More and more people are realizing that sleep is not just a time to close their eyes; it’s a time to escape and refresh from the hectic day to day life that we all experience. Knowing this, it’s becoming very important to dress your bed in luxurious and comforting items. We all want those luxuries to last though, and to get our money’s worth. Since my focus is on the items that touch your skin more often, I’ll center on those areas. Here are some tips to help when buying linens, and to maintain that luxury, which we all deserve.

When washing high thread count sheets, we recommend that you wash them in cold water, with a gentle detergent. Avoid fabric softeners when washing cotton sheets, as the softener will coat the threads and take away from the breathability.

Layering your bed with down blankets and comforters helps you to be able to adjust your temperature, just like layering your clothes does. Of course, I always recommend using a duvet cover with a down comforter as it will protect it and you won’t have to wash it as often, but you can also use a duvet cover for your blankets. This will help, especially in the warmer months, to protect it from wear and tear, and you’ll also need to wash it less often. I keep covers on both my comforters and blankets. As I mentioned before, I have a number of cats, and having this added layer of protection helps with cleaning up after shedding, and from little claws.

When it comes to buying your sheets, thread count is important, but so is the feel of the fabric. Not all thread counts are created equally. Some manufacturers will use “plied” threads (multiple yarns twisted together to create one thread) to boost the thread count number. This is a big controversy in the industry right now, as many feel that a plied thread should be counted as one, and not as the number of yarns twisted together (Northern Nights agrees with this philosophy). The number of plies can affect the hand of the fabric, so your best bet is to try to feel the fabric if you can. I have felt 500 tc that is extremely soft, and some that is stiff and not fluid. By feeling first, you can tell if your sheets have the substance and the softness you’re looking for.

Always check the label to see if your sheets are all cotton or a blend, as that can affect your sleep experience. Cotton will be breathable and more lightweight, where blends with polyester will be heavier, and less likely to wrinkle.

Hopefully, that’s a start for you. Remember, you want a bed that will welcome you at night, and will help you be more productive each day. By using a brand that you trust, and textiles that feel good against your skin, you’re on your way to a better night’s sleep.

Kari, Susan and I will be available for a live chat on Saturday, March 15 at 2pm EST, to offer more tips and answer any questions about your Northern Nights bedding. Please come and visit with us!

Sleep well –
Suzanne