10 Bedding Mistakes You're Making (And How to Avoid Them)

Our beds are a sanctuary for rest and relaxation, but if you’re making any of these common bedding mistakes, you may not be getting the best possible sleep.

We're here to help you improve your bedtime experience with 10 handy tips and tricks that can lead to a more beautiful, luxurious, and comfortable bedding setup.

With know-how on mastering bedding materials, conquering hospital corners, and becoming a bed protector sheet pro, we'll help you transform your slumber into a rejuvenating experience.

10 common bedding mistakes to avoid

Don't let the following sneaky bedding blunders stand between you and a good night's sleep!

1. Choosing the wrong bedding materials

One common mistake people make is not paying enough attention to the bedding materials they use. The right materials can make a significant difference in your sleep quality.

For instance, opting for high-quality Egyptian cotton or choosing bed sheets with the appropriate thread count can greatly enhance your comfort.

Remember to consider factors like breathability, softness, and durability when selecting your bed sheets and duvet covers to ensure a blissful night's sleep.

2. Neglecting to use a bed protector sheet

Another common bedding mistake is not using a bed protector sheet or mattress cover, which can help prolong the life of your mattress and keep it fresh. A bed protector sheet acts as a barrier between your mattress and the various allergens, dust mites, and spills that can accumulate over time.

By shielding your mattress from these elements, you'll maintain a cleaner, more  hygienic sleeping environment. 

Additionally, using a bed protector sheet can save you time and effort when it comes to cleaning your mattress, as you can simply remove and wash the protector instead of trying to clean the mattress itself.

3. Failing to master hospital corners

Are you struggling with creating a clean, wrinkle-free look when making your bed? Do you want your guest bed to look like a work of art when you have a visitor? Give hospital corners a try.

Hospital corners are a neat and tidy way of tucking in your bed sheets, giving your bed a polished and professional appearance. They work by tucking in the top sheet, duvet cover, and blanket in a way that creates smooth edges and an even spread.

4. Overlooking pillow maintenance

Many people underestimate the importance of proper pillow maintenance, which can significantly impact the quality of sleep you get each night.

Old or improperly cared-for pillows can harbor allergens, lose their shape, and provide inadequate support for your head and neck. To maintain the comfort and longevity of your pillows, follow these tips:

• Regularly fluff them to maintain their shape
• Follow the manufacturer's washing instructions
• Replace pillows every 1-2 years or when support diminishes

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5. Washing sheets and pillowcases too infrequently

Neglecting to wash sheets and pillowcases regularly can cause bacteria and other unwanted debris to build up in your bed.

It's important to wash your bedding every 1-2 weeks. By doing so, you'll promote freshness and comfort, ultimately enhancing your sleep quality.

6. Ignoring mattress freshening techniques

It's easy to forget about freshening a mattress since it's not something you see every day. The truth is, your mattress can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and dust mites as well as other forms of wear and tear. Preserve mattress life by doing the following:

• Vacuum your mattress regularly
• Rotate and flip your mattress (if applicable) every 3-6 months to prevent uneven wear and prolong its lifespan
• Regularly check for and remove any stains before they set in too deeply
• Deodorize your mattress by sprinkling baking soda on the surface, letting it sit for a few hours, and then vacuuming it

7. Using too many or too few pillows

Using an incorrect number of pillows can negatively impact your sleep quality and lead to discomfort or poor spinal alignment. To ensure proper support and comfort, consider the following tips:

• Opt for a single pillow that provides adequate support for your head and neck, maintaining natural spinal alignment
• Side sleepers may benefit from an additional pillow between their knees to alleviate pressure on the hips and lower back
• Stomach sleepers should use a thin pillow or no pillow at all to avoid straining their neck

8. Skimping on quality bedding

It can be all too tempting to save a few bucks by cutting corners on bedding materials. But skimping on quality can leave you with an inferior product that won't last long and won't feel good.

Look for these quality indicators when investing in your bedding to make sure you're getting a good product:

• Mattress: Opt for a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and comfort tailored to your preferred sleeping position and body type
• Pillows: Choose pillows made from durable and supportive materials that maintain their shape and provide an adequate amount of neck support
• Sheets: Invest in sheets made from breathable and soft materials, such as cotton or linen, that feel comfortable against your skin and help regulate your body temperature
• Blankets and duvets: Select blankets and duvets with appropriate weight and insulation, ensuring they keep you warm without causing overheating

9. Not washing your bedding properly

Washing your bedding can be a great way to maintain your linens, but it can also become a problem if you're not treating the materials properly. For example, washing in hot water may fade the colors of your sheets or shrink certain fabrics.

In order to avoid mishaps that could result in tough, shrunken, or faded fabric, follow these tips:

• Read care labels: Always check the care labels on your bedding for specific washing instructions, as some materials may require special care or different washing temperatures
• Use gentle detergents: Opt for mild, fragrance-free detergents to avoid skin irritation and preserve the quality of your bedding
• Wash separately: Wash your bedding separately from other laundry items to prevent damage and ensure thorough cleaning
• Dry properly: Use low heat settings or air dry when possible to prevent shrinkage and damage to the fabric

10. Misusing decorative throw pillows and blankets

Although decorative pillows and blankets can provide a stylish boost to your bedroom, using too much of them can quickly turn into an eyesore. 

It can also lead to an uncomfortable sleep environment as the extra bedding can trap heat and cause your body to overheat during the night.

To decorate your bedroom tastefully, choose soft and lightweight decorative pillows that won't be too bulky or heavy. 

Layer blankets and throws over your bedding sparingly, and opt for breathable materials such as cotton or linen to prevent overheating.

What bed sheets to avoid?

Certain bedding materials may not be suitable for everyone and could potentially harm your sleep quality. Here are a few fabrics to be cautious of:

• Nylon: While durable and wrinkle-resistant, nylon can trap heat and cause discomfort for those who sleep hot
• Polyester: This synthetic material is less breathable than natural fibers, which can lead to overheating and skin irritation, especially for sensitive individuals
• Weighted blankets: Although helpful for some, weighted blankets may be too hot or constricting for others, resulting in disrupted sleep
• Flannel sheets: Flannel's insulating properties make it a popular choice for winter months, but it can cause overheating and discomfort for those who tend to sleep hot or live in warmer climates

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How can using the wrong size sheets affect my sleep?

Using the wrong size sheets can negatively affect your sleep by causing discomfort and constant readjustments throughout the night. Ill-fitting sheets may also slip off the mattress, resulting in an untidy and less supportive sleep surface.

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