A Simple Guide to Bedding: The Basics of a Good Night’s Sleep

Having a good bedding set can be a total game changer not only for the look of your bedroom, but for your quality of your sleep as well. When you consider the fact that we spend around a third of our lives in bed, it totally makes sense to put some effort into making our sleeping environment as comfortable, healthy and clean as possible. Your sheets, blankets, pillows and duvets play an enormous role in helping you get the right amount of Z’s to get you through the day. So, don’t let the lack of sleep interfere with your mood and productivity. For the sake of your well-being, here’s what to consider when buying.

Thread Count

Let’s be clear, the thread count does not signify quality anymore. For some bedding manufacturers, it’s all just a number game which they try to win by cheating and using cheaper fabrics with double twist yarns. However, if you put your trust in a reliable manufacturer and decide to buy bedding online without being able to touch it and see it, a high thread count of 400 means a quality sheet that has a crisp and cool feel to it. If you’re shopping for soft, warm bedding, like for instance a winter blanket, it’s all about the type of material, thus the thread count doesn’t matter at all. Among the best materials that keep you cosy and warm are wool, cashmere, and plush.

Sheets

When buying sheets, or any type of bedding online or from a local store, there are three factors to consider: material, weave, and thread count. All these affect the final look and feel of the sheet, as well as whether it will keep you warm or refreshingly cool. Read on the different materials and their characteristics and get yourself two separate types of sheets: ones for the warm months and others for the colder ones. Having three different sheets for each season should be enough; have one sheet on the bed, keep a fresh one in your linen closet, and another one in the laundry. This system will not only ensure you will always have a clean set ready, but it will also reduce their wear and tear.

Pillows and Pillowcases

Picking the right type of pillow can be overwhelming, but once you find what works for you best, you’ll be set for life. Consider your sleeping habits  and preferences when choosing one. In most cases, memory foam is a good choice as it’s able to mould and adapt to various sleeping positions while also offering excellent support. Generally, you will need to replace your pillow after 18 months of continuous use. As for the pillowcases, make sure to change them at least once a week. Pillowcases quickly accumulate oil and dirt and need to be washed more often than sheets. You can get a matching set of pillowcases and sheets, or choose a whole different design as an accent feature to your bed.

Bed Toppers

Bed toppers are the soft, comfortable bedding pieces that make you feel like a big, toasty cinnamon bun  when you slide into bed. If you always feel warm in bed, you probably won’t need one during summer time. However, on chilly winter nights, a duvet, a blanket or a quilt is essential to keep you cosy and warm. While sheets are mostly functional, toppers also have an aesthetic function as they help set the tone for your bedroom’s style and ambiance. Plus, covering your bed completely with a bed topper is a quick way to hide your wrinkled sheets underneath.