The Bedding Guide
Your go-to guide for choosing the right toppers, materials, and layers for better sleep.
Bedding is one of those everyday details that quietly changes everything. It shapes how well you sleep, how your bedroom feels, and how you start and end each day. There is nothing quite like slipping into fresh bed sheets, adjusting your duvet, and finally switching off. While it is easy to focus on how a bed looks, what really matters is how it supports you through the night.
Comfort is deeply personal. Some people sleep hot, others are always reaching for an extra layer. Some love the crisp, hotel-style feel of cotton bedding sets, while others prefer the relaxed softness of linen or brushed fabrics. From thread count and fabric choice to tog ratings and layering with cosy blankets and quilts, every detail plays a role, but none of them work in isolation. What feels perfect for one person may feel completely wrong for another.
That is where this guide comes in. We break down everything you need to know, from choosing the right duvet covers and seasonal layers to understanding materials, sizes, and comfort upgrades like a mattress topper or a breathable mattress protector. Whether you are refreshing your bedroom or investing in better sleep long term, this guide will help you build a space that feels calm, comfortable, and genuinely inviting.
Words: Melisa Rustemova - Published: 19.01.26
Bedding Basics: What’s Included?
When people talk about bedding, they usually mean more than just sheets. A comfortable bed is made up of a few key layers, each with a different job to do. Once you understand what each one is for, building a setup that suits your sleep style becomes far easier.
Duvets and covers Your duvet is your main warmth layer, and its tog rating and filling determine how warm or cool you feel. The cover affects both comfort and look, from crisp cotton to relaxed linen and softer brushed fabrics.
Sheets Bed sheets sit directly against your skin, so their fabric matters. Fitted sheets stay in place, while flat sheets can be layered for extra comfort and protection.
Pillows and pillowcases Pillows support your head and neck, helping with posture and comfort. Your sleeping position will influence the height and firmness that feels best.
Toppers and protectors A mattress topper can adjust the feel of your bed, adding softness or support. A mattress protector helps keep your mattress clean and fresh for longer.
Blankets and extra layers Blankets, quilts, and throws add warmth, texture, and that cosy, tucked-in feel. For colder nights, electric and heated blankets offer adjustable warmth.
Together, these layers form the foundation of a comfortable bed. Once you know what each piece does, choosing the right bedding sets feels simpler and more personal.
Bedding Sizes Explained
One of the most common mistakes people make when shopping for bedding is choosing the wrong size. Sheets that pull loose, duvets that do not quite cover the sides, or pillowcases that feel awkward can all affect how comfortable your bed feels. Getting the sizing right makes everything look better, feel better, and stay in place through the night.
In the UK, bedding sizes are based on mattress dimensions, but covers and duvets are usually made slightly larger to allow for drape and movement.
UK Bedding Sizes Overview
Choosing the right size depends on your mattress and how much space you like to sleep with.
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A single bed is ideal for children’s rooms, guest rooms, or smaller spaces.
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A small double bed offers a little extra room without taking up too much floor space.
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A double bed is the most popular choice for couples or solo sleepers who like to spread out.
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A king size bed gives you more width and length for a more relaxed, hotel-style feel.
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A super king size bed is perfect for larger bedrooms and maximum comfort.
Many people choose to size up their duvet, even if their mattress is smaller. For example, using a king size duvet on a double bed gives you more coverage and helps avoid midnight duvet-stealing.
Duvet and Cover Sizing
Your duvet and cover should always match in size. A duvet that is too small inside its cover will bunch up, while one that is too big will feel bulky and uneven. Always check the measurements of duvet covers, especially if you are shopping internationally, as naming conventions can vary.
Sheets and Fit
Your bed sheets should fit snugly without pulling at the corners. Fitted sheets are designed to wrap securely around your mattress, while flat sheets can be layered on top for extra comfort and protection. If you use a topper, make sure your fitted sheet has enough depth to accommodate both the mattress and your mattress topper.
Cot and Children’s Bedding
For little ones, size and safety are especially important. A cot bed requires specifically sized cot bedding that fits securely without excess fabric. Always check product measurements rather than relying on the name alone.
Why Sizing Matters
When your bedding sets fit properly, they look neater, feel more comfortable, and stay in place through the night. No bunching, no slipping, and no cold gaps. Just a bed that feels made for you.
Bedding Materials and Fillings
The materials you choose for your bedding have a huge impact on how your bed feels, how well it regulates temperature each option brings something different to the table.
Duvet Fillings
The filling inside your duvet affects its warmth, weight, and overall feel. It also plays a role in how breathable your bed is and how well it holds its shape over time.
Feather - Feather-filled duvets offer a balance of softness and structure. They feel supportive rather than cloud-like and tend to be a little heavier, which many people find comforting. Feather is naturally insulating while still allowing some airflow.
Down - Taken from the soft under-feathers of ducks or geese. It is known for its lightweight warmth and airy, plush feel. Down traps heat effectively without feeling bulky, which is why it is often associated with luxury hotel-style bedding.
Silk - Silk-filled duvets are naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and gentle on the skin. They are a popular choice for hot sleepers and people with sensitivities, as silk helps regulate temperature without feeling heavy.
Wool - Its brilliant at regulating temperature. It keeps you warm when it is cold and cool when it is warm. It also wicks away moisture, which helps prevent that stuffy, overheated feeling during the night.
Synthetic - This fillings are designed to mimic the feel of natural down while being easier to care for. They are often hypoallergenic, machine washable, and more affordable, making them a practical everyday option.
Sheet and Cover Fabrics
The fabric of your bed sheets and duvet covers affects how your bed feels against your skin, how breathable it is, and how much maintenance it needs.
Cotton - One of the most popular choices for everyday bedding sets. It is breathable, durable, and softens with every wash, making it comfortable all year round.
Egyptian cotton - Made from extra-long fibres, which create a smoother, stronger, and more luxurious fabric. It feels soft, crisp, and long-lasting, though it may need a little more care when washing.
Linen - Naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for hot sleepers. It feels cool to the touch and has a relaxed, lived-in look that softens beautifully over time.
Silk - This bedding feels smooth, lightweight, and naturally temperature-regulating. It is also hypoallergenic, making it a good option for sensitive skin. Many people pair silk bedding with a silk pillowcase for an extra-soft feel against the face and hair.
Brushed cotton - it has a softly textured surface that traps warmth, making it perfect for colder months. It feels cosy, comforting, and gently insulating.
Velvet - This bedding is heavier and warmer, with a rich, dramatic look. It is often used more for styling and seasonal layering than for everyday sleep.
Thread Count: What It Really Means
Thread count is one of the most talked-about features when shopping for bedding, but it is also one of the most misunderstood. In simple terms, thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. While a higher number can sometimes mean a smoother feel, it does not automatically guarantee better quality.
What matters just as much is the type of fibre, how it is woven, and how the fabric feels against your skin. Crisp percale cotton, silky sateen, and relaxed linen can all be comfortable at different thread counts, so it is worth thinking about texture and breathability rather than chasing the highest number on the label.
Understanding Thread Count Ranges
Low Thread Count (200–300) These fabrics feel lighter and more breathable, making them a good choice for hot sleepers and warmer months. They are often found in crisp cotton weaves.
Medium Thread Count (300–500) This is the sweet spot for most people. It offers a balance of softness and airflow, making it ideal for everyday bed sheets and bedding sets
High Thread Count (600–800+) Higher thread counts feel denser and smoother, often with a more luxurious drape. They can feel warmer, which makes them a better choice for colder months or people who love a heavier, cocooned feel.
Rather than focusing on numbers alone, pay attention to how the fabric feels when you touch it. The best bedding is the kind that feels good the moment you climb into bed.
What Is TOG and Why It Matters
TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade. It is a measurement of how warm a duvet is, not how soft or how heavy it feels. The higher the TOG rating, the more heat the duvet retains.
TOG Ratings at a Glance
1.0–4.5 TOG Lightweight and breathable Best for summer Great for hot sleepers
7.5 TOG Mid-weight and versatile Ideal for spring and early autumn Perfect if you prefer lighter layers
10.5 TOG Cosy and insulating Great for cooler bedrooms A popular year-round option
13.5 TOG and above Extra warm and cocooning Best for winter Ideal if you feel the cold easily
Some people like to switch duvets with the seasons, while others choose an all-season option made up of two layers that can be combined when temperatures drop.
Extra Warmth and Seasonal Comfort
For colder months, many people add extra layers like blankets, quilts, or even an electric blanket or heated blankets for adjustable warmth. These layers can be removed or added as needed, helping you fine-tune your comfort without changing your duvet.
Choosing the Right Bedding for You (Sleep Style, Seasons, and Care)
The best bedding is not one-size-fits-all. How you sleep, how warm you run, and even the time of year all play a role in what feels most comfortable. When your bed works with your body, rather than against it, falling asleep feels easier and staying asleep feels more natural.
If You Sleep Hot
If you often wake up feeling too warm, focus on breathable layers. Natural fabrics like linen and cotton allow air to circulate, helping prevent overheating. Crisp, lightweight bed sheets and a low-tog duvet are ideal for warmer months. Some people even swap their duvet for a flat sheet or light blankets during heatwaves, keeping heavier layers folded at the end of the bed.
If You Sleep Cold
If you are always reaching for extra layers, warmth is key. Higher tog duvets create a more cocooning feel, while brushed cotton and sateen fabrics feel softer and warmer against the skin. Layering with quilts or throws is an easy way to add warmth without replacing your main duvet. For extra comfort, many people turn to an electric blanket or heated blankets, which allow you to adjust warmth without overheating.
If You Have Sensitive Skin or Allergies
Gentle, breathable fabrics can make a noticeable difference. Silk, organic cotton, and tightly woven covers help reduce irritation, while a mattress protector creates a cleaner sleep environment. A mattress topper can also improve comfort without the need for a full mattress upgrade.
Bedding by Season
Just like your wardrobe, your bedding can change with the seasons.
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Spring: Mid-weight layers work best. A lighter duvet and breathable fabrics keep things feeling fresh.
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Summer: Keep it cool with airy bed sheets, low-tog duvets, or just a light layer.
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Autumn: This is the time for layering. Add throws and slightly warmer covers.
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Winter: Higher tog duvets, cosy fabrics, and extra layers create that cocooned, sleep-in-all-morning feel.
Rotating your bedding sets through the year helps you stay comfortable without needing a full replacement.
Bedding FAQs
How often should I wash bedding? Sheets and pillowcases should be washed every seven to ten days to keep them fresh. Duvet covers usually need washing every two to four weeks, depending on use.
Should I size up my duvet? Many people do. Choosing a larger duvet can give you more coverage, reduce cold gaps, and create a more relaxed, hotel-style feel.
What is the difference between percale and sateen? Percale is crisp and cool, while sateen feels smoother and slightly warmer due to its weave.
Do I need a mattress topper? A mattress topper can improve comfort if your mattress feels too firm or too soft. It adds an extra layer of cushioning without the need to replace your mattress.