Duvets can be frustrating to wash due to their size and bulk, and placing them in a washing machine can strain the drum, risking breakdown. As warmer weather increases sweating during sleep, unwashed duvets trap moisture, leading to odours and bacterial growth.
However, a simple alternative called 'sunning' can refresh a duvet without washing. This technique involves hanging the duvet outside on a sunny day for a few hours. The ultraviolet light in sunlight has antibacterial properties that sanitise the fabric and break down bacteria, while also removing built-up moisture and musty smells.
To sun a duvet, remove any coverings, give it a good shake to redistribute the filling, and hang it on a washing line or airer in the garden. Aim to do this on a sunny, windy day after 10am, as UV light is strongest at noon. Leave the duvet for two to four hours, flipping it halfway through to ensure both sides are exposed.
While sunning cannot completely replace washing, regular use helps remove sweat and refreshes the duvet, allowing longer intervals between deep cleans. This method, common in Scandinavian countries, takes less than five minutes of active effort and leaves the duvet feeling cleaner, fluffier, and smelling fresh.
