A well-made bed serves as the foundation of a restful bedroom, but the right accessories transform it from functional to comfortable. Beyond the basic mattress and frame, several key items work together to support quality sleep, regulate temperature, and create a space that feels inviting at the end of each day.
Whether you’re setting up a new bedroom or refreshing your current sleep setup, understanding which bed accessories matter most can help you make informed choices. This guide covers the essential items that contribute to both comfort and practicality.
Selecting Quality Sheets
Sheets serve as the first layer between you and your bedding, making them one of the most important accessories to consider. A fitted sheet and a flat sheet work together to protect your mattress and provide a comfortable sleeping surface.
When choosing sheets, material plays a significant role in both feel and durability. Cotton is favored for its breathable, soft texture, and most options fall within the 200–800 thread count range. Higher thread counts often indicate a smoother texture, though the quality of the cotton fiber matters more than the number alone.
Other materials worth considering include linen, which offers natural temperature regulation and becomes softer with each wash, and bamboo-derived fabrics, which provide moisture-wicking properties. For those who prefer natural fibers with temperature-regulating properties, options like the Fawcett wool bedding collection showcase wool’s ability to regulate temperature for comfort in every season. Those who sleep warm may prefer percale weaves for their crisp, cool feel, while sateen weaves offer a smoother, slightly warmer surface.
Care requirements also factor into the decision. Look for durable sheets that maintain their quality through repeated washes, and use reviews to gauge long-term performance
Choosing the Right Pillows
Understanding Fill Types
Pillow fills fall into several categories, each with distinct characteristics. Down and feather pillows offer a soft, moldable feel and tend to last for years with proper care. Synthetic alternatives provide a similar feel at a lower price point and work well for those with allergies to natural materials.
Memory foam pillows respond to pressure and heat, cradling the head and neck for continuous support. Latex pillows offer similar contouring with more bounce and natural breathability.
Buckwheat hull pillows allow for adjustable firmness and provide firm support for those who prefer a more structured feel.
Matching Pillows to Sleep Position
Your preferred sleeping position should guide your pillow choice. Side sleepers generally need a firmer, thicker pillow to fill the space between their shoulders and ears. Back sleepers often do well with medium-loft pillows that support the natural curve of the neck. Stomach sleepers typically benefit from thin, soft pillows that prevent excessive neck rotation.
Investing in Pillow Protectors and Cases
Pillowcases serve both protective and aesthetic purposes. They shield pillows from oils, sweat, and skin cells while contributing to the overall look of your bedding. Most bedding sets include coordinating pillowcases, though you may choose to purchase specialty options separately.
Pillow protectors add an extra barrier between the pillow and the pillowcase, extending the life of the pillow and protecting against allergens. Zippered protectors offer more complete coverage than envelope-style options.
For those with specific concerns, specialty pillowcases made from satin or silk can reduce friction on hair and skin. Cooling pillowcases incorporate phase-change materials or moisture-wicking fabrics to regulate temperature.
Standard pillowcases measure approximately 20 by 26 inches, while king-size cases measure 20 by 36 inches. Checking pillow dimensions before purchasing ensures a proper fit.
Adding Layers with Comforters and Duvets
The top layer of your bedding provides warmth and contributes significantly to the visual appearance of your bed. Comforters and duvets accomplish similar goals through different designs.
Comforters come as single pieces with the fill sewn directly into the outer fabric. They require no assembly and can be put back on the bed after washing. Most feature quilted construction that keeps the fill evenly distributed.
Duvets consist of two components: a removable insert and a cover. This design allows for washing the cover without laundering the entire piece and enables easy style changes by swapping covers. The two-piece construction does require some effort to reassemble after washing.
Fill options for both include down, synthetic fibers, and wool. Fill weight determines warmth level: lightweight options are suitable for warm climates or summer use, while heavier fills are appropriate for cold weather.
Incorporating Blankets and Throws
Additional blankets offer flexibility for adjusting to temperature changes and layering. A lightweight blanket placed at the foot of the bed adds both function and style, providing extra warmth when needed while introducing texture and color.
Weighted blankets are widely recognized for their use of deep pressure stimulation to promote relaxation. These typically range from 10 to 25 pounds and should be selected based on body weight.
Throw blankets made from wool, cotton, fleece, or knit materials can be draped across the bed or folded at the foot of the bed. They provide a quick way to adjust warmth without disturbing the main bedding setup.
Using Mattress Protectors
Designed to sit beneath the fitted sheet, a mattress protector protects the mattress from spills, allergens, stains, and everyday wear and tear. This relatively inexpensive accessory can significantly extend a mattress’s lifespan.
Waterproof protectors prevent liquid from reaching the mattress surface, making them particularly useful in households with children or pets. Breathable options incorporate materials that block moisture while allowing air circulation.
Fitted-style protectors stay securely in place and accommodate mattresses of varying depths. Some options include additional padding for comfort, though this adds bulk and may affect how fitted sheets fit.
Bottom Line
Building a comfortable bed involves more than selecting a mattress. Quality sheets, supportive pillows, protective covers, and appropriate layering all contribute to better sleep and a bedroom that feels welcoming. By understanding the purpose each accessory serves, you can make choices that match your sleep preferences, climate, and practical needs. Begin with the essentials and add layers or extras as you figure out what suits your needs best.