Many people know that you should wash bed sheets, but some do not realise that the pillows and duvets need to be cleaned too despite how bulky they are. 

Pillows and duvets should be washed every three months, even when they have been covered, as they can absorb dust, dead skin cells, sweat and other oily stains which can make them less comfortable.

If these bedding items are not cleaned they can become smelly, feel greasy or even attract dust mites, but they are far too big to fit in a normal washing machine. 

Lynsey Crombie, Britain’s most popular cleaning expert known as the Queen of Clean, has shared it is incredibly easy to keep these heavy bedding items clean without much effort. 

All you will need is a bottle of hydrogen peroxide, a fabric freshener and a clear sunny day. 

How to clean a duvet without a washing machine 

Most synthetic duvets can be placed in the washing machine if you check the washing label instructions, but if it is too big then all you have to do is hang it outside. 

Lynsey said: “Airing your duvet outside is a much easier, quicker and more natural way to clean it rather than putting it in the washing machine.

"Putting your duvet outside can revitalise it in many ways. The warmth of the sunshine can help restore the bounce and fluffiness of your duvet, which can gradually fade over time."

It may sound too straightforward but the ultraviolet in sunlight is a very effective natural disinfectant which will break down stains and whiten the fabric. 

Simply hang your duvet on a washing line and spray it all over with a fabric softener of your choice, but Lynsey used one she bought out of Marks and Spencer. 

She said: “Give it a spritz with your favourite fabric refresher. The wind will also help re-fluff your duvet and the sunlight is a brighter and natural disinfectant.”

How to clean pillows without a washing machine 

If you see any yellow marks on a pillow then it is likely a build-up of sweat, body oils, moisturisers and hair products that have seeped into the fabric. 

According to Lynsey, these stains are “easy to remove” as all you need is a bottle of hydrogen peroxide, which is made with hydrogen and oxygen. 

What is fantastic about hydrogen peroxide it has potent anti-bacterial properties which can break down most dirt, grease and tough organic stains. 

Lynsey said: “Simply grab a bottle of hydrogen peroxide which is a natural disinfectant liberally spray the stains, and let the product work so leave a minimum of 15 minutes.

“Grab a hard brush and water scrub the stains away and then pop into your tumble dryer to dry, fluff up, bring the bounce back and kill germs.

“If you decide to air dry lay flat and turn regularly. Unfortunately, air drying won’t bring and bounce back.”

Both your pillows and duvets will be completely clean using natural products so you can have a comfortable night’s sleep without any fuss.