From cold days when all I feel like doing is jumping under the covers to late nights when I’m contemplating life on my pillow, my bed has always been a space of comfort and safety, all thanks to the manner in which I set it up. Here are some steps you can take to create the optimal sleep atmosphere.
My bed sits in the corner of my room — and yours should too
Ideally, your bed should be positioned touching at least one wall. The best positioning, by far, is a bed with the pillow side in a corner, because of the added back support when sitting up, with pillows to both my left and right. Most importantly, crime shows have taught me it’s safest because no one can sneak up behind you or above you while you sleep.
My pillows are made of medium-soft cotton
As someone with eczema, I highly recommend medium-soft cotton pillows, because they’re hypoallergenic and don’t attract dust mites. Down and feather pillows are also sufficient, but the line is drawn at memory foam pillows, specifically the stiff ones. All I have to say about those is: If you use one of those, you’re wrong.
My cotton blanket suits my tastes — yours should suit yours
Of course, a bed isn’t a bed without blankets, which are mostly up to personal preference. I prefer a cotton blanket, but some people favor duvets, quilts on top or weighted blankets. However, there is one psychotic choice of blanket, indicative of deep unresolved trauma: a blanket shorter or narrower than the bed. People say not to judge a book by its cover, but trust me: If you choose one of those blankets, I’ll judge you by your bed cover.
My mattress and pillow sheets match
Comfort can’t exist without the right sheets, which includes pillowcases. The best sheets for a delightful slumber are silk or cotton and, in terms of appearance, consider a matching set, block colors included. More importantly, never mix and match two different patterns that clearly disagree with one other, such as rainbow and jungle prints.
One of the largest differences that can be made in a bed is having one sheet versus two. As opposed to only a single sheet covering the mattress, having another sheet under your blanket is inarguably better. Sandwiched between two sheets of the same material brings a certain satisfaction and toasty warmth!
Optional: Add convenient storage space
As an added bonus, keeping some storage space near never hurts. Personally, I employ a small bedside table with a lamp, space for my glasses and a coaster for late night tea.
All of these characteristics are simple and take little effort, yet greatly elevate reading under the comforters on a rainy day and maximize quality of sleep. Rest — and hence, beds — are extremely important, so it’s time to think about how you can elevate your own space!
