Ever wonder how design pros make their beds look so inviting? If you’ve scrolled through Pinterest or flipped through the pages of a decor magazine recently, chances are you’ve spotted a few incredibly cozy-looking beds. And if you’ve subsequently caught yourself wondering whether the trick to creating such a plush haven lies in the perfectly-folded quilt, fluffy throw pillows or crisp white sheets, we’re here to divulge a few insider tips on setting a stylist-worthy bed.
The Foundation of a Great Bed
The beds are the focal point of every bedroom, and they deserve our attention because we spend so much time in them. But before you can pile on the pillows, it’s important to start with a good foundation. A quality mattress will help spur on sleep, and an investment in a good mattress cover will help protect it from spills, dust and more. Don’t forget to consider how the style of your headboard or bed frame will impact the overall look of your bed once made up; if your bed has a skirt, be sure to iron or steam it regularly for a crisp, clean appeal.
Set Your Sheets
Smooth, comfortable sheets can be the difference between getting a good night’s sleep and one spent tossing and turning. To set your sheets, begin at one of the upper corners of your mattress and pull the fitted sheet’s elastic down and over the mattress corner. Smooth it out and repeat on the other upper mattress corner before moving to the foot of the bed. Once your fitted sheet has been set, turn your attention towards your flat sheet.
Lay your flat sheet on top of your fitted sheet, ensuring that it’s even on both sides (if your sheets are patterned, place the printed side face down). Fold the top of the flat sheet over and tuck the sides and ends under the mattress. Leave 12 to 18 inches of flat sheet untucked at the top of the bed for greater visual appeal.
Pro tip: If you place your sheets on your bed directly after removing them from the dryer, you won’t need to iron or steam them to achieve that luxe, hotel-inspired look.
Layer on the Luxury
With your sheets set, it’s time to make things cozy. Layer in blankets, quilts, comforters and duvets, taking your body temperature and personal tastes into account. Using linens of different weights will ensure that you’re always sleeping comfortably at night, as you can add or remove layers as needed.
No matter what sized bed you’re working with, be sure to always start with a thin blanket, followed by a duvet or comforter.
And be sure not to miss this opportunity to zhuzh up your room’s decor appeal, either — incorporate different patterns, textures and colours to boost interest, and swap them out seasonally to give your room an instant refresh. Once you’ve layered your linens, drape your duvet cover or comforter over the foot of the bed, then fold it over about a third of the way for that designer-worthy quality. Alternatively, you can place your duvet cover on top and turn it half way down, with a quilt either flat or turned down over it.
Pro tip: If you have a king-sized bed, add a plush throw blanket at the foot of the bed for a luxe flourish that’ll break up the expanse of the bed.
Pile on the Pillows
Pillows are the crowning jewels of the bed. Like your duvet, the colours, textures and patterns you choose to incorporate are based on your personal preference. For a more restful understated look, place white shams in front of your sleeping pillows or stack them for a more modern look, then couple that with decorative throw pillows. As a general rule, three pillows — two throws and a lumbar — are all that’s needed for a queen- or king-sized bed. If you’re after a simpler look, a long lumbar pillow is all that’s needed for embellishment.
It’s important that you’re choosing colours and materials that compliment your space, but don’t forget to consider the size of the pillows you’re eyeing. For a king-sized bed, use 24 or 26 inch pillows; 22, 24 or 26 inch pillows for a queen; one standard sham for 20 inch pillows for standard beds; and pare down to one of everything for twin beds.
Pro tip: Keeping your bedding basics neutral will give you greater opportunity to play around with throw pillows.