How to clean a duvet without a washing machine using ‘natural and free’ alternative

For those who don't have a large washing machine drum, or don't fancy a trip down to their dry cleaners, experts at leading bed retailer, Bensons for Beds have explored a TikTok trend which sees users hanging their duvets in the fresh air, no matter the temperature.

User Cecilia Blomdahl from Svalbard in Norway shares her cabin cleaning routine starting by taking out her duvets into the Arctic air.

After leaving out her duvets and sheets for four hours for ultimate freshness she reveals her freshly made bed. The video currently has over 100,000 likes and is the second instalment of her cabin cleaning routine.

In another video with nearly 180,000 likes, she shares the two components of the Scandinavian life hack for great sleep. Cecilia said: "Always air out your duvets as often as you can. If you can at least once a week and especially good if it's outside in the cold weather. It just makes them so fresh and airy and amazing."

Now bed experts from Bensons have shared their insights to explain why UK households should be airing out their duvet, the "Scandi way" as a "natural and free alternative to expensive duvet-cleaning methods".

READ MORE: ‘Whiten’ bed sheets instantly with method that is ‘more effective than bleach’

Rachel Marshall, brand manager at Bensons for Beds explained the benefits of airing a duvet regularly. She said: "Scandinavians are known for their healthy approach to sleep and prioritising their wellbeing. This latest element of the Scandi sleep hack is no exception.

"There are multiple health and hygiene benefits to airing your dry duvet outside - even during colder days.

"If you opt for a sunny day to air your duvet, the sunlight is a fantastic natural deodoriser that can help to remove unpleasant smells caused by things like sweat and oils released from the body.

"This means you can put down those artificial air fresheners or cleaning chemicals to keep your bedding smelling fresh."

Don't miss... ‘Effective’ natural items to clean entire washing machined - ‘mould hates’ them [TIPS] Four ‘effective home remedies’ to kill bed bugs and ‘eliminate an infestation’ [INSIGHT] ‘Very effective’ tip to get rid of mosquitoes - they ‘cannot stand the aroma’ [EXPERT]

For those who have any stains on their duvets, spot-treat the area with neat hydrogen peroxide and then rinse it away.

The bedding expert also noted that sunlight can also help to "revitalise your duvet" in other ways.

Rachel said: "The warmth of the sunshine can even help to restore the loft of your duvet which helps to give it that fluffy, bouncy feeling that gradually fades over time."

What's more, letting a duvet sit out in the fresh air for a few hours every now and then can also help with moisture removal.

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Looking for a new home, or just fancy a look? Add your postcode below or visit InYourArea

The expert explained that the fresh air helps to evaporate any excess moisture trapped within the duvet fibres.

Spring is the perfect time to do this as homes can often see a build-up of humidity particularly in the bedroom, so airing the duvet now will help to prevent the growth of mildew, mould and allergens just in time for summer.

While this is a great way to air out bedding, it is also advised to give it a wash twice a year.

Rachel said: "We’d always recommend giving your duvet a thorough clean every six months, but this quick and easy tip is the perfect way to keep your bedding fresh in those in-between months."