Bedroom

How to transition your bed from summer to winter

Article by Homes to Love

As the temperature drops, we chat to linen expert and Wallace Cotton owner Paula Wallace about how to transition you bed from summer to winter – and what the ideal winter bed looks like

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How do I transition my linen in those awkward months between late summer and autumn/winter without totally swapping my bedlinen out?

As the warmer months transition into winter a feather duvet will have you covered! Feathers make the duvet warm but keep it lightweight, making it suitable for warm to moderate climates. Additionally, a blanket folded on the end of the bed makes it easy to roll up if it gets cold in the night. It’s all about layering as temperatures fluctuate.

As the days get colder, what is the first thing I should do?
First is layering. Many people prefer a quilt in summer compared to a duvet inner. In the winter months you can pair a quilt with a duvet and have the quilt folded beautifully on the end of the bed. Secondly, the colour scheme of your bed is important. While lighter and brighter colours work for summer, darker warmer colours are key for winter. Many people are instinctively attracted to warmer, denser colours in association with the winter season. With this is mind, assess the colour scheme of your bedlinen in consideration with the seasons.

Another alternative is to try different textures and fabrics for different seasons

try a velvet quilt for a luxurious addition to your winter linen

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When do you recommend changing to a full winter bed?
This comes down to personal preference and the rate at which the seasons change each year. The end of April to early May is usually when most people notice a sudden drop in the temperature or when your toes start to get cold in the night!

What would the ideal winter bed look like (in terms of bedding), in your opinion?
The ideal winter bed would have a mattress topper, which will provide comfort and insulation to any bedding situation. I would then add a goose down inner which is ideal for cool-to-moderate climates in winter. In terms of the linen on the bed I would pair a darker-coloured duvet with a velvet quilt to add to that winter look. I would then have two to four standard pillows and two Euros placed at the top of the bed (Euros placed either in front or behind the standards). I would match these Euros with the velvet quilt on the end of the bed to make the colours look cohesive, drawing the whole look together. While the Euros are not for sleeping I find they add an extra decorative element to the finished look of the bed.

What kind of duvet do you recommend during winter?
A goose-down duvet inner. It is softer, lighter and has better insulating properties.

Is it possible to find warmer sheets?
It is definitely possible to find warmer sheets! One hundred percent brushed cotton flannel is wonderfully warm and cosy for winter.

It is definitely possible to find warmer sheets!

One hundred percent brushed cotton flannel is wonderfully warm and cosy for winter

Alternatively, some people prefer thick, lustrous high thread count sateen sheets to keep them comfortable in winter. These sheets have a diagonal weave, which results in a lustrous look, and feels beautifully thick and soft. These are a great alternative for those that prefer a silky and smooth sheet.

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Does what I have under my sheets help with warmth?
Yes, absolutely! Mattress protectors primarily provide a layer of protection for your mattress, so while they’re not a key component for adding warmth, they do add comfort. Below your mattress protector try adding a mattress topper for extra comfort and insulation. This creates a luxuriously soft layer for sleeping on and can provide insulation. This is an easy alternative to updating your mattress and the topper will stop updrafts from under your bed, keeping you warm during the winter months. There’s also the option of an electric blanket for those particularly cold nights.

There’s also the option of an electric blanket

for those particularly cold nights

What is a beautiful way to layer the bed for winter?
Your winter bed will look complete with the layering of duvets, quilts and blankets. The main coverage should be your duvet, while your quilt will enhance both the bed’s warmth and look. Quilts on the end of the bed paired with matching Oxfords or Euros will complete the look, and in some cases add an element of colour to the bedroom. Instead of a quilt some may prefer to have a lightweight blanket, which in this case may be layered over the flat sheet and under the duvet. A waffle blanket is extremely versatile as it’s the perfect weight for summer teamed with a cotton sheet, plus an excellent extra layer for winter. A throw adds the finishing touch.

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Do you have any winter bed styling tips?
This winter is all about a relaxed, less formal, simple style in your home. Think natural washed linen and cotton, with the addition of beautiful textures in velvet and knitted wool. There is a trend of leaving the bed looking unmade, with layers of texture and colour instead of a fully coordinated look.

Is there anything I can do with my pillows to add warmth?
Flannel pillowcases are soft, warm and natural to lay your head on, as you will find if you have a cat – they always go for the cosiest spot!

Words by: Johanna Thornton. Photos from: Wallace Cotton.

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