How to make a cozy bed
There is nothing quite like a gorgeous, cozy bed to welcome you after a long day. A well made bed will transform even the most mundane of rooms. For me making my bed is one the first things I do each morning. But how to make a cozy bed? With just a few simple items you will be making your own cozy bed in no time! Here are my top five must haves to make that transformational perfectly cozy bed.
To get just the right look, I take into consideration the ambiance I want for the room. For me, when it comes to my bedroom words like tranquil, peaceful, calm, and luxurious, come to mind. It could also be something sexy, inviting, attractive, warm etc. Its different for everyone. Being a space for sleeping and recharging I try to aim towards a feeling that is conducive to that purpose.
It is a personal choice, and over the years my style, tastes, and rooms have evolved. That is the great thing about making a cozy bed. It reflects your personality and tastes, and can easily evolve with you!
Once I have decided how I want my space to look, I select my bedding accordingly. No matter the choice, my number one criteria is the quality of the bed linens. This makes all the difference.
Here are my top 5 ways to make a cozy bed.
One: Quality Linens
For me nothing spoils a beautiful bed quite like poor quality linens. My number one tip is to buy the best quality linens you can afford. I like 100% cotton sheeting no matter the time of year. The higher the thread count the better. I look for somewhere between 400 – 800 thread count. Keep in mind the higher the thread count the warmer they will be, so this is something to consider depending on whether you tend to get cold, or hot overnight.
Fabric Finishes
100% Cotton sheeting also comes in a variety of finishes such as Egyptian, Percale, Sateen, etc. Sateen is one of my favorites. A sateen finish has a slight sheen to it and for me this adds a touch of luxury. Click here for details on fabric options.
Reasons I like 100% cotton:
- Cotton breathes well
- Cotton feels crisp and cool in the warmer months
- Quality cotton does not pill (those tiny rough balls on sheets after washing)
- Quality cotton will wash well and last for years if cared for according to instructions on lable.
- For winter bedding and something a little more cozy I love 100% cotton flannel.
Take a look at Pottery Barn for a wonderful selection of 100% cotton organic sheets.
Be aware that fabrics are often treated with various chemicals. In particular for stain resistance, and anti-wrinkle treatments. I try to eliminate as many chemicals from my home as possible and it is amazing where they sneak in. Look for and choose organic sheeting when available. Avoid bedding that is labeled ‘Anti-wrinkle’ ‘Hypoallergenic’ ‘Stain resistant’ etc. These have been treated with harmful chemicals to create these properties. I found a great article discussing toxins in the bedroom here.
Two: Quality pillows
There are two types of pillows that I include on my cozy bed. Of course there is the pillow you sleep on, and then for a nice cozy bed, there are also the decorative type.
For sleeping I like to include two pillows for each side of the bed, and for a decorative touch it is nice to add an accent or two, but not to over do it. No-one wants to spend 10mins removing decorative pillows before climbing into bed. Usually a couple is a nice touch and enough to add personality a sense of style and tie your look together.
Pillows not only look great, but a pillow can make or break a good nights sleep. Who knew there was so much to consider when choosing a pillow that is right for you!
Things to consider when choosing a pillow
- Height/Thickness. When choosing a pillow, it is helpful to know whether you are a side, front or back sleeper. This will help determine the height / or thickness of your pillow so that it is not only comfortable, but also supportive, keeping your neck aligned in as natural line as possible. These days there is a whole science behind pillow design and a lot to choose from.
- Filling. Pillows also come in a variety of fillings such as down, down alternative, memory foam, cooling etc. I love a good old down filled pillow! Thankfully I am not allergic to feathers. However my husband is sensitive to these, so a down alternative (usually synthetic) is more appropriate for him.
- Cover. Along with the other considerations, pillows come in a variety of covers. I look for 100% cotton. It is worth it to me to choose one that is organic if possible, as a lot of these fabrics are treated with chemicals to inhibit molds etc. I like to minimize the chemical load in our home as much as possible, especially something that is so close to my skin. For more detailed information on how to choose the perfect pillow thesleepdoctor.com
- Pillow Protectors. It is worth spending a few extra dollars and buying pillow protectors for each pillow. Once again they come in a variety of fabrics. They can be washed regularly and will extend the life of your pillow. Great for keeping your pillows clean and hygienic. These are especially helpful for anyone who suffers from allergies, or guest rooms where different individuals will use the pillows.
- Pillow Cases. The finishing touch. Usually these are included with your choice of sheets, and can be mixed and matched to get the look you want. For me the same considerations as sheeting applies here.
Three: Blankets
No bed would be complete without a warm cozy blanket. For me this is not just a winter thing. I also like to include a light weight blanket during the summer months too. Since the fabric is not usually directly in contact with my skin, I am more open to a variety of fabrics for my blankets.
I find natural fabrics to perform better when it comes to heating and cooling. Wool is wonderful in winter, and I adore a cotton blanket in the summer. However in saying this, sometimes the mood (or temperature) and sometimes even practicality calls for something really soft and fluffy. So here I go with whatever the mood and season calls for.
Four: Bed Cover / Quilt
Out of all the factors determining how great the bed looks, the choice of bed cover or quilt is huge. The bed cover sets the entire scene for everything else. The great thing here is that the options are endless.
I personally like neutrals for their relaxing, calming and luxurious qualities. Neutrals tend to let texture and quality shine through. Over the years I have played with many a style and color palette. I look back now an cringe at some of these choices, and have noted what I loved most. For me there is nothing quite like a white bed cover. I absolutely love color and prints, but I eventually grow tired of them and find they can date quickly. Then I have to re-stage the entire room to make it work with my new one.
White does not have to be boring. By selecting different fabrics, textures and styles, I discovered that with white, I can easily change up my decorative pillows and throw blankets, add a seasonal touch and the entire look and feel to the room is changed. Look for these touches in my guest room makeover.. coming soon.
Five: Throw blanket
Last but not least, the throw blanket… Nothing adds a cozy and comforting touch quite like a throw blanket, casually drape across the end of a bed. The key here is to drape. It should cascade down the side of the bed or across the corner and not sit like a mat in the middle.
This is a great way to express your personality and the style of your room and in particular tie in your chosen color scheme. For those of you who love color, this is a perfect addition.
A throw blanket is an elegant touch of luxury which beckons you to cozy up. The perfect final touch that no cozy bed would be complete without. It will also come in handy for those odd chilly nights that catch you off guard.
Throw blankets are readily available in just about any conceivable color, style, fabric and price point. Don’t be afraid to play with texture and style here. Anything from fine cashmere to chunky knits. The hardest part is choosing just one.
I like this faux mohair throw from Pottery Barn for its neutral palette and finish
Chunky knits are also on trend like this weighted organic blanket also from Pottery Barn.
So there you have it. My top 5 must haves to make a cozy bed. What makes a bed cozy or you? Id love to hear what your favorite ways to make a cozy bed include.
If you enjoyed this post you may like Why I love my white serving dishes.
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Id like to thank Amira Aboalnaga on Unsplash for feature photo.
Good day! I just want to offer you a huge thumbs up for
the great information you have right here on this post.
I am returning to your site for more soon.
Thank you! I love to hear you are enjoying my posts. I look forward to sharing some more fun posts soon.
LOVE IT! Thanks for these wonderful tips. A cozy bed is everything!
Thanks Danielle!
Very well written, Donna. Like you say, invest in a couple of good quality products that last a long time vs. buying tons of cheap stuff.
What can we do to prevent dust mites?
Looking forward to more reads.
Thanks Malathy,
Great question regarding dust mites. Keeping your linens washed regularly (at least weekly is recommended), your room and home dusted and vacuumed and use of hypo-allergenic pillows will help. Dust mites will not find your bed nearly as cozy as you do, if there is no dust to make them feel at home! You may find my blog 5 Reasons to De-cutter helpful. It can be found here https://beyondthewreath.com/?p=103.
Regards
Donna
I really need to redo my bedding. Given the length of time we spend sleeping, we owe it to ourselves to indulge in quality bedding. I want to sleep like a queen!
Hi Carolyn,
I have no doubt you will be sleeping like a Queen in no time! Sleep is so important. Its the least we can do to recharge and be out best!
I hope you found some inspiration.
Donna