At the end of a long, hard day, there is nothing better than diving into a clean and comfy bed. However, in order to truly luxuriate and get the deepest sleep possible, you cannot just use any old bed and sheets. Picking the right bedding and taking care of it goes a long way towards creating that luxurious hotel-like experience that we all crave. This short guide contains everything you need to know to create the ultimate sleeping experience.
Choose the Right Fabrics
Because bed sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers will be in contact with your body for the whole night, what they are made from really matters to how comfortable you feel. There are a number of different options available, with no clear best option. It largely depends on what you want from your bed, as well as the climate you are living in.
Natural fibres tend to be the most popular. They often feel the softest against your skin and they are breathable, meaning you will not overheat. Cotton is the classic choice, but some people prefer the cool, silky feeling of bamboo. Linen tends to work best in hot climates as it is extremely light and airy, while flannel is thick and warm, making it popular in cold temperatures.
Wash Bedding Before Using It
If you have rushed out and bought a luxurious new bed set based on the advice above, do not make your bed just yet. You might find that it does not feel soft, but a bit stiff and scratchy. That is because new sheets are often given a factory finish – a coating of chemicals that makes them look nice when they are inside packaging. Give them a gentle, warm wash first and they will be as soft as they are supposed to be.
Do Your Washing the Right Way
As well as washing your sheets with warm rather than hot water, you should also find a gentle detergent to use. Ones which are too harsh can cause stiffness and damage the fibres. The same goes for fabric softeners. Tumble drying gently on a low heat is generally okay unless the laundry instructions specifically state otherwise. Avoid using dryer sheets, as static buildup in the sheets is not going to help you relax and feel comfortable. Opt for wool dryer balls instead.
Layer Up
You might have noticed that the comfiest hotel beds tend to have many layers that seem to swallow you up. To achieve the same effect, start with a soft mattress topper that you can really sink into. Next up is a fitted sheet, and then many places add a flat sheet on top. That is the one you want to choose a great fabric for. Add a duvet that suits the climate you are in, and then a throw blanket for an aesthetically pleasing finish, plus some extra warmth if you need it.
Conclusion
Plenty of layers for a plush feel, some fine fabrics, and a bit of TLC are all it takes to transform your bed and upgrade your sleep. These simple tweaks will help make your bed what it really should be: the comfiest place in your home.