One of the most important secrets to success in life is getting the proper amount of rest. When you get a great night’s sleep, you’re ready to seize the day with energy and creativity.
So, how do you get a great night’s sleep? The right bedroom makes all the difference. Your selection of lighting, décor, furniture and so on should reflect your personality and style.
Let’s take a look at the best manly bedding options for your bedroom:
What are the Best Sheets for Your Bedroom?
Your skin is going to have a lot of contact with your sheets, so you want to invest in high quality material. You’ll want a few different sets for throughout the year.
During the warmer months, you’ll want to rotate between two or three sets of light cotton linens. When the cold weather rolls in, you’ll want one or two sets of flannel sheets.
Don’t concern yourself too much with thread count. In many cases, thread counts on sheets are exaggerated and inaccurate. High thread counts don’t always translate to comfortable sheets.
Instead, focus on the type of cotton used. Many people prefer the quality and feel of long-stable cotton. Typically, this is Egyptian cotton. Read the package carefully. You’re looking for sheets which are 100% Egyptian content.
The weave of the sheets is also important. There are two types of weave: percale and cotton satin. Percale uses a crisscross weave and is available on sheets with a thread count over 200. Cotton Satin uses a circular weave which creates a silky feel.
Choose the weave which feels the most comfortable to you. Do you prefer a crisp sheet or something finer? Remember, the weave will have more of an impact than thread count. When comparing sheets, first find the weave you like the most, then compare the different thread counts.
Shopping for Sheets
If live near a department store, you’ll probably want to check out some sheets in person. After all, the feel of the sheets is the most important part. But if you can’t find want you want nearby, there are plenty of great options online such as:
- Restoration Hardware – Known for luxury and a wide selection. Great source of Italian linens.
- Pottery Barn – Their basic sheets are comfortable, durable and long-lasting.
- Parachute – This is a small company known for their sophisticated, casual design.
Comforters
Aside from sheets, you’ll likely also want a top layer of bed coverings. Most people prefer a comforter. Think of a comforter as a thick blanket with lots of stuffing.
If you live in a climate which is warm all year long, you might not want a comforter at all. A thinner blanket or duvet would be a better option. In most cases, you’ll want some type of top cover on your bed. A bed with just sheets tends to look rather unsophisticated. If you live somewhere colder, a comforter is a great way to stay cozy and warm all night long.
When shopping for a comforter, pay attention to the fill rate. The higher the fill rate, the more fluff in the down. This captures more air which makes the blanket warmer. The highest fill rate isn’t always the best option. Your personal preference and local climate will determine how warm of a comforter you want.
Aside from fill rate, you’ll also want to look at construction and stitching. High quality stitching is what keeps the feathers from poking through. There are three different types of stitching:
- Karo – Diamond pattern you can fluff
- Baffled – Square pattern which prevents shifting
- Square – Warmth with even heat distribution
Now that we’ve covered sheets, let’s talk about blankets…
Duvets, Quilts, Blankets and More
A duvet is simply a cover for your comforter. They keep the comforter clean. Removing and washing a duvet is much easier than washing an entire comforter. You want to wash the actual comforter as little as possible. Each wash compresses the feathers.
Patch quilts and Afghans are an easy way to add a touch of old-fashioned style. Plus, additional blankets provide extra warmth when the temperature drops.
Determining the Perfect Color Combination
The bed is usually the center focal point for a bedroom. So the colors on your bed will have a big effect on the look and even the feel of the room.
When creating a masculine look, you’ll typically want to stay away from bright, flashy colors. A gray comforter is usually a good for the décor of any room. Gray and more neutral colors add a dash of understated style.
Classic white linens never really go out of style. White sheets fit well with practically any color scheme and style. Change your style for each season by rotating in new blankets, pillows, and other accessories.
Darker colors are also a great option. Dark-toned colors help create a masculine look. Plus, the dark colors add a sense of coziness. Try pairing two dark colors together. Almost all dark colors go well with a gray comforter, which gives you plenty of design options.
Patterns help lively up the look of a bedroom. Be careful not to go overboard. Too many patterns on linens can make the room feel too busy. Balance out the pattern with whites or solid, neutral colors. If you choose patterned sheets, use a solid blanket or comforter.
The Benefits of Great Bedroom Style
Your bedroom should be your sanctuary where you – or you and your special lady – can enjoy time away from the demands of day-to-day life. Select linens and blankets which reflect your needs and personal style.
Manly bedding can easily be stylish, sophisticated and inviting. Just a few sets of sheets, a nice comforter, and some accessories are all you need to turn your bedroom into the room of your dreams.
Oh, make sure you get buy some nice furniture too!
