them up and remove moisture, odours and bacteria
Winter brings the desire for maximum cosiness in bed, yet laundering bedding presents challenges, particularly with bulky items such as duvets. During this season, we typically swap to thicker and weightier duvets for nocturnal warmth, but cramming them into washing machines proves extraordinarily tricky.
Forcing one into a washing machine risks damage, leakage, and prolonged drying periods, with the additional hazard of duvet material remaining soggy and developing mould. Nevertheless, Sarah Jubb, an expert from Happy Beds, has disclosed a straightforward method to refresh a duvet using the Scandinavian approach of outdoor airing.
Sarah said: “The cold, dry air effectively removes moisture, preventing the accumulation of this bacteria build-up and any yellow stains, musty smells, or even the growth of mould and mildew.
“Moreover, sunlight also has natural antibacterial properties and can help remove stains.”
Positioning laundry outdoors in chilly conditions may seem peculiar, yet it genuinely helps make a duvet considerably cleaner without actual washing, reports the Express.
During winter months, central heating can increase perspiration while we slumber, allowing dampness to accumulate in our bedding.
This moisture can trigger unpleasant odours, attract dust mites, and in severe instances, result in mould formation, so merely suspending a duvet outside for several hours assists in eliminating the dampness.
Airing a duvet outdoors during winter also aids in diminishing germs, owing to the antimicrobial effects of sunlight, whilst cold air inhibits bacterial development. If your duvet has started to feel bulky or flat, airing it outside can help fluff up the filling and prevent clumping, which will keep you warmer at night.
Hanging a duvet out is simple and, at this time of year, is an effective way to keep bedding fresh without the risk of putting it in the washing machine.
The best way to air out a duvet in winter
To begin, take any cover off the duvet and give it a good shake, as this helps loosen any dust trapped in the fibres. Then, place the duvet outside.
You want to hang it up on a clear day without any frost, fog or rain, as any humidity will soak into the duvet.
Leave the duvet outdoors for five hours. Do not leave it out overnight or for too long as it could freeze, and it will be difficult to thaw.
For best results, try to hang your duvet up late in the morning and take it down before early evening as the warmest part of the day tends to be at noon.
Once the five hours are up, take the duvet indoors, make sure it is completely dry and then place it on your bed. It should now smell wonderful, feel a lot fresher, and keep your bed cosy for the rest of winter.
