Is it OK to put duvets and pillows out in the sun?

Duvets and pillows can be taken outside to air – however, direct sunlight is not suitable for all types of filling. Down and natural hair, in particular, should not be exposed to strong, direct sunlight for long periods. A dry, shaded and well-ventilated spot is usually the gentler option.

Why not just lie in the sun?

Direct sunlight heats the cover and filling significantly and can put a strain on delicate natural materials. Furthermore, it is not possible to reliably assume from the sun alone that damp bedding is dry on the inside. Claims that brief exposure to the sun would reliably disinfect pillows or completely eliminate dust mites are also unsubstantiated.

The care label for your specific product takes precedence. Materials, covers and fillings may vary; a one-size-fits-all rule for all bedding would be too simplistic.

Down and feathers

You can regularly fluff up down and feather bedding and air it out in a dry, shaded place. Allow the moisture from sleeping to escape before covering the bed completely. If a down filling gets wet during washing, airing it in the sun is no substitute for a thorough drying process as permitted on the label.

You can find out more at Washing and drying down pillows.

Natural hair and plant-based fillings

Natural fibre fillings also require care in accordance with the product instructions. Gentle airing is often more effective than direct heat. Plant-based fillings such as kapok cannot be treated in the same way as down across the board: the construction and care label of the specific Pillows or Duvets are the decisive factors.

You can read about what makes kapok such a great filling in the Kapok Guide.

Fibre fillings

Synthetic fibres may have different care instructions to natural materials. Some products can be washed or tumble-dried, whilst others may only be washed or tumble-dried under certain conditions. Here, too, the care label is the most reliable guide. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can also affect colours and upholstery fabrics.

How to air your bedding effectively

• Shake out the duvet and pillows and spread them out loosely.
• Choose a dry, shady spot with some air circulation.
• Avoid rain, heavy dew and damp ground.
• Let the bedding air out completely before putting the sheets back on or putting it away.

If a product has become damp, smells or has gone lumpy, simply airing it out may not be enough. In that case, check the care instructions and consider having it professionally cleaned. You can also find OBB’s general advice on care and handling at Origin & Processing; for specific washing queries, please refer to the relevant care guides.