Ditch fabric softener for 20p natural item that leaves bedding 'fluffy and fresh'

Soft, fluffy bedding can make all the difference in terms of good sleep and comfort while resting in bed. That's why washing it properly and with the right products is so important in the long term. Many of us reach for the best, most luxurious fabric softener when it comes to our duvets and pillows, and while they might smell amazing, they can end up feeling stiff and weighed down.

That's why luxury hospitality experts are highlighting a surprisingly affordable and accessible item that can transform laundry without the heavy coatings that build up over time. And the best part is it costs as little as 20p per load.

Sleep experts at Bed Sava said: "A small dose of lemon or citric acid in the rinse softens duvet covers and pillows without heavy coatings, and the clean citrus lift is a gentle way to set a calmer mood at bedtime."

The method works by stripping away the residue left behind by detergent and hard water, allowing fabric fibres to relax and return to their natural softness.

The result is bedding that comes out of the machine "fluffy and fresh" without relying on synthetic additives.

Beata Pett, head of housekeeping at the five-star Links House at Royal Dornoch, backs the technique too, pointing out: "We also sometimes add a splash of lemon juice, as it has natural bleaching abilities - and it leaves the bedding smelling divine!"

The method is simple: Add a few tablespoons of lemon juice or citric acid powder to your washing machine's softener compartment, then wash as usual.

With regular use, bedding becomes noticeably softer, fresher, and more breathable with no expensive products required.

How to make bedding fluffy and soft again

Add two to three tablespoons of citric acid powder or three to four tablespoons of bottled lemon juice to the fabric softener drawer of your washing machine.

Wash bedding at 40C for regular loads. For white cotton, use a 60C cycle to brighten and refresh.

Select a medium spin setting.

Line-dry bedding if possible, or tumble dry on low heat with dryer balls for added softness.

For pillows and duvets, check the care label first - if machine washable, the same method applies.