'Kate and William's unusual sleeping arrangement needs one thing to be perfect'

Prince William has revealed an unexpected detail about his and Princess Kate's sleeping arrangements that may surprise many people across Britain.

What the Prince of Wales disclosed about how he and his wife sleep might not seem unusual to most of us, but for the future King and Queen, it appears rather... commonplace. Yet that's precisely what makes them so appealing, isn't it? Their working-class relatability.

During a visit to Duchy College Stoke Climsland last July, Prince William shared that he and Kate allow their beloved dog Orla to sleep in their bed with them.

This highly personal insight into their sleeping habits was disclosed by Irish actress Louisa Harland on Hits Radio Cornwall, as she revealed to thousands of listeners: "[Prince William] said that his little dog sleeps on the bed with them at night, with him and Kate."

Whether this sleeping arrangement continues at their new home, Forest Lodge in Windsor, remains to be seen, but it was certainly the case at Adelaide Cottage.

Following this revelation, a sleep expert has explained exactly what Prince William and Kate should do to ensure their time in bed remains restful (and hygienic).

Sammy Margo, a sleep expert at Dreams, explains: "Sleeping with your pets can reduce anxiety by lowering blood pressure and releasing melatonin, which helps regulate your circadian rhythm and synchronize the sleep-wake cycle with night and day.

"It can also help encourage routine, pets often have daily routines, meaning it could help you stick to the same bedtime and wake-up time. It's also been proven to reduce nightmares: some dogs can be trained to aid nightmares because they can recognise your physical symptoms. If they are taught, they'll respond to your symptoms by lying on your body, which will soothe you back to sleep."

So how can you safely share your bed with pets? Sammy offers three key tips:

Take them outside before bed

"Make sure they have been outside for the toilet so that they're comfortable for the night. This will reduce the risk of accidents in the bedroom and them waking you up at night to ask to go out," shares Sammy.

Keep them clean

Sammy offers straightforward guidance for pet owners who allow their furry friends to sleep in their beds: "If you're going to share a bed with your pet, it's important to stay on top of their grooming. Make sure that they are clean and dry before getting on your bed, and be vigilant for unwanted pests.

"As well as regular flea and tick treatments, check your pet's fur, feet, and ears for any stowaways they may have picked up when outside. You should also try and wash your bedsheets at least twice a week if your pets sleep on them.

"This will ensure you're getting rid of dead skin cells, dust mites, germs and even bedbugs. Regular mattress cleaning will help extend the lifespan and also provides a hygienic and safe place to sleep for you and your pet."

According to Sammy, the Dreams Anti-Allergy Duvets are ideal for those who suffer from allergies, respiratory or skin conditions, but still want their pets to share their bed. Sammy says: "These premium anti-allergy filling duvets are embossed with microfibre which allows for an irritation free sleep."

Setting boundaries

Setting boundaries is another crucial point on the list. Sammy advises: "This one will take some work but it's important. Try to establish a routine and understand exactly how you will share the bed. For example, encourage your dog to sleep near the foot of the bed as they will have plenty of space and they will be less likely to disturb your slumber."