How to clean and store winter bedding

Now that the warmer weather is here, it’s time to pack away those thick winter duvets and blankets. Follow our top tips to make sure yours stay in good condition during their months in storage.

• The first thing to remember is that bedding must be clean and completely dry before you pack it away. Even a small amount of dirt or moisture can encourage mould, staining and odours.

• Always follow the cleaning instructions recommended by the manufacturer, otherwise you run the risk of damaging your bedding. Duvets and pillows with synthetic fillings can often be washed at home in the machine, if they’ll fit comfortably, but always check the label first. Bedding filled with natural materials can sometimes be washed at home, but are often best cleaned professionally, as they usually require a much larger-capacity machine.

• However you choose to wash them, items such as duvets and pillows will take much longer to dry thoroughly than you might think. Even slight dampness can result in the growth of mould, which you’re unlikely to discover until you bring them out again for the colder months – not a nice surprise when you’ve been looking forward to snuggling down in your winter duvet!

• When it comes to storage, this really depends on the space you have available. These days, not many homes have a spacious airing cupboard, so underbed storage boxes are ideal. If you’re really struggling for space, however, consider vacuum bags. We love Lakeland’s range (below), which are available in different sizes and have a viewing window so you can see what’s inside at a glance. They also fold flat for storage and feature easy-carry handles.

If you're thinking of replacing your winter bedding, we've tried-and-tested the best winter duvets, and if your bedding could use a light and bright revamp for the warmer months, check out our pick of the best bedding for summer.