The Best Way to Make Your Winter Bed

Nothing beats getting into a warm bed on a cold night. “Winter is the perfect opportunity to be creative and add layers of pattern, colour and texture to create an inviting and cosy winter nest. Warm throws, coverlets, quilts and cushions are all extras you can pile on in winter,” says Sue Morris, Head Of Design at Linen House.

While the really cold weather is still a while off, here are our top tips for updating your bedding essentials for a warmer night’s sleep.

The Right Blanket

There are two types of blankets that will keep you snuggly and warm in winter: down and wool. If you like a heavier blanket, opt for wool. As a natural fiber, wool has the ability to adjust to the body’s temperature to keep you warm in winter, but also stay cool in summer.

Down blankets provide warmth without the weight. They often have a mix of down and feather content: the higher the percentage of down to feather, the softer, lighter, and warmer the bedding will be.

Finding Warmer Sheets

“Toasty, flannel sheets are a winter favorite,” says Morris. “They’re so soft and warm and quite inexpensive for a seasonal update.” Sheets with a high thread count are another option as they hold in heat well. They’re also lovely and luxurious.

Hot Tricks

Layering is the best way to beat the cold. As temperatures change throughout the night you can adjust your layers accordingly. It’s also a great idea when you share your bed — it’s near impossible to get the temperature perfect for two people at once!

An electric blanket is perfect for taking the cold edge off when you first hop into bed. You only need to turn it on about five minutes before you go to bed (get into the habit of switching it on before you brush your teeth) then you can flick it off once you get in, or before you close your eyes and drift off to sleep. Leaving it on while you sleep will cause you to overheat and wake up during the night. As an alternative, try a wool mattress topper. It will trap in the heat plus give you an extra soft layer to sleep on.

Update Your Decor

Now that you’ve warmed your bed to the max, it’s time to make some small changes to your room. It will not only help take the edge off when you get out of bed each morning, but it will also save you from being tempted to turn on the heater and send your energy bills soaring. Keep your curtains and blinds closed to help insulate the room and add a rug underfoot. Before bed, have a cup of tea or another hot drink to warm up your insides.

This article was originally written by Chelsea Tromans. For more, check out our sister site, Homes to Love.

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