Even though it's now autumn here in the UK, we do still get that rare sunny day - which is prime time for getting your laundry hung outside to dry. 

This is even more useful during the cooler months, as it helps to cut down on energy costs which usually tend to climb at this time of year. 

Not only does drying your clothes outside save energy and money, but it also gives your garments that enviable fresh scent that's hard to get when hanging them up inside. 

However, clothing experts have issued a warning about using pegs to hang up your laundry outside, as these seemingly harmless items could end up damaging your favourite garments. 

The pros at Superdry have gathered some helpful pieces of advice on how to keep your clothes in better condition and make them last longer, as well as identifying the surprising things that could be destroying them.

When it comes to drying your clothes, one of the best ways to do this is 'harness the power of nature' and hang them up outside - waiting for a dry day to do so, of course. 

However, it could be worth ditching the clothes pegs altogether, and instead putting your drying rack outside. 

The experts said: "This helps extend the lifespan of your clothing by minimizing wear and tear caused by heat exposure. Sunlight offers natural antimicrobial properties and acts as a gentle whitening agent for fabrics.

"Take caution when using clothes pegs, as they can leave unsightly and potentially permanent pressure marks on delicate fabrics.

"To protect delicate items, avoid using clothes pegs altogether, and be careful not to leave items outside in the wind, as they could be blown away.

"Additionally, you can enhance the whitening effect further by lightly spritzing clothes with white vinegar before hanging them outdoors, helping the sun to keep your whites looking fresh.

"However, some fabrics will become stiff if dried in this way, especially those made from natural fibres like cotton. To avoid this, trying partly drying outside and finish off with a few minutes in the tumble dryer.

"Additionally, you can enhance the whitening effect further by lightly spritzing clothes with white vinegar before hanging them outdoors, helping the sun to keep your whites looking fresh."

You can also gently pull garments into shape to remove creases before hanging out or placing on the drying rack – and you’ll reduce the amount of ironing needed, which is always handy.