4 Expert Tips To Choose Bedding

Bedding is an umbrella term for many different items that you'll find in your bed, and figuring out the difference between some of them may be tricky. While to some people it won't really matter exactly what they're using as bedding, others may only need or want a specific item, so these tips are here to help you learn the difference between them all!

Comforters are thick, quilted blankets that are usually placed as the top layer on your bed. Depending on your climate, you may only sleep with one comforter, or you may use some additional sheets or blankets under the comforter to keep you warm. They often come in a coordinated, matching set with other sheets and pillows.

Duvets are basically the flatter versions of comforters and can be used in the same way -- as the main blanket layer that keeps you warm. However, duvets are meant to act as an insert for duvet covers or slips, making them more universal than comforters. You can mix and match duvets with their covers, without having to stick to one coordinated set like with comforters.

Duvet covers are what most people use to cover their duvets. They are filled out by the duvet (rather than just laying on top of it) and usually attach to it by buttons or ties. They're meant to be easily removable, so you don't have to wash your whole bedding set, and are interchangeable with other covers. They can be used with comforters as well, though not all sizes will fit -- comforters are usually larger and thicker than duvets.

A coverlet (also sometimes known as a bedspread) is a simple, thin, non-reversible top layer that's usually only used for decorative purposes on the bed. They don't attach to any other bedding pieces and can be bought either as individual items or as part of a bedding set. Coverlets can also be used on other furniture like chairs and sofas as decoration or a protective layer.

Quilts are traditionally made up of three layers, with the top layer displaying an attractive pattern. They have two main uses, acting as the main blanket layer when it's hot, and as an additional warm topper for colder days. Although it isn't necessary, some people may choose to use a duvet cover with a quilt.

The material of your bedding can really make a huge difference, especially if you're sensitive to low and high temperatures. While most people simply decide on the material based on the cost, there are many factors that will influence which material is better suited for your needs.

Want something affordable and fairly durable? Cotton

• Cotton is the most popular material used to make all types of bedding, and it has lots of variations.
• It's generally quite durable, soft, and easy to take care of, and while it is usually pretty cheap, the price can vary depending on which type you choose.
• Egyptian cotton, for example, is the most expensive type of cotton as it's super soft and smooth.
• Upland cotton is the cheapest and most common type of cotton used when making bedding.

Enjoy a bit of luxury? Silk

• Silk is an incredibly soft, cool, and even sensuous material, making it a pretty popular choice for couples.
• This material is actually naturally hypoallergenic, meaning that it's safe to use by individuals with allergies or sensitivities to certain materials.
• However, real silk is very expensive and can get ruined super easily, so avoid it at all costs if you have children and pets, or if you simply won't have the time or money to maintain or replace the sheets regularly.

Want organic, environmentally-friendly sheets? Tencel

• Tencel is actually the brand name for a fabric that's made from eucalyptus tree pulp.
• Although it sounds pretty crazy, it's actually very durable and soft.
• The fabric is also naturally antimicrobial and uses less energy, water, and harmful chemicals to make than cotton, for example.
• However, it's not very breathable, which may prove to be a problem for those who get too hot at night.
• It can also get a bit expensive as not many retailers offer sheets from this material yet.

Need stain resistant sheets? Microfiber

• Microfiber bedding is made from very finely woven polyester, making it a quite inexpensive option.
• This bedding is very soft and surprisingly stain resistant so it's a great material for families with children or pets.
• However, the material is not very breathable, and it can get uncomfortably hot in the warmer months so we wouldn't recommend it if you're sensitive to heat.

Yes, the weave of your bedding does matter. Just like the material, it will affect how well you sleep at night, as different weaves offer a different feel and temperature. There are two main types of bedding weave, percale and sateen, and we've outlined the pros and cons of each down below.

• Percale features a one-over-one-under weave pattern and has a thread count of 180 to 200. It offers a very crisp feel, has a matte finish, and is overall very durable. It also gets softer the more you wash and use it without losing any of its durability. However, this weave pattern makes materials quite prone to wrinkles, so if you like your bedding to look spotless, this weave probably isn't for you.

• Sateen weave ranges in thread count from 120 to 1000, though a thread count of 300 to 600 is the most common. It uses a four-over-one under weave pattern, resulting in a very soft and shiny fabric. It's a great option for individuals with sensitive skin as it isn't as rough as percale weave fabrics. However, it makes bedding a bit less durable and the pretty shine fades with prolonged use. It's also a less breathable weave than percale, so it's better suited for colder climates.

Having comfortable bedding is great, but it also needs to suit your bedroom's décor! Thankfully there are thousands of different color and pattern combinations out there when it comes to bedding sets, so you'll be spoilt for choice!

Decorating a child's bedroom? Lots of colors!

• Most materials come in lots of different colors and patterns, but microfiber sheets are usually the best choice as they're super resistant to stains.
• Your child probably won't care too much if they get a duvet rather than a comforter, or a coverlet instead of a quilt, so just stick with whatever will keep them warm or cool enough at night in your specific climate.
• Also, don't spend all of your money on the most expensive bedding sets -- your child is bound to grow out of their pink or blue phase, so you need to be able to replace their bedding quickly without wasting money.

Have a modern aesthetic? Keep things minimalistic

• The majority of homes will have a quite straightforward, modern aesthetic in the bedrooms.
• This involves fairly neutral colors, no eye-catching patterns, or clashing textures.
• If you like this sort of style, go for bedding that's either grey, white, or black to create an air of sophistication and minimalism.
• Cotton and Tencel beddings are usually favored with this style, as the sheets will be both visually pleasing and comfortable.
• Some like to have a single sheet or piece of bedding that stands out a little to make the bed the focal point, while still fitting the neutral color scheme -- for example, a grey and black patterned coverlet found amongst white sheets.
• This overall style is great for both master bedrooms and guest bedrooms as it's very universal and relatively simple.

Want a cozy and mysterious aura? Make it dark and luxurious

• This is for someone who likes a cozy, mysterious, and even a little sexy atmosphere in the bedroom.
• Go for colors like black, brown, dark blue, dark red, and even dark purple when choosing your bedding and accessories.
• The best bedding material for this sort of bedroom would be silk because of its luxurious feel and shiny finish.
• If you're tight on money, you can still achieve this look by getting some cheaper bedding that's woven in the sateen pattern, as that also gives it a shiny finish and makes it look more expensive.
• Try adding a pop of gold or silver either on a quilt, some of the cushions, or a unique embroidered pattern on the comforter/duvet cover.
• You'll get the best effect if even your walls, curtains, and floors are on the darker side.