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This is already done by Apache itself. Actually, it's done in the Apache main configuration which in turn loads all the virtual host configuration files. You would have to explicitly disable that protection in the main Apache configuration file to need the .htaccess hiding itself. If you ever see any host where .htaccess is web accessible please change hosts immediately.

It's suggested by people who never bothered to find out how Apache works, I guess? I've seen loads of really terrible advice out there, especially with regards to Apache and PHP configuration. I've seen several sites mindlessly copying bad advice. Don't fall for it. Exercise critical thought and at the very least look at StackOverflow where people will provide arguments for and against these things, explaining what they really do and in which very specific cases they are required.