All About Bedding

A woman spreading out a blanket whilst making up a bed

Bedding is an essential part of our lives, providing comfort and warmth for a good night’s sleep. But what exactly constitutes bedding? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all the items that fall under the category of bedding, from the basics like sheets and pillows to the more specialized items like duvets and mattress toppers. Whether you’re setting up a new bed or simply looking to upgrade your existing bedding, understanding the various components is key to creating a comfortable and inviting sleep environment.

Sheets

Sheets are the foundation of bedding and come in a variety of materials, including cotton, linen, silk, and microfiber. They cover the mattress and provide a soft, comfortable surface for sleeping. Common types of sheets include fitted sheets (with elastic corners to secure them to the mattress), flat sheets (the top sheet you sleep under), and pillowcases (for covering pillows). Thread count, which refers to the number of threads per square inch, is often used to measure sheet quality.

Pillows

Pillows are essential for providing support and comfort to your head and neck while sleeping. There are various types of pillows, each designed to cater to specific preferences and needs. Common pillow types include memory foam pillows, feather pillows, down pillows, and synthetic-filled pillows. Choose a pillow that suits your sleeping position and comfort preferences.

A man lays on his left side in bed covered with blankets with his head laying on a one pillow without a pillowcase

Pillowcases

Pillowcases are covers for your pillows, typically made from the same materials as sheets. They protect your pillows from dust, allergens, and wear and tear. Pillowcases also come in various colors and designs, allowing you to add a decorative touch to your bedding.

Duvets and Comforters

Duvets and comforters are thick, fluffy blankets that provide warmth and insulation. While they serve a similar purpose, there are differences between the two. Duvets are usually plain, white, and encased in a duvet cover. Comforters, on the other hand, are colorful and decorative and don’t require a cover. Both can be filled with materials like down, feathers, or synthetic fibers.

Duvet Covers

Duvet covers are protective, decorative casings for duvets. They come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and materials, allowing you to change the look of your bedding easily. Duvet covers are removable and machine-washable, making them a practical choice for keeping your duvet clean.

Blankets

Blankets are thinner and lighter than duvets or comforters. They provide an extra layer of warmth and can be used in combination with other bedding items. Blankets come in various materials, including cotton, wool, fleece, and acrylic, making them suitable for different seasons and climates.

A woman sits in bed with a cup of tea wrapped up in a pink and orange plaid blanket
Image by master1305 on Freepik

Bedspreads and Quilts

Bedspreads and quilts are decorative coverings that add style and texture to your bed. They are typically used as the topmost layer of bedding and can be chosen to match the overall bedroom decor. Quilts are often made of patchwork fabric and stitched in intricate patterns, while bedspreads are typically one solid piece of fabric.

Mattress Toppers

Mattress toppers are additional layers placed on top of the mattress to enhance comfort and support. They come in various materials, such as memory foam, latex, and feathers, and can help improve the quality of your sleep by providing extra cushioning or adjusting the firmness of your mattress.

Mattress Protectors

Mattress protectors are a type of bedding that serves as a cover for the mattress that protects from stains, fluids, dust mites, and skin cells from getting into the mattress and causing damage. They are the first line of defense for your mattress and go on the mattress before anything else. It is important that you always use a mattress protector to extend the life of your mattress and protect your investment over time.

Click here to be taken to our mattress quiz which can help you find the right mattress for you!

Conclusion

Understanding the various items that constitute bedding is crucial for creating a comfortable and inviting sleep environment. From sheets and pillows to duvets and mattress toppers, each element plays a vital role in ensuring a restful night’s sleep. By selecting the right bedding components to suit your preferences and needs, you can create a cozy and stylish haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Need More Help?

You can contact one of Gardner White’s experts at (248) 481-2208, chat with one online, or visit one of our local Michigan stores.

Dave has been in the furniture industry in one capacity or another for the last decade. When not writing about furniture he enjoys cooking for his family, guitar playing, oil painting, the Detroit Tigers, and the comedic antics of English Bulldogs.