Want to create a picture-perfect bed? Then you need to understanding bedding. Selecting from dozens of pillows, sheets, bed skirts and bedspreads would be overwhelming without knowing each type’s definition and function.
With this guide, we learn about different bedding items and their uses. Your dream bed awaits.
Here’s everything you need to know about the eleven bedding essentials for the perfect bed.
Sheets are divided into two broad categories based on where they are used. The top sheet separates you from your blanket, comforter or quilt. The bottom (or fitted) sheet has elasticized edges that fit around and cover the mattress. The elastic prevents the sheet from coming off the bed as the corners are tucked tightly around the mattress.
A bedspread is a lightweight bed covering used for decoration or warmth. It is placed on top of the sheets and extends to the ground. It is made with thin fabrics like cotton, wool, polyester or chenille.
Blankets are a versatile addition to your bed as they add a decorative touch and coziness in colder months. They are made of wool, cotton, polyester, microfibre plush, or a combination of fibres.
A bed skirt or bed ruffle is a piece of fabric placed between the mattress and box spring. Its main function is to hide your bed’s framework and under-bed storage while adding a touch of softness, colour and style to your bedroom. It extends to the floor at the mattress’s side and bottom. A bed skirt is for a bed what a valance is for window treatments; enhancing its appearance and hiding the optimized space.
A throw blanket is smaller than a regular blanket and has colourful edges and artistic patterns. Made from a variety of materials including fleece, flannel, wool, cotton and mink, it provides extra warmth and makes your bed more appealing. Placed generally at its foot, throw blankets have fringed edges to distinguish them from regular ones.
A coverlet is in many ways an extension of your bed. It is placed on the top of your bed skirt and acts as a bedroom accent. Typically made of cotton, velvet, linen or silk, it gives your bed a sleek and contemporary look. It neither touches the floor nor covers the pillows but is used to dress the foot of the bed.
A comforter is a bed cover stuffed with down or fibre for warmth which is sewn together on the edges.
Available in a wide range of colours, patterns and styles, comforters are commonly used as bed toppers in North America. They provide insulation and keep you warm and comfortable when you sleep. These fluffy blankets are often sold in sets with coordinating pillows to give your bed a uniform look.
A duvet is a soft, flat bag filled with down, feathers, silk, wool or a synthetic alternative to keep you warm. Sometimes used interchangeably with a comforter, duvets need a protective, removable cover whereas comforters don’t. Duvet covers keep your duvets clean and provide an opportunity to decorate your bed by experimenting with colours and patterns. These affordable bedding items are easy to care for and can easily update the look of your bedroom.
Pillows are both decorative and functional. They come in many styles and add depth and dimension to your bed.
Made with soft fabrics like cotton, pillowcases can be removed for cleaning. It is advisable to change them at least twice a week to avoid skin irritation.
These are decorative pillowcases designed to cover standard-size pillows but are not intended to be slept on. They are often designed with trims, cording, flanges and ruffles to create visual interest and add extra style to your bed. Some people match their pillow shams with duvets and comforters. Unlike pillowcases, pillow shams tend to open from the back, sometimes with a hidden closure or an overlapping length of fabric.
Have you ever noticed how large the bedding section in a department store is? Now you know why. There’s an enormous range of bedding items and they play a key role in making your bed look and feel great. Knowing the definitions and uses of each type will come in handy when it comes time to create your own cozy and stylish bed. Now, all you need is a little coordination and creativity to make your perfect bed.
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