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How to layer bedding

Sometimes we all tend to think that our choice of bed linen doesn’t really matter. However, in the long run, you’ll come to realise that it directly influences your comfort and rest. What should we consider when buying sheets or duvets? Check out our top tips for choosing bedding.

Choose the fabric for your bed linen 

There’s a huge variety of materials to choose from: lyocell, cotton, polyester, satin… But what’s the difference between them? Polyester bedding is the most affordable, synthetic and non-breathable material. In many cases, polyester is combined with cotton to create fabric blends. Silk, on the other hand, is one of the softest and coolest fabrics, but also one of the most expensive. When it comes to the material most commonly used in bed linen, cotton is king. And sheets and pillowcases made from cotton are some of the most breathable too. The higher the percentage of cotton, the more breathable your bed linen will be. Much of our bedding is 100% cotton, creating soft, natural bed linen that not only wicks away moisture but also feels fantastic.

Explore bedding options
Close-up of SCHERSMIN and EKTANDVINGE duvet covers and pillowcases, all in light green and white.
Explore bedding options

Pay attention to the thread count

We know that this must have happened to you before: you find two products that look virtually identical but have very different prices. Why is that? With bed linen (for example, sheets), the price difference may be down to the thread count. Thread count is one of the most reliable indicators of fabric quality. As the word suggests, it indicates the number of threads per square inch. The higher the number of threads, the greater the density and strength of the fabric and, therefore, the higher the quality. To give you a rough idea, the average number of threads in a standard sheet is about 120 per square inch. We recommend opting for a thread count of at least 200, which is when the quality starts to get really good. So now you know: if in doubt, always check the thread count.

See sheets
A white OFELIA VASS duvet cover and pillowcase
See sheets

Style your bed for the season

We can’t control the weather outside, but changing the bedding to match the season makes every morning a little better. In summer, colourful patterns and floral designs on your duvet sets bring the bright outdoors in. SOLFIBBLA duvet cover and pillowcases come in as many different colours as you can find on a summer meadow, so mix and match your favourite bouquet!In winter, choose muted tones and add textures to bring cosiness to the colder season. SCHERSMIN has a soft muslin material to wake up feeling snug.

A close-up of a HEMNES day-bed with a mix of bedlinen; the striped SOLFIBBLA and the floral patterned BRUDKRUSBÄR. or https://www.ikea.com/ext/ingkadam/m/521bfe78d51972b8/original/PH203846.jpg?f=l

Add a bedspread or throw

In winter, thicker bedspreads are key for a good night's sleep. Layering a throw or blanket on top of your bedspreads with contrasting colours, textures, and materials creates a visually appealing bed and a cosy one too! In summer, pack away the duvet into your under-bed storage or opt for lighter materials to not weigh you down in your sleep.

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A white SAGESUND upholstered bed in a beige room with white/blue TÅTELSMYGARE bed linen and white VÅRELD bedspread on top.
Shop bedspreads

Choosing mattress & pillow protectors

A mattress protector and pillow protectors help things stay fresher and cleaner for longer while reducing general wear-and-tear. Easy to use, they’re quickly removable and machine washable. We have several, including some with a lining that regulates temperature and one that’s waterproof.

Mattress & pillow protectors
2 Pillows on a bed by the window
Mattress & pillow protectors

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€2 small parcel delivery for orders over €65 (IKEA Family price. Regular price: €6. Minimum order value of €20 applies)

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