Suitable Fabrics for Bedding

You will usually have bedding in several different fabrics as a bed is generally made up of a number of layers.

Bed Sheets

First of all there is the bed linen or sheets and pillow shams which are next to your skin. These need to absorb moisture and feel smooth and comfortable. The best fabrics for these are cotton with a high thread count or polyester cotton. The former are better for absorbancy and comfort. The latter allow for easier laundering as they can be quickly washed and dried and need no ironing if they are tumble dried and rescued from the tumble drier soon after it finishes and then folded flat or put straight back on the bed. In recent years there have been easy care no iron cottons available which have helped cotton gain in popularity and these have the joint benefits of being very comfortable AND needing no or little ironing.

Duvets

Duvets generally have a cotton cover and either a down or feather and down natural filling. If you prefer a synthetic lining (perhaps because you are allergic to feathers) you can easily obtain these too although they are generally not as warm as down duvets.

Duvets need to be protected by an outer cover and if the duvet cover will be next to your skin the same fabrics as those suitable for sheets are best. The other difference will be is that the design of the duvet cover fabric becomes all important as it is on show. Whereas sheets are most often found in plain colors anything goes when it comes to duvet cover design. It is best to buy a matching duvet cover and pillow shams or cases or to buy a full bedding ensemble which contains these items.

Comforters

Comforters are also filled with down or synthetic filling. They are generally quilted and are used on top of bed sheets. This means that there is more variation in the type of fabric used although cotton is still a good choice.

Blankets

Although not used so much these days with the advent of duvets and comforter sets, blankets are generally made of wool or synthetic fibers. Both are good. Wool is warmer although not so easy to care for as it may shrink and felt if poorly laundered. Also some people don't like the feeling of wool when they brush against it. Synthetic fibers are then the answer and they can be made into soft wool like blankets. You will also find some amazing faux fur or soft plush blankets to keep you warm and toasty in winter.