So you've just picked up a gorgeous new set of bedding, but should you wash sheets, covers, and pillowcases before sleeping in them for the first time?

As our laundry experts advise − yes, you should, every time you add a piece to your collection.

Here's why this simple step is so crucial for washing, drying, and caring for your bed linen, and how it could play a role in your health.

There's something about a new set of the best bed sheets that always instantly elevates your bedroom space. Whether you opt for bright colors and bold patterns or calming neutrals and crisp whites, it's an easy way to breathe new life into your sanctuary, and it can even help you to sleep better, too.

But, warns Rechelle Balanzat, Laundry Expert, CEO and Founder of Juliette, a New York-based premium laundry service, don't rush to make the bed with your new addition too quickly.

'"New" doesn't necessarily mean 'clean,' she explains. 'Before sheets reach your home, they've often been treated with finishing agents to improve their appearance and have traveled through factories, warehouses, and shipping facilities.'

For that reason, Rechelle always recommends washing them first (not doing so is a bad habit that makes your bed unsanitary) to help remove these residues, soften the fabric, improve breathability, and create a cleaner, more comfortable environment.

As Samantha Shpeen, Controller and Chief Home Officer at Clean Cult, adds, there's a comfort pay-off, too. 'Washing lets the fibers relax, so sheets that may feel stiff out of the packaging come out softer and more breathable from night one.'

How to Wash New Bed Sheets: For Fresh-Smelling, Unparalleled Softness

If you've got a new set of bed sheets that need washing, and aren't clued up on how to avoid common bedding mistakes, the process is simple:

• Check the care label for the relevant laundry symbols
• Use a gentle, non-bio laundry detergent, such as the Seventh Generation Concentrated Free & Clear Laundry Detergent, available at Amazon. As your bed sheets are next to your skin all night as you sleep, it's best to choose something that's suitable for sensitive skin with natural ingredients that won't cause a reaction as you rest. Always follow the instructions on the bottle or packaging in terms of how much detergent to add, and remember that less is always more if you want to avoid spotting any signs that you're using the wrong amount of detergent.
• Set the temperature and spin speed: Knowing the right washer and dryer settings for softness is crucial when washing bedding. In general, bedding is best washed on a hot temperature setting (90-130° Fahrenheit) and medium spin speed, though for linen and silk types, a cold and lower setting should be selected instead.
• Then, either take advantage of the benefits of air-drying laundry, which will naturally freshen your sheets and kill any lingering bacteria, or tumble-dry your sheets with dryer balls, available at Walmart, for added softness.

Once done, your brand new bedding is ready to adorn your bed, whether you're layering your bed for summer, or making your bed look cozy in winter.

What to Shop

From laundry detergents and drying racks to wool dryer balls and linen spray, my curated selection of products, which you can shop below, has got you covered.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Just like bedding, you should also always wash new towels before using them for the first time.

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Few things beat slipping into bed beneath freshly laundered sheets. But if you want that crisp, just-washed feeling to last longer, laundry experts say there's one unexpected pantry staple that can help: cornstarch.

Affordable, versatile, and probably already in your kitchen cupboard, cornstarch can help keep your bed sheets looking crisp and feeling fresher for longer, giving them that luxurious, hotel-quality finish without the hefty price tag.

Here's why it's what's missing from your routine when it comes to washing, drying, and caring for your bed linen.

Why Does Corn Starch Work to Make Bed Sheets Crisper and Fresher

As Rechelle Balanzat, Laundry Expert and Founder of Juliette, a New York-based premium laundry service, explains, this old-school DIY trick works by leaving a very thin layer of cornstarch on the fabric. This creates a light structure, giving sheets a crisper appearance while helping to minimize wrinkles.

'As cleaning sheets dry, this layer helps sheet fabric maintain its shape by holding a crisper finish and a cleaner appearance,' she says. According to Parima Ijaz, Textile Expert and Founder of Pure Parimaa, this technique works especially well on percale sheets (a closely woven fabric commonly used for the best cooling sheets), as their naturally matte, crisp weave complements the added structure from the starch. 'The result is an even more tailored look and feel,' she explains.

There are a few important caveats to keep in mind, though. 'Remember that cornstarch is not for cleaning sheets,' Rechelle warns. 'It enhances the look and feel of bedding that has already been freshly cleaned and pressed. Think of it as the finishing touch that gives your bedding a polished, hotel-quality look.'

Parima also cautions against overusing the technique. Frequent or excessive starching can gradually build up on fabric fibers, reducing softness over time and potentially affecting the material's long-term performance. 'For best results, use this technique occasionally when you want an extra-crisp finish,' she advises. It's an easy way to elevate luxury bedroom ideas or make a bed look more expensive without investing in new bedding.

How to Use Corn Starch In Your Bedding Laundry Routine

It couldn't be simpler to use this trick to keep sheets fresher between washes.

'Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch (available at Walmart) with two cups of water, and add the solution during the rinse cycle,' advises Parima. Use a measuring spoon and cup from Amazon for accurate measurements.

'If possible, pour it into your washer's fabric softener compartment to ensure it disperses evenly and avoids direct contact with your linens. Once washed, tumble dry on low heat and remove promptly. Your sheets should emerge feeling smoother, crisper, and more refined.'

What to Shop

If you're interested in giving this secret laundry ingredient a go yourself, below, you can browse everything you'll need, along with a selection of my favorite bedding and accessories for the ultimate hotel experience at home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Rechelle concludes, 'It is not a suggestion for every wash, but it is a great option for you if you love the smooth and structured feel of freshly pressed sheets.' Pair it with airing your bedding every morning to avoid trapping bacteria.

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As the resident Sleep Editor here at Homes & Gardens, I pride myself on my collection of white, bright, and beautiful bedding. The other thing I also pride myself on is my storage method − it's likely nothing you haven't heard of before, but it is easy, effective, and completely free.

Instead of folding my sheets, duvet covers, and pillowcases for separate storage, I slide the matching set into one of the corresponding pillowcases to keep everything all together in one place and simple to find whenever I need it.

It's a clever bedding storage trick to make organizing a linen closet more straightforward than ever.

When it comes to organizing my best bed sheets, I take the job seriously. Making a bed is tiresome enough without having to hunt through piles of linens for a matching pillowcase or stray sheet, which is why I store them together in sets.

This simple idea also comes approved by Professional Organizer and Founder of Diisorganized, Di Ter Avest.

'Storing a complete bedding set inside one of the matching pillowcases keeps all the pieces together, so nothing gets lost or separated,' she says. 'It also creates a cleaner, more organized look in the linen closet and makes it quick and easy to find exactly what you need when it's time to change the sheets,' which is exactly why I do it.

She's not the only pro to approve of my method, either. Meghan Cocchiaro, Certified Professional Organizer and Founder of Organized by Meg, adds, 'Storing bed sheets folded within the matching pillowcase is an easy way to keep your bed linens organized and keep each set together without the need for a separate "bed sheet organizer case" that is sold for this same purpose.'

For added organization, if you choose to store your collection this way, Meghan advises placing each set of the same size together in the same storage basket, or on the same shelf.

'If they're in a storage basket, label the basket with a clip [available at Amazon] by the size of sheets: Twin, Full/Queen, or King, or by whatever other categories you may have, such as Kids, Adults, Flannel, Summer, et cetera. If it's a shelf, label the shelf itself, and stack them neatly no more than three high, as they will fall over.'

Alternative, Free Ways to Store Your Bed Linen

Of course, this isn't the only tip for small linen closet storage.

'One of my favorite free organizing tips is to store items where you use them most often,' says Di. 'Keeping things close to their point of use saves time and makes it easier to maintain organization.

'So you could save them in a nearby linen closet if you have one, or keep them in the wardrobe or closet in the room. I also recommend creating clear "homes" for belongings and using simple labels to help everyone in the household know where things belong.'

Additionally, says Meghan, it pays to keep collections as minimal as possible. 'I suggest no more than two sheets per bed in your house, including the set that is on the bed,' she adds. 'Exceptions may be made if you have different weighted sheets for seasons or holiday-themed sheets, and for young kids.'

What to Shop

Below, you can shop from a selection of my favorite bedding and alternative bedding storage options, like baskets and boxes. I've found that the key is making your storage work for your space, rather than making your space work for your storage.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Stuck for inspiration? Martha Stewart's linen closet organization method uses cardboard rolls and lavender sachets to keep linens organized and smelling fresh and clean.

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If there's one thing that can seriously disturb your sleep, it's bed sheets slipping and sliding throughout the night, becoming wrinkled, bunched up, and creased.

Previously, I'd resigned myself to this inevitability − until I came across the ZlumberLock Sheet Holders, available at Amazon, which keep sheets firmly in place, night after night, without bunching, shifting, or re-installation.

As even the very best bed sheets aren't immune to moving as you toss and turn while you sleep, I'm adding them straight to my cart: Shoppers say they're 'Worth every penny.'

Once you've gone through the effort of making your bed, your sheets coming loose and moving throughout the night is an annoyance that many of us are all too familiar with. Even if you've taken extra steps to avoid any bedding mistakes.

With the ZlumberLock Sheet Holders, available at Amazon, though, you can wave goodbye to the familiar sight of wrinkled sheets come morning, helping you to sleep better long-term. So, how does it work?

The patented, discreet sheet holder system is installed at each corner of your mattress . The sheet is slipped over the top and uses locking strips that clip into place to fasten over the top of the sheets to prevent movement. The weight of the mattress holds the ZlumberLock system down without damaging the upholstery.

What Shoppers Say

If you're not wholly convinced that sheet holders are a bedroom essential − whether you're layering your bed this summer or making your bed look cozy come fall − rest assured that shoppers insist they're 'worth every cent.'

'100% works,' reads one recent review. 'Worth every penny! This product is amazing; I would give 10 stars if I could. Highly recommend. Instantly, 100% solved a problem I’ve dealt with for years. After a week, our bottom fitted sheet corners haven’t moved at all!

'We have a Queen adjustable bed, raised head and foot, and my husband is also a restless sleeper. I’ve tried lots of straps, etc and nothing worked. I was constantly remaking the bed multiple times each day; the corners just popped off the mattress.'

As the review continues, the Zlumberlock Sheet Holders feature a heavy-duty construction, and installation took less than 10 minutes in total.

'Wish I’d spent my $$ on this product that really works to begin with; would’ve saved a lot of stress on my 73-year-old back!'

Another five-star review, from Bris, dubs the holders an 'awesome product': 'These things really work! We were tired of our sheets and mattress cover constantly sliding off the corners of our mattress. We took a chance with this product, and it works fantastically.

'The sheets and mattress cover didn’t move a bit all week. The sheets stayed so much smoother throughout the night. The sheet holders were super easy to install, and the little sliders came out easily when I was changing the sheets. We’d recommend this product to anyone needing their sheets kept more securely on their bed.'

Shop Bedding Essentials

Below, shop from a Sleep Editor-approved selection of the best cooling sheets, bed sheets, and alternative sheet holders.

All prices were correct at the time of publication and refer to Queen-sizes.

As unusual as it may sound, this spatula bedding tuck trick makes use of your kitchen utensil for luxury hotel-level bedmaking.

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As the Sleep Editor for Homes & Gardens, I've learned that cooling bedding is usually expensive. Often made with premium materials to guarantee temperature regulation, breathability, and moisture-wicking, they are a significant investment for something you may only use for a few months per year.

So, when I spotted a rival to our best budget cooling sheets - the Martha Stewart Sheet Set from Amazon - in the ALDI's KIRKTON HOUSE Sheet Set, which includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases for just $19.99, I was more than impressed.

For just a fraction of the price of the best cooling sheets, it's one of the most affordable options I've ever seen for serene summer sleep − and it's perfect for guest bedrooms, too.

Keeping a bed cool in summer can feel like a tall order. Between heavy bedding, heat-trapping sheets, and fluff-filled pillows, it's no surprise, particularly in homes without air conditioning.

That said, the power of cooling bedding cannot be disputed − and if you're looking to invest without the usually attached high price tag, look no further than the KIRKTON HOUSE Queen Temperature Regulating Sheet Set, available at ALDI.

Made of OEKO-TEX-certified polyester (a necessary departure from cottons or linens in terms of a low price point), these sheets are moisture-wicking, keeping you cool and dry all night long, and it's effortlessly easy to wash, dry, and care for this bed linen, too.

As they're designed to fit mattresses up to 17 inches deep, they'll also stay firmly in place once you've made the bed and as you sleep, without any slipping or sliding.

All of these features also make this particular sheet set perfect when preparing a guest room in summer. At just $19.99, you can pick up a few sets to rotate as family members and friends come and go throughout the warmer months, and keep one spare for last-minute guests when al-fresco dinner parties turn into late nights spent catching up and relaxing outdoors.

More to Shop

Interested in browsing more cooling bedding and sleep accessories? Below, you can shop my Sleep Editor-approved selection of sheets, pillows, pillowcases, and fans.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

For more affordable bedding picks for summer heatwaves, browsing the best Amazon cooling sheets is another brilliant way to make hot summer nights more comfortable and enjoy the benefits of conveniently quick delivery.

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Bedding, and particularly duvet inserts and comforters, are expensive at the best of times. It's no surprise, then, that a comforter filled with one hundred percent mulberry silk (in a Queen size) tips the scales at just shy of $600.

Since I received my Cozy Earth Silk Comforter at the start of February and started testing it, it's provided night after night of unparalleled luxury comfort, from the cold nights of winter to a recent summer heatwave.

That versatility and year-round suitability are exactly what make it one of the best comforters money can buy, if you've got the budget to invest.

In my role as the Sleep Editor here at Homes & Gardens, I'm lucky enough to test a whole host of bedding from all the most loved brands. But, out of every item I've tested, the Cozy Earth Silk Comforter is by far the most luxurious, and in my opinion, it's worth every cent.

Irresistibly soft and sumptuous, getting into bed under it feels like a real treat. The silk filling provides optimal airflow for impressive breathability, and mine, in the Standard fill option, kept me impressively cozy during the colder months of February and March, and cool since April, even throughout an 86-degree heatwave.

Usually a comforter is used without a cover, but with one this luxe, Cozy Earth does recommend using a protective duvet cover, which is needed to validate the manufacturer's extended warranty, and reduces the number of times you'll need to wash, dry, and care for your comforter, too.

In this warmer weather, I've been pairing mine with my summer rotation of the best cooling sheets, and haven't had any issues with the comforter (or the fill) bunching up or slipping and sliding throughout the night. And, if you choose to pair it with a Cozy Earth duvet cover, clever anchor loops on the comforter itself provide a secure fit, keeping it smooth and in place all night long.

As verified buyer Brittany says, alongside her five-star review, it's 'the best bedding you’ll ever own,' and I have to say, I agree. 'I was skeptical, but I’ll never go back. Sleep Luxury. Don’t hesitate.'

What to Shop

For more luxurious sleep upgrades, or if a silk comforter is a little out of your budget, you can shop my selection of bedding and accessories below, from affordable alternatives to pillows and protectors.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

You may be wondering if 'silk pillowcases stop breakouts,' and according to experts, the answer is yes. They have antimicrobial properties, reduce skin irritation, and are more hygienic than cotton, making them an excellent bedding choice.

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As temperatures continue to climb across the US, getting a good night's sleep is becoming more difficult.

Recently, though, I've been testing the Breescape Cooling Sheets, available at Amazon, and have found myself drifting off and staying cool and comfortable all night long, which is a feat, considering that my home doesn't have AC.

Made of Breescape's patented BlendTex fabric, nylon, polyester, and spandex work in tandem to wick away moisture and release body heat. Now, they're my tried-and-true essential for keeping my bed cool in summer.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

If you've perused our guide to the best Amazon cooling sheets, you may already be familiar with the Breescape Cooling Sheets, available at Amazon. Silky soft, cool to the touch, and more absorbent than cotton, our expert tester Devin Toolen said they made her 'realize how much of a difference cooling sheets can actually make,' and I completely agree.

Testing them for myself, I was initially impressed by how immediate the cooling effect of these sheets is. As soon as I climbed into bed, they felt instantly refreshing, and, unlike many other cooling sheets I've tested, those effects lasted all night long.

Admittedly, I'm not generally a hot sleeper, but, like everyone else, I certainly struggle in warm weather, when cooling a bedroom down fast becomes nearly impossible in homes without AC.

These sheets, though, kept me comfortable while I slept, even when sharing a bed with my partner, and I didn't wake up overheating or suffering from night sweats once.

The best part is the sheet set also includes a fitted sheet (along with the flat sheet) and two pillowcases to match, which work to keep your entire body cool, from your neck to your toes.

And, if you prioritize shopping for the best organic bedding, they're also tested and approved to the OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100, which means they've been rigorously vetted for over 1,000 harmful substances and are certified free of any.

What to Shop

To keep your sleep space comfortable this summer, or to cool a guest bedroom throughout the warmer weather, here is a selection of my Sleep Editor-approved cooling bedding and accessories.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

If you're wondering whether cooling bedsheets really work, the answer, unequivocally, is yes, they do.

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If you haven't done so already, now is the perfect time to switch bulkier winter bedding to something a little lighter for the summer months.

The Whitmor, Inc Plastic Storage Bag, available at Wayfair, is the perfect solution for packing away items you don't immediately need, as it's lightweight, conveniently transparent for easy identification, and, most importantly, affordable. Plus, it'll make the perfect linen cabinet extension for those bulky beach towels and extra guest essentials when they're not required.

Here's why we recommend it for storing away your best duvet inserts until fall and winter roll back around.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Even the most organized linen closet usually doesn't have space for extra bulky items, such as comforters, duvet inserts, and thick blankets. That's why the Whitmor, Inc Plastic Storage Bag, available at Wayfair, with it's large capacity and durability, alongside the strong handles for convenient portability, is a simple and instant way to expand your storage.

The material of this storage solution will ensure your bedding remains free from dust and any mold and mildew, as well as keeping pests at bay, too. Keeping your bedding free of dust is an essential hypoallergenic storage tip for allergy sufferers.

What Shoppers Say

As shopper Megan attests in her on-site rating, there's plenty of space for all your bedding storage needs.

She says, 'Holds up really well, I've packed and unpacked the same large padded mattress cover in and out of this bag to the max capacity and there are no tears in the plastic and the zipper holds up well.'

Another shopper, Candace, notes it 'can fit two queen duvets in it with room to spare,' and plenty more reviews comment that it's particularly well-suited for underbed storage.

I'd agree − that way it's a storage ideas that's easily accessible but conveniently hidden from view. Its also equally useful for seasonal storage when transitioning your wardrobe, such as a fall wardrobe swap or spring closet swap, for example.

'I purchased several of these bags when they were on sale,' adds verified shopper Kathleen. 'I was able to store many winter sweaters, summer tops and other clothing items in these bags.

'I like that they are clear so you can see what is inside. The bag can really be stuffed and zipped up. Good value, very happy with the purchase.'

What to Shop

Once you've washed, dried, and cared for your comforters and duvet inserts, perfect your bedding storage with my Sleep Editor-approved selection of essentials.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Don't forget that it's essential to air out your bedding, particularly before and after storing it away for long periods of time. Never store it away unless clean and fully dry.

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As I recently found out, Japan is a place where everything just feels better. The streets are cleaner, the food is more flavorful − and the pillows are cooler.

Putting aside memory foam, down, and synthetic materials, every pillow I slept on in Japan was defined by a distinctive layer of buckwheat husks. They were surprisingly comfortable and supportive, with impressive breathability and cooling properties.

After just a few nights, it didn't take long for me to realize that my previous assumption of what makes the best pillows had changed drastically. Now, I'm looking to buy one for my own bedroom back home.

Centuries-Old Japanese Sobakawa Pillows Are the Secret to Cool Pillows All Night

There's no doubt that pillows are taken seriously in Japan − I even stayed in a hotel in Kyoto that featured an entire pillow wall for selecting your desired loft, fill, and fluffiness, with a 'Ladies only' section and eight different types to choose from, including one made from Japanese Hinoki cypress wood. But it was the buckwheat pillows, also known as Sobakawa, that I grew to love.

Admittedly, during the first part of my 15-day trip around Japan, I wasn't always even sure what it was that was filling my pillows with small, hard lumps, and I thought they were likely the same beans that you'd usually find in a beanbag. It was only when I kept finding myself sleeping so comfortably, and waking without any neck pain, even in my side-sleeping position, that I decided to look into it.

As Maiko Shimazaki, the founder of Revitalist15, a New York-based wellness brand rooted in Japanese relaxation rituals, explains, 'Sobakawa pillows are traditional Japanese pillows filled with buckwheat hulls. They are a great alternative to conventional pillows and may provide better sleep for those who prefer a firmer feel, sleep hot, or struggle with allergies.'

She's right − the husks allow air to circulate to keep the pillow dry, helping to keep a bed cool in summer, and warm in winter. For that reason, they're suitable for year-round use.

Those hypoallergenic and natural qualities are important, too. Down may feel luxurious, but it does come with ethical concerns for animal welfare (a reason I always avoid it) and is often not best recommended due to its ability to trap dust, too.

And, while synthetic alternatives may be cruelty-free, suitable for vegans, and usually far more affordable, the polyester, polyester fiberfill, or memory foam filling comes with a significant carbon footprint, and isn't biodegradable, either.

In contrast, natural Sokabawa pillows are highly sustainable, eco-friendly, made from natural, renewable materials, and they also last significantly longer than other alternatives.

'Buckwheat hulls do not compress or break down like down, foam, or synthetic fiber fills,' adds Maiko. 'As a result, sobakawa pillows provide consistent support throughout the night and over the years,' meaning you can use them for far longer before your pillow begins to ruin your sleep quality.

There's just one drawback to consider, highlights Maiko, but it's not something I ever noticed in my experience, which is that Sokobawa pillows are firmer, and therefore not suitable for those who prefer softer pillows.

However, I actually only ever opt for extremely soft, flat pillows, and never found them too firm or too lofty, and, in any case, you can always remove some of the filling to find your preferred height.

Instead, much like how the Japanese traditional futons I slept on kept me comfortable and supported all night long, despite my initial reservations, my experience with Sokabawa pillows had me sleeping better than ever before.

What to Shop

If you'd like to try a Sokobawa pillow for yourself, I've found a selection available to ship to the US. I've also included my favorite bedding and pillowcases for the perfect cooling sleep setup this summer.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Browse our selection of the best Amazon cooling sheets for unbeatable breathability in warm weather.

For more sleep content, you can sign up for our newsletter so you never miss the latest features.

As the mercury rises, choosing the right bedding is the easiest way to keep your sleep space cool and comfortable.

But bedding can be expensive. That's why we recommend the Bedsure Cooling Sheets, available at Wayfair. Made from high-quality rayon, derived from bamboo, they're moisture-wicking, cool to the touch, and completely free of chemicals. And what's even better? They currently have a massive discount as part of Wayfair's Way Day sale.

What's more, they make keeping a bed cool in summer easier than ever, and they're perfect for hot sleepers or people who suffer from night sweats.

Upgrade Your Summer Bedding With These Bamboo Sheets

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

The best bedding should always help you to sleep better. But, when temperatures rise in spring and summer, your heavier flannels, fleeces, and brushed cottons simply aren't suitable. That's why we recommend making the switch to the Bedsure Cooling Sheets, available at Wayfair, now, before summer officially starts.

Made of one hundred percent rayon derived from bamboo, they're impressively soft, silky, and cool to the touch. Rayon, a semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp, works effectively to absorb and wick away moisture, without irritating your skin, making it a worthy addition to your breathable bedding edit for spring and summer.

These sheets are also OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified, which guarantees that they're completely free of any harmful chemicals.

As it's crucial to wash, dry, and care for your bed linen more regularly in spring and summer, it's also pertinent to note that these sheets are also conveniently easy to wash: Simply machine wash and tumble-dry low (or harness the benefits of air-drying laundry outside), and iron to remove wrinkles if necessary, and to make your bed look like it belongs in a hotel.

What Shoppers Are Saying

These sheets also comes endorsed by Forbes Vetted, NBC, and The New York Post, and boast over 250 five-star reviews on the Wayfair site.

'If you were a hot sleeper, these sheets are must-have,' reads one, from Florida-based verified buyer Carol L. Sbarbaro. 'I wake up multiple times a night as a result of being overheated.

'They fit on the bed beautifully, and they wash incredibly well. The greatest part − they are cooling throughout the night.'

Another, from Tracy Spanaway, echoes, 'These do exactly what they claim to do. If you are a hot sleeper, you absolutely need to get these.

'They're so chilling that I have to put a regular sheet on top of me, because it's too cold to sleep between them. I would absolutely recommend these, and I will buy them again,' while a third adds, 'These are the best sheets I’ve ever owned.'

You won't need to worry about keeping these fitted sheets on your bed, either. Designed to fit mattresses up to 16 inches thick, with a 360° elastic band, with these sheets you're guaranteed a tight and secure fit, with no slippage.

More to Shop

Just one cooling bedding set won't be enough to get you through the spring and summer months. Below, you can shop from a selection of alternatives, all of which are lightweight, airy, breathable, and perfect for warmer weather.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

This clever hot water bottle heatwave hack is a warm-weather essential, and costs virtually nothing to try.

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Whether it's a seasonal bouquet wafting through an entryway or a dainty café curtain that trickles morning sunshine into a kitchen, small subtle tweaks are all it takes to refresh the home and embrace spring's (long-awaited) arrival. We spoke with designers about the small spring switches that they make that have the biggest impact, and the same answer came up over and over – bed linen.

While the annual spring clean is inevitable, welcoming spring is not just about sweeping away old cobwebs, but injecting new colors, patterns, and textures into the home to (finally) bid farewell to the dark depths of winter. And one of the easiest ways designers recommend to do this? Switch out your bed linen. It takes just 10 minutes to bring the biggest spring trends and spring colors into your sleep space.

'We usually swap in lighter, more breathable fabrics like linen or bamboo. It’s an easy update that makes the whole bed feel more seasonal without doing too much,' explains interior designer Barrett Oswald. 'Linen is always a favorite – just remember, it can feel a little crisp at first, but it softens quickly and ends up being super comfortable.'

While committing to spring color trends through paint can feel a little permanent, bedding is an easy switch that requires far less thought. 'Light and warm colors like soft whites, creamy neutrals, and pale blues feel right,' says Barrett. 'It’s also a nice time to bring in a subtle pattern, even something small-scale, just to keep things from feeling too flat.'

'Mixing and matching instead of using a full matching set makes a big difference,' says Barrett. 'Start with a simple base of a duvet and shams, and then layer in a lightweight coverlet, a throw, and a few pillows with different textures or patterns. For a super easy finishing touch, a light linen spray (something citrusy or floral) makes everything feel instantly more spring-ready.'

'When spring comes around, I love switching to lighter, more breathable bedding that feels fresh and easy. Bamboo sheets are a favorite! They are incredibly soft, temperature-regulating, and perfect for those in-between seasons' says interior designer Tracy Morris. 'I also like layering in a John Robshaw hand-stitched quilt, which adds just the right amount of texture without feeling heavy. It’s a simple swap that instantly makes the bedroom feel lighter, brighter, and more in tune with the season.'

The best bedding is about more than just a more spring-appropriate material. 'When it comes to spring bedding, color plays a big role in setting the tone,' explains Tracy. 'Whites and blues are always a welcome choice this time of year; they feel crisp, clean, and instantly refreshing. That said, I also love bringing in deeper greens or even a touch of canary yellow to add a bit of energy and personality. These tones still feel seasonal but offer a more layered, unexpected take on a classic spring palette.'

Bedding trends this year are all about mixing and matching, too. 'This spring and summer, bedding trends are all about lightness, texture, and a relaxed, layered feel. I love starting with breathable sheets, then adding a lightweight quilt or coverlet for just enough warmth without heaviness,' says Tracy. 'Layering in a mix of textures, like a hand-stitched quilt, soft linen shams, and a simple throw at the foot of the bed. It keeps the look interesting but still effortless. The key is to keep it edited and airy, so the bed feels inviting, not overdone.'

While paint can feel like a bit of a commitment that may not last beyond a season, bed linen brings a welcome dose of color that's on par with a good pastel-painted wall. Cristiano Quieti, Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer at Frette, shares some of his all-time favourite spring colors ideas for bedrooms.

'Soft pastels like dusty pink and sky-blue feel fresh, restful, and grounding. For something bolder, look to warm, earthy tones like rich yellow and deep indigo that add warmth and a pop of color. Embracing spring's natural palette helps to transform the bed into a sanctuary.'

'When creating your 'bedscape', start with your bed sheets, as these form the foundation of any well-dressed bed,' explains Cristiano. 'Choose bedding that is versatile yet refined, such as our Balance Lace Bedding, which creates an elegant base that layers beautifully without overwhelming the space. From there, introduce a lightweight throw at the foot of the bed for warmth on cooler spring evenings, then add a couple of cushions in complementary seasonal tones, soft pastels or warm earthy hues, to bring color and personality whilst keeping the overall look curated and serene.'

Shop Colorful Spring Bedding

Whether it's an earthy-toned quilt or a pale blue sheet set, switching your bed linen for a lighter, brighter alternative is a contained way to welcome spring by injecting some light-hearted color into the bedroom.

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As the resident Sleep Editor here at Homes & Gardens, I'm so lucky to get to test the very best in expensive, luxurious bedding. But there's one affordable comforter set that got me through my time at college, and I still reach for it every spring, even now.

The IKEA BERGPALM Comforter Set is made from soft 100% cotton, which is naturally lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable, with a chic, vintage-look striped design.

As soon as the weather warms up, it's the first set I put on my bed – and it's affordable, too. Here's why it's one of the best comforters and, year after year, for the spring and summer months.

I Always Swap to This Whimsical IKEA Bedding Come Spring

If, like me, you live in a home without air-conditioning, you'll know how tricky it can be to keep your home cool. While this is uncomfortable during the day, I usually find respite and enjoyment out in my yard, but it's when nighttime approaches that I find myself seriously struggling to keep my bed cool in summer.

If this rings true to you, you're probably looking to shop for the best cooling sheets ahead of the warmer weather. And, while they're not 'cooling,' per se, my favorite spring linens for the last five years hail from IKEA – the BERGPALM Comforter Set – and cost just $69.99 in a Full/Queen size.

The thing about all-natural, cotton bedding is that it doesn't have to rely on any significant cooling claims. Cotton is naturally cooling and breathable, making it ideal for hot, dry weather and for hot sleepers.

Usually, I'd suggest thin cotton bedding for spring, but this set is a little thicker than you might expect. That being said, I've never found myself overheating with it – you may just need to adjust your best duvet insert to something a little more lightweight.

For a seriously comfortable night's sleep, I always make use of the cross-draft trick, opening windows on opposite sides of the room or home to allow air to circulate, and pair my BERGPALM Comforter Set with my fan.

Mine's just an affordable floor fan I inherited from my parents, but if you want to invest in the best fan money can buy, our Home Tech Editor, Dan Fauzi, recommends the Shark FlexBreeze Fan or the LEVOIT Tower Fan, both available at Amazon, if you're working with a smaller budget.

One thing to note – I was genuinely surprised to spot a few negative reviews of the BERGPALM Comforter Set on the IKEA site, mainly relating to issues with washing. I've never once encountered an issue, and my set still looks and feels as good as the day I bought it back in 2021, if not now, even softer.

So long as you know how to wash, dry, and care for your bed linen correctly, you can take it from me – you won't encounter any issues. Mine's still going strong, and I'm already enjoying it on my bed as spring hots up.

What to Shop

Below, you can shop my curated edit of spring sleep essentials. Each has properties that make it perfect for warmer weather, and I've included options for all budgets.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

If you still find yourself overheating at night, I'd suggest investing in one of the best cooling mattress toppers and pads to use alongside your bedding.

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It's that time of year when you're switching heavy winter bedding for lighter, cooler items. Storing them properly should be high on your list to avoid mold, dust, and pests secretly ruining them between now and the fall.

To keep my extensive collection as a Sleep Editor who is always in the midst of testing new products, organized and dust-free, I use the convenient IKEA PÄRKLA Storage case.

Slimline, foldable, and affordable, now my collection is dust-free and always tidy, it's the perfect tool for storing out-of-season bedroom items such as your best duvet inserts and comforters.

I Swear By This $3 IKEA Storage Staple to Organize Bedding

Since becoming Sleep Editor, I've been lucky enough to test all sorts of bedding, from the best mattress protectors to pillows and more. While this is undoubtedly one of the perks of the job, I found myself struggling to store my ever-growing 'to be tested' pile.

You may not have a pile like mine, but undoubtedly, there will be all sorts of seasonal bedding extras and guest bedroom linens you'll need to store away for months at a time, especially now as heatwaves loom and spring sunshine has already meant saying goodbye to extensive heating schedules.

Having an appropriate way to store your sets will keep them from smelling musty when you next need them. Just make sure they are fully washed and dry before you stow them.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

I appreciate the IKEA PÄRKLA Storage case's utility, which is often what makes underbed storage ideas the most useful, and at just $2.99, it's an easy yes. I primarily use the smaller size of these, which costs just $1.99, for storing winter clothes, and have recently discovered how good they are for storing bedding, too.

IKEA delivery is available on orders with a minimum $35 value, so I'd recommend adding the excellent GRÄSROTSFLY cooling 2.5 tog duvet insert to your purchase to beat sleepless summer nights.

Our tester, Punteha van Terheyden, who suffers overheating at night due to multiple health conditions, found she fell asleep quickly and no longer woke up feeling like 'she was on fire' with the GRÄSROTSFLY. It's remarkably good at thermoregulation due to its lyocell and viscose construction, both of which help to keep the body.

I use mine under my bed but this storage case will also conveniently work just as well for organizing a linen closet, for example, or on top of a freestanding closet.

Perhaps the best part is that once empty, they fold completely flat for storage, so they won't take up any space when not in use if you're using them to organize a small house.

What Shoppers Love About the IKEA PÄRKLA Storage Case

While I love and recommend the IKEA PÄRKLA Storage case, so too do over 6,000 shoppers, reflected in their five-star reviews on the IKEA website.

'So many uses,' reads one recent review left by verified shopper Joan. 'These are great for storing linens, clothes, shoes, blankets, towels, stuffed animals, winter hats, scarves, and gloves. Pretty much anything.

'They slide easily under a bed. Can be stacked. They're strong, hold a decent amount of weight, and you cannot beat the price. They are the most versatile storage cases imaginable.' I have to say, I agree.

Another review, left by Leslie, adds, 'I have several sizes of these Parkla bags – a smaller one for shoes (or anything small you want to keep dust out), medium, and large.

'All three sizes are good depending on what you want to use it for. I like that its white and semi-transparent, so you can see the items in the bag. I put them in the closet or under the bed to store items such as comforters and extra pillows for guests.'

Shop My Edit of Bedding Storage Essentials

Below, I've put together a collection of my favorite storage solutions for neat and organized bedding, all of which protect your collection from dust, dander, and other allergens.

Next, consider organizing your linen closet to ensure you can find exactly what you need whenever it's time to change your bed or if guests come to stay.

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As a Sleep Editor, I'd never sleep on my mattress without a protector, and how much money you spend on yours will usually determine the quality and how easy it is to wash and maintain.

That's why one that's effective and affordable is an absolute winner in my books. And, after testing the GRUSNARV Waterproof mattress protector, available at IKEA, for over 30 nights, I can safely say it ticks both of those boxes and passes with flying colors. Adding to that, it's only $25 in a Queen-size, so it's a real steal, too.

Here's why I think it's one of the best mattress protectors money can buy on a budget, and as we head into warmer weather, a brilliant addition to any bedroom, be it for you, your children, or guests.

I Tested The GRUSNARV IKEA Mattress Protector and Was Impressed

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

You may think that such a hidden piece of bed linen (it sits under your fitted sheet) is something you'd never notice once it's on, but that's exactly what makes a good one, truly good.

The GRUSNARV Waterproof mattress protector is comfortable, non-cumbersome, and quiet (some can sound very crinkly), even when you toss and turn throughout the night.

Straight out of the packaging, the protector was ready to pop straight onto the mattress, and fitted perfectly, even once I made the bed, thanks to the slim-profile design. I didn't notice any odors, either, which I've often noticed when I open brand new bedding.

Once bedtime came, I didn't notice the protector at all. There was no heat discomfort or rustling under my body. That's not to say it made me sleep better, but it certainly didn't disturb my sleep either, even when my partner or I turned or moved in the night.

The real test of a waterproof mattress protector, of course, is how waterproof is actually is. Luckily, I can assure that, when I poured a cup of water onto it, the GRUSNARV protector held up well with no leaking through to my Nolah AirFoam Luxe Mattress Topper, even when left with enough time to soak through.

Though I do regularly drink tea in bed while reading on a Saturday or Sunday morning, I'm grateful to report that I'm yet to suffer any spillages. But knowing how waterproof this topper is, I feel assured that my best mattress will be fine if an accident ever does occur.

What Shoppers Say

My glowing report is not a one-off. There are over 2,000 five-star reviews for the GRUSNARV Mattress Protector on the IKEA site from happy purchasers who rave about their product.

One recent and particularly glowing review from verified shopper Nathalie reads, 'Great Quality at an Affordable Price! I have used IKEA’s waterproof protectors on our whole family’s beds for 20 years now. They are soft, in other words, not “plastic-y” feeling, while still being dense and definitely water and spillproof. They help with dust mite allergens, too, even though they’re not advertised as such.

'They’re easy to wash and throw in the dryer. Hold up very well! I hope they never discontinue this product because I’ve never found anywhere that sells as good as or better than the IKEA ones!'

Another, from Mason, echoes how easy it is to clean and care for this item and notes that it's also perfect for keeping a clean home when you have pets.

'I love this, my dogs' drool, and nasty paws don’t leak through to the sheets,' they explain. 'Washing the mattress cover is a pain, but with this topper it's super effortless!' Though my four dogs are definitely not allowed on my bed, I know plenty of people do like to share their sleep space with furry friends.

In any case, it's always reassuring to know that your mattress protector does what it claims to do, and even more importantly, does so well – and for just shy of $25, you really can't dispute the value of the IKEA GRUSNARV either.

More to Shop

If you're interested in a few more Sleep Editor-approved recommendations, shop my curated edit of topper alternatives and springtime comforts for bedrooms below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Curious as to how to clean and care for your mattress protector? Our dedicated guide leads you through the process step-by-step.

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Brooklinen's brand new Breezeweave Comforter is making spring and summer bedding easier than ever. Wave goodbye to wrestling a duvet insert into a cover, sweaty nights as temperatures start to creep up, and overheating – we've found the answer.

With the Breezeweave Reversible Cotton Comforter, available at Brooklinen, the brand's much-loved, machine-washable, one-and-done comforter has had a spring and summer seasonal lift that's designed to keep you cool and comfortable as you sleep, even in warmer weather.

While you may think your best duvet inserts and comforters are reserved solely for fall and winter, this lightweight, breathable pick, available in an array of fun shades and tones to add a pop of color to your space, is here to prove you wrong.

Brooklinen's New BreezeWeave Comforter Keeps Hot Sleepers Cool Despite Spring's Temperature Swings

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

We all know how difficult keeping a bed cool in summer can be, particularly if you live in any of the sunnier states across the US. This has often left me switching out my warmer, winter duvets for my best bed sheets.

But that in-between stage in spring, where temperatures and volatile weather systems fluctuate day to day, late winter storms can still happen, and dips in temperature occur overnight that require heating, can all help to create a perfect storm of overheating or shivering under your covers.

It's not possible to cater separately to all these changing needs easily, but with the Breezeweave Reversible Cotton Comforter, available at Brooklinen, you don't have to.

It may sound too good to be true, but this comforter brings the cooling, airy texture of our soft sheets in a convenient comforter form. Comprised of 100 percent ultra-soft Turkish cotton and filled with 100 percent polyester for a breathable finish, it's the only thing you need to include when designing a bedroom for better sleep all spring and summer long.

As it doesn't need a cover, it also makes making the bed even easier than ever, and it's handily machine-washable and tumble-dry safe, too. Therefore, it's a perfect pick if you're preparing a guest bedroom for summer or looking to cool a guest bedroom without having to invest in one of the best fans.

If you prefer to shop for the best organic bedding, this comforter will also tick all your boxes: It's OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100-certified, meaning it's been tested and approved free of over 100 harmful chemicals and substances.

And, if that's not all, it's also a simple, fun way to add color to a bedroom that doesn't involve paint.

What to Shop

Sleeping better in this transitional part of the year can be a challenge, but having some of my Sleep Editor-approved bedroom essentials can ease the issues keeping you awake in the spring, and later, cover you smoothly for changing summer sleep needs.

From lightweight bed linens to fans and pillows to rotate in and out of your sanctuary as needed, these are my vetted selections to aid restorative rest, whatever the season.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Having one of the best air purifiers in your bedroom can also improve your comfort overnight, helping to remove common allergens that start to rise in spring, and peak in summer, be it shedding pets, pollen, or air pollution.

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It might not feel like it quite yet, but spring is in the air, and soon, heavy winter bedding will need to be switched out for something a little lighter.

Our top contender for making the seasonal switch is the Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set. Naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and temperature-regulating, we were seriously impressed with how these sheets performed on test, and they're now $60-off.

Here's why we think they're the best bed sheets to nab right now for warmer weather.

These Cooling Bamboo Bed Sheets Are Perfect for Spring Comfort and Discounted for Presidents' Day

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

As one of our favorite bedding brands, it's perhaps no surprise that celebrity royalty Kris Jenner counts herself as a Cozy Earth fan, as does Oprah. In particular, the Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set was awarded Oprah's Favorite Things 2018, and eight years later, they're still as good an investment as ever.

Our Celebrity News Editor, Sophie Edwards, decided to put the celebrity-endorsed Kris Jenner Cozy Earth bedding to the test. 'This is some of the best luxury bedding I've sampled,' she says. 'I am a religious bi-weekly sheet washer, so I alternate with another set, but I always look forward to putting my bamboo sheets back on my bed.

'As opposed to my cotton sheets...this bamboo set feels much smoother and softer on my skin. My Cozy Earth bedding also feels more breathable.'

This is particularly pertinent as we head towards spring and summer, as we all know, keeping a bed cool in summer is no easy feat. Most nights are spent hot, sticky, and sweaty, particularly if you don't have air-conditioning. But, at $308 for a Queen set ($246.40 right now), if you're spending big on bedding, you want to make sure it will keep you cool and comfortable.

Luckily, as verified buyer Jane W details alongside their five-star review of the Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set on the Cozy Earth site, their bed has never felt so cozy and yet cool.

'We live in the South where it is often hot and humid,' they share. 'These are perfect for us. The sheets are soft and keep us cool; they fit our mattress well. I tried another brand of bamboo sheets, and they just were not like these. I returned those and got what I really wanted – Cozy Earth!

'So far, I have the Cozy Earth mattress pad, blanket, pillow (which helped my neck issues), and now the sheets. It doesn't get better than this for a good night's sleep!!'

Another, from Eric S, deems them, 'Beautiful, soft, and great for hot sleepers.'

'I purchased these sheets to upgrade my bed’s appearance and improve my sleeping experience,' they add. 'The sheets exceeded the mark in both cases.

'The sheets are soft out of the package and give my bed the luxury hotel look and feel I wanted. Moreover, the sheets are breathable. I’m a hot sleeper, and I used to frequently have my sleep disturbed by waking in the night drenched in sweat.

'I’m writing this review because I just rose from a good night’s sleep in a very warm bed. I was marveling at how dry and comfortable I was, and I remembered I hadn’t yet reviewed my Cozy Earth purchases. I got the white sheets, and I look forward to purchasing other colors.'

More to Shop

After some more inspiration? Our edit of the best Amazon cooling sheets might have just what you're looking for.

If you had to communicate ‘hotel bedroom’ with zero context and only a sheet set, you’d probably reach for thick, high-contrast black-on-cream borders. Recently, though, this substantial style appears to have undergone a cleanse, pared down to blink-and-you’ll-miss-it proportions.

In English, those familiar bed sheet borders are being replaced with piping – a simple, silhouette-defining detail that gives otherwise snoozy solids a shot of precision.

And, perhaps unsurprisingly, it isn’t actually the heritage houses whispering the micro-contrast border into relevance. Rather, you can thank a new guard of luxury-level disruptors like Boll & Branch and Nordic Knots (fresh in their bed sheet era), alongside accessible cool-kid staples like Australia’s Bed Threads and the perpetually stripe-literate Hommey for embracing this sophisticated style.

Within this infectious new energy, you can still spot predictable pairings (Quince, for instance, does a fabulous oat-and-espresso), but in truth, half the fun begins when that buttoned-up bedding border goes rogue. When the contrast is this slim, brands can afford to be a little cheeky – so expect burgundy on beige, sky blue with red, and other avant-garde winks that puncture the older sister trend’s stuffy five-star energy.

One could call this bedding trend color-drenching for minimalists. Or five-star bedding that finally developed a personality. Either way, it’s proof that the tiniest line can completely change the read. Explore some of my top picks from my favorite retailers below.

If bedding is getting its own wake-up call via a razor-thin border and a flash of color, the rest of the bedroom isn’t far behind. The same playful, slightly subversive energy is seeping into everything, from exaggerated drapery to moodier palettes and off-kilter proportions.

So zoom out. Discover how your new micro-contrast sheets fit within the mutually mischievous bedroom trends defining 2026.

Opinions on bedding trends don’t shift easily – they're often as personal as how we take our coffee.

Unlike bedroom trends – a statement lamp or an oversized accent chair to flex on friends – if the comforter or bed sheets you’ve had for a decade still look fabulous, why buy new? Which is why, when a look, fabric, or sensibility does move the needle in the sleep space, it’s worth getting out from under the covers and paying attention.

Whether you’re dressing a guest room to impress or on a quest to create the coziest personal sanctuary, these are the bedding trends for 2026 that make the best third of your life a little more comfortable, and a whole lot chicer.

1. A Colorful Foundation

The fitted bed sheet is the base of the operation, and – save for a few ultra-chic early adopters who embraced patterned versions – it’s been played pretty safe. In 2026, that’s beginning to change.

‘While crisp white bedding paired with beautiful custom pillows will always be a classic, I’m seeing a refreshing shift toward introducing color at the foundation of the bed,’ notes Liz Williams, founder and designer of Atlanta-based Liz Williams Interiors. ‘This can range from subtle beige or tan neutrals to more expressive shades like soft green or blue that highlight other colors in the room.’

And even beyond that mostly hidden fitted layer, the duvet deserves consideration too – especially in winter, when it’s often buried beneath throw pillows and blankets. ‘People can easily embrace this trend by using a colored duvet cover or coverlet while keeping sheets and accent pillows neutral,’ Liz explains. Since more is more, consider tacking on a bed skirt or piped bedding detail for extra oomph.

2. Texture Maxxing

The designers we consulted seem to agree: texture-maxxing – a look we’ve already seen take hold in the living room trends – is also migrating to the bedroom in 2026.

Tracy Morris, designer and founder of Tracy Morris Design, goes so far as to call it the ‘most design-forward and “cool”’ look for the year, thanks to its natural nonchalance. ‘This approach stands out because it prioritizes depth and personality over perfection,’ she says, citing her love of mixing tactile quilts from brands like Matouk with crisp sheets or softer, more relaxed layers beneath. ‘It feels intentional and elevated, but still approachable and livable.’

‘Texture is playing a bigger role than ever in bedroom design,’ adds Liz Williams. ‘Mixing finishes like sateen sheets with relaxed linen, a matelassé coverlet, or lightly quilted layers adds depth and interest, even within a restrained color palette. This is an easy trend to adopt by layering different weaves rather than introducing more patterns.’

3. The ‘Unipillow’

Sometime around the middle of last year, we started catching whiffs of the ‘unipillow’ – a single, sleek, often generously long pillow replacing the once-mandatory pile of throw cushions. But don’t raid the cushion closet just yet; in 2026, this edited approach remains the minimalist bedding look du jour.

‘I still love layered pillows, but the look is becoming more edited,’ notes Liz Williams, Atlanta-based interior designer and founder of Liz Williams Interiors. ‘A tailored approach, such as a single, long lumbar pillow in a beautiful fabric,’ she says, ‘feels fresh, intentional, and polished without being overstyled.’

You've got one shot, so choose that cushion wisely.

4. Characterful Unique Choices

Personality-packed bedding is very much in for 2026 – it’s just no longer spelled out quite so literally. According to Kati Curtis, principal at Kati Curtis Design, monograms are finally on the outs.

‘Monograms instantly cheapen a bed, turning something meant to feel tailored and considered into a gift-registry cliché. You already know your own name, how arrogant to plaster your initials all over everything,’ she quips, adding, ‘This trend screams new money, no taste or imagination.’ In other words, attempts at making a bed feel ‘personal’ via initials alone are reading cheugy in 2026.

Instead, expression now comes through thoughtful layering with patterned quilts and coverlets, subtle color play, and tactile textures. This lack of monogrammed uniformity, Kati notes, ‘reads confident and collated rather than all purchased from the same store,’ adding that ‘confidence is exactly where bedding, and interiors in general are headed next year!’

5. Cooling Breathable Materials

We’re officially leaving stuffy sheet layers behind. It’s easy to underestimate just how cool a bed needs to be for real comfort – not just in the height of summer, but all year long. So, we're getting smarter.

Cotton percale and textured linen will always remain on rotation, but increasingly, that cooling role is being taken over by bamboo viscose. Softer than silk, easier on the wallet, and often more sustainable, this material’s popularity has taken off like a kite.

‘The continued rise of ultra-soft, breathable materials from brands like Cozy Earth, whose sheets feel cozy yet cool, are perfect for year-round comfort,’ says Virginia-based interior designer Tracy Morris. Designers may be clocking the trend now, but some early devotees – including the likes of Kris Jenner and Oprah Winfrey – have been sleeping on it for years.

As with so many interior design trends of 2026, the bedding trends for the year ahead point to more color and more character. Switching out your bedding can totally change your sleep space, so if you are looking for a quick and easy update, this is a good place to start.

When I think of the crème de la crème of bedding, Piglet in Bed always comes to mind. I've long coveted their gorgeous, chic designs, which not only look beautiful but wash wonderfully, too, and they've just added a brand new addition to their line-up.

During these long, cold winter days, the spring-inspired Posy Bud collection, available at Piglet in Bed, is just the gentle reminder of better, warmer days ahead that we all need. It's available in a Dusk Blue and Honey Posy colorway, and both are available in pillowcases, fitted sheets, flatsheets, and more.

So, if you're looking to upgrade your best bedding for the new year and add a touch of whimsy to your sleep space, I can think of no better collection to shop.

Piglet in Bed Just Launched a Spring-Inspired Collection

I have to be honest – I love the colder months and feeling cozy and warm while I sleep, with fleecy bedding, electric blankets, and hot water bottles. But, come January, I'm ready to shed all my winter layers, which also involves switching out my relaxing bedroom ideas and transitioning my space from fluff and fur to something a little more light and floral.

Here is where the new Posy Bud collection from Piglet in Bed comes in. Soft and whimsical, with a romantic, vintage, lived-in feel, it would look right at home in any cottagecore bedroom.

I think the Dusk Blue Posy Bud Linen Blend Duvet Cover available at Piglet in Bed has to be my favorite, but there's also a Honey Posy and Pearl Posy colorway, if you prefer yellow or pink.

All prices were correct at the time of publication, and refer to Queen sizes.

While Piglet in Bed may be among the more expensive of the best luxury bed sheets, you can always rest assured that you're getting what you pay for.

They're fully crafted from natural, planet-friendly materials, including sustainably-farmed linen, a huge plus if, like me, you strive to be more sustainable at home. All their linen bedding is woven with care in a family-run mill with over a century of expertise in Guimarães, in Northern Portugal, combining the soft sumptuousness of high-quality European flax with the smooth, soft comfort of cotton.

All the materials are OEKO-TEX 100 certified, too, which means they have been tested for harmful substances and have been given the stamp of approval.

It's also easy to wash, dry, and care for this bed linen, which gets softer with each and every wash, rather than crunchy and rough, giving their collections that 'always new' feeling, which feels so sumptuous and decadent to slip under at night.

Simply machine wash on a warm cycle with similar colors (avoid using fabric softener) before tumble-drying on low or harnessing the benefits of air-drying laundry. You won't even need to iron this bedding, although you can on low if you want to. You can instead tap into the parachute home linen bedding trend and embrace the natural crumpled texture post-wash, which will drop out soon enough as your body heat loosens crinkles as you sleep.

And, if you're not sure which design from the new Posy Bud Collection to opt for, you can also order up to five free swatches to try, so you can see and feel it in your own space before making a final decision.

If you prefer something a little more traditional, the new Morris & Co. collection from Piglet in Bed oozes heritage charm.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the secret to a luxuriously made bed lies in a small mountain of throw pillows, perfectly karate-chopped and arranged with military precision. But designers (and stylish sleepers) in the know have a trick up their sleeves – and it has nothing to do with decorative cushions.

In fact, it’s such a simple bedroom idea, so instantly transformative, that once you try it, you’ll never go back. The magic formula? Simply sizing up your duvet. Designers swear this one tweak delivers that indulgent, hotel-style bedroom look with barely any effort.

The result is a bed that drapes, pools, and totally avoids that dreaded duvet fight in the night. And while it might sound like the kind of styling hack you’d only find at photoshoots, it’s actually one of the most practical upgrades you can make at home.

Why Bigger A Bigger Duvet Is the Easiest Bedroom Upgrade

If there’s one styling trick designers and home stylists swear by, it’s choosing a duvet that’s one size larger than your mattress. It’s the fastest way to make a bed look luxurious, fuller, and as if it were styled by a professional.

As Kailee Blalock from House of Hive Design Co. explains, 'Sizing up your bedding is the simplest luxury upgrade you can make. Choosing a king quilt for a double or queen bed creates that gorgeous, oversized drape that instantly elevates the bed space.'

'It also visually grounds the bed, making it feel more intentional and high-end. The slight exaggeration in scale makes the entire space feel more styled and complete,' she adds.

Designer Cath Beckett of Yellow London agrees, adding that an oversized duvet doesn’t just look good – it feels good. The extra drape softens the mattress edges and creates a sense of warmth and comfort.

'We love using oversized quilts because they make a bed feel more luxurious and inviting,' Cath explains. 'A duvet that drapes over the edges of the bed creates a sense of comfort, while also softening the lines.'

'It allows us to layer textures and colors more effectively, bringing cohesion to the room and giving it a polished yet cozy feel.'

Going oversized with your duvet may be the gateway to making your bed look cozy, but designers agree that the true magic happens in the layering.

For interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe, the focus goes beyond size and it's also about choosing the best bedding in the first place. 'For me, luxury comes from weight, material, and layering rather than simply opting for a larger quilt. A feather-down duvet has a naturally full, plump quality that synthetic fillings can’t quite replicate, and it instantly creates that sumptuous, enveloping feel.'

'The tog makes a difference too – a slightly heavier duvet gives a bed more presence,' Lauren adds. To finish the look, she leans into classic layering. 'A flat sheet and a bedspread add depth, softness, and structure, allowing the bed to feel finished without relying solely on scale.'

Combined with an oversized duvet, these layers create that plush, cocooning feel we're all searching for at bedtime.

While designers love upgrading duvets by going bigger, the same rule doesn’t apply to bedspreads. Here, precision is the real marker of a luxury bedroom – and no one knows this better than Birdie Fortescue.

'I feel it is very important that a bedspread should fit a bed perfectly – a one-size-fits-all attitude won't do anything for the look of your bed,' she explains. 'It should be bought in the right size, which will allow it to hang just below the mattress, so as to hide the bed linen, while still showing the detailing of the bed base valance below.'

'Equally, there should be extra length to allow you to fold it over your pillows,' Birdie suggests. 'I love to finish the look with a throw, such as a crochet blanket, at the bottom of the bed for styling and extra warmth.'

It’s a helpful reminder that while scale can create drama and extra comfort, fit gives elegance and a tailored look.

Creating a luxurious-looking bed doesn’t come down to complicated styling tricks or an ever-growing pile of pillows. Sizing up your duvet gives you that instant hit of indulgence, while perfectly fitted bedspreads and clever textiles bring the structure and softness that make a space feel expertly styled. If you're looking for a more comprehensive, tried-and-tested guide, check out our ultimate checklist of the best duvet inserts, as chosen by our sleep experts.

White bed sheets get a bad rap for being… boring. But let’s not confuse timeless with tired – a blank canvas can spark a thousand styling directions. Some designers, like Eleena Speck of Parkway East Design, are so devoted that they even call white sheets the ‘classic white T-shirt of the home.’

‘I’m all for white bed sheets! From a purely practical standpoint, hotels get it right; white simplifies life,’ Eleena muses. ‘You never have to guess which sheet belongs where, and the ability to bleach and move on is a gift for busy households.’

‘White sheets are far more versatile than people realize,’ adds LGC Interior Design president Lori Miller. ‘They create a clean, crisp foundation that works with any design style and allows the rest of the room to shine,’ setting the scene for anything else you want to spotlight – a playful rug, a statement headboard, an antique artwork you worked hard to hunt down.

And because there are, apparently, endless ways to spin a white sheet, I turned to Eleena, Lori, and a handful of designers for their tips. How do the best bedscapers in the business make this classic layer sing? Ahead, their sharpest white bed sheet styling strategies that prove the best bed sheets are usually white – plus accessories worth shopping to elevate your own.

1. Tailored Detailing

Styling white bed sheets doesn’t mean smothering them under something loud for the sake of disguise. If anything, the polished hotel reference is half the charm – so lean right in. ‘A simple hotel-style stitch on the duvet cover and shams instantly elevates the look and ties the bedding into the room’s palette,’ says Darci Hether, founder of Connecticut- and NYC-based Darci Hether Interior Design.

Look for piped edges, lace, and contrast borders. This way, you can stay within the white palette (or not) and still build dimension. ‘It’s a subtle customization that feels bespoke without being fussy,' she explains.

2. Unusual Pillows

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to dip a toe into the ball-pillow trend, a white bed sheet might be the perfect stage for an avant-garde cushion – or any other adventurous bolster on your moodboard. ‘White sheets provide a neutral backdrop, making it easy to introduce bolder colors, patterns, or uniquely shaped pillows that serve as focal points,’ notes LGC's Lori Miller.

The latter – unusual silhouettes – are also a go-to for principal interior designer Evelina Juzėnaitė of Planner 5D, who loves the opportunity for round or scalloped edges. ‘These small design decisions give the entire bed a stylish and thoughtful look,’ she explains. Just don’t get carried away: ‘The main thing is not to overdo it; you don’t need many, three is enough.’

3. Tactile Texture

An all-white bedscape can be the most compelling thing in the room with one simple move: texture. It’s the same reason minimalism – in fashion or interiors – works at all; if a material feels interesting with your eyes closed, it will read just as rich when you open them.

‘Adding a knit throw, velvet quilt, or linen duvet over white sheets instantly elevates the bed, creating dimension and warmth,’ notes Lori Miller of LGC Interior Design. Designer Darci Hether pushes the idea further, insisting on a feel-good pillow, too. ‘White sheets shine when you pair them with custom throw pillows in luxe fabrics,’ she notes, citing textural boucle as a favorite. Whether it’s a blanket or a really good bolster, ‘Those layers create depth and keep the bed from feeling flat,’ she says.

4. A Thoughtful Throw

It’s adjacent to the texture conversation, but the throw deserves its own moment. Just as a casually draped blanket can make a sofa appear editorial, the right throw at the foot of a white-sheet bed shifts the look from overly pristine to more comfortable and convincingly lived in.

‘A cashmere or chunky knit throw at the foot of the bed brings warmth and softness,’ notes interior designer Darci Hether. And it’s arguably the best bedroom hack there is. ‘It’s an easy seasonal swap, too – lighter linen in summer, richer faux fur or woolly textures in fall and winter.’

5. Pattern Play

White sheets remove the risk factor – nothing clashes, so everything works. Which means the pattern world is yours. ‘Layer in the patterns you naturally gravitate toward. Maybe it’s small florals in spring and summer or Ralph Lauren plaids when the weather cools,’ says designer Eleena Speck of Parkway East Design.

Lori Miller concurs, noting how the softest motifs, layered one or even two at a time, register more clearly atop a clean base. ‘Subtle prints – such as stripes, florals, or geometrics – stand out beautifully against white,’ she explains of the halfway pattern drenching technique.

6. Pops of Color

This one might feel either glaringly obvious or completely counterintuitive, depending on where you sit – but designers swear that strategic color is one of the quickest ways to energize a white bedscape and make crisp whites read even fresher.

‘If you’re worried white will feel boring, take the same approach you do with your wardrobe and start with your favorite colors, such as that blouse you always reach for,’ says Eleena Speck of Parkway East Design. Interior designer Evelina Juzėnaitė takes it further, holding that the more unexpected the hue, the better.

‘You can add a bright and interesting color to white as a top layer, such as green, brown, blue, or another favorite color,’ she notes. ‘White creates a beautiful contrast, making all other colors look bright and become accents. This technique works especially well during seasonal changes when you want to change shades but keep a neutral background,’ she explains.

According to Eleena Speck, styling white sheets isn’t that different from getting dressed. ‘Consider how you accessorize,’ the Utah-based designer says of her go-to fashion analogy.

‘Are you a minimalist, a texture-lover, a one-statement-piece person, or a “layers on layers” enthusiast? Apply that same personal style to your bed. Add throws, quilts, textured pillows, or seasonal patterns, just as you would add jewelry or a jacket to an outfit. With a white foundation, these layers shine, creating a bedscape that feels intentional, personal, and completely you.’

There is something about hotel beds that makes them irresistible, especially in winter when they are somehow always perfectly warm and cozy.

As the nights grow longer and the temperature drops, designers say now is the time to bring that same comfort and chic home with the Hotel Method.

The secret? Layering your sheets to perfection when styling your bed. It's the chic and cozy upgrade your bedroom (and your sleep) deserves this season. I tried it and it really works.

What is the Hotel Method for Warming Bedding?

For interior designer Alice Molloy, layering in interior design, such as your bedding in the Hotel Method, is a year-round essential for ultimate coziness.

She shares, 'Besides being a great way to stay warm this winter, layering up your bedding is the perfect way to add a little luxury too, as it will feel like you are in a hotel, trust me. It’s both a technique and a philosophy: Combining comfort, cleanliness, and visual symmetry to create an inviting, high-end sleep experience.'

As with many things in design, the rule of three applies to the hotel method. Three types of layers form the perfect bed, helping you to keep warm in bed in winter without cranking up the heat.

It is a similar principle to insulating your home, creating layers for pockets of air to be trapped within, keeping heat inside and cold air out. I've been using this trick for years to keep my heating cost down, and the cozy factor up, as long winter nights and the accompanying chill seep into every corner of my drafty Victorian home.

For Marta Pawlik, co-founder and director at luxury holiday let company LAIK, this includes a crisp foundation layer, a layer of comfort, and a layer for added softness.

She shares, 'Generally speaking, I begin with a crisp percale cotton bottom sheet [we love the Brooklinen flat sheets, available in six sizes] followed by a top sheet of either brushed cotton or flannel, depending upon the guest preferences, for softness.

'Then a lightweight wool or down blanket [also available at Brooklinen], and finally a quilted topper or feather duvet. Layering creates depth, comfort, and allows air to circulate throughout all the layers.'

The colorblock wool bed blanket from West Elm is available in three color options and two large luxurious sizes as the perfect final layer. With 80% wool, it is also perfect for breathable, naturally-regulated warmth that won't leave you overheated.

Marta continues, 'Typically, I layer approximately four to five pieces in a standard bedroom within our holiday homes,' she reveals. 'The results are consistently the same – a bed that is visually luxurious, yet easy to climb into after a cold and damp day.'

The real trick, Marta continues, is picking the best bedding materials, as there are some key bedding materials to avoid if you want to avoid waking up in a puddle of sweat.

'Fabric selection is the key element in my layering process. Cotton is breathable, linen helps regulate moisture, and wool retains heat in wet and damp weather conditions. I generally do not include synthetic materials as they retain too much heat and provide little of the inviting heavyweight associated with natural fabrics.'

With everything layered, Alice then recommends pressing the sheets if you want to make a bed the right way or are preparing a guest bedroom for Christmas. 'I don't always do this, but it is good practice to iron or steam sheets. No wrinkles, no visible seams, and precise alignment of everything from pillow edges to duvet fold lines instantly elevates your sleep space.'

What to Shop

All prices correct at time of publication. Bedding prices for king-size beds.

Meet the Experts

With your bedroom cozied up, try some other ways to decorate every room for fall to make your home feel more welcoming in the cold seasons.

More months out than I care to admit, I’ve already got an eye on Christmas gifts – for my parents, my brothers, and the friends who are basically sisters. Normally, I resist getting the same gifts for everyone, but this year, I’m making an exception. Because the only thing more essential – or more appealing, really – than good taste is good sleep. And Quince, in a rare act of generosity, is taking 25% off its already implausibly priced bedding bundles.

It’s newsworthy not just because it includes their best-selling bed sheets – European linen, percale, and premium down – but because Quince rarely ever does sales. If you’ve listened to a podcast in the last decade, you know they’ve already cut out the middleman, so their prices are already amazing value.

For a limited time, though, prices are lower still – and I’m taking it as a sign to give everyone I know the gift of a better night’s rest and a better-looking bed. And I think you should do the same.

The build-a-bundle I'm most likely to steal for myself is European Linen – including a duvet cover, fitted and flat sheets, pillowcases, and shams, all woven from 100% midweight Belgian flax and garment-washed for that heirloom-from-the-jump softness.

And for people like my dad – the pragmatic sort who doesn’t care about colorways – there’s the Down Premium Essentials Bundle, comprised of 650-fill white down puffs wrapped in silky sateen, available in three densities (lightweight, all-season, and ultra) for a less fussy, but more bespoke sleep experience.

Everyone on my list is a wildly different style of sleeper, but this Quince deal makes it weirdly easy to shop for all of them. I could play it safe with a bottle of wine or a fancy soap – but this year, I’m gifting something softer, more personal, and far more useful: eight hours of tangible proof that I care.

Bedding might seem like a niche gift, but I think it's the best one you can give. Everyone sleeps, and with Quince's options, you can pick from plenty of colors and fabrics so you can make it personal, too.

For as long as I can remember, I've used cotton sheets on my bed. That's what my parents bought for me as a child, and as an adult, I've never tried anything different. That is, until I tested Ettitude's Signature Bamboo Sheet Set – and now I'm a changed person.

Ettitude is a lifestyle brand that has set out to reinvent traditional home essentials like bedding, blankets, and bath towels by means of material. You see, the brand makes products with their signature 'CleanBamboo' fabric, a patented lyocell made from organic bamboo that's hypoallergenic, free of harmful toxins, and above all else, incredibly comfortable. Their Signature Bamboo Sheet Set is no exception – not only does its bamboo lyocell fabrication ensure a cool and cozy night's sleep, but its sateen weave invites a level of luxury to your slumber. And lucky for me, I had the pleasure of sleeping on them for the past month.

Although they're already on our list of the best bed sheets, I want to give you an in-depth review of Ettitude's Signature Bamboo Sheet Set so you can understand why these sheets are so highly praised and well loved. Read on to discover whether these dreamy sheets are right for you (spoiler: they probably are).

Ettitude Signature Bamboo Sheet Set review

I've organized this review into several sections so you can understand all of the standout details of Ettitude's Signature Bamboo Sheet Set. First, I'll give you the rundown on the specifications – from sizing and material to color variations. Next, I'll give my opinion on who these sheets would suit, and what it is like to sleep on them.

I'll also analyze how these sheets rate online based on reviews from other people who have tried them. Finally, I'll give you the verdict – should you buy Ettitude's Signature Bamboo Sheets, or not?

Ettitude Signature Bamboo Sheet Set specification

Who would the Ettitude Signature Bamboo Sheet Set suit?

• Hot sleepers or those living in warm climates: the Signature Bamboo Sheet Set is made with Ettitude's CleanBamboo lyocell – a naturally cooling and breathable material. It wicks moisture and regulates temperature throughout the night. If you find yourself having night sweats, these cooling sheets ensure comfort as you rest. Similarly, if you live in a warm climate or don't have air conditioning, these sheets should ensure comfortability even on the hottest nights of the year.
• People who care about ethically and sustainably made sheets: unlike bamboo viscose which is made with harsh chemicals, Ettitude's sheets are made of bamboo lyocell, an eco-friendly, non-toxic alternative that's safe for use in close proximity to your skin. Not only that, but Ettitude makes their products with the environment in mind, too. Since bamboo is considered a weed that grows 10x faster than it's harvested, it's an ideal material to use for production. Plus, Ettitude's bamboo is grown with rainwater in a closed-loop system that recycles water and saves a significantly higher percentage of water than bamboo viscose.
• Those who like the silky feel of sateen: Ettitude's Signature Bamboo Sheet Set is made with a sateen weave – a design meant to mimic the luscious feel of silk with its three-thread-over-one-thread-under pattern. Sateen sheets typically have a lustrous sheen to them, and that's evident with Ettitude's sheets. Because of the weave, sateen sheets are known to trap heat, however since Ettitude's sheets are made from bamboo lyocell, they ensure breathability and a cool feeling throughout the night.
• Anyone who has never paid any attention to sheet materials in their life: buy these, and you just might become a sheet snob.

What is it like to sleep on Ettitude's Signature Bamboo Sheet Set?

I've always wondered what it might feel like to sleep on a cloud, but after testing Ettitude's Signature Bamboo Sheet Set for the past month, I'd say I've come pretty close. These sheets are dream-like – they're ultra soft, extra breathable, and endlessly comfortable.

I specifically remember my first night sleeping on the Signature Bamboo Sheet Set. I had put the sheets on my bed in the morning, gone off to work, straight out to dinner, and after I came home and showered, I climbed into bed – forgetting that I had swapped my sheets. And let me tell you – what a pleasant surprise it was to lay my head against the smooth bamboo lyocell pillowcases and feel the silky sateen top sheet surround my skin.

Like I mentioned before, I've always bought cotton sheets for myself – partially because I never paid any attention to the many different types of bed sheets that exist. However, sleeping on these bamboo sheets is like sleeping on cotton bedding with the best thread count – silky smooth and comfortably cocooning.

Now, as someone who always feels cold when I sleep, I was a bit worried that these sheets wouldn't keep me warm enough throughout the night because of the naturally cooling properties of their bamboo lyocell fabrication. However, the thermoregulation of these sheets is impressive. I could sleep in shorts and a t-shirt and not feel cold, and that says a lot coming from someone who sleeps in a sweatshirt and sweatpants regularly. I was so surprised at how comfortable I felt in these sheets, and how receptive my body was to a new material.

How does the Ettitude Signature Bamboo Sheet Set rate online?

I'm not the only one obsessed with Ettitude's Signature Bamboo Sheet Set. On the brand's website, these sheets have a 4.6 out of 5-star rating, with over 5,000 5-star reviews. Not only that, but they're a designer-approved choice, too. I recently asked interior designers the best thing they've bought for their bedroom in 2025, and designer Gabriela Eisenhart raved about these sheets, saying they'll 'change your life'.

Many other reviewers praise the quality and materiality of these sheets, calling them 'soft', 'comfortable', and 'cool but not cold'. One reviewer called them 'phenomenal', and said now that they've tried them, they'll never use anything else.

Aside from the glowing praise surrounding the sheets themselves, people have nothing but good things to say about Ettitude's customer service. 'I had a problem with my order and they replaced my sheets without any problems,' one reviewer wrote. 'I am very pleased with Ettitude, and their sheets are awesome. Very soft and comfortable.'

There are lots of reviews praising Ettitude's attentiveness to customer needs, and thousands more ranking these sheets as the best out there. And as someone who has slept on the sheets myself, I am in complete agreement with the positive reviews of these sheets online.

Should I buy the Ettitude Signature Bamboo Sheet Set?

My immediate answer to the question of whether or not you should buy Ettitude's Signature Bamboo Sheet Set is yes, you definitely should. After being able to sleep on these for over a month, I can confirm that these sheets live up to the hype. They're ultra soft, and they keep me cool when I'm sleeping hot and warm when I feel cold. Not only do they look great and fit my queen bed perfectly, but it puts my mind at ease knowing they're good for the environment, too.

Despite the sateen weave, which typically produces sheets that feel a bit heavy, these sheets are super lightweight on the body – they have a comforting and cocooning effect when tucked in. They're quite thin, too – which can be both positive and negative. The thinness of these sheets enhances their breathability, but I do worry that they might be more prone to rips or damage. After reading hundreds of reviews, it seems like Ettitude's customer service team would be happy to help if any damage ever occurred.

One potential downside to these sheets is the detailed care instructions – you shouldn't wash bamboo bedding as you would cotton sheets. Instead, wash them delicately, and line dry if you can. If you live in a small house or apartment, this might cause more difficulty, however it's worth washing as Ettitude recommends to ensure your sheets stay in the best condition possible.

Another potential downside – they're expensive. The queen set is $359, which is a steep price for bed sheets. However, sheets are a critical factor for a good night's sleep, and these sheets might be the best out there. I can confidently say that they're worth the price. But keep an eye out for bedding sales, and you might be able to score these luxe sheets for a discounted price.

How we test bed sheets

At Homes & Gardens, we are committed to providing our readers with thorough and detailed reviews, regardless of the type of product we are testing.

When it comes to bed sheet reviews, we assess look and feel, thermoregulation, and durability. We test sheets over the course of a month to ensure we have ample information to provide you with an in-depth review of the sheets themselves. While testing Ettitude's Signature Bamboo Sheet Set, I wrote weekly notes – highlighting how the sheets felt against my skin, how they felt after a wash, if they regulated my temperature while asleep, and even how they held up against my constant tossing and turning. Using this information, I was able to come to my ultimate ranking of a 90% for these sheets – only subtracting points for the high price point and thinness.

We know how important it is to read reviews before making any purchase, especially a purchase as important as bed sheets. That's why we write our reviews with as much detail as possible, so you can make an informed purchase and feel confident while doing so.

Shop Only The Best Bed Linen, With Our Expert Edits

Discover the Highest Quality Layers For Your Bed

Shop Bedding Wisely, Whatever Your Budget

Caring For Your Bedding

It's simple: find the right bedding for you, and you'll sleep more comfortably. That means choosing bedding that allows you to sleep at a temperature that suits you, that offers a tailored comfort level, and which might even be hypo-allergenic. Plus, of course, it needs to suit your budget.

In this guide, we’re sharing jargon-busting expertise on the best bedding materials, the layers that can be used to dress a bed, sizing, the best bedding brands, and where to shop them.

Whether you’re upgrading on your existing bedding, selecting it for a first home, or giving bedding as a gift, our complete guide contains the details that will allow you to buy bedding with confidence.

1. Types of Bedding: What Do You Need?

A well-dressed bed combines many bedding essentials beyond the mattress, such as the best bed sheets, and might also make use of extras such as mattress toppers, throw pillows, and bed skirts. Below, we explain bedding types so you know exactly what you need for your bed.

• Bed skirt – to cover a box spring, and perhaps to hide underbed storage.
• Blanket or quilt/coverlet/weighted blanket – choices that can top bed layers as desired and might be changed seasonally.
• Duvet or comforter – whichever your preference, this will provide warmth. They are different; the former is warmer and heavier.
• Duvet cover or comforter cover – the former is a separate layer of bedlinen while a comforter cover is an outer covering.
• Fitted sheet – the first layer of a well-made bed and also known as a bottom sheet, this covers the top and sides of a mattress. Elasticated corners make for a secure fit but sizing it to the mattress, including its depth, is crucial to keeping fitted sheets on a bed.
• Flat sheet – the next layer above a fitted sheet and also called a top sheet, it lies below a duvet or comforter. It’s not a must-have but it can be easier to wash it weekly rather than having to wash a bulkier duvet cover every week. There is a huge range of choice when it comes to sheets, with cooling sheets a favorite with hot sleepers (these needn't be expensive by the way; we recommend plenty of Amazon cooling sheets for shoppers on a budget). For those looking for hotel-quality bedding, we also recommend luxury bedlinen where budget is less of a consideration.
• Hypoallergenic bed sheets are made from materials that are less likely to collect or create allergens, such as lint, mold, and dust mites. Some of the most popular hypoallergenic materials for bed sheets include cotton, bamboo, linen, silk, and microfiber.
• Mattress protectors are designed to keep your mattress clean of spills, dust and moisture (plus perhaps pet hair!). They come in a range of materials, some offering water-proofing, others offering protection from bed bugs and dust mites.
• Mattress toppers are a comfort layer that can be added to a mattress that you find too hard, or perhaps one that is due to be replaced. Or, maybe you need to buy a mattress topper for a dorm bed to see a student through college?
• Pillows – the best pillows need to complement your sleep position as well as dress the bed. There are many types, from classic sleeping pillows to decorative Euro or Continental to bolsters.
• Pillowcases and shams – the former keep pillows clean as well as serving an aesthetic purpose as a bed layer while shams are purely decorative versions.

2. Bedding Materials: Which Is Best for You?

Bedding materials determine how your bed feels to sleep in, how well your purchases wash, and how warm or cool you might feel at night – with staying at a comfortable temperature crucial for good sleep this is worth researching with your individual needs in mind.

One way to choose materials is to check out the options depending on whether you or a family member is a hot sleeper, the climate's cold, or someone has an allergy.

Hot sleepers should look at: cotton percale, linen, bamboo, and Tencel. Whether you are a hot sleeper or not, bedding for summer could include cooling sheets in cotton percale, linen, bamboo, or silk, which can make it easier to sleep well.

Winter bedding might involve a swap to cozy flannel sheets or cotton sateen and/or making changes to the layers of a bed from lightweight coverlets to insulating quilts and weighted blankets.

A summer weight duvet could be exchanged for one with a higher tog rating, but bear in mind your own body temperature, says Richard Boyle, CEO at Fremaux Delorme and expert at Brinkhaus. 'If you are generally a warmer person, a higher tog might be too warm for you as the materials will store your heat and could cause overheating,' he says.

Timing is important. ‘If you are looking to switch to something a bit heavier and warmer for the fall and winter, you may want to consider changing out your summer bedding to a down duvet or comforter halfway through the fall season,’ says Parima Ijaz, bedding expert and founder of Pure Parima bedding.

Guest room bedding should promote comfort. Cotton sheets are preferable as they will suit a majority of sleepers and and look wrinkle free (unlike linen), but are easy to launder. Having both a winter and summer weight duvet available to use on a guest bed is ideal, and blankets or coverlets can be layered on top for use as needed.

Dorm room bedding should be durable and easy care with cotton blends a good choice for sheets, along with a comforter plus a blanket to layer on the bed. A mattress topper for a dorm bed can transform a poor quality mattress, while taking a pillow that suits sleeping position will also aid good sleep.

Allergy sufferers: consider silk, organic cotton, or bamboo lyocell.

Here, we dig a little deeper into the best materials for bedding.

Cotton

• Cotton is an enduringly popular choice and one of the best materials for bedding, and you can select from different weaves and types.
• Cotton percale is what you might sleep in at a high-end hotel. Woven one-thread-over, one-thread-under, it’s breathable bedding and has excellent durability.
• Cotton sateen is softer, with a smooth silky texture. As it's woven three-threads-over, one-thread-under, it provides more warmth than percale weaves.
• Egyptian cotton denotes a coveted species of the plant. It’s prized for long, strong, fine fibers that create bedding with a luxurious soft feel.
• Supima is a brand name for US-grown pima cotton. The long fibers make for strong and soft sheets.

Linen

If you're weighing up cotton vs linen sheets, both score points for being natural materials. In the case of linen it's the fibers of the flax plant.

'The highest quality is made from French or Belgian flax, which grows taller than flax grown in other places,' says Byron Golub, vice president of product & merchandising at Saatva . 'The taller the flax plant, the longer the fibers taken from these plants to produce yarn. Longer fibers mean better breathability and moisture-wicking properties.'

Linen feels more textural than cotton, and softens over time but that’s the feel – it’s durable. For some, linen’s tendency to wrinkle is a downside but, for others this naturalness is a desirable aesthetic.

Bamboo

Shopping organic bedding? Another natural alternative is bamboo, the natural fabric that comes from the pulp of bamboo grass, is hypoallergenic, and breathable.

Bamboo lyocell is the option for eco-conscious shoppers since bamboo viscose or poly blends tend to incorporate plastics or harsh chemicals.

Silk

Silk bedding sounds luxurious and it is. Made from the cocoons of silkworms, it is wonderfully soft and smooth. Choose silk both for insulation in cold weather, but good temperature regulation when it’s warmer. Hypoallergenic properties can make it a top pick for some.

Disadvantages include a higher price point than other materials, and its relative delicacy, which means it needs to be laundered with care. And while you may not want silk sheets for this reason, consider silk pillowcases.

‘They can feel cooler than other pillow materials, which might help if you sleep hot,’ says Jeff Kahn, co-founder and CEO of Rise Science. Pillowcases in silk can also help keep hair moisturized and stay tangle free, be kinder than other materials on dry and sensitive skin, and even keep signs of age at bay.

'They may help prevent wrinkles because the smooth quality of the fabric produces less friction, which means it won’t tug at your skin as much as a fabric like cotton,' says Jeff.

Flannel

Flannel is soft woven fabric, but its fibers can be cotton (most often), wool, or synthetic, so you can exercise a material preference if you check labels when buying.

Favored for warmth, flannel also feel cozy because of its raised nap, a result of brushing. This gives it its insulating properties. Pick heavier weight flannels to get the benefit of their warmth in winter.

Blends and synthetics

Blended fabrics such as polycotton, Tencel, and microfiber can offer some useful qualities, although there are some drawbacks.

Polycotton, combining synthetic with natural fibers, is less expensive than pure cotton. It’s not as soft, though is still comfortable, and it is durable. It’s also more wrinkle resistant.

Tencel is semi-synthetic fabric made with eucalyptus wood pulp. Thermoregulating and moisture-wicking,with a smooth and silky finish, Tencel is good for hot sleepers.

Microfiber is often made entirely from synthetic fibers, although it can be made with wood pulp. Affordability and wrinkle resistance can recommend it and it's durable and feels soft. On the downside, it can feel hot to sleep in and can generate static.

3. Best Bedding Brands USA

Knowing where to buy bedding can save trawling through the abundance of options that can make shopping feel like hard work. Below, we've recommended our favorite, tried and trusted bedding brands – both affordable and luxury – whether you prefer to to buy bedding online, or would rather shop in store.

Amazon

Best for big name brands and smaller stores $-$$

Amazon offers an enormous choice of bedding – but that can be overwhelming, so our advice is to make the most of the search filters.

You can shop for bedding by size, material, thread count, price, and special features (say, fade-resistant or anti-pilling). Check customer reviews to make sure you're getting the most for your money.

As well as the value Amazon Basics, look out for the best bedding brands on Amazon; our top three are Boll & Branch, Cozy Earth, and California Design Den.

Anthropologie

Best for on-trend designs $$

Anthropologie doesn’t have the widest range of bedding in our A-Z, but whether you want to bring the latest looks to your bedroom or introduce fabulous textures, it’s the place to browse. Quilts are bestsellers and well worth checking out.

Avocado

Best for organic fibers $$-$$$

Avocado is known for its certified organic mattresses – including the Avocado Green Mattress, which we tested (the link, left, will take you to the review, where we gave it a four-and-a-half star rating).

But it also sells luxury bedding that is GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified. One recent reviewer of its organic cotton sheets says, ‘They are so comfortable and easy to care for’ while another says its natural linen sheets are ‘phenomenally comfortable’.

Bed Threads

Best for color choice

Bed Threads’ French flax bedding comes in every conceivable color. Experiment with your own color combinations or opt for one of Bed Threads' best-selling mixes.

We like Oatmeal & White Stripe to add depth and dimension to a classic white bedspread or go cooler with tones of Fog, Lagoon, and Charcoal. Organic cotton bedding is a new addition with eight hues to pick from.

Boll & Branch

Best for light and fluffy down duvets $$$

Boll & Branch bedding is carefully finished and beautifully presented: it's the destination of choice for style-savvy shoppers with money to spend. You can shop for bedding by color, including warm neutrals, cool blues, fresh greens, deep purples and soft pinks.

Particular favorites for us are the Signature Hemmed Sheet Set, woven to create a glossy sheen, and the Down Duvet Insert in three weights to suit each season.

Brooklinen

Best for range of bedding $$

Brooklinen offers bath linen, too, but has a range of bedding products, sizes, materials, and colorways that isn’t beaten by the specialist bed stores. The site is super-easy to navigate with filters for fabrics, including crisp percale, silky sateen, and washed linen.

Check out the Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set, top of our best bed sheets guide, its Down Comforter, one of our best cooling comforters for hot sleepers, and Marlow Pillow, adjustable to suit all sleeping positions.

Cozy Earth

Best for bamboo and silk bedding for hot sleepers $$-$$$

Cozy Earth specializes in bamboo bedding. Naturally moisture-wicking and antimicrobial, bamboo is built to bust the bacteria that breed in sweaty, sticky environments, such as bed sheets. If you want to level up to the next layer of luxury, you could shop their range of silk bedding.

Take a look at the Bamboo Sheet Set, of which one reviewer said, 'These are pure luxury. They are packaged beautifully, feel incredible and look gorgeous', or the Silk Pillow, which feels soft and sumptuous. Even through a cotton pillowcase, we could feel the cooling effects of the Mulberry silk.

Crate & Barrel

Best for a modern aesthetic $$-$$$

Crate & Barrel’s palette of shades has a sophisticated modern edge, and is complemented by appealing textural finishes plus designs with attractive pattern. Online it’s easy to filter by material and to find the fiber and weave that suits sleep temperature.

‘Reminiscent of staying in a luxury hotel,’ says a recent review of the bestselling Favorite Washed Organic Cotton Undyed Bed Sheet Set. Also a top seller is the Cozysoft Organic Jersey Quilt, of which a recent reviewer says, ‘The fabric is wonderfully soft and the texture is very attractive.’

DreamCloud

Best for all-season comfort $$-$$$

DreamCloud mattresses have won plaudits, but its bedding range includes all the essentials to dress a bed, plus protectors, pillows, and blankets.

The Serenity Sleep Bundle is a bestseller. 'Love love love the sheet set!' says a recent reviewer. 'I enjoy the labels for head and foot to make it easier to assemble on the bed. The sheets are cooling and comfortable.' And another says of the popular Weighted Blanket, 'It's amazing how it's cool on one side and warm the other side.'

ettitude

Best for bamboo lyocell bedding for eco-conscious shoppers $$

ettitude (or eco-attitude) is a must if you're keen to shop sustainably. Plenty of the best places to buy bedding work with bamboo, but they're mostly bamboo viscose or bamboo poly-blends. ettitude works with bamboo lyocell, which is free from harsh chemicals, toxins and plastics.

The Signature Sateen Sheet Set is number one in our best cooling sheets guide and among our best white bed sheets. Its Vegan Cashmere Blanket, plant-based and PETA-approved, is the closest we’ve tried to the real thing.

IKEA

Best for value $

IKEA may not offer bedding with an ultra-luxe look, but it's highly affordable and gets the job done. Our Sleep Editor Emilia Hitching visited the IKEA Hotell and sampled cool, crisp sheets, lightweight comforters, and foam pillows, ergonomically designed to support your neck and shoulders.

Our top picks from its range include the NORDSTÅLÖRT pillow, which is great for sleepers who suffer from back and neck pain, and the DVALA Sheet Set, made from durable, breathable cotton, which stands up to the wear and tear of nightly use and countless cycles in the washing machine.

Luxome

Best for super soft sheets $$

Luxome has a mission to make the softest sheets for luxurious sleep, and dozens of the reviewers on its site attest to its success. We recommend Luxome for anyone who likes the look and feel of sateen – the Luxury Sheet Set made from bamboo viscose is a great example and has great breathability, too.

We also like the LAYR Pillow, which has removable pillow inserts so it can be adjusted until it’s just right.

Macy’s

Best for a brilliant range of brands $-$$$

Macy’s is one of our best places to shop for bedroom furniture but count on its bedding selection, too, which offers a huge choice, an array of brands – including exclusives – and looks to suit traditional and modern tastes.

A recent reviewer calls its bestselling Charter Club Solid 550 Thread Count 100% Cotton Sheet Set, ‘Therapeutic and heavenly’. Also a top seller is the Hotel Collection 680 Thread Count 100% Supima Cotton Sheet Set, which attracts plenty of five star reviews and is acclaimed for softness.

Matouk

Best for beautiful bedspreads and custom details $$$

Matouk is a must if luxury bedding is on your agenda with the company’s linens handcrafted in its Fall River, Massachusetts factory. The beautiful bedspreads stand out while, out of all the bedding designs, the Antonia Collection is a Homes & Gardens' favorite because it offers the opportunity to play with prints and patterns before you commit to full-on florals.

Find a full selection of bedding alongside including sheets, bed skirts, duvet covers, and more. And for true individual style, take a look at the customization options available, including monogramming.

Nectar

Best for dressing the bed when you buy a mattress $$-$$$

Nectar is another brand known for its mattresses but which offers bedding you should know about as well. It has the same parent brand as DreamCloud, above, and offers a similar range including the Serenity Sleep Bundle (a bestseller), mattress protectors, pillows, and sheets.

One recent reviewer says of the Tri-Comfort Cooling Pillow, 'It’s soft, cool, supportive, and never loses its shape! It’s got zippers to help change the fluff level and it’s hands down the best pillow I’ve ever had'.

Parachute

Best for bedding innovations $$$

Parachute is known for its quality sheets but also its new innovations, including yarn-dyed fabrics. The technique means the back and front of the fabric look the same rather than a pattern or motif being printed on top of a color on one side only.

See the results on the company’s Percale Sheets, including the Bone color that our style editor recommends because even the faintest whisper of stripe can elevate your bed. Or try the wide stripe of the Percale in Dusk Stripe, which is nautical in the best way.

Piglet in Bed

Best for romantic linen in warm prints and patterns $$$

Piglet in Bed is the place to go if you're keen to play with prints and patterns. You'll find classic shades of white and oatmeal alongside dusk blues and warm clays, interspersed with subtle stripes and playful gingham prints with real retro appeal. If you're not sold on linen, but you love the look, then you can explore its cotton bundles or meet in the middle with a linen blend.

Our faves? The Heritage 100% Linen Bundle in a choice of 10 colors, the Botanical Green Gingham Linen Blend Duvet Cover, a classic print and a calming shade, and the Merino Wool Duvet, a thermoregulating insert.

Saatva

Best for sensitive sleepers $$-$$$

Saatva is another among the brands that might call mattresses to mind but also rewards your time when you’re shopping for sheets – including cotton sateen, cotton percale, flannel, and linen, plus duvet covers, blankets, pillows and more.

Materials are chosen to be hypoallergenic to avoid symptoms. 'I am sleeping through the whole night for the first [time] in several months and waking up without neck pain for the first time in over a year,' says a recent reviewer of the bestselling Latex Pillow.

Sleep Number

Best for easy bed making $$-$$$

Sleep Number’s Smart Bed brings tech to the aid of a better night’s sleep, but alongside are the essential bedding layers that also contribute to the search for comfort. Sheets include cotton blends that stretch to create a good fit, plus Supima cotton, and the SmartFit designs have elasticized edges, elastic corner seams and anchor bands to keep fitted sheets in place.

A recent reviewer says, 'Love this bedsheet. It stays in place with grip bands.' Shop here for mattress pads and toppers, blankets and coverlets and comforters and duvets, too.

Walmart

Best for bedding sets $

Walmart is a go-to if you want great value bedding buys of every type plus easy filtering to find what you need without wasting time. There’s a wide range of materials on offer, including practical blends and 100 per cent cottons. It’s the place to shop for dorm room bedding sets or if you need to dress a guest bed in a hurry.

Our favorites include the Comfort Canopy Hand-knit Throw Blanket with its textural chunky weave and its Oussum Satin Pillowcases, which are kind on skin and hair but also easy to wash.

Woolroom

Best for organic wool bedding for hot sleepers $$-$$$

Woolroom lives up to its name. Our Sleep Editor went on its Sleep Retreat and spent the night on a woollen mattress, under woollen sheets and a wool comforter, resting her head on a wool-filled pillow, discovering that wool keeps you comfortable without overheating.

We like the Woolroom Organic Washable Wool Comforter, which has three warmth levels to suit every sleep style and weather pattern, and the Deluxe Washable Wool Mattress Protector, one of the best cooling mattress protectors. Shop for sheets and comforter covers here, too.

4. Budgeting for Bedding: What to Expect

Fabric, its quality, and the complexity of the manufacturing process contribute to the price. To make the most of your spend consider longevity as well as cost since sheets at a lower price made of lower quality materials won’t offer the best durability so you’ll need to invest in a new set sooner. Typical prices you should expect to spend are listed out below:

Queen-sized sheet set: between $50 and $200, including a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and two pillowcases.

Cotton sheet sets from affordable brands can cost from around $30; for a luxury set in this material expect to pay in a range from around $100 to $300. Look for long staple fibers – Egyptian, Supima, percale weaves – that retain their softness over the long term.

Cotton percale with a thread count of 200 to 400 can guarantee good quality and comfort and, without the price tag that comes with some materials, can be a sound investment.

Linen bedding comes with a bigger price tag with affordable options at around $170 while luxury sets cost from around $300 to $600. Linen can be worthwhile for hot sleepers and as a long term investment as it becomes softer over time.

Bamboo sheet sets are available from around $50 from affordable brands, while shopping from luxury brands could cost from around $275 to $600.

Silk sheets are a luxury option and you can expect to pay from around $300 to $1500 and more for a set. Silk could also prove a good buy but don’t forget the extra care it needs when laundering.

Blends and synthetics start from around $15 to $30 for a microfiber sheet set while some cotton blends can cost over $250 depending on their features.

Microfiber bedding will offer maximum savings but it won’t suit every sleeper, particular hot sleepers (it traps heat) and anyone who likes to sleep in natural materials.

Single ply bedding is more durable than multi-ply, so check the details.

A bedding bundle or set can typically be a cheaper way to dress a bed than buying its elements individually. However, be sure that you would choose everything that’s included; a set with a flat sheet won’t maximize your spend if you prefer to wash a duvet cover weekly and go without.

On a tight budget? Take a look at Target and Wayfair as well as the affordable brands in our list, above.

5. Bedding Sizing Guide: Get the Fit Right

Bedding must be a good fit to look and feel its best and keep sleepers comfortable all night long. Our bedding size guide has the details on what fits each mattress, as well as how to measure the mattress.

Sheet sizes explained

Typical sheet sizes are:

Twin: 38 x 75 inches
Twin XL: 38 x 80 inches
Full: 53 x 75 inches
Queen: 60 x 80 inches
King: 76 x 80 inches
Californian King: 72 x 84 inches

Bear in mind, however, that while we're providing standard sizes, you should always check the actual dimensions of the sheets you’re interested in rather than rely on a label that says twin, queen and so on as sizes can vary between brands.

When you’re buying a fitted sheet knowing whether you need a deep pocket vs standard version is also essential. The pockets are the corners and these need to be sized to accommodate the height of your mattress. Without deep enough corners, the sheet won’t be held securely in place.

What’s considered a deep pocket varies between brands so, once again, it is vital to check the particular fitted sheet's measurements.

Measuring a mattress

Before you invest in new bedding it’s a good idea to measure a mattress. Remove the bedding to do so except for any mattress topper, which will count towards the mattress height. Use a metal tape measure as fabric versions can stretch making measurements inaccurate.

Measure from side to side bearing in mind that if your mattress curves outwards you’ll need to measure at its widest point. Measure the length, too, again at the widest point if the mattress curves at its edges. Measure the height of the mattress from top to bottom plus the mattress topper if there is one.

6. When Is the Best Time to Buy Bedding?

One great thing about buying bedding from these best brands, is that many frequently hold bedding sales throughout the year, so if you're looking for a deal, you will definitely be able to purchase some of the best bedding with a good discount, what's not to love?

When Is the Best Time to Shop for Bedding Deals?

Site-specific sales could pop up at any time, but there are a few big ones that it's worth keeping an eye out for. Amazon runs two Prime Days every year, one in July and one in October, and Wayfair and Walmart follow suit with Way Day and Super Savings Week discounts throughout the year. Many bedding brands will run anniversary sales to celebrate the 'birthday' of their brand, so I suggest you bookmark your favorites.

White sales: typically held in January, white sales slash prices on sheets, towels, and other household linens in a bid to shift stock in time for the new season.

Presidents' Day sales: falling on the third Monday in February, Presidents' Day offers the deepest bedding discounts this side of Memorial Day. Take this opportunity to stock up on cooling bedding before the summer rush.

Sleep Week sales: the exact dates of Sleep Week vary from one year to the next. It typically falls in the middle of March, which happens to be Sleep Month, as celebrated by the National Sleep Foundation. This is the time to shop at specialist sleep stores, rather than home retailers, who won't make so much noise for an unofficial holiday.

Memorial Day bedding sales: falling on the last Monday in May, Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer. You'll see a big rush on cooling sheets, comforters, pillows, mattress toppers and protectors to weather the hot nights and heatwaves.

Amazon Prime Day bedding sales: the exact dates of Amazon Prime Days are a closely guarded secret. Judging by previous years, you can expect one in July and one in October. Amazon stocks bedding from smaller specialist sleep stores as well as big-name brands, including Tempur-Pedic, Brooklinen, and Cozy Earth. As a general rule, discounts are deeper in July than they are in October, but prices vary from product to product.

Back-to-school sales: this is the time to make the most of the August-September discounts at your local home retailer, where back-to-school sales are much more comprehensive. If you're looking for the best mattress topper for dorm beds, this is the best time to buy before you head off to college.

Black Friday bedding sales: Black Friday is the best time to buy just about anything, from white goods to home tech, plus mattresses and bedding. A lot of stores open up Early Access sales at the start of November and extend them through Cyber Monday into the first week of December, so you've got plenty of time to shop for Black Friday bedding deals.

After-Christmas bedding sales: the end of December and start of the January sales are a great time to shop cooling bedding at out-of-season prices. You might not get such a good deal on cozy comforters and blankets though, which are in higher demand then.

How Can I Get the Best Bedding Deals?

Stop and Consider Your Sleep Style

You should never buy something just because it's on sale. You aren't saving money on a winter-weather sheet set if you run hot and live in a desert state. Before you buy, I'd encourage you to stop and consider your sleep needs.

Which bed sheet types are best for you depends on whether you prefer a matte or silky texture, as well as whether you run hot or cool and whether you have any allergies. Similar decisions dictate whether you should opt for down or down alternative duvet inserts, although it's worth noting that down has better natural loft.

Your preferred pillow type is largely dependent on your sleep position: whether you lie on your front, back, or side. As a general rule, side sleepers need a thicker pillow to slot into the gap between their head and shoulders to support their neck, while back and stomach sleepers benefit from something flatter to stop their neck from straining.

Make the Most of Bundle Deals

If you're looking to refresh your bedroom ideas, then you could save hundreds of dollars by building a bundle. On the other hand, if you're only shopping for one specific item, then you shouldn't be duped into spending more on unnecessary bundle items. You can do without the sheet set when you purchase your next pillow.

Scour the Specifications

It's the quickest way to spot the difference between a good deal and a low price on a poor product. You're looking for authentication from independent bodies that this bedding bundle is really worth the money: a badge from the Cotton Egypt Association to certify Egyptian cotton, for example, or insignia from OEKO-TEX to prove that textiles are free from certain harmful substances.

Our Bedding Experts

Choose good bedding and it will keep you at the right temperature all night long and feel comfortable – both vital factors in getting the restful and restorative night’s sleep that contributes to health. The bedding you select is also a major contributor to the room’s style whether that’s anything from a laid back to a five-star hotel look.

To spend well whatever your budget, prioritize according to material, season, and bedding qualities to meet your sleep needs and your aesthetic.

Few things are as annoying as having to play tug-of-war with tangled sheets in the middle of the night. If your bedsheets always slip from the corner of your mattress, you'll know the feeling.

That's why these simple $18 bed sheet holders from Amazon, which have gone viral, will keep sheets snugly in place all night long, no matter how much you toss and turn, and they're discounted by almost half for a limited time only.

Rated a 'total game changer' by happy shoppers, this simple fix is the easiest upgrade to help you sleep better this winter.

Bedsheet corners are the simple answer to annoying slippery sheets

Keeping fitted sheets on a bed can be a struggle, especially if it is slightly too tight or loose, or the elastic has started to give out from years of use and cycles through your washer and dryer.

However, you don't have to settle for making a bed every morning from scratch. These bed sheet holders slip under the covers and anchor the sheets in place, without impacting how you style a bed for a neat, hotel-worthy bedroom.

It might not seem like a big deal, but even the best bed sheets can make it harder to stay asleep when they wrap around your legs.

Not to mention that loose sheets can prematurely age your mattress, reducing protection against wear and tear and stains. Cleaning a mattress will only get you so far.

Don't just take our word for it – verified Amazon shopper Renee Schumm gave these affordable bedsheet holders five stars, hailing them as a 'total gamechanger!'

Renee added in their review, 'I was constantly fighting with loose sheets slipping off the corners of my mattress, but not anymore. The straps are heavy-duty, the lock fasteners hold tight, and the anti-slip pads keep everything perfectly in place. They were super easy to install and fit my mattress with no problem.

'Now my sheets stay smooth and secure all night – no more waking up tangled in a half-loose sheet. Definitely worth it.'

Essentials for better sleep

It isn't just tangled sheets that are impacting your rest – these things in your bedroom are secretly ruining your sleep, too.

Snuggling under cozy bedding is a sumptuous feeling when cooler weather arrives, but do you know how to wash, dry, and care for comforters and duvet inserts to keep them as fresh, soft, and plump as day one?

If you're not sure where to start – or simply want to turn your bedroom into the ultimate cozy haven this winter – here's our ultimate guide on looking after your best duvet inserts and best comforters.

How to wash a comforter or duvet insert like a pro

Before we get into it, you may be wondering, 'How often should I was a comforter?' Well, according to our bedding pros, you should be aiming to wash your duvet insert once every three months, while a comforter should be cleaned every two months, to get rid of dust mites, and banish stains and odors.

You should also wash your bedding more frequently in the warmer summer months to avoid any unhygienic, common bedding mistakes, which is equally as important when washing, drying, and caring for bed linen, too.

On the contrary, down comforters should be washed just once or twice a year, as repeated washing can crush the down and reduce the loft. The exception is if something is spilled on the comforter, which should be cleaned right away if the liquid penetrates the cover.

Importantly, if you wash your comforter correctly, it will not ruin it. But, as comforters can be delicate, it is crucial to use the properly sized laundry machine, mild temperatures, and correct detergents to make sure it comes out even softer and cozier than it went in and certainly without any lumps, bumps or musty smells.

Here's our guide to washing a comforter or duvet insert at home to restore it like a pro:

A few simple steps to follow

1. Check thoroughly for stains and tears: Before you pop it in the washer, give it a really good check over for stains, wear and tear. Pre-treat any stains you spot with a dedicated product, such as the Shout Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray available at Amazon, or a mild detergent. Sew up any tears so they don’t get bigger during the washing process.
2. Check the washing instructions: When washing a comforter or duvet insert, first check the laundry symbols for guidance. Some comforters or duvet inserts might have a dry-clean-only label on them, and if you don’t check that before putting them in the machine, you could completely ruin your bedding. What's more, some will have incredibly specific washing or drying instructions, and if you don't follow these, you could shrink your bedding or destroy the filling inside. 
3. Check your washing machine size: One top tip is to make sure your washer is large enough; if you squash your comforter or duvet insert in, not only will it not wash properly, but it might ruin or even break your appliance. Water and your chosen detergent need room to circulate and work their magic.
4. Use the right detergent and wash cycle: Use a mild, enzyme-free detergent, and opt for a gentle cycle. 'This helps minimize agitation and reduce the risk of damage,’ says Rick Rome, CEO and founder of New York-based WashClub. ‘Cold or lukewarm water is generally recommended, but refer to the care instructions for the appropriate temperature. After the wash cycle is complete, run an additional rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed.’

How to wash a down comforter or duvet insert

To maintain the fluffiness and warmth of your bedding, it’s vital to know how to wash a down comforter or duvet insert properly.

Either can go into a regular washer, but what’s crucial is that, like when washing any other kind of comforter, your machine has a large enough capacity. The down can be adversely affected if there isn’t sufficient space inside the drum.

If your washing machine isn’t large enough, take your bedding to the laundromat instead. The easy litmus test is whether or not there is a hand's width worth of space at the top of the front-loading drum. If not, your machine is overloaded.

Here's everything you need to know about washing a down comforter or duvet insert, either at home or at the laundromat. You'll notice that the majority of the steps are no different from doing everyday laundry:

1. Check the laundry symbols.
2. Check for stains and tears.
3. Add the detergent: Always use a gentle detergent, preferably specifically designed for down, such as the Nikwax Down Wash, available at Amazon. Brian Delp, CEO of New Sega Home, advises, 'Do not use softeners or additives like bleach so as not to impact the integrity of the fill.' Fragranced detergents shouldn't be used either. And, if you're tempted to use extra detergent because of the size of your comforter or duvet insert, Alan Weiner, COO of Elegant Strand, assures, 'Use the normal amount of laundry soap, as recommended by the manufacturer of your washer – you don’t need more just because it’s bulky.'
4. Wash on a warm cycle: Or according to the care label. As a rule, the water should be warm; avoid cold or hot options. ‘Generally, you should set the cycle on the gentlest setting possible,’ says Brian. ‘Wash on delicate cycle if available. This setting will minimize the impact on the feather fill.’
5. Run an extra rinse cycle: This can help get rid of any remaining suds and detergent residue.

How to freshen a duvet insert or comforter without washing it

Given that crawling under a comforter or duvet is one of life's great joys, but bulky bedding is notoriously hard to clean, you might be wondering how to freshen a comforter or duvet insert without the rigmarole of fully washing and drying it.

But first, why do they smell musty in the first place?

'They can develop a musty smell over time because they tend to trap moisture, body oils, and dust, which build up during use,' explains Hyacinth Tucker, owner and CEO of The Laundry Basket. 'This can happen if they aren't aired out properly or if they're stored in a humid environment.

'Even though we may not see it, dust mites and bacteria can also contribute to that unpleasant odor.'

This may also be a problem if you prefer to be sustainable at home and shop second-hand for your bedding. If this is the case, however, this bedding should always be thoroughly washed or dry-cleaned before use, rather than just freshened up.

That being said, here's what the pros recommend trying between washes:

• Shake and fluff: Probably one of the simplest methods to freshen your comforter or duvet insert, shaking it regularly will redistribute the filling and aerate the fabric. This is also a good idea to do when switching to a winter comforter, both to your lighter, summer comforter before putting it in storage, and your cold-weather alternative before putting it on your bed.
• Tumble dry: Another effective method to freshen either without washing is by putting it in the dryer, but pay close attention to its temperature guide to avoid any tumble dryer mistakes. You may also want to use dryer balls, such as the bestselling Wool Dryer Balls available at Amazon for added fluffiness (if you're wondering why you should be using dryer balls), which will also reduce stubborn lint and hair, and help to reduce wrinkles. You can also ditch dryer sheets and use an essential oil hack by wetting a cloth and adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil to add a subtle, lovely fragrance to your dryer cycle and duvet or comforter.
• Air outside: There are so many benefits of air-drying laundry, and it's a great way to freshen a comforter or duvet insert without washing it, too. You can also beat it with a Traditional Racket Carpet Rug Beater available at Amazon which will work wonders to beat out dust and debris, which may be making your comforter smell musty. This method works as when you air out bedding, the sun naturally disinfects bacteria and fades stains while helping to eliminate moisture.
• Soak in a bathtub: As the agitation of a washing machine is generally what causes damage to your comforter or duvet insert, you can soak them in mild detergent periodically in your bathtub instead. Let it sit for an hour before thoroughly hand washing with a sponge, or soft brush, such as The Laundress Stain Brush available at Amazon to remove any stubborn stains, paired with a stain removal product that really works. If you're wondering whether hot or cold water is better for stain removal, stick to cold water when soaking your comforter to avoid setting stains or shrinkage.
• Use a dehumidifier: To prevent musty smells in the first place, use your best dehumidifier to reduce excess moisture in the air, which can keep your comforter fresher for longer. For a more affordable option, you can also use charcoal air purifying bags, such as the Moso Natural Air Purifying Bags available at Amazon. Every morning, allow your sheets to cool down and air for 30 minutes before making your bed to allow any moisture to evaporate. This will help keep things fresher between washes.
• Use baking soda: Around the home, there are many things you can clean with baking soda, and Jade Piper, operations manager at BetterCleans, also recommends using it if you want to know how to freshen a comforter or duvet insert without washing it. She says, 'I suggest vacuuming it first, or using a lint roller (such as the Mainstays Lint Roller available at Walmart) to remove dust and hair. Next, sprinkle baking soda on the entire surface, let it sit for at least 15 minutes to deodorize, and vacuum again. Our best handheld vacuum is the Black + Decker Dust Buster, available at Amazon. Then flip it and do the same for the other side.' Piper recommends following this with giving your comforter or insert a good shake before leaving it outdoors over a sunny window or balcony door for some fresh airflow.
• Use a fabric refresh spray: You can also use a fabric refresh spray, or learn how to make DIY linen spray.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

How to dry a comforter or duvet insert

Once you’ve washed your comforter or duvet insert, it’s important that you dry it thoroughly before using it again. Dampness can easily turn to mold or mildew, so it’s worth allowing it to dry properly. Ultimately, it’s an exercise in patience, and this goes for whatever inner material you have. And yes, you can use the delicate setting of the tumble dryer.

The most important thing to do before drying is, as always, to check the care label.

Most comforters or duvet inserts are filled with feathers, a mix of feathers known as ‘down’, cotton, or fiberfill. All of these materials can be cleaned in a washing machine and dried in a tumble dryer on a low heat.

However, some more inexpensive types may consist of a foam filling, which could be problematic when washing and drying, as the foam may lose its shape.

Here's what the pros suggest:

• How to dry them in a dryer: Whilst it is possible to dry most comforters in the same way that you can tumble dry a duvet, approach with caution, or you may risk losing their plush loftiness. Luckily, there are simple ways to avoid this from happening. For example, you can remove the item from the machine several times during the process to 'hand fluff' it, giving the item a good shake and a final fluff once the cycle is over. Alternatively, add dryer balls, such as the Mainstays Plastic Dryer Balls available at Walmart, to the dryer to help distribute the duvet's filling, or put a towel in with the comforter to absorb lots of the moisture and allow it to dry faster. If the filling is still clumping, that’s a sign that the comforter still has wet spots inside, and you may need to repeat the drying cycle. Due to its size and weight, it is likely to take several hours to dry your comforter in a tumble dryer. However, some models have built-in technology to make the process easier.
• How to air dry them: If yours contains delicate fabrics or a mix of fibers, you may prefer to dry a comforter naturally. Once you have washed the item, shake it out to make sure the feathers or filling are evenly distributed, then find a suitable place to hang it. Drape it over a bathtub or a drying rack – anywhere it is suspended and can dry as quickly as possible to keep mold and mildew from growing. If you can, open windows and place a large fan, such as the iLIVING Fan available at Amazon, next to it to help speed up the drying process. If you have a garden or a balcony, drying the comforter out in the sun is the best-case scenario. A clothes line is ideal, but drying racks will be more than sufficient if you spread your comforter between two. Be sure to check the forecast – a hot, sunny day with light wind will make the best weather conditions. This method is also recommended when washing, drying, and caring for pillows, too.
• How to dry them at a laundromat: Taking your comforter or duvet insert to the laundromat is a good alternative to cleaning and drying it at home, particularly if your comforter is particularly large, or you are worried about your tumble dryer's capacity and age.

Airing your comforter or duvet insert outdoors

We've already touched on the fact that airing your duvet outdoors can freshen it between washes, but did you know that the Scandi-inspired duvet hack, known as 'hygge' is actually proven to help you sleep better?

'Airing out bedding, particularly duvets, is a tradition in colder Nordic climates,' explains sleep specialist Dr Walt Pickut from easysleepguide.com. The method consists of taking a duvet into the cold air, keeping the cover on, too, if you have a duvet insert, and leaving it outside for four hours.

Putting it back on the bed before you sleep will have your bed feeling crisp and cool to the touch – if you're a hot sleeper, you have to try it.

It is the Scandi-secret to a freshly made bed, and the benefits are:

• Moisture reduction: 'We lose about a pint of water every night through perspiration and respiration,' states Dr. Walt. 'This moisture gets trapped in our bedding, providing a potential breeding ground for dust mites and mildew, which are harmful to our respiratory health and can disrupt sleep. Airing out your duvet can help remove this moisture and deter these allergens.'
• Temperature regulation: The warmth of the sunshine can help to restore the loft of your duvet, which helps to give it that plush, bouncy feeling that gradually fades over time, resulting in better temperature regulation during sleep, a critical aspect of maintaining deep, restorative sleep cycles.
• Natural deodorizer: If you air your duvet on a sunny day, the sunlight can help to remove any unpleasant smells.
• Comfort and feel: Taking your duvet outside not only airs it out but also exposes it to sunlight, which has natural sanitizing properties. This practice keeps your bedding feeling and smelling fresher, providing a more comfortable and inviting sleep environment. 'We spend about a third of our lives sleeping, so investing time and effort in optimizing our sleep environment is time well spent,' adds Dr. Walt.
• Sustainability: Dr. Walt points out that it is an environmentally friendly practice as well. 'Regular airing can prolong the life of your bedding, reducing the need for washing and hence saving water and energy,' he explains. It's such a simple way to be more sustainable at home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

How to store a comforter or duvet insert

Taking the time and steps to store a comforter or duvet insert correctly is one of the things people who store bed linen properly always do.

Here's how to keep your cozy comforter in tip-top condition when storing:

• Fold it properly: Following the same technique as when folding blankets, fold your comforter or duvet neatly for storage. 'Lay it flat and smooth out any wrinkles,' says Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized. 'Fold it in thirds lengthwise, then fold it again into a compact square or roll it up.' If you're unsure which to go for, Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, recommends that a down duvet should be rolled, while non-natural fibers are fine to fold. 'Folding or rolling the duvet properly will help prevent deep creases and keep the filling from clumping,' he adds.
• Store in a cool, dry place: Opting for a cool, dry place is best. 'Wherever you store your duvet, make sure it's not in direct sunlight or a damp area, like a basement,' advises Di. 'Sunlight can fade fabric, and moisture can lead to mold or mildew.' Choosing the best storage for your comforter will depend on your space and lifestyle. 'Some people are fine storing a duvet loose in a linen closet as long as it is cool and free from moisture,' says Ben. 'However, if the duvet is expensive, a specific duvet storage bag works best. Try and avoid using plastic, since our goal is always for the duvet to breathe. You can use an acid-free box if you have the space, but it's not necessary. Breathable is the buzzword.' We recommend the SLEEPING LAMB 120L Extra Large Blanket Storage Bag available at Amazon, which is spacious enough to hold two king-size comforters and two pillows while allowing air circulation to prevent musty odors.
• For small spaces: If your storage ideas need to reflect the fact that you're tight on space, Di suggests using vacuum storage bags, such as the HIBAG Vacuum Storage Bags, also available at Amazon. 'They compress bulky duvets down significantly,' she explains. 'Just be careful with down duvets, as too much compression can damage the feathers.' You can also use underbed storage ideas, 'Which are a good option if you want quick access and don't want to compress the duvet too much,' recommends Di, or, if you have the space, placing a breathable bag on a high shelf will also work well, especially for fluffier duvets. Whichever you choose, before you close up for the spring and summer seasons, you can add a few lavender sachets, such as the WillowBrook Fresh Scents Scented Sachet Packet available at Amazon, cedar balls, or moisture absorbers into the storage container, to keep odors and pests away. 'Lavender makes a great homemade moth repellent, and cedar helps prevent mildew,' says Di. 'Plus, they smell so good!'

Futureproofing your comforter or duvet insert

To futureproof your comforter or duvet insert, use a cover, as it acts as a barrier between you and it, and you can wash that as often as you wash your pillows and wash your bed sheets.

If pets do sleep on your bed, then pop a blanket on top of the comforter so it has a layer of protection.

Wayfair sells a good-quality comforter protector, and Amazon sells a highly-rated comforter protector, too.

If you spill anything or see a stain, treat it straightaway; a simple dab might suffice rather than having to fully wash it.

Give your comforter a good shake every morning and allow it to air out during the warmer months before making your bed. Every week, flip it so the inner filling doesn’t settle in one place.

Store it properly, as detailed earlier in this guide, so that in warmer months, it's not getting musty, moldy, or impacted by pests whilst it is out of sight.

What to shop

FAQs

Is it better to wash or dry clean a down comforter?

It is better to wash a down comforter, and we recommend avoiding dry cleaning because the chemicals aren’t suited to down. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t take your down comforter to the dry cleaner – but for professional laundering.

You might prefer to do this if your home washing machine doesn’t have a large enough capacity for your comforter, and to ensure the down is thoroughly dried.

Why does my comforter still smell after washing?

If your comforter still smells after washing, it might be down to a mistake you are making with powder detergent or with laundry pods – namely, using too much detergent.

This excess residue will attract dirt and harbor odors, and lead to a musty-smelling comforter. Also, leaving your comforter damp after washing, or not allowing it adequate time to fully dry before using or storing it, will make your comforter smell of damp after washing.

Next, learn how to remove discoloration from bedding to keep yours looking great for years to come.

They're one of the most essential household items for ensuring a comfortable night's sleep, but do you know how to wash, dry, and care for pillows correctly?

Errors in this type of cleaning can damage your pillows, make them lumpy or smell moldy.

Here, professional cleaners share their top tips for caring for your best pillows properly, ensuring they'll last for years to come.

How often should you wash pillows?

It's an easy task to forget, but cleaning your pillows is key to keeping them fresh, ensuring better relaxation and comfort.

However, how often you should wash your pillows is highly influenced by the type of pillow you have, as well as individual factors such as allergies and sleeping habits.

Here's what the pros recommend:

• Pillows will need cleaning every three to six months to remove dust mites, sweat, and body oils. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, consider washing your pillows every two months for a healthier sleeping environment. Importantly, feather pillows should be washed less, around once or twice a year, to protect their natural fill.
• Pillowcases should be washed every one to two weeks.
• Pillow protectors should be laundered every two to four weeks.
• Throw pillows should be washed at least once a quarter. This will, however, depend on how, where, and how often they are used. If you allow your pets on the sofa or bed, you may want to consider washing them more regularly. 

How to wash a pillow

Knowing how to wash pillows is essential to keep every bed in your home hygienic, but it can be tricky to get right.

As a rule, how to wash a pillow will depend on what it's filled with. ‘Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing a pillow,’ says Drew Miller, a VP at Sit ’n Sleep. ‘Most can be machine-washed, but some may need to be dry cleaned.’

The laundry symbols on each pillow’s tag will let you know about individual care. As a general rule, it's safe to assume that more fiberfill, cotton, feather, or down pillows can be washed in the washing machine, while any that are made with latex or memory foam cannot.

Here's how to wash pillows in the washing machine:

1. Remove any pillowcases, shams, or pillow protectors – you can put these into the washer at the same time as the pillows if you wish.
2. Add detergent, such as the ARM & HAMMER™ Deep Clean Odor Formula Liquid Laundry Detergent available at Amazon, then program in a gentle, warm wash cycle. If possible, set your washer to a second rinse cycle. Otherwise, wait for the program to finish and run a second rinse and spin cycle. 
3. After the spin cycle has finished, check how wet the pillows are. If they are still heavy with water, spin them again. The aim is for them to be damp rather than wet and dripping. 

To protect your washing machine, wash two pillows at once – this will keep the washer balanced since wet pillows are very heavy when spinning.

How to wash a memory foam pillow

You cannot wash memory foam pillows in a washing machine, but there are other options for cleaning them. If the label doesn't advise dry cleaning only, you may be able to hand-wash yours.

1. First, remove the covers, shams, and protectors, and put these in the washing machine on a medium to hot wash.
2. Start with vacuuming, then spot cleaning your memory foam pillow with a damp cloth dipped in a solution of warm water and washing detergent.
3. Repeat if necessary.
4. If this doesn’t work, fill your laundry room sink – or bathtub – with a few inches of warm water (just enough to cover the depth of your pillows), adding liquid detergent as you run the faucets, so that you have a shallow bubble bath for the pillow. 
5. Immerse the memory foam pillow in the water, moving it about and gently squeezing and massaging it to work the water and detergent through it.
6. Let the water out of the sink or bathtub and run the clean, warm water over the soapy pillow, gently squeezing it until the water runs clear. 

You can also clean with baking soda to freshen up pillows in-between washes.

‘Take off the pillowcase and lie the pillow on a flat surface,’ says Carl Walsh, owner of Bed Guru. ‘Sprinkle baking soda over your pillow before leaving it in direct sunlight for around two to three hours. Then vacuum off the baking soda thoroughly. It should be smelling good as new.’

How to wash feather pillows

Can you wash a feather pillow? While you might be sure about washing the pillowcase that protects it, what’s required to clean the feather pillow inside can be more of a puzzle.

The good news about feather pillows is that it’s often possible to wash them. ‘While you should always follow your pillow’s care instructions on its tag, you can typically wash a feather pillow,’ says Brianna Auray of Mattress Clarity. Here's how to wash them in the machine:

• Remove any protectors or covers.
• Select a gentle cycle.
• Sparingly use a neutral detergent. Importantly never use fabric softeners, advises Wayne Edelman, CEO of high end dry-cleaning service Meurice Garment Care.
• Allow to dry thoroughly before using or storing.

You can hand-wash a feather pillow as an alternative to putting it into the washing machine, but it’s the cover of the pillow that should be washed rather than the feathers, says Wayne.

‘You should not saturate the feathers while hand washing,’ he explains. ‘Lightly sponge on a mild detergent and water mixture and sponge with clean, cool water to remove soap.’

How to wash a body pillow

Body pillows can be a fantastic way to get full-body comfort when snuggling down to sleep at night. However, their size and comfort come at a cost – they need to be washed just as much as you would wash the rest of your bedding.

Unlike washing normal pillows, body pillows can sometimes be too large to fit in even the best washing machine, and their plump stuffing means they can take an age to dry thoroughly enough to use again.

So, how do you wash a body pillow? Here's what the pros recommend:

1. As always, check the care label, and launder protectors, shams, and covers separately. Kim Romnie, P&G fabric care scientist, adds, 'While you are checking the label, take the time to also check the pillow for any signs of wear or damage, too. Check seams for durability, and mend any shaky seams before laundering.’ 
2. Washing them in the washing machine: For smaller body pillows, you might find that they are machine washable, says Daniel Feliciano, co-founder and CEO of Clotheslyne.He advises, 'Be sure to wash the pillow on a delicate cycle with mild detergent and add some towels to balance the load. Select a low spin setting to avoid clumping. Rinse the pillow to remove the soap thoroughly.’ Importantly, just because a body pillow is machine washable, it doesn't mean it will always be suitable for your washing machine. Consider your washer's load limit and drum size to avoid the common washing machine mistake of overloading the drum.  
3. Or, hand wash larger body pillows: ‘If the body pillow is not machine washable, you must hand wash the body pillow,’ Daniel continues. ‘Fill a bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water and mild detergent to hand wash. Immerse the pillow, gently agitate it by hand, and let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all soap is removed. Gently squeeze out excess water, and do not wring the pillow. Otherwise, it might go out of shape.’ 
4. Freshen up between washes: Given that washing a body pillow can be a laborious process, it helps to pick up a few quick to keep the pillow fresh and preserve your sleep hygiene between washes. Kim Romnie recommends getting a removable cover for your body pillow that can be washed more frequently, for instance. ‘If you experience stains or soils like makeup or dirt on your pillow between washes, you can also spot clean by making a solution with water and Tide Free and Gentle liquid, available at Walmart,' she says. Take a cloth and gently rub the stain with the detergent solution, repeating until the stain is gone. You should then rinse the spot with a cloth soaked in clear water and let air dry. You can also use a product like Tide Antibacterial Fabric Spray, also available at Walmart on the pillow between washes.’  

How to dry pillows after washing

Most pillows can be air-dried or put in the dryer on a low-heat setting – double check the care label so that you don’t tumble dry a pillow that shouldn’t be.

The exception is down or feather pillows. ‘Although it will take longer, use the dryer's no-heat setting to avoid the feathers being singed and leaving the pillow with an unpleasant odor,’ says Drew Miller. Don’t risk putting foam pillows in a dryer – they can set alight if they get too hot.

Memory foam pillows need drying gently – flat on a dry towel or rack, such as the OXO Good Grips Folding Sweater Dryer available at Amazon, in fresh air, preferably sunshine, but not in a dryer, as the heat can damage their structure.

Expect drying to be slow – and only put the pillowcases or shams back on your pillows once they are fully dry. To check they are dry right through to the center, press your hands and face into the pillows. If they are still damp, repeat the drying cycle until they are.

Pillow troubleshooting

How to stop pillowcases from turning yellow

When your head hits the pillow, you want it to be a clean one. And when you think about it, it's only natural that stains appear on our pillowcases over time. After all, we spend hours with our skin up close and personal with our pillowcase every night.

So, how do you stop pillowcases from turning yellow? Here's what the pros recommend:

• Wash them regularly.
• Identify the cause of the stain: 'Yellow-stained pillowcases can be unsightly and bothersome to clean, but often this is because you’re not using the right treatment for the type of yellow stain,' says Kathleen Bell, smol’s sustainable cleaning expert. 'Discoloration can be caused by several different factors so before jumping into cleaning, I would recommend first identifying the cause of the staining.' More often than not, advises Jin Chon, Co-Founder of Coop, 'Pillows turn yellow for a variety of reasons, mostly drool, sweat, oil, and if you go to sleep with your hair wet, this can also cause yellow staining. Gross but true. In order to prevent your pillowcases from turning yellow, it's actually best to use a waterproof pillow protector,' such as the Utopia Bedding Waterproof Pillow Protectors available at Amazon.
• Consider if your bedtime routine is making things worse: Other tips for preventing stains include ensuring your hair is 100% dry and free of product before going to bed to avoid pillow stains caused by moisture and hair products. Excess skincare products will inevitably leave behind oils, too. Avoid using bleach, as, aside from the harsh chemicals, this won't actually remove grease stains.
• Try an enzyme-based cleaner: Kathleen recommends steering clear of any bleach-based cleaners and choosing an enzyme cleaner instead. 'Most stain removers simply bleach your clothes clean by using high concentrations of harsh chemicals that can damage fabrics and even irritate the skin,' she explains. So if you’ve tried various methods but your yellow stain still won’t budge, then you can also try using the Zout Triple Enzyme Formula Laundry Stain Remover available at Amazon. This will break down the proteins of common stains.
• Know when to replace them: If your pillowcases are beyond the point of repair, you'll need to refresh your sleep space. As for how often should you change your pillow, it's a lot more frequently than you might think – roughly every three years.

How to fluff pillows

There’s nothing cozier than lying your head down on a cool, squishy pillow. No one wants to sleep on a lumpy, deflated surface, so fluffing can restore your pillow to its best.

Sure, it's not the end of the world if your pillow isn't fluffed up, but it can make a difference in your comfort. It can also make your pillows last longer, too. Rick Rome, CEO and founder of WashClub, says that ‘Properly fluffing your pillows can help restore their shape, maintain their comfort, and prolong their lifespan, ensuring a cozy and supportive sleep experience'.

We've found the best methods that go the extra mile for the fluffiest, softest pillows imaginable:

• Fluff your pillows by hand: The fastest way is the most obvious. Christina Heiser from Saatva, says that ‘the simplest way to fluff a pillow is by hand, following a few simple steps. Grab the pillow on both short sides, hold it in the air, and quickly compress and decompress it. Do this several more times, continuing for about 30 seconds.' The next step is to rotate the pillow and knead it along the long sides. 'Put your pillow down and simply knead it a little bit as if it were a ball of dough,' says Christina. 'Rotate the pillow 90 degrees, grabbing it now on the longer sides, and repeat this process for 30 more seconds to evenly redistribute the fluff'. The point of this is that it breaks up any lumps of filling and puffs up the pillow with air. 
• Dryer and tennis ball method: If the classic fluffing method isn't working for you, there are other options you can try. A more unconventional technique is using a tennis ball, or dryer ball, and your dryer, if you have one. The idea is that the ball tumbles around the dryer with the pillow, beating out any lumps and fluffing it up. You can also buy hard dryer balls, like these available at Amazon, that are specifically designed to break up lumps and aerate your laundry as it dries, making the whole process faster. However, you don't need them – a tennis ball will do the same job. Whatever you do, keep the dryer temperature as low as possible, as high heat can damage some pillow fillings. Memory foam, in particular, should not be treated with high heat.  
• Hang it outside: A low-maintenance technique to fluff your pillows is simply to hang them up outside in the sun. It sounds like this wouldn't do anything, but it can be incredibly effective. The breeze flowing around and through your pillow will slowly fluff them back up, and the air will be fresher than if you just fluff the pillows up in a bedroom. If you don't have a clothesline, you can just sit them on top of a drying rack, such as the SONGMICS Clothes Drying Rack available at Amazon. 

These techniques aren't just useful for pillows. You can use all of these methods on thick duvets, comforters, and down pillow-tops to make your entire bed feel brand-new.

How to store pillows

As Tina Priestly, CEO and home declutterist of the professional organizing firm Ready, Set, Refresh, says, 'The way we store pillows really matters.'

She explains, 'If they are just shoved in a closet, they can lose their shape, collect dust, or absorb bad smells. With the right storage, pillows can stay clean, fluffy, and ready whenever you need them.'

Here's what she suggests:

• 'Bulky pillows fit perfectly in jumbo zippered storage bags,' she says, such as the Fab totes Storage Bags available at Amazon. 'They are easy to pack in a closet, lightweight, and breathable.'
• 'Stacking sturdy fabric storage bins with handles on closet shelves is a terrific idea. They protect pillows while being accessible when needed. The Clear Large Storage Bags available at Amazon are one example.'
• Tina also recommends making use of underbed storage ideas. 'If your closet is small, containers are a good option,' she says. 'They slide directly beneath your bed, protecting the pillows from dust while keeping them hidden.' Tina suggests the Clear Storage Bags with Zipper and Handles available at Amazon for this, which feature a slim and narrow design.

'Place a cotton pad inside the bag or bin with a few drops of essential eucalyptus or lavender oil to keep it fresh,' she adds. 'Every time you take the pillows out again, they smell fresh and clean,' helping to make a bedroom smell good for sleep.

How to repurpose old pillows

We all have them – those tired and misshapen bed and couch pillows that quite frankly, need to go in the trash. But, can you repurpose old worn-out pillows? Yes, luckily you can, making it a great way to be more sustainable at home.

Here are the easy DIY projects our experts recommend:

• Turn them into comfy floor and couch pillows: Turn your old pillows into cozy, new couch and floor cushions by taking out the inner material and using them in new pillow cases. Or, if you love crafting, invest in some beautiful fabric and create a new cover for them that matches your living room scheme. If they are feeling a little thin, you can put the filling from two into one pillow to give it more shape.
• Create a new bed for your pet: Reusing old pillows for a dog bed is a great way to add extra padding.
• Use them as a draft stopper: Particularly useful in older properties, learning how to draft-proof a living room is going to save you money on your energy bills. Front and back doors can be prone to drafts, and during the colder months, you can add insulation, such as the BBTO Weather Stripping Door Seal available at Amazon, but this won't deal with the bottom gap. This is where you can use old pillows. Simply fold them in half, using a ribbon or string to keep them in place, before placing them in front of your draughty door.
• Kneel on one in the garden: There's nothing worse than sore knees – and sometimes damp ones when you've been planting in the garden. So this idea is one we very much like, and Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love agrees. 'Old pillows can be used as knee pads for gardening,' he says. 'I would just recommend covering your old pillows in some kind of plastic or water-repellent material so that they don’t absorb moisture and get gross.'
• Use them for plant insulation: Extreme temperatures can literally kill plants overnight, so when you know a cold snap is due, you can use old pillows to wrap around pots, or lay them on the ground to protect roots from frost. Similar to reusing them as a kneeling pad, you'll need to waterproof them with a tarp or an old plastic bag.
• Cut them up for cleaning rags: You can never have too many cleaning rags, and more often than not, the exterior part of your old pillows will be intact. You can then remove the stuffing – this can be used to re-stuff other pillows, or as packing material – and cut up the fabric to use for cleaning. Because the material will be soft, it can be used for buffing stainless steel and cleaning surfaces.
• Recycle and donate: If making things from old pillows isn't for you, then the next best thing is to recycle or donate them to animal shelters, local homeless shelters, daycare facilities, and charities, if they are clean and still in good shape. If they are a little worse for wear, then a textile recycling facility like the American Textile Recycling Service is a good place to start for responsible disposal.

What to shop

Once you've mastered caring for your pillows, learn how to wash, dry and care for your blankets and throws.

Call me a princess, but after several years of reviewing bedding for work, my standards have evolved. I didn’t realize how much until a recent trip home to Los Angeles, when one glance at my childhood bed convinced me the setup was unacceptable: too scratchy, too stuffy, and far from luxurious.

In New York, I’ve shaped my studio into a cocoon of comfort, so I wanted to bring that same sense of indulgence to my old bedroom. That led me to the Cozy Earth Bubble Cuddle Pillow.

I already owned the Cozy Earth throw blanket and loved its chalet-inspired aesthetic and plush, weighty feel. But pillows are a different story. Could that same cloud-like softness work for something you actually sleep on? After all, the most beautiful pillows, particularly the faux-fur kind, rarely deliver when it comes to real rest.

At $88 a piece, I took a gamble and ordered not one, but two Bubble Cuddle Pillows to my childhood home. Was this designer bedding worth it? Do these pillows live up to the reputation of their cult-favorite throw blanket sibling?

Read on for the full fluff report.

First impressions

I’ll admit – the photo above hardly does these pillows justice. In person, they’re far richer, visually and texturally. Unlike the Bubble Cuddle Blanket, which you can drape for maximum effect, the 20” x 20” pillow has less surface area to play with – but even so, it brings a dramatic plushness to the room. The brand’s signature bubble texture creates peaks and valleys that catch the light just so, mimicking the natural variation of real fur.

What I appreciated most? That the luxury goes all the way through. As someone who loathes ‘for show’ design – shearling on the outside, itchy poly on the inside; fake pockets on jeans – I was relieved to find this throw pillow features that same ultra-plush pile on both sides. No bait-and-switch here.

The moment I leaned back during a phone scroll session, I realized the true meaning of softness. Even through a sweatshirt, I could feel the downy resistance of the fill and the pillowy surface texture, which offered a rippled, almost cloud-like give.

In true maximalist form, I ordered a second throw blanket for my LA home to match. One for each coast. About 15 minutes in, I felt like I was floating on a cloud.

Is the Bubble Cuddle Pillow good for sleeping?

Then night fell – the real test. Plenty of things feel cozy at first touch, but when it’s actually time to sleep, the smallest irritations can turn into dealbreakers: a dripping faucet, a cat’s midnight sprint, even the faintest press of an earring against your temple.

My skin tends toward sensitivity, so while this wasn’t my primary pillow, it did spend plenty of time near my face. I noted with relief: no itchiness (a miracle), no shedding (rare for faux fur), and no breakouts (a near impossibility with synthetic fibers).

It also never overheated. It never got matted. And the signature bubble texture remained gloriously intact.

Somewhere along the way, I grew oddly attached to this new fall ritual of softness. So much so that I felt an unexpected pang as my Uber pulled up to LAX, leaving my cocoon behind.

Final thoughts

In truth, appearance was a secondary consideration in choosing the Bubble Cuddle Pillow. My priority was comfort, and on that front it delivered beautifully. At last, I had a throw pillow that worked both day and night on the bed – yet looked equally at home in more visible spaces like the living room or a reading nook.

Which brings me to my next point: these pillows deserve to be seen. With fall approaching, I can’t imagine a better way to warm up an armchair or sofa than with a pair of elegantly bubbled, ultra-plush cushions.

If you’re intrigued by the Bubble Cuddle Pillow, chances are you already know – or own – its older, more popular sibling: the throw. Do the two feel redundant? Not at all. They complement one another. The throw lounges and drapes with a kind of laissez-faire elegance, while the pillow feels polished, proportioned, and unexpectedly versatile.

For anyone new to the Cuddle collection, the pillow is an excellent entry point, particularly before the temperatures drop. It remains a splurge, but at the most accessible price tier in the lineup, it’s also a smart one.

I’m even considering ordering another for my New York home. While browsing, I may have uncovered a few other Cozy Earth contenders that could tempt me in an entirely new direction.

More cozy companions

You’ve likely heard the buzz about Cozy Earth’s cult-favorite bamboo bedding bundles – endorsed by celebrities like Kris Jenner and Oprah. I’ve tested them myself and can confirm they live up to the hype. Still, bedding is deeply personal, and not every editor has the same take. For a second perspective, our Sleep Editor shares her full review of the Cozy Earth bedding bundle.

They'll be found in any chic and cozy home as the weather cools – but do you know how to wash, dry, and care for blankets and throws?

Getting this care right is important if you want to keep your covers soft and sumptuous, lasting for seasons to come without pilling or damage. Importantly, advice varies based on the type of blanket or throw you're freshening up, folding, or storing; be it fleece, sherpa, weighted, or woolen.

Here's our ultimate guide to looking after the best throw blankets out there, for unbeatable comfort and longevity throughout the snowy seasons and beyond.

How to wash and dry different types of blankets – expert advice for each kind

Washing fleece blankets

Fleece blankets are among the most common, affordable types of blankets, and are therefore found in most homes. They're versatile and cozy, made from synthetic fibers that are soft, warm, and lightweight. This makes them an ideal choice for snuggling up on the couch on a cooler evening, or adding an extra layer of warmth to your bed.

Here's how to wash fleece correctly:

1. Check the laundry symbols on the care instructions: As Parveen Garg, manager at Ola Clean says, 'This will guide you on the appropriate washing temperature, detergent, and any other care considerations.’ Fleece blankets can be delicate, so using a gentle or delicate cycle is the best option. This will help prevent any damage to the fabric while still effectively cleaning it. Place the fleece blanket inside a mesh laundry bag, available at Amazon, before tossing it into the washing machine. This extra layer of protection helps prevent any potential snags or tears, and is also best recommended when washing, drying and caring for bed linen, too.
2. Use a mild detergent and low heat: When washing your fleece blanket, Shayne Jeramos, a cleaning specialist from Bright Cleaning Services, suggests using a milder detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics, such as the Woolite Delicates Hypoallergenic Liquid Laundry Detergent, available on Amazon. Harsh detergents can damage the fibers of the fleece and leave behind residue that can irritate your skin. Opting for a gentle, hypoallergenic detergent will ensure your blanket stays soft and cozy. Additionally, fleece is known for its ability to retain heat, so washing it in hot water can cause it to shrink or lose its softness, which is why it's an item you should never wash in hot water. Washing fleece in cold water will not only help maintain its softness but also save energy and prevent any color fading. The same applies when washing, drying and caring for comforters and duvet inserts, too.
3. Steer clear of fabric softener: Another important note is that washing fleece blankets is a time you should never use fabric softener in laundry. Although they may seem like a great way to keep your fleece blanket extra soft, they can actually do more harm than good, leaving a waxy buildup and unpleasant odor behind. It's best to use dryer balls, available at Amazon, instead, which can help reduce static cling without leaving behind any residue that might affect softness. 
4. Air-dry or use low heat: Once washed, it's best to either air-dry your fleece blanket or tumble-dry it on a low heat. High heat can cause the fibers to melt and shrink, leaving your blanket misshapen and stiff. ‘Before placing the fleece blanket in the dryer, give it a good shake to remove any excess lint or hair,’ says cleaning specialist Janille Mangat from VMAP Cleaning Services. ‘This helps prevent these particles from accumulating during drying. Air drying is the gentlest method for drying fleece blankets.’ Avoid ironing your fleece blanket, as the high temperature can melt the synthetic fibers and ruin its texture. If you need to remove wrinkles, simply shake out the blanket or use a fabric steamer, such as the HiLIFE Steamer available at Amazon, on a low setting.
5. Spot clean stains: For small stains or spills, spot-clean the affected area with an enzyme-based mild detergent and a smooth-bristled brush, rather than washing the entire blanket. This can help maintain the overall cleanliness of the blanket between thorough washes.

Washing sherpa blankets

Sherpa blankets are the epitome of coziness. Their fluffy texture and super warm properties make them perfect for snuggling up for long nights on the sofa. But how do you wash a sherpa blanket without ruining how glorious it feels? Our pros say it all comes down to knowing how to do laundry with delicate textiles. Here are the steps experts recommend:

1. Check the laundry symbols: As Barbara Stern, textiles expert at Ottoman Textiles says, 'The blend of gentle washing, mindful product selection, and appropriate drying methods will not only ensure the longevity of your cherished sherpa blanket but also retain its inviting softness and cozy allure.’
2. Stick to spot cleaning when possible: When it comes to delicate fibers such as sherpa, spot cleaning should be your go-to step before you consider throwing it in the washer, says Muffetta Krueger, cleaning expert and founder of Muffetta’s House Cleaning. ‘If there are specific stains or spills, it's a good idea to spot-clean them first. Use a mild detergent and water to gently clean the affected area. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric,’ she recommends. Spot cleaning regularly and as needed will stretch the time between washes, she adds. This can help to preserve the fluffy texture.
3. Use a delicate cycle: Although sherpa is not so delicate that it requires hand washing, it is essential to use a delicate cycle when laundering this type of fabric, Barbara advises to preserve its softness and reduce static and friction in your machine. She adds, ‘For an added measure of fabric care, consider using a detergent designed for delicate fabrics.’
4. Avoid fabric softeners: Again, the presence of silicones can stiffen the soft fibers of your sherpa and cause damage. ‘Instead, opt for natural alternatives like using white vinegar in laundry in small quantities, which helps soften the fabric without causing damage,’ suggests Tadas Pukas, CEO and founder of Minimalistic Linen.
5. Don't overload the machine: ‘It is so important that you don't overload the washing machine – especially when treating sherpa,’ says Muffetta. ‘Overcrowding is a common bedding laundry mistake that can cause friction and lead to matting of the sherpa fabric. It's better to wash the blanket on its own or with a few other soft items.’ 
6. Air dry only: There are several benefits to air drying your laundry. Lina DaSilva, cleaning expert and founder of Toronto Shine Cleaning, always chooses to air dry blankets to help maintain the soft texture. This is because, even when using the delicate setting on a tumble dryer, high heat can melt the fibers, resulting in a rough finish that is far from comfortable to cuddle up with. Then, Lina suggests laying the blanket flat on a drying rack, like this from Amazon, to allow it to dry fully without stretching. You can use your best dehumidifier to help aid the drying process, too, if you don't want to wait around.  

Washing woollen blankets

The right washing and drying methods and techniques can make wool blankets pristine once more without compromising softness. Many can be put into the washing machine, although some will need cleaning by hand.

Here's our expert advice on washing wool:

• As always, check the laundry symbols
• Select a cool temperature: Most woollen blankets will recommend a cold temperature setting, on the woollen or handwashing cycle. ‘All Miele washing machines have a dedicated woollens/handwash programme which incorporates a specialised drum rhythm to deliver the gentle care woollen fabrics need,’ says Sophie Lane from Miele. She also recommends adapting the spin time to allow for a gentler cycle.
• Use a suitable detergent: ‘Before you start, make sure you have a delicate detergent designed for wool or silk fabrics,’ says Sophie. We recommend The Laundress Wool & Cashmere Shampoo available at Amazon as it's specially made for washing this type of blanket material, and is Climate Pledge Friendly, with the manufacturer using the least amount of packaging possible and a double concentrated formula to reduce water usage and make it as efficiently transportable as possible.
• Hand washing: If it is not suitable for the washing machine, you can hand wash a woollen blanket instead. This is often the preferred method as there’s little to no risk of damage. ‘I find hand washing is usually best for woollen items,’ says Lina Bombova, a TaskRabbit tasker specialising in cleaning. ‘Try soaking the blanket in cool water for a few hours with a very gentle woollen detergent,’ she advises.
• Removing stains: Whilst wool is known to be naturally stain resistant, the best way to deal with a stubborn mark on a woollen blanket is to tackle it quickly. For greasy stains, use a hot iron over a few layers of tissue to blot up any excess grease, then soak a cloth in white spirit and gently dab the area. Remove milk stains using a mixture of salt and tepid water. Most other stains can be tackled with a gentle mixture of detergent and water. Dry all on-the-spot stains by pressing gently with a microfiber cloth, such as the bestselling Great Value Microfiber Cleaning Cloth available at Walmart. Do not rub in circles as that will push the liquid further into the wool.
• Drying: Most woollen blankets must be air-dried to protect the delicate fibers in the material. Re-shape the blanket whilst still damp, preferably on a flat, clean surface, then hang to dry. Mihalis Dimopoulos, founder of New York-based company, Lazy Susans Cleaning Service, advises, ‘Hang it outside, out of direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade the delicate colors in wool, and it may cause wool to dry too quickly, making it very coarse,’ he says. Good quality woollen blankets and throws can be an expensive investment, so it’s worth washing and drying before you pack them away for the summer. Careful maintenance will ensure your soft fabric wool blanket lasts for years to come.

Weighted blankets

Many of us are convinced that our weighted blankets improve the quality and quantity of our sleep, but are left puzzling about how to keep them fresh. If you've fallen for its supreme calming comfort, this is how to wash your weighted blanket without damaging it, or ending up with a mildewy smell ruining the comfort.

Just as with other bedding, cleaning a weighted blanket regularly is necessary so it stays hygienic. But because it is a heavier cover, washing it isn't as straightforward as it is for the other cozy bedding and throws.

Here's the advice necessary for washing a weighted blanket, whether your laundry room ideas have made space to do so at home, or you’re taking it to the laundromat:

1. Assess the weight: Knowing how to wash a weighted blanket correctly involves an assessment of the blanket’s actual weight. This will determine whether you can put the blanket into your washing machine at home or if you need to take it to the laundromat instead. Jessica Samson, a cleaning expert at Maids, advises, ‘In your washing machine, you can wash almost any weighted blanket up to 20 lbs. Any weighted blanket heavier than this, you should wash at the laundromat with a commercial machine.’ The washer needs to have a large enough capacity, so exercise caution. Wayne Edelman, CEO of Meurice Garment Care suggests, ‘A good rule of thumb is to only fill the machine two-thirds full with the item being washed.' The type of washing machine you own is also important. ‘I only recommend using a front-loading machine to wash weighted blankets,’ says Wayne. Some may have a removable outer cover, in which case you won't need to worry about the weight at all. To figure out the weight of your blanket, weight yourself, then weight yourself again holding the blanket. The difference between the two numbers will tell you the weight. Otherwise, check your emails for the order details if you bought it online, or check the retailer's website to see if it's still available, as they will list this information.
2. Check the care instructions: Just as when washing pillows, or washing electric blankets or washing woollen blankets, check the tag for the manufacturer’s washing instructions. As Jessica says, ‘Blankets weighted with glass microbeads or plastic pellets are usually washer safe, but be sure to check the label before washing.’
3. Treat stains before washing: Before putting a weighted blanket into the washing machine, inspect it for stains so you can deal with them first. ‘Pre-treat your blankets before washing them,’ says Jessica. ‘This will help eliminate any stains on the weighted blanket and help you clean it thoroughly.’ We recommend the Resolve Multi-Fabric Cleaner and Upholstery Stain Remover available at Amazon for this. Importantly, allow time for this process. ‘Be sure to leave the stain remover on the blanket for at least 10 minutes to help break down and loosen the stains,’ adds Jessica. ‘After letting it soak for 10 minutes, gently dab the area with a paper towel and lift the cleaner and the stain. Try to remove as much of the stain as possible without rubbing it in. If done right, the washing machine will do the rest.’
4. Add the detergent: When it comes to how to wash a weighted blanket, choose the detergent carefully. ‘Use a gentle detergent without bleach,’ says Wayne. You might be tempted to add fabric softener, but step away. Fabric conditioner should not be used when washing a weighted blanket.
5. Select a gentle, warm cycle
6. Dry: Check the label first, but you can likely use a dryer if this is your preference. ‘Most of these blankets can be dried in your dryer on low heat, or you can let them air dry,’ says Jessica. If the weighted blanket is going into the dryer, it’s worth checking its filling periodically during the drying cycle in case it has become bunched up. ‘Remove and redistribute as necessary,’ says Wayne. As with washing, the dryer must have sufficient capacity. Follow the two-thirds rule as you did when assessing the size of the washing machine drum, and take any 'Dry Clean Only' options to the dry cleaners. For air-drying your weighted blanket, lay it flat on a rack or on a water-resistant surface such as a laundry room countertop to ensure equal weight distribution. Avoid hanging up your blanket as the filling may fall to the bottom, causing problems when you try to redistribute it later.

How to fold blankets neatly to avoid damage in storage

Knowing how to fold blankets so they remain neat, tidy, and in great condition is a useful skill to have. It'll also help organize living rooms and declutter bedrooms in the warmer months when those extra layers are not needed.

There are a few different folding techniques you can use. Depending on the size and texture of your blanket, as well as where you're planning to store it, some are better than others.

• The square method: If you’re storing blankets on open shelves, or as part of organizing a linen closet, the square method is your best bet. It's really quick and simple, too. Lay the blanket flat and smooth out the creases, before folding it into thirds lengthwise to create a long, thin rectangle shape. Then, fold the length in half (and half again if necessary) to create your desired square shape. Shannon Krause, professional organizer of Tidy Nest, advises, 'Regardless of what folding technique you’re using, if your blanket has a fringe along the edge, try and tuck it inside the initial fold so it doesn’t get damaged or hang off the edge of the shelf.'
• The pillow, or envelope, method: If you’re wondering how to roll a blanket into itself so it won’t unravel, this is the method you’d use. As its name suggests, it forms a neat ‘pillow’, making it a clever way of adding blankets into the room without overdoing it on layers. Start in the same way as with the square method; lay the blanket flat and smooth out the creases. Fold into thirds lengthwise to create a long, thin rectangle. Then, take a short edge and start to fold towards the opposite edge, stopping when you’ve created a fold around the size you want your finished ‘pillow’ to be. Keep folding the rectangle over itself until you’ve created a thick parcel. Leave a bit of the blanket unfolded at the end to create a ‘pocket’. Stuff the folded blanket inside the pocket to create a neatly contained ‘pillow’.
• The rolling method: Stylish and easy to access, large open storage baskets make the perfect vessel for storing blankets when they’re not in use, and a neat stack of nicely-rolled blankets makes for an aesthetically pleasing display. Even if you’ve opted for a lidded design, rolling blankets is still worth doing. Not only is it space-efficient, but it’ll keep them neat – using a blanket full of creases will make any room feel untidy. Shannon advises a similar approach when learning how to roll towels. She says, ‘Fold the blanket in half lengthwise so both halves are aligned. Repeat this so you have a small rectangle. Flatten out the fabric to remove any wrinkles. Start at one end (either of the shorter sides of your rectangle) and tightly roll the blanket.'

How to store blankets to protect them from dust and reduce your clutter

Blankets keep us warm and help keep our spaces feeling cozy, even after the holidays. It's hardly a surprise, then, that many of us end up with an extensive collection and find ourselves wondering how to store them properly so that they stay looking good and feeling fresh.

So where can we place them when they aren't in use? Especially if you do not have a linen closet or if your living room storage is at its full capacity. Luckily, the experts have some tricks up their sleeve, but make sure your blanket is washed and fully dry before storing:

• Keep them decoratively accessible with trunks, baskets, and coffee tables: Start by keeping your collection of blankets thoughtfully curated, and if you are wondering whether you have one too many, it may be wise to use the start with enough method to make your new blanket storage ideas less crowded. Once you've reduced your collection to only what you need, it's time to embrace dual-use furniture. Consider trunks filled with throws that act as coffee tables or seats. Professional home organizer and TV personality Janelle Lam tells us that the best place for storing blankets in the home is where remain within reach. 'If you have throw blankets, I recommend putting them in a decorative storage basket near where you use them, like your couch,' she says. Likewise, interior design expert and the founder of Arsight Studios, Artem Kropovinsky, suggests we lean into the art of disguising our blanket storage stylishly. 'Secret storage with an iota of vintage can be achieved with ornate trunks, such as the Texture Brand Trunk available at Wayfair, and stylish baskets,' he recommends. 
• Make a display of throws using wall space: This next tip is perfect for conserving floor space. Make the most of the space in a small living room or bedroom by leaning into 'towel racks' – ripe for the elegant draping of blankets. 'You can use ladder-style racks for a sophisticated presentation,' Artem says. Spare, good-looking blankets can enhance a room and make it look more inviting. Even those who prefer minimalist decor ideas can explore this option. Choose simple wall fixtures, like hooks or wall-mounted rings, and neatly drape blankets in as elegant a fashion as you can to capture the warm minimalist trend at its best.
• Bring them into your bedroom ottoman: A wonderful, not-so-well-kept bedroom storage idea secret is an ottoman at the foot of the bed. This design feature is endorsed by many for bedding and bedroom essentials, not to mention a cozy additional seat. If you find most of your blankets in the bedroom, or if you are short on space elsewhere, this is a fine option.
• Store seasonal throws under the bed: Ottomans are not the only place where blankets can discreetly reside in the bedroom. If you have no linen closet and have maxed out the storage space in a small home, slot surplus throws strategically under the bed. Julianna Melamed, Founder of Full Service Living, recommends. 'If it's not a blanket for everyday use, and you have space under the bed, I would purchase canvas under-bed storage containers and store your blankets there.' Storing this item under your bed will not disrupt Feng Shui either. Of course, you need to reduce their size first, and for this, grab your vacuum. 'If these are seasonal blankets, I would purchase a vacuum seal system and store the compressed blankets deep under your bed,' recommends Julianna. 'After all, you won't require them again for a few months.' These are Julianna's favorite under-the-blanket storage boxes on Amazon, which also help to protect against dust and insects. 'They have clear tops so you can see everything, and the handle is around the entire perimeter for an easy grab, no matter how deep under the bed,' she says.

According to cleaning specialist Prerna, you should also store your blankets in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight and damp areas, as they can cause the color to fade and mold to develop.

Maintain your fleece blanket's softness by giving it a quick brush after washing and drying. Use a soft-bristle brush from Amazon and gently brush in the direction of the fleece. This will keep it fluffy and prevent matting.

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

FAQs

How often should I wash my blankets?

You should wash your blankets on average once or twice a month. However, bed throws or those used in guest bedrooms can be washed less frequently. Wool blankets are the exception as they do not hold on to as much dirt and fluff as cotton or fleece blankets, so they can be washed every two to three months.

How do I make my sherpa blanket fluffy again?

If your sherpa blanket has matted, you can use a soft-bristled brush sprayed with cool water to brush out the tight fibers. Lay the blanket over a flat, sturdy surface such as a table and pull the material taught before working for the best effect.

How do you get debris out of a sherpa?

If your sherpa blanket or garment has picked up debris between its fluffy bobbles, then you can turn to either a vacuum cleaner or heavy-duty tape to help remove it without having to go in with a pair of tweezers. Either use a soft upholstery brush to work the debris out of the tight fibers or lay the sticky side of the tape down onto the fleece and pull it away carefully – this should pull the debris with it.

Can I put a heavily stained blanket in the washing machine?

You can put a heavily stained woollen blanket in the washing machine, but Mihalis Dimopoulos recommends a pre-wash treatment for dealing with stubborn stains.

‘Place blankets in the washing machine and allow them to soak for 15 minutes in a detergent and water mixture,’ Mihalis explains

‘Set the washer to the gentle cycle and let it run for two minutes. Stop the cycle, cancel it, and then manually switch the washer to the rinse cycle.’

How long does it take to dry a weighted blanket?

This will depend on the method used. To air-dry, be prepared for it to take several days.

If you choose to tumble dry, it will take several hours as you need to keep checking the cycle, removing and redistributing the inners.

The quickest and easiest option will be to leave the washing and drying of your weighted blanket to your local laundromat. The process itself takes about an hour, so you may be able to pick it up on the same day.

How do you fold a thick blanket to save space?

If you’re dealing with a bulky blanket, like a down comforter, folding neatly can be trickier. Start by shaking out the blanket and laying it flat, then fold it in half lengthwise. Fold in half again, then bring the top edge down to the bottom edge, so it’s a quarter of its original size.

One of the reasons bulky blankets take up space is that they have a tendency to unravel. To keep them neatly contained, Shannon recommends using organizer bands, available at Amazon. ‘Labeled versions are a great way to quickly identify the size of the blanket, as well as keeping them from unfolding and toppling over. For a DIY alternative, simply tie a nice ribbon around the folded blanket and add your own hand-written tag – handy if you’re wondering how to wrap a blanket for a gift, too’, she says.

You can also fold twice and pop it in a jumbo vacuum storage bag, available at Walmart, which you use your vacuum to suck the air out of, thereby compressing the package to a much smaller and manageable size. Just make sure it's clean and dry before doing so.

How do you pack blankets to save space?

If you’re swapping out your summer blanket stash for your winter, or vice versa, you’ll want the most space-saving solution to keep your collection neatly packed away until you need it again.

Shannon advises, ‘Vacuum-sealed bags [such as the Amazon Basics Vacuum Storage Bags available at Amazon] compress blankets so they don’t take up a ton of room, and will keep them clean and dust-free, too.'

How can I stop blankets smelling musty when storing them? 

We have all forgotten about a poor blanket before, and we all know that a dusty or musty smell is far from linen fresh. 'To keep blankets from getting musty, first, you must make sure they are bone dry before you put them away, especially after you wash them,' says Julianna, founder of Full Service Living

Can you store blankets in the basement or attic?

To avoid them losing their cozy appeal, make sure you choose the right spot to store excess blankets in your home. The basement and attic are probably the worst places to store blankets, as they are usually lacking in climate control, such as air conditioning or heating, in tandem with inadequate ventilation.

'Those are two places where blankets are sure to get musty and possibly even moldy,' says Julianna. 'If you don’t have extra closet space, store blankets in proper storage containers under the bed or in sealed plastic boxes in the garage. '

If you absolutely need to store blankets in the basement or attic, make sure you are well-equipped to protect them from the elements.

Meet our experts

Next, learn how to wash cashmere at home, to keep it soft and cozy after every wash.

I always like to overhaul my bedding when September comes. Blame it on that back-to-school feeling, or the encroaching fall weather, when I just want to hunker down and get cozy. When it comes to treating myself to the best bed sheets, I'm looking for comfort, softness and durability, and the new Washed Classic range from Brooklinen seem to tick all of those boxes.

This new launch sees the Classic Percale Sheets – a Brooklinen bestseller – get a cozy upgrade. Available in a range of earthy hues, the Washed Classic percale sheets boast a 'softer, lived-in feel' according to the Brooklinen site. Expect a crisp, clean look with a little more texture than the matte finish you'd associate with traditional percale bed linen. This is exactly what I want in my bedding. While I enjoy the crisp look in a hotel, at home it's all about comfort and ease.

We're loyal fans of Brooklinen here at Homes & Gardens – in fact, we think that it's one of the best places to buy bedding. And while Brooklinen's August 2025 collection was all about retro prints, the Washed Classic sheets are a pared-back, no-fuss option that's perfect for fall.

Crafted from 100% Long-Staple, 270 thread-count cotton, the sheets are designed to be silky from the very first use, with no pre-softening required. If you're gearing up for college, the Washed Classic move-in bundle would make a brilliant last-minute addition to your dorm room checklist for 2025.

'Brooklinen is my go-to store for bedding and bath linen,' says our former Sleep Editor, Emilia. 'You can shop around the specialist sleep stores, but you won't find a greater breadth of products, sizes, materials, and colorways.'

Whether you're after creamy neutrals, pale green, or soft blue, you'll find a set of Washed Classic sheets that catch your eye – you can shop flat sheets, duvet covers, and pillowcases, or stock up with sets. I'm coveting the Washed Classic hardcore sheet bundle in the earthy Oak Chambray shade; it has everything I'll need for a luxurious night's sleep as the nights draw in this fall.

Shop Brooklinen's Washed Classic range

While shopping around for bedding, I've done plenty of research – including what bedding material is best, and what percale actually is, so that you can be in-the-know when you're shopping, too.

Knowing how to clean a mattress topper and care for it not only keeps it fresh to sleep on but also helps it last as long as possible before it needs to be replaced.

But unlike other bedding, which can usually go in the washer and dryer, this comfortable addition to your bed needs a little bit of extra TLC and careful sanitation to avoid damage or other issues, such as musty smells.

That's why this ultimate guide on cleaning and maintaining yours will keep the best mattress toppers in tip-top condition for years to come.

How to clean and care for a mattress topper like a pro

Investing in a topper for comfort comes hand in hand with learning the best cleaning tips for it. Our cleaning professionals are here to help answer your questions.

Can you wash a mattress topper?

One of the main questions when it comes to cleaning and caring for mattress toppers is 'Can you wash a mattress topper?' In short, the answer is yes, but it's important to do so correctly – if you wash it incorrectly, you'll risk completely ruining it.

Alicia Sokolowski, cleaning and laundry expert and CEO of AspenClean, advises, 'If your mattress topper is machine-washable, you should definitely wash it to remove sweat, dust mites, and common household allergens, as it will be designed to handle water and detergent without compromising its structure.'

When it comes to which mattress toppers can go in the washing machine, Alicia says, 'Generally, you should only wash mattress toppers that specifically state they are machine washable. These typically include cotton toppers, polyester toppers, and some down or feather toppers.'

Always check the laundry symbols on the care label before getting started and, in the absence of a care label, carefully consider the material or find same make and model online and read the care instructions on retailer or brand listings.

You will, of course, also need to check whether your mattress topper is actually able to fit in your washing machine drum, to avoid any expensive or irreparable damage caused by washing machine mistakes. Most king-size, or larger toppers will be too big, and can therefore machine washing can be immediately ruled outand should be spot cleaned by hand instead.

Additionally, not all toppers, such as ones made from memory foam or latex, are suitable for machine washing. But, these can be spot cleaned with a gentle detergent such as the all Liquid Laundry Detergent available at Walmart.

Sylvia Emuwa, laundry expert and founder of Dinobi Detergent, explains, 'Foam mattresses are made of a material that is not machine washable, because the foam is not able to withstand machine agitation. It is also difficult to remove the moisture, therefore being highly susceptible to mold and mildew if moisture is trapped,' and risking the appearance of signs of mold on your mattress.

Many foam toppers, and pillows for that matter, can be damaged by the heat in washers and dryers so avoid those to curb any risk of damage.

How to get stains out of a mattress topper

Machine washable or not, sometimes you might need to get stains and spills out of a mattress topper while being careful to avoid compromising the shape and structure.

Always spot treat stains with a stain remover, such as the Resolve Multi-Fabric Cleaner Liquid and Upholstery Stain Remover available at Amazon, before popping your topper in the machine.

The key here is choosing an appropriate detergent. 'We recommend using a mild, eco-friendly detergent, such as the AspenClean Natural Laundry Detergent Unscented available at Amazon, for a safe and hypoallergenic clean,' says Alicia. 'Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, which can weaken fibers and leave residue that may irritate your skin.'

Follow these fail-safe, simple steps recommended by our pros to spot clean your mattress topper:

1. Strip the bed and check the care labels

Remove all bedding. This is the perfect time to wash your pillows, bed sheets, protectors, and shams – just ensure you check the laundry symbols on each item before popping them in your washer.

You should also take the time to read the care label on your mattress topper before getting started on stain removal, as the advice may differ depending on the type of topper you have.

2. Spot treat, according to the type of stain

Ideally, you should spot-treat any spills as soon as they happen, though some stains may go unnoticed or build up over time.

Luckily, for almost all stains, Drew Miller, sleep consultant at Sit 'n Sleep, says, 'You can use a combination of cleaning with baking soda and white distilled vinegar,' such as the White Distilled Vinegar available at Target.

Importantly, if you are treating wet stains caused by a recent spill, blot the area dry with an old towel or microfiber cloth, such as the HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloth available at Amazon. Keeping in mind the golden rules of stain removal, don't rub or scrub too hard as this may push the stain deeper into the topper.

For old, dry stains, first dab gently with a damp cloth or spritz with water in a spray bottle, such as the Plastic Spray Bottle available at Amazon, before adding any commercial or homemade cleaning solutions.

The treatment you use will depend on the type of stain you're dealing with:

• Coffee stains: It's notoriously tricky to remove coffee stains, but Christina Heiser, in-house mattress expert at Saatva, says, 'Dish soap and vinegar is the best way to release deep coffee stains.' We recommend Dawn Ultra Liquid Dish Soap available at Walmart for this, for its ultra-powerful, concentrated cleaning power.
• Oil-based products: Grease from food or lotions is arguably the toughest to tackle, as you won't see the stain right away. The solution, though, is simple. First, sprinkle some baking soda, such as the Great Value Baking Soda available at Walmart to absorb oils. Let it sit for 20 minutes and then a handheld vacuum on the area. After, dab a mixture of dish soap and hot water onto the area, to break down any residual oils, before blotting dry. and letting fully dry before using.
• Blood stains: To remove tough blood stains, you should use white vinegar and cold water. Apply vinegar to the area and leave it to soak for 10 minutes, blot dry and repeat. Then, use a cloth dipped in cold water to release the topper of any vinegar residue. Don't worry, the strong smell of vinegar will dissipate. Never use hot water on blood stains as this will further set it.
• Urine stains: For urine stains and odors, Christina says, 'Non-toxic, natural enzyme cleaners such as Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odor Eliminator Spray available at Amazon, which chemically break down stains and odors, should do the trick in many cases.'

Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions, and, if stains aren't shifting, put aside at-home laundry tips and take your topper to the dry cleaners for a professional touch.

3. Deodorize your mattress topper

While this step is optional, we'd always recommend deodorizing your topper with baking soda, which is a natural deodorizer and will work to eliminate any lingering odors.

Mattress expert Christina suggests sprinkling the whole surface of your topper with up to a full one-pound box of baking soda, particularly if this is the first time treating stains and odors on your topper in a while. 'Leave it on for at least four hours – a full day is best, if possible,' she advises.

You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, such as the Lavender Essential Oil available at Amazon, into the baking soda, or use a scented DIY linen spray.

Finally, remove the powder by first emptying the majority into a trash can or bag, to avoid damaging the filters and motor on your vacuum. Then use your handheld vacuum or the upholstery attachment on your best vacuum to pick up leftover debris.

4. Let the topper air-dry completely

Your mattress topper should not be too damp at any point, but there may still be some moisture lingering. To avoid the risk of mold and mildew build-up, allow your mattress topper enough time to completely dry before putting it back on the bed.

It's best to make the most of the benefits of air-drying laundry, and leaving it outside in the sun on a warm day is a great way to speed up the drying process. UV rays will also help to eliminate any remaining bacteria and sun-bleach lingering stains without the need for any extra chemicals or effort from you.

How to clean a memory foam mattress topper

In general, just like cleaning a memory foam mattress, memory foam toppers can be a little more difficult to clean and require a gentle approach to avoid any damage to the delicate foam or mold growth deep in its fibers.

Generally speaking, you want to avoid getting memory foam wet (it is one of the worst mattress cleaning mistakes to avoid), but there are a few caveats.

As you'll see, the process is very similar to spot cleaning a mattress topper in general, but here’s how the pros handle the task for foam mattress topper refreshes specifically:

1. Strip the bedding: With the bedding removed, lay your memory foam mattress topper flat on a clean floor (or on a clean sheet) to make cleaning easier.
2. Vacuum: Do you vacuum your mattress topper? It turns out it is an essential step to keeping your sleep space hygienic. Use a soft upholstery brush attachment on your vacuum to gently vacuum the surface of the topper – don't forget the sides, too.
3. Remove odors with baking soda: Following the same steps as when spot-cleaning a mattress, sprinkle over baking soda, let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes, and vacuum up.
4. Spot clean: As Christina Heiser highlights, ‘Memory foam is the one mattress type you need to be especially careful when cleaning. If you get the material too wet, it will take a very long time to dry, and you can increase the chances of developing mold or mildew. Do not steam clean. For the same reason, you should never clean a memory foam mattress topper with a wet vacuum or steam clean a mattress topper. Ken Doty, cleaning expert and COO at The Maids explains, ‘The memory foam breaks down its structure and causes it to lose shape. Instead, apply a cleaning solution sparingly to the stain, allowing it to sit for a few minutes and then blot with a paper towel or dry cloth.’
5. Leave to air dry: This can be sped up by using your best dehumidifier to gently blow dry air over the topper

The DIY cleaning solutions you use will depend on the type of stain you need to treat, but may be laundry detergent or dish soap for everyday stains, white vinegar for deep-set stains, hydrogen peroxide for blood stains, and enzyme cleaners for when homemade solutions simply won't cut it.

How to store a mattress topper

Mattress toppers are so useful for adjusting the comfort of a bed, but what do you do with them when they're not on your mattress?

Storing a mattress topper when you're packing to move home or don't need it can be quite tricky – especially if you don't have too much space.

If you store a mattress topper incorrectly, it could be damaged, too. As with your duvet, bed sheets, and pillows, storing it correctly when not in use will help maintain it's condition and prevent it from getting musty or dirty.

1. Clean your mattress topper, following the relevant steps listed above first, and ensure it's fully dry before proceeding.
2. Roll up your mattress topper: The best way to store your mattress topper is to roll it. Theresa Schnorbach, content director and sleep scientist at Emma Mattress, recommends 'gently rolling the mattress topper instead of folding it, as folding can cause permanent wrinkles, creases, or even cracks in your topper'. By rolling it, you can save on space if you have fewer places to store. A tightly rolled mattress topper can fit perfectly under the bed or in a cupboard. If yours is thick, enlist a friend or relative to help you roll it evenly and tightly.
3. Use a storage bag: Most mattress toppers will come with a storage bag. If yours did, 'carefully store it without creasing', says Theresa. 'If you no longer have the original bag, you can use a large plastic mattress bag to protect the topper from any damage.' We recommend the best-selling mattress bags from Linenspa on Amazon. Theresa adds that 'if your mattress topper came with a plastic vacuum seal, use this to seal the bag tightly and prevent air or harmful elements from damaging the topper. If your bag doesn't have a vacuum seal, you can similarly use your vacuum cleaner to remove the air from the bag before sealing it.' There are also plenty of vacuum storage bag solutions on Amazon that will shrink your topper, making it easier to store it without creases and protect it from dust and pests.
4. Store in a cool, dry place: Where you store your mattress topper is important for keeping it in good condition. Theresa advises to 'choose a storage space that is dry and unlikely to experience too much temperature fluctuation,' like bedroom closets or under the bed. She recommends 'avoiding areas like basements and attics as these are often prone to dampness, humidity, or mold, which can damage the mattress topper.' Importantly, foam toppers should be kept away from heat at all times, as they may soften, warp, and even degrade if temperatures exceed 400°F.

Do I need to flip my mattress topper?

Since flipping a mattress usually increases its lifespan and improves comfort levels, you may be wondering if the same can be said for mattress toppers, but our bedding experts say flipping is not always the answer, and actually warn against doing so for some topper types.

This is because while all-feather mattress toppers can be flipped, not all mattress topper types can, or should be. Just like most memory foam pillows and hybrid mattresses, hybrid toppers are constructed with different layers, and usually have a designated top and underside. The top is generally soft and plush, designed to be directly slept on, while the underside is firmer for support. For that reason, it's not recommended to flip your mattress topper.

Sleep scientist Theresa explains, 'A hybrid mattress topper takes a regular spring base and adds a layer of foam designed to help you sleep better. Because of this unique layering, hybrid mattress toppers should not be flipped as you would a regular spring mattress.'

Instead, you can:

• Rotate your mattress topper, particularly if your aim in using one is to make an uncomfortable mattress more comfortable. Rotating your topper helps with maintaining its construction. After completing the rotation, your head should now lie where your feet previously did, reducing the pressure indent in the topper from your regular sleep position.
• Clean it as described above.
• Buy a mattress topper according to your size: Sleeping on your topper night after night will inevitably mean some general wear and tear, but toppers are available in various sizes and thicknesses. If your mattress topper is too thin or not dense enough to support your weight, it may flatten and sag more quickly. If you're not sure how thick your mattress topper should be, in general, the thicker the better, but make sure to buy a mattress topper according to your size.

Are mattress toppers antibacterial?

Lots of mattress toppers claim to have all sorts of features, including antibacterial designs. However, only certain ones can fend off the bacteria that breed in hot, damp environments, such as bedrooms.

According to bedding expert Parima Ijaz, founder and CEO of Pure Parima, an antibacterial mattress topper has to be made with materials that kill or inhibit the growth of any bacteria that come into contact with the topper.'

Naturally antimicrobial materials include bamboo and eucalyptus fibers, which are woven into the fabric or foam of the topper. Some synthetics, such as certain blends of polyester, are also proven antibacterial agents.

'Sometimes, there is an added treatment that acts as a barrier between the mattress topper and bacteria,' says Parima. Such treatments often incorporate natural antibacterial agents, such as silver or copper ions, which might be applied as a film, or washed over the fabric and foam.

Therefore, antimicrobial mattress toppers are inherently resistant to the stains and odors emitted by bad bacteria. That's one unexpected upside of sleeping with antibacterial bedding: No unsightly yellow stains, just a clean, white mattress.

However, an antibacterial topper should never be your only line of defence against dirt and dust, as bacteria can realistically thrive just about anywhere, though antibacterial ones might help you cut down on the frequency of cleaning.

For that reason, while there are such things as antibacterial mattress toppers, and they might be ideal for sensitive sleepers and pet parents, they shouldn't be treated as a one-size-fits-all cleaning fix.

Antibacterial toppers work to clean your mattress, rather than your body or your bed sheets. If you're keen to improve your sleep hygiene, you might be better off with a set of antibacterial bed sheets or an antimicrobial duvet cover.

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FAQs

Can you put a mattress topper in the dryer?

Putting a mattress topper in the dryer is a quick, easy drying solution after cleaning it – allowing you to sanitize your mattress topper and get it back on your bed before night falls. Whether you can will depend on its material composition. Excessive heat will damage foam toppers, and we'd always suggest double-checking the care label when it comes to feather-filled, down, and polyester types, too. You can, however, put a mattress protector in the dryer.

How often should you wash a mattress topper?

The good news is you don't have to clean your mattress topper as often as you should wash your bed sheets. You should spot-clean your topper as frequently as your mattress, and, as a general rule, wash it once every three months.

If you're someone who overheats at night or has pets or in your bed, you may want to clean it more often. Ideally, any accidental spills should be spot-treated immediately.

Can I bleach my mattress topper?

If you are struggling with deep, tough stains, it is easy to assume that bleaching the affected area will lift any discoloration. But mattress toppers are one of the items you should never clean with bleach, as harsh cleaners like bleach or hydrogen peroxide can damage the mattress topper's composition, especially if you have a memory foam mattress topper. Bleach may also spread the stain, rather than remove it.

Why did my mattress topper turn yellow?

You don't have to directly have any spills to stain your mattress topper; a natural build-up of sweat and body oil can cause your topper to yellow over time. To help prevent this, you should wash your mattress topper every three months – better yet, invest in one of the best mattress protectors.

How long should you keep a mattress topper?

A mattress topper is great for prolonging the life of your mattress, and it should do so by at least three to five years. Of course, this can vary depending on the type you have and how well you care for it – which includes storing it properly.

Memory foam toppers tend to last longer than polyfill or feather bed toppers, as they won't degrade or change form too easily.

However, experts do recommend that you replace your mattress topper after this time as it may start to sag or comfort your body and no longer provide the support needed. That being said, after 3-5 years, it's probably time to invest in a new mattress.

Which side of a mattress topper goes up?

Most mattress toppers have an obvious top layer that's designed to be slept on, or you can usually tell which side this is by checking its label. If it's a memory foam topper, it should come with a cover that indicates the side meant to face upwards.

If you have an egg crate mattress topper, such as the Best Price Mattress 3 Inch Egg Crate Memory Foam Mattress Topper available at Amazon, the peaks should be facing up. This allows for adequate airflow, keeping your temperature regulated as you sleep.

How do I keep my mattress topper from bunching?

If you're someone who tosses and turns in the night, you might find you struggle to keep fitted sheets on a bed, or your mattress topper may slide or bunch as you sleep. To avoid it coming completely off the bed or shifting beneath you, you should use sheet straps or suspenders, such as the bestselling Bed Sheet Holder Straps available at Amazon.

Meet our experts

Remember, your mattress topper should only be a temporary fix to an old or uncomfortable mattress, or you might find yourself sacrificing good sleep in the long term. If you are planning on taking the plunge, knowing when to buy a mattress topper can make all the difference when it comes to securing the best price.

It's also equally as important to clean and care for your mattress protector correctly, too.

Confession: I've never been someone who uses white bedding. Even as someone who loves neutral spaces, a plain white bedsheet has always felt really rather boring and verging on sterile.

So, I was surprised to find myself drawn to the guest bedroom in designer Leanne Ford's rustic project. Not only does it feature a white duvet cover and white pillow cases, but even the headboard is covered in white fabric. It's a linen-drenched bedding setup.

Usually, this look would repel me, but this linen-drenched bed design is a lesson in getting it right. It turns out, making white bedding look chic is all about texture – and Leanne's design has it in abundance.

All-white bedding sort of goes against all of this year's interior design trends. Pattern, print, and color are at the forefront of trending styles this year – even a neutral decorator like me is gravitating towards bedding that's a bit more interesting.

But Leanne's latest project makes a compelling case for white bed sheets. She's drenched the entire bed in linen – and the matching headboard is something new and unexpected that really elevates the whole design.

And the reason it works so well? It's the texture – it adds visual interest that prevents the bed from feeling flat and unfinished. It takes away the need to add pattern or contrasting pillows – the linen's naturally imperfect finish does all the work.

The white bedding feels light and airy, reminiscent of summer days, with that sort of ruffled texture that gives the scheme an unfussy yet still beautifully curated look. But it's not the bedding alone to credit for this chic scheme.

The narrow wall panels add a lot of texture to the room, which feels busier than the standard shiplap, so the plain white look of the bedding becomes a calmer, more simplistic element to add balance to the bedroom.

There's also the contrast of the decor – the vintage wall light and the oversized, brown-tone abstract artwork add warmth and tonal interest, so the bedding doesn't have to do all of the heavy lifting.

I think this room is a reminder that not every element needs to be a bold, busy design. It's also a lesson in how to get white bedding right – using a beautifully textured fabric like linen and introducing that unexpected headboard moment has really worked. It adds the impact and wow-factor every bedroom needs without overwhelming.

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Leanne's guest bedroom design has convinced me to give textured white bedding a go for a relaxed yet sophisticated summer bedroom. I've never tried linen sheets before, but heard good things; they're breathable, temperature-regulating, and hypoallergenic, everything you need during the warmer months. And if this space is anything to go by, it looks stylish too.

Parachute’s latest bedding drop has got a case of the stripes – but the good kind. The yarn-dyed kind. The kind that makes your bed look like a luxurious, but the right level of rustic, retreat.

Parachute is already one of my go-tos to find the best sheets. The quality is wonderful, and they are always ahead of the game when it comes to trends, but also to new innovations in the world of fabrics and bedding. Their newest innovation is in yarn-dyed fabrics.

‘Yarn dyed fabrics are,’ according to Parachute’s Chief Creative Officer, Amy Hoban, ‘exactly what they sound like.’ The color is infused before the yarns touch a loom – not printed on after the fact. Which sounds simple, until you realize how rare (and labor-intensive) that is in the world of bedding.

It means that ‘the back of the fabric looks exactly the same as the front, as opposed to a printed fabric where the motif or pattern is printed on top of a color on one side of the fabric only,’ says Amy.

What does that mean for us? Well, what I have found I love most about these new yarn-dyed sheets is that they always look luxe and expensive. If you compare them to sheets on which a pattern has been printed, you'll see a huge difference in the look and quality.

The new yarn-dyed stripes land on Parachute’s signature percale – a crisp, matte, breathable favorite made in Portugal from 100% certified long-staple Egyptian cotton. The kind of bedding material you find in really good hotels.

They come in three cool, low-key colorways: Bone, Moss, and Dusk – shades pulled from Parachute’s greatest hits. As Amy puts it, they were designed to ‘allow customers to effortlessly integrate these stripes into their existing bedding.’

You can buy them in sets, but I think the styling possibilities are far more interesting when you don’t. Try wide-striped shams on top, finer ones tucked below – or even mix colorways for an off-beat, tonal effect.

‘We felt there was something very sophisticated about using tonal colors to give the stripe a color-drenched feel, something not so obvious, more subtle,’ adds Amy. ‘This allowed the customer to experiment and play with the patterns in an additive way as opposed to reinventing their whole look.’

Basically, between the reversible finish and the built-in permission to mix, match, and play with scale, this collection is the bedroom idea equivalent of throwing on an easy, oversized striped button-down. Explore your bed’s new uniform below.

There’s a reason so many hotels swear by cotton percale: it’s a crowd-pleaser. Crisp, cool, and tightly woven, it works for most sleepers in most climates. Not liking it is kind of like not liking chocolate. Or pizza. Or summer. But if you’re still wondering what suits your sleep style (or your budget, or even the weather), our bed sheet type guide can help you find your perfect match.

If you love a summer glow all year-round and live and die by your fake tan schedule, these are the three vital housekeeping tasks you should be doing regularly.

I’m a professional cleaner and instead of battling to remove stubborn orange stains from your linens and bedding after the fact, use waterproof liners, designate tanning sheets, and take special precautions when doing your laundry.

3 things to do regularly if you fake tan before bed

1. Line your mattress with a waterproof protector

Let’s start with the most obvious vital task: Line your mattress with a waterproof protector.

Sheets won’t stop a spill from seeping all the way through, but using one of the best mattress protectors creates a safe barrier between your tan and the often-costly mattress.

It’s a small step to keeping your best mattress looking brand new and free from stains, streaks, and everything in between.

2. Use designated tan sheets and pillowcases

I personally keep one set of dark brown or navy sheets tucked away just for tanning nights. I also use them when I apply at-home hair dye.

It saves my best bed sheets and pillowcases from getting ruined, and the darker fabric doesn’t hold onto stains the same way lighter ones do.

They're easy to toss in the wash and less likely to show bronzer buildup.

3. Rinse sheets with cold water before washing

Washing bed sheets in hot water, where fake tan stains are concerned, is an invitation for the unwanted marks to settle in for good. Once DHA (dihydroxyacetone), the main active ingredient in many tanning products, oxidizes, heat will lock it in.

Using the quick cold rinse cycle buys you time and makes your stain remover work harder.

Just make sure you know how to make sense of laundry symbols, and the functions on your washer, including the pre-rinse cycle.

BONUS TIP: Keep makeup remover wipes by your bedside. Having a pack within arm’s reach means you can quickly spot-clean areas like your palms, ankles, or elbows if you realize you’ve over-applied or accidentally touched something you shouldn’t have mid-application.

The goal is to catch the mess before it drips or dries, because once fake tan sets, it takes way more effort to lift. A few quick swipes can prevent long-term stains and reduce the need to clean upholstery, too.

Homes & Gardens recommends Cetaphil’s gentle makeup removing wipes, available at Amazon for rapid delivery.

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Setting up a stain station can help quickly clean up spills before they set, be it clearing fake tan or getting hair dye off the carpet, your upholstery, or clothing.

Here’s a secret: your college student doesn’t need a Twin XL duvet. Instead, I recommend investing in a more flexible Twin Set (from Amazon) and a queen-sized quilt (also at Amazon) that will make their room look cleaner, and stick with them through their early adulthood.

As we hurtle towards fall, college dorm room checklists become one of the biggest sources of anxiety. Your college-aged child needs a seemingly endless list of items for their room, many of which are only of use in a college dorm.

Chief among them is Twin XL bedding for a mysteriously long Twin XL bed. Although Twin XL comforter sets (available on Amazon) are one of the most popular choices online, these products overlook a key point: the only specifically sized piece of Twin XL bedding is the fitted sheet.

Thus, parents are better served to purchase an individual twin fitted sheet, paired with regular twin and queen bedding that will last far beyond four years in college. A full bedding set that’s designed to fit a Twin as well as a Twin XL bed, like the Amazon Basics 5 Piece Lightweight Microfiber Comforter Set, can also be an affordable and long-lasting option.

The one constant in my career has been learning about the best bedding. My first job at 15 was as a salesgirl at a boutique luxury linens shop, Fig Linens and Home. After college, I re-joined the team as the head of content.

Now, as an editor at Homes & Gardens, I’m still thinking about and writing about beautiful bedding almost every day. Throughout my time in the industry, I learned that most people are completely mystified by bedding sizes. Luckily, I’m here to help.

If I were to purchase one item for a college bed, it would be a queen quilt. In my experience, block prints and Indian-style patterns, like this one from Amazon, were the most popular.

Why a queen quilt for a twin bed?

Though this might sound counterintuitive, I’ve found college students love something longer folded at the end of the bed because it covers under bed storage.

With the size of dorm rooms, it’s likely that your teen will have at least a few boxes and bags shoved in the space under their risers. Not only does a queen quilt cover this, but it’s easy to bring to their first apartment after college. Amazon dorm bedding sales are always a good place to look.

If these choices aren’t your taste, here are a few other college bedding choices I swear by. From stylish decorative pillows to the best sheet sets, they are all chosen with comfort and style in mind.

Though there is no one-size-fits-all approach to college bedding, understanding the intricacies of sizing can help you make the best looking and most affordable options. With prime day still going strong, now is the perfect time to shop.

Happy Birthday, America – and hello to one of the sneakiest-good discount dates of summer.

While everyone else is reapplying sunscreen and reaching for their third hot dog, you might want to take a moment to strike – because Brooklinen’s Fourth of July sale is surprisingly one of the best times to stock up on discounted bedding and bath essentials.

Now through July 6, Brooklinen (one of Homes & Gardens' tried and tested best places to buy bedding) is offering up to 50% off some of its most iconic products – including its newly upgraded Washed Linen Bedding Bundles. While most would say 'don’t mess with perfection,' the brand tweaked the formula in all the right ways: 155 GSM for a better drape, and boosted tensile strength so it’s even softer and smoother than the original.

Also clocking in at 50% off: Dreamweave Waffle Bath Towel Bundles, the lightest, fastest-drying towels in Brooklinen’s lineup. (One reviewer raved, 'They dry in TWO SECONDS!!' Another credited the quick-drying fabric with helping their hair health.)

With 20% off sitewide and even better deals on bundles, it’s the perfect moment to upgrade everything from your guest towels to your primary bed sheets. Oh, and if you spend $250+ from July 4 to July 6, you’ll score a pair of Classic Bath Sheets in white – free.

So, without further ado, while the temperatures rise, here’s everything I’m eyeing to cool down, dry off, and sleep better this summer.

I always stock up on bedding in the 4th of July sales. It's the time of year I find I most need some fresh new sheets to get me through the summer heat, and it's also the time of year I find the best bedding sales are happening.

Our choice of bedding has more bearing on our bedroom design than you might think. Besides the hue on your walls, the room's most dominant color is likely to be that of the linen enshrouding your bed, so you want to make sure it's a shade that's timelessly chic (or at the very least, en vogue).

That's because bedding isn't immune to style trends, and in 2025, there are certain bedding colors that are out of style. It's not only about trivial trends, either. 'Color has a profound impact on mood and sleep quality, with certain hues promoting relaxation while others can feel either too stimulating or dull,' explains interior designer Nina Lichtenstein.

In a design world where wellness and comfort are now taking top priority, there's no room for lurid or lackluster colors that don't feel conducive to a serene bedroom idea. If you want your sleep sanctuary to look beautifully chic, here are six shades that are out for 2025.

1. Dark gray

There was a time when dark, charcoal gray bedding sets were all the rage. Synonymous with moody schemes and the 'millennial gray' craze, gray bedding now feels overdone. 'Once beloved for its minimalist appeal, monochrome gray bedding now feels one-note and emotionally flat,' explains designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'It lacks the personality and warmth people are seeking in their homes.'

As a bedroom color idea, most grays are far too dark and cold to be soothing or relaxing, but what should we be using instead? 'Replacing the dark shades are classic tones like whites, softer grays, and earthy neutrals,' says Jonathan Attwood, co-founder of bedding brand, scooms. 'Reflecting the light beautifully and adding an airy feel, these lighter shades make bedrooms feel fresher, more expansive, and set the mood for rest and relaxation effortlessly. They're also a versatile, neutral base to build your design scheme around, working with an array of colors and textures to allow you to update your decor seasonally.'

For something close to gray but with added warmth, Nina suggests layered mauves, dusty plums, or a soft check in lilac tones. 'These add subtle depth while still feeling serene and sophisticated,' she says.

2. Plain white

Generally, white bedding is an enduring choice that promises to stand the test of time. From a bedroom trends point of view, however, plain white bedsheets aren't in the running for the 'most stylish' award in 2025. 'Crisp white sheets have long been seen as timeless, but in 2025, they’re starting to look sterile, especially when paired with brighter or more expressive duvets,' Nina explains.

Instead, when choosing bedsheets, designers are embracing subtle splashes of color that bring a bit more character and personality to a bedroom. For calming tones that don't depart too far from white on the color scale, Nina recommends a soft melon, butter yellow, or pale mint. 'These colors feel fresh and unexpected, especially beneath a patterned cover, and hint at personality without overwhelming the space,' she says.

You could also limit yourself to just one white element of bedding, like your pillows or undersheet, for example. Or, for something a little different, consider a white quilt or duvet with a colored undersheet for a pop of color that offers a fresh and contemporary feel when the covers are pulled back.

3. Navy

Deep navy was once a popular bedding color, but this rich, inky shade is now waning as a bedroom color trend. 'A full navy bedding set used to be a symbol of smart, tailored style, but now it’s reading too heavy and traditional, particularly in smaller bedrooms,' Nina notes. If you want a cool tone that feels less heavy, she suggests cornflower blue, dusty teal, or periwinkle with warm-toned contrast pillows such as ochre or soft peach. 'The balance of cool and warm breathes new life into the palette,' she says.

Emily Attwood, scooms' other co-founder, has also noticed a clear shift away from this dark bedding tone in recent years. 'While deeper shades once offered a sense of drama and sophistication, they now tend to overpower the modern bedroom, which leans more towards creating a soft, serene, and versatile escape,' she explains. 'Designers and homeowners alike are preferring lighter and earthier schemes that create a calming atmosphere whilst being versatile enough to work with a wider range of smaller accessories, furniture, and textures.'

Lainey Hollis, SVP of Product Creation at Boll & Branch, says blues have lasting style in the bedroom, but recommends pulling inspiration from naturally occurring shades. 'Our new introduction of the color Hydrangea is inspired by coastal landscapes and the color of the sky and sea,' she says. 'This is a calming color that has limitless possibilities to be paired with white or other colors of the landscape, such as Sand.'

4. Cool pastels

I know what you're thinking − sky blue sounds suspiciously like a cool pastel, no? Well, yes, but it's a little more nuanced than that. When it comes to the bedding colors that are out of style in 2025, it's cool, unsaturated tones used entirely alone that designers are keen to avoid.

'Overly cool baby blues and saccharine pinks, for example, are shades that are losing ground because they feel more juvenile than intentional,' says Nina. Instead, 2025 is all about adding an injection of warmth: a peach pillow here and a mauve throw there.

If you're committing to a monochrome pastel theme, lean towards warmer tones like muted rose, clay-pink, or a peachy apricot to make a more stylish impact. 'These tones still offer softness but feel more grown-up and design-forward,' says Nina. (They're generally considered some of the best bedroom colors for sleep, too.)

One possible exception to the rule is green. Pastel iterations of this shade have enduring appeal in the bedroom thanks to their associations with nature. 'Drawing from soothing greens from the garden, we love the colors Meadow and Sageleaf to bring colors from the outdoors into your interiors,' says Lainey.

5. Beige everything

Want to make your bed like an interior designer? We shouldn't need to remind you, but too much beige risks looking bland. As Nina notes, 'neutral doesn’t have to mean boring, but full beige or taupe bedding can easily fall into that trap'.

In 2025, she says people are craving more depth and nuance in their bedding colors. Think layered neutrals with warm chocolates or sophisticated greens thrown into the mix. 'Layer neutrals with complexity,' Nina says, recommending a flax linen paired with olive green, warm ivory, or soft stone. 'Tonal variation is key.'

Lainey loves neutrals as a color family for their soothing properties, but also recommends contrasting them with another color. 'We love to pair warm and cool tones in muted, complex neutral colors,' she says, adding that variations in texture are important, too.

6. Matching, monochrome sets

Now we know it's not strictly a color, but it's an important lesson in bedding trends nonetheless – matching monochrome sets have fallen out of favor in 2025. 'Uniform pillowcases, shams, sheets, and duvets in a single color or print can come across as dated and overly "put together",' says Nina.

Instead, this year is all about curating an eclectic focal point where every element of your bedspread boasts a different, complementary tone. 'Mix unexpected textures and tones, such as a stripe with a solid, linen with velvet, or a small-scale floral with a neutral chambray,' Nina says. The goal is to create a bed that feels collected, not catalogued.'

There's no denying the fact that your bedding should be cozy and comfortable first and foremost, but it should also be visually impactful, too. Choosing the right bedding color isn't just about buying into trends, but it will ensure you have a stylishly chic boudoir conducive to the best night's sleep possible.

The best organic bedding is better for your body and for the environment. When you opt for organic cotton, bamboo, or latex over polyester and microfiber, you're choosing to protect your skin from cheap, synthetic materials and the planet from harsher manufacturing impacts.

But organic bedding is also easily one of the most misunderstood categories in home shopping – and one of the easiest places to be misled. The very meaning of 'organic bedding' is often clouded by concerns about greenwashing, confusion over certifications, and uncertainty about a brand’s true ethical intent. And, with organic bedding almost always costing more than conventional alternatives, it's important to make sure that what you're shopping is truly organic.

That's why, as the resident Sleep Editor at Homes & Gardens, I'm here to clear up the confusion and help you to make informed, organic purchases we've tried, tested, and approved as belonging among the best bedding picks.

What 'Organic Bedding' Actually Means

We've all heard of the terms 'organic,' 'natural,' and 'eco-friendly,' but what do they actually mean when you are shopping for organic bedding?

To find out more, I spoke to Petra Rudolfet, who is an OEKO-TEX® ORGANIC COTTON product manager. OEKO-TEX® ORGANIC COTTON is a recognised industry standard that allows people to make responsible decisions and protect natural resources, as it verifies from farm to product, and tests for Genetically Modified Cotton (GMO), pesticides, and other harmful substances.

Petra explains, 'When we talk about organic bedding, we’re referring to products made from natural materials like cotton, linen, or wool that come from verified organic sources. This means the raw materials are grown without GMOs, pesticides, or other harmful substances.

'It also involves proper animal welfare standards when they are part of the production chain. Essentially, it’s about ensuring that every step of the production process, from field to fabric, meets strict criteria.'

In particular, Petra highlights that, though people often use the terms 'organic' and 'natural' interchangeably, they're actually quite different.

'Natural refers to the material’s origin; it comes from nature,' she advises. 'So, cotton from a cotton plant, wool from sheep, linen from the flax plant, those are all natural fibers.

'Organic means more sustainable farming practices were used; no GMOs, pesticides, proper animal welfare standards, and so on. You can have natural materials that aren’t organic at all if they were grown with conventional methods.'

You may also have heard of 'organic manufacturing,' but there's actually no such thing, shares Petra.

'The term “organic” specifically refers to the raw materials themselves – the fibres,' she says. 'It doesn’t describe the production process. Manufacturing can be sustainable or socially responsible, but it can’t technically be organic. That’s why it’s important to look for certifications that cover the entire supply chain (more on that below), not just the fibre sourcing.

'Organic is a defined term when it comes to the materials, but it doesn’t consider what happens during production, such as potential chemical inputs in dyeing or finishing. That’s why consumers should be on the lookout for additional certifications that test for harmful substances in the final product.'

And, Petra warns, don't get misled by 'eco-friendly' claims when it comes to shopping for organic bedding – the term is meaningless when used alone, and commonly used to greenwash and mislead consumers.

'It’s not a protected term,' adds Petra. 'Anyone can add the words “eco-friendly” to their packaging without providing a shred of proof or meeting any actual standards. It sounds nice, but without third-party certifications backing it up, it's just empty marketing language.

'Be skeptical of vague terms such as “green,” “natural,” “ecological,” “sustainable,” “better choice,” or “safer” when they’re used without any verification. These buzzwords sound appealing, but they’re often greenwashing tactics that don’t ensure any real standards were met.

'Always look for legitimate third-party certifications as that’s your assurance that what you’re buying is truly what it claims to be.'

The Certifications That Matter When Shopping for Organic Bedding

So, which certifications do matter? You're looking for logos on the care tag, badges or product listings that reference any of the following:

Shopping Organic vs Alternative Bedding Types

Organic isn't always the right answer, but you should know what you're choosing if shopping for alternatives. Here are some materials you may come across when shopping for organic bedding or the best bed sheets, and exactly what they mean:

• Organic cotton: This is exactly as it sounds – cotton that's grown from non-genetically modified seeds, without the presence of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. Organic cotton will also typically adhere to strict, certified farming standards, as certified by bodies such as Fair Trade and GOTS, such as the Brooklinen Organic Cotton Core Sheet Set. If cotton is not grown in these circumstances, it's not organic.
• Linen: The same applies to linen, except this breathable, durable material is made from flax plants, and is primarily sourced in Europe. For example, Piglet in Bed linen products are sustainably made in Portugal.
• Bamboo viscose: Bamboo viscose is soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking, and is a regenerated cellulose fiber derived from bamboo pulp. Though it comes from bamboo, a fast-growing plant, it's not typically considered organic, as the manufacturing process is chemically intensive, which is why it's not certified by GOTS. That being said, Cozy Earth is the world’s leader in responsibly sourced viscose, and picks like the Bamboo Bedding Deluxe Bundle, available at Cozy Earth, are naturally breathable and temperature-regulating.
• Lyocell or TENCEL: A better alternative is Lyocell, which, though not organic, is highly sustainable and made from natural wood cellulose. It's also biodegradable and compostable. TENCEL is a branded version of Lyocell, produced by Lenzing AG from responsibly sourced wood pulp.

The Health and Sustainability Benefits of Organic Bedding

As Petra assures me, the benefits of shopping for the best organic bedding really span both environmental and personal health.

'Environmentally, organic production means significantly less soil pollution since there are no pesticides or harmful substances contaminating the earth,' she explains. 'This also protects groundwater quality and typically requires less water consumption than conventionally grown fibres.'

There are also, if organic bedding is certified, meaning the whole production chain is looked into, benefits from a human perspective, which go far beyond being sustainable at home.

'It creates healthier working conditions for everyone involved, from farmers in the fields to workers in the factories, because they’re not exposed to less harmful chemicals day in and day out,' continues Petra. 'And for the end consumer? You’re sleeping on textiles with a lot fewer harmful substances, or residues, which matters because bedding is in constant contact with your skin for hours every night. It's really a win-win, across the board!'

In turn, this makes shopping for organic bedding beneficial if you suspect that your bedding is one of the things secretly making your allergies worse at home. To further combat allergens, I'd also suggest you invest in one of the best air purifiers – our top pick is the Shark NeverChange Air Purifier, available at Amazon.

Organic bedding is also likely to last longer, typically coming at a more premium price point.

What Organic Bedding Should Cost

When shopping for organic bedding, you must set your expectations. Put simply: You are going to be spending more.

How much you're prepared to spend on organic bedding, though, depends on the specific products you're buying. As a general rule, the best pillows and best mattress protectors are more affordable than sheet sets and comforters.

I always recommend setting an upper and lower limit to your budget. I would never spend less than $50 on organic bedding: Any lower, and you're almost certainly working with cheap, synthetic fibers.

Something around $300 is a good price for an organic sheet set or comforter in a Queen size, such as the Diamond-Stitched Organic Cotton Comforter, available at Coyuchi. You can get an organic mattress protector for more like $250. Depending on the fill type, you could pick up an organic pillow for anywhere between $100 and $150.

That being said, Petra assures that, in reality, organic items don't necessarily have to be dramatically more expensive than conventional ones. It's just that if they're labelled 'organic' and are particularly affordable, alarm bells should ring.

'Yes, companies do invest more in obtaining certifications, and you’d hope they’re paying workers fair wages, which can add some cost,' she explains. 'But often the most expensive part of a product isn't the production or materials themselves; it's things like marketing, branding, and retail markup.

'Of course, we’re not talking about fast fashion or super-cheap mass production here. Quality organic bedding should be reasonably priced for what it is, but consumers shouldn’t assume they need to pay luxury prices just because something is organic. If they do pay a premium, it should be for verified quality and ethical practices, not just the word “organic” on a label.'

Knowing where to spend and save can make a huge difference, too. For example, you might decide to invest in one of the best organic mattresses that will last years (our top recommendation is the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss mattress), but opt for cheaper alternatives when it comes to shopping for sheets or the best mattress protector for your budget, for example.

How We Test and Assess Organic Bedding at Homes & Gardens

As the resident Sleep Writer at Homes & Gardens, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the world's best bedding. Together, we represent a wide range of ages, sleep styles, and body types, and we live right across the country, in humid cities in the South and snow-capped corners of the Midwest. We test bedding for a minimum of 30 nights before we write our reviews to get an accurate indication of future performance and sleep comfort.

Our testing methodology varies between different types of bedding. When it comes to bed sheets, we consider look and feel, thermoregulation, and durability when washing. We also consider the range of colors and sizes available, as well as the ease of care. To learn more about how we test bed sheets, consult our expert guide.

When we test comforters and duvet inserts, we consider warmth, weight, and ease of care. We follow the care instructions to clean the comforter and monitor its performance before and after. Our expert explainer contains more information about how we test comforters.

We assess all pillows against the same criteria: Comfort, support, thermoregulation, and durability, or how the look and feel of the pillow changes over weeks and months of use. Consult our expert guide to learn more about how we test pillows.

We assess mattress protectors for comfort, thermoregulation, waterproofing, noise levels, and ease of care. Here's more information about how we test protectors.

And, when it comes to shopping for organic bedding, certification checks also play a big part. We want to make sure that we're bringing you truly organic picks and avoiding any greenwashing or eco-friendly claims that aren't backed up. For this, we check the care label and thoroughly research the brand, along with their values and manufacturing process.

The Best Organic Bedding Brands Designers and Editors Trust

To cut through the noise of the best organic bedding brands and best ethical bedding brands, these are the ones we recommend time and time again, all of which meet recognized organic standards.

Here, you can compare them side-by-side, or simply click through to the site to browse.

Is hemp bedding's best kept secret? Find out more in our Naturalmat organic hemp bed linen collection review.

Making your bed comfortable is about more than choosing the right bedding; it's also about optimizing your sleep position. Depending on how you sleep, you can disrupt your spinal alignment, making it more difficult to fall asleep. Drew Barrymore has found a unique solution: sleeping with a body pillow.

She explained her admiration for body pillows in an interview with People. Barrymore stated: 'I sleep with a body pillow like I’m still pregnant!' She explains: 'Being a mom, businesswoman, and someone whose mind is constantly racing, it can feel not just challenging but impossible. I used to toss and turn throughout the night or stay up staring at the ceiling, unable to fall asleep.'

Choosing the perfect pillow is no easy task, but a body pillow is always a great option for side sleepers. These extra large and long pillows give people who sleep this way something to support your legs and arms as you sleep. This can help keep you in proper alignment leading to a better night of sleep.

Editor's Picks of the Best Body Pillows

For Drew Barrymore, as for most of us, a proper bedtime routine is essential to her high-functioning life. She states: 'We can’t be our best selves without a good night’s rest. Ask any cranky baby — or grownup! Quality sleep is essential. It impacts us mentally and physically, our well-being, and our overall health. It affects how we show up in the world.'

She enhances the possibility of this by sleeping with high-quality cooling bedding alongside her body pillow.

Shop Barrymore's Favorite Bedding

Drew Barrymore's trick might not work for everyone, but it's a reminder that each person's sleep routine may be different. Whatever works for you, it's important to pay attention to your personal needs when buying bedding and pillows.

If you are to invest in any type of homeware, let it be your bedding. Since we spend so much of our lives asleep, these products have a direct impact on our overall well-being – but Martha Stewart has made it possible to have the best of both worlds. With her bedding collection, we don't need to splurge to benefit from high-quality pieces.

Martha Stewart's collections are renowned for their quality and affordability, but arguably, nothing epitomizes this ideology quite like her bedding. This section (available on Amazon) offers everything you need for a luxury hotel-quality bed, and every product is a testament to Stewart's deep understanding of the bedroom and what we need for a restful slumber. 'Sleeping well and getting enough sleep is a big part of being healthy, and really nice sheets help create a cozy bed,' she shares.

'Well-made sheets are a big part of part of being comfortable in bed, so find these and other ones you’ll love from the Martha Stewart collection.' We noticed some of her most beloved pieces are quietly reduced on Amazon now – with some of our favorites listed for under $40. They're some of the best sheets, duvets and pillows on the market at a surprisingly low price point.

Many mattresses claim to be cooling, but few deliver on that promise. As a hot sleeper who suffers from night sweats, especially during the summer, I need a specialist cooling mattress to carry any excess thermal energy away from my body and out of bed. I haven't had much luck with hybrid mattresses in the past: most are breathable, but none actually felt cool to the touch.

Back in Spring 2024, I took a trip to the Brooklyn Bedding factory in Glendale, Arizona, to see how a mattress is made. While I was there, I sampled more than 40 mattresses from Brooklyn Bedding and some of their sister brands, including Bear, Leesa, and Nolah. I liked the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress so much that I took it home for long-term testing.

As H&G's resident Sleep Editor, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the world's best mattress. In the interests of fair comparison, we assess each mattress against the same criteria: pressure relief; thermoregulation; motion isolation; and edge support. Six months into testing, I can confirm that the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress excels at thermoregulation: I'd rank it among the best cooling mattresses.

Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress review − six months later

Who would the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress suit?

• Hot sleepers: now that I've slept on the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress through spring, summer, autumn, and winter, I can confirm that the cooling cover and cooling foam help to keep my night sweats under control. If you suffer from hot flashes or you live in a warm climate, this mattress would make a great thermoregulator.
• Front, back or side sleepers: the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress comes in a range of mattress firmness levels to suit all sleep positions. I recommend Firm for stomach sleepers, and Medium for back or side sleepers. I tried all three in the Brooklyn Bedding showroom, where the Soft felt seriously soft: I couldn't settle into the mattress without feeling that I was sinking through it.
• Anyone who struggles with mobility: the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress has excellent edge support. I could comfortably sit or sleep on the side of the bed. If you need a little help getting into or out of bed, then you can lean on your mattress for solid support: the springs are reinforced around the edges.

What's it like to sleep on the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress?

• Thermoregulation: I was expecting big things from the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress, and I wasn't disappointed. This is a hybrid mattress, with a sprung core and comfort layers of memory foam (if any of these terms are new to you, feel free to cross-reference against my mattress jargon buster). Your average hybrid mattress is breathable, because of all the air between the coils. The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress takes things up a notch. The comfort layer is made from gel memory foam, all the better to absorb excess body heat. It's the cooling cover that really impressed me. Even through a mattress protector and fitted sheet, it felt cool to the touch when I first lay down. I've slept on the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress through all four seasons. It came in handy during summer heatwaves, and it's still working through the winter, keeping my body just the right side of cool and dry while my space heater warms the rest of my bedroom.
• Motion isolation: if you share a bed with a pet or partner, or you're a very light sleeper, then motion isolation might be one of the most important factors for you when buying a mattress. In that case, I'd advise you to try the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Mattress in Firm: I've found holds its shape better than Medium or Soft. To test the motion isolation of the mattress, I filled a glass with water and set it in the center of the mattress before applying pressure around it. Once I got within six inches of the glass, it started to wobble. By the time I was an inch or two away, the glass was bouncing perilously, and water threatened to spill. This indicates some motion transfer through the mattress. If, like me, you prefer a bit of bounce in your bed, then this shouldn't be a problem. If you're looking for more solid support, I recommend the Tempur-Pedic ProAdapt Medium Hybrid Mattress.

• Edge support: the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress feels firm right the way around the edges. As you can see in the picture above, the mattress dips slightly beneath your body weight, but you shouldn't start to slip or slide off the bed. You could comfortably sit on the side of this mattress to get dressed in the morning or nurse a baby in the night.
• Pressure relief: the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress comes in Soft, Medium, and Firm. Knowing the difference between US vs UK beds (US mattresses tend to feel softer), I opted for Firm. I'm glad I did: as a stomach sleeper, I need a supportive surface to stop my hips from sinking and keep my spine in line. The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress is a plush mattress, designed to cushion your joints and relieve pressure. For a firmer feel, I recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress. For anyone in need of extra pressure relief, I rate the Simba Hybrid Pro Mattress.

How does the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress rate online?

The Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress boasts a 4.7 average star rating from more than 3,000 verified reviews. Most reviews mention the thermoregulation, as well as the plush comfort of the mattress, but few mention the motion isolation, or lack thereof. This feeds into my theory that many shoppers don't mind a bit of motion transfer. If nothing else, a bit of bounce makes it easier to get into and out of bed.

The most common complaint concerns the look and feel of the peaks and troughs on the mattress surface. Even through my mattress protector and a fitted sheet, I could feel the dips and ridges of the diamond pattern. Some nights, I had to shuffle around, trying different positions in different parts of the mattress before I could get comfortable. If you're looking for a plush hybrid that feels nice and smooth up top, I recommend the Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress.

Should I buy the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress?

Most of the hybrid mattresses I review retail for at least $2,000 for a Queen: the combination of a spring core and a memory foam comfort layer ups the price. By contrast, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress retails for $1,585.50 for a Queen. I wouldn't say it's one of the best affordable mattresses for buyers on a budget, but it's certainly more affordable than many of its close competitors.

If you're looking for a mattress that can keep your night sweats under control, I can recommend the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe Cooling Mattress. I've slept comfortably through heatwaves and cold snaps, when I've had a space heater blaring in my bedroom. The motion isolation leaves a little to be desired, but I like a bit of bounce in my beds, and the sturdy edge support more than makes up for it.

How we test mattresses

As H&G's resident Sleep Editor, I lead a team of experts in the search to find the best mattress. Together, we represent a wide range of ages and sleep styles and we live right across the country, in warm, cold, and temperate climates. We test each mattress for a minimum of 30 nights in our own homes before we write our reviews. After the initial test period, we often continue to test each mattress and update our reviews accordingly. To learn more about how we test mattresses, consult our expert guide.

For the sake of a fair fight, we assess each mattress against the same criteria: pressure relief; thermoregulation; motion isolation; and edge support. To assess edge support, we lie on the mattress and flip between our stomach, back, and sides, considering how the mattress feels in each position. To assess thermoregulation, we switch off our HVAC to sleep through all seasons, making note of any night where we wake up in a sweat.

To assess motion isolation, we fill a glass with water and place it in the middle of the mattress. Then, we take a weight and set it on the mattress, moving incrementally closer to the glass. The more the glass moves, and the more water spills, the worse the motion isolation and the less suitable the mattress for couples and light sleepers. To assess edge support, we sit on the side of the mattress and measure how far we fall. The further we sink, the worse the edge support, and the harder it might be to get into and out of bed.

We also consider the practical parts of buying a mattress, including the sleep trial, the warranty, and the details of delivery. We like to compare our findings against verified reviews to see how other customers are sleeping on the same mattress. Finally, we bring it all back to the price to help you determine value for money.

At the beginning of the year, many people consider inviting healthier habits into their lives. Whether it's getting into a more frequent exercise routine, eating more nutritious food, or reducing screen time, many of the most common health-related resolutions start with one source: sleep. That is to say, if we are taking our health seriously, it's paramount that we are taking our sleep seriously. Further, good sleep hygiene starts with a good bed.

Naomi Watts has long relied on Coyuchi as the best place to buy bedding for a renewing night's rest, and, to make your dreams even sweeter, they've expanded their offerings to include an all-natural mattress. Watts explains: 'Coyuchi’s unwavering commitment to sustainable, organic, and luxurious textiles speaks to the core of what I believe in. I’ve always felt that the most beautiful things in life are those that remain closest to their natural form—uncomplicated, authentic, and connected to the earth.' The new mattress builds upon this philosophy.

Watts's preferred mattress uses organic and recyclable materials to minimize its environmental footprint. Crafted from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton and with GOLS-certified organic latex, it's free of chemicals found in many traditional mattresses. It's also made in the USA, which helps to minimize emissions from transportation. Considering that we spend almost 1/3 of our lives sleeping, it's comforting that this mattress allows a user to spend as little of that time near harmful chemicals, dyes, and toxins as possible.

It's clear that the materials make the Coyuchi Natural REM Mattress one of the best organic matresses, but how does it feel? Luckily, it's designed for comfort as much as it is for sustainability. It has a precision-engineered coil system to offer comfort and support. The wool padding on top regulates temperature and wicks moisture for a comfortable and cool sleep. Best of all, it was built for versatility, meaning you don't need to pair it with a box spring.

Shop More of Naomi Watts's Favorites