Build Your Perfect Bed
Finding the right bedding can be a challenge.
From thread count to fabrication, there seems to be an endless number of options that can add up to a lot of confusion. So, let’s break down a few key factors that will help you identify your ideal bedding.
Comforter vs Duvet
What’s the difference and how do you pick? Both options are similar in that they feature a fluffy filling encapsulated by an aesthetic cover. Comforters are an all-in-one bedding with the fill being completely sealed in the cover, while duvets function more like a pillow with a separate insert that can be removed from the cover. There are pros and cons to both options, and your ideal pick will depend a lot on your lifestyle.
If you’re a “set it and forget it” type of sleeper, you might opt for a comforter. The simplicity and affordability are great for minimalists, typically requiring less maintenance and care. However, while wash frequency is lower, you will have to launder the entire comforter in one piece, which can be cumbersome. You’ll also need to carefully consider the style and weight of the comforter you choose, because you won’t easily be able to switch it out seasonally unless you have ample storage space.
Duvets, on the other hand, require more regular upkeep but offer a much wider array of customization options. The ability to remove the decorative cover allows you to switch it out whenever you like without having to buy and store a new insert. This also allows you to launder the duvet more frequently without having to fit the bulky filling into your washing machine. Some find the more frequent maintenance and the mechanics of the two pieces to be overly complicated, but if you value versatility, it may be worth it. You can also look for covers with helpful features like ties or buttons to make laundry day a little easier.
Seasonal Changes
Changing your bedding throughout the year may seem like a purely decorative choice, but it can actually have benefits to your sleep and comfort! If you live somewhere that experiences drastic temperature changes from season to season, it can be helpful to change your sheets at least once a year to match. Not only will it help you sleep comfortably, but you can also save some money heating or cooling your house overnight.
For warmer months, you’ll want to look for lightweight and moisture-wicking fabrics. Cotton, microfiber, or jersey are great options to start. For the cold, you’ll probably want to go with something more insulating like sherpa or wool. Another good indicator to look for is GSM (this measures a fabric’s weight). A GSM under 300 will be lighter weight and suitable for summer, fabrics over 400 GSM will heavier and perfect for winter, and anything in between is going to be a versatile medium weight.
Even if your motivation for switching out your sheets is purely aesthetic, it can still be a helpful practice to refresh your mindset for a new season.
Layer to Your Liking
If you live in a mild climate, a full bedding swap may not be necessary. This is where layering comes in. Having the ability to quickly switch out pieces of your bedding to better suit your comfort can make a huge difference in your overall sleep. Of course, blankets are the easiest way to introduce new fabrications to your bed. They require much less storage space than an entire bedding set and you can choose to display rather than store them for a decorative boost.
But blankets aren’t your only option. Your bed should be your evening oasis, reflecting your own comfort – not the standards that others set. Don’t like the flat sheet? Ditch it! Find comforters and duvets too heavy? Go for a lighter weight quilt or blanket. Don’t want to make your bed every day? Embrace the lived-in look.
Ultimately, whatever bedding helps you sleep at night is your ideal bedding. Take some time to think about what makes you the most comfortable and experiment with different options to find your perfect fit.