If you live in a place where the seasons are now changing (whether it’s fall turning winter or spring turning summer), you’ll find yourself reconsidering your bedding situation. You might want fewer layers as it’s getting warmer, or more because the nights are suddenly chilly. What combination will get you a good night’s sleep? Read on to find out.
Summer bedding
Warm summers call for light, breathable bedsheets and covers. Opt for light, cooling colors (white, light blue, light green, lavender) that visually cool down your room. Natural fabrics are a good option as they absorb and release moisture well, hence you’ll stay comfortable if you sweat at night, and your sheets will stay dry as well. It’s important to change your sheets regularly in the summer so make sure you have a couple of spare sets of bedding ready for those frequent changes. If you can, air your bedding frequently as well, ideally every day, to keep your bedding fresh and free from unpleasant smells.
Winter bedding
If your winters are cold, look for a suitable warm layer or two. Lots of options for all kinds of weather: comforters, duvets, and quilts. Not sure what’s right for you? Check out our article about different types of bedding. Winter is a good time for some decorative items such as quilts and coverlets that can double as an additional layer. Decorative items are also helpful when you want to keep your bed tidy but also want to let some air in so that your sheets can release the warmth accumulated during the day. Fluff up your bedding and throw a coverlet over for a nicer touch.
Gloomy winters with little sunlight call for some bright, rich colors in your bedroom: orange, shades of red and dark green, navy, and purple. Striped patterns can be great, as well as holiday-themed sets.
Transitioning between seasons
Layering is a great strategy for when the seasons start to change but the weather is still quite unpredictable. In early springtime, keep one or two thinner layers stored next to your bed so you can use them when needed. You can still keep your thicker sheets and a comforter or duvet for some time and swap it out for those thinner layers if you’re too hot at night. When fall is approaching, get your winter bedding out and keep it accessible for when you’re cold or when you want to transition to winter bedding completely.
Color-wise, you can opt for light or pastel colors come springtime. Floral or other patterns can be a great way of creating a pleasant mood in your bedroom appropriate for the season. In fall, some people prefer darker colors or festive patterns, in anticipation of the holidays. Choose what better suits you and your home.
Bedding storage tips
It’s important to properly store the bedding that’s not in use. Air it before you put it away, and have it dry cleaned if necessary, so that it’s ready to be used right away when needed. If you wash your bedding, make sure it is completely dry before you store it, to avoid mold, mildew, or bugs attacking your bedding. Ideally, keep your bedding and home textiles folded and stored in a closet or another type of storage that allows for airflow and air access. If you can, avoid sealable plastic bags (really, avoid anything plastic as it tends to trap moisture) and instead go for textile storage bags.
Health considerations
If you’re prone to seasonal allergies around these times, consider bedding that has antibacterial properties and is good at repelling dirt and dust, such as bamboo and bamboo cotton.
If you have pets, they might also appreciate a seasonal update to their bedding. A cooling mat when it’s hot and a padded, snuggly bed when it’s cold will keep your pet happy. If your pets tend to sleep in your bed, look for pet-friendly bedding that is fur- and scratch-resistant.