Bed linen buying guide

Fitted sheets are an essential base layer, providing a layer of protection between you and your mattress to keep it clean. They’re elasticated at the corners for a secure fit and available to suit all mattress sizes and depths, so be sure to check before you buy. Fitted bed sheets slip on and off in no time and can be thrown in the washing machine every couple of weeks – much easier than washing a mattress!

Pillowcases are covers for pillows that keep them clean while you sleep; they can be removed and washed effortlessly. Pillowcases are available in breathable cotton, linen and silk blends. Not to mention many colours that can transform your bed into an eye-catching feature.

Like fitted sheets and pillowcases, duvet covers help keep your bedding clean by providing a protective layer that can be removed and washed. The best duvet covers can also make your bed softer and more comfortable. Duvet covers are also decorative, available in many materials, colours and styles. Enjoy a fresh, neutral décor or pick a fun patterned duvet cover to add personality to a bedroom.

Bedding sets usually include a fitted sheet, two pillowcases and a duvet cover, so you can choose the type you prefer and buy everything together. Picking a bedding set is straightforward and often more cost-effective than buying elements separately – win-win!

Mattress toppers are designed to sit between a mattress and sheet, providing an extra layer of protection against sweat and spills and often making a bed more comfortable. Toppers are particularly useful for improving old mattresses when you aren't ready to invest in a new one.

Cotton bed sheets are natural and breathable and often the best option for sensitive skin. It’s an easy choice for year-round comfort. Cotton bedding can be cost-effective or indulgent; choose a higher thread count for extra softness. Pick white cotton bedding for a flexible go-to, perfect for any bed in your home. This type of bedding also comes in many colours to add a new dimension to your bedroom décor.

For a beautiful, timeless look and feel, you can't go wrong with linen bed sheets. Natural linen is temperature-regulating, keeping you warm on cold nights and cool in the summer. It’s also anti-static and bacteria-resistant.

Velvet bedding tends to be thicker and heavier than cotton and linen alternatives, making it a perfect companion for cold winter nights. It’s often chosen for its aesthetic benefits – velvet bedding looks luxurious and elegant, a stylish choice for a guest bedroom. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a velvet quilted bedspread thrown over versatile cotton or linen sheets.

If you often get cold in the night or just want an extra snuggly sleeping situation, fleece bedding could be the best choice for you. Fleece is a soft, teddy-like material that helps you stay warm and comfy all night long. It’s available in various colours to suit your taste – choose a fluffy blue, grey, pink or patterned fleece for a cute addition to a little one’s bedroom.

Silk bedding is favoured for its soft, indulgent texture and natural breathability. This fabric is temperature-regulating, which means silk bed sheets can help you stay warm or keep you cool, depending on the season. Silk sheets also help reduce static, making them ideal for preventing messy morning hair.