We all have that one night when we wake up as if someone had spun us in a centrifuge in the middle of the night—sweating, covered in sheets that feel more like plastic wrap than fabric. And then comes that other night. We lie down, and suddenly the bed—no longer just a piece of furniture, but a sanctuary of comfort. What’s changed? Maybe it’s not the mattress change. Not a new meditation routine. Not essential oils. Sometimes the difference is much simpler: the right bedding.
Perhaps underrated, but by no means unimportant – bedding is the unsung hero of sleep hygiene. It’s not just about the pattern, color or softness to the touch. It’s about what happens between you and your body for eight hours a night. If sleep is synonymous with regeneration, then bedding is your main ally – or enemy. Below, we reveal why choosing bedding is crucial to the quality of your sleep, why natural materials are not just a fad, and how you can improve your sleep without apps, pills or an expensive mattress.
Bedding that affects sleep quality: more than just a piece of cloth
1. Why does bedding affect sleep?
Bedding is the first and last contact your body has before, during and after sleep. Therefore, it is not unimportant what wraps you up all night. The wrong bedding can cause overheating, retain moisture, irritate the skin or even cause allergies. Top-quality bedding, on the other hand, does the opposite – it helps regulate temperature, absorbs excess moisture, breathes with you and creates the conditions for deeper, more regenerative sleep.
Scientific research has shown that thermoregulation and the perception of comfort play a key role in the transition to REM sleep. If the body cannot “breathe” freely, it remains in a state of micro-stress – and you wake up tired, despite eight hours of sleep. In other words: your new smart pillow won’t help you if you sleep in bedding that suffocates you.
2. Cotton – a natural material with proven strength
When we talk about optimal bedding, we always come back to one material: cottonNot because it is the only option, but because it is still considered the most balanced combination of functionality, comfort and durability.
Airiness:
Cotton is a natural fiber that allows air to pass through the fabric. This means less overheating and a more refreshing feeling, no matter the season. Your skin can breathe at night – literally.
Humidity control:
One of cotton's outstanding properties is its ability to absorb moisture. While synthetic materials "sweat with you," cotton wicks moisture away from the body, preventing discomfort and the growth of bacteria.
Hypoallergenic and skin care:
Because it does not contain chemicals (especially if it has a certificate STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®), cotton is ideal for sensitive skin, children and allergy sufferers. It helps maintain a healthy skin microclimate, especially if you sleep without pajamas – which, by the way, also improves the quality of your sleep.
Durability and washing:
Good cotton bedding can withstand multiple washes without losing its softness or shape. Properly cared for, it even gets softer over the years – and we’re not exaggerating here. Some say it’s like good vinyl: every wash makes it better.
3. What the labels mean and why you shouldn't ignore them
Not all “100 % cotton” is created equal. It is important to understand the differences between:
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- Percale – fabric with a dense structure, cooler to the touch, ideal for summer.
- Satin – smooth, slightly shiny fabric, extremely soft, perfect for winter or anyone who wants a sense of luxury.
- Jersey – stretchy, soft fabric, suitable for anyone who wants the comfort of a T-shirt.
The fabric is not the only thing that matters. Certificates, as OEKO-TEX®, guarantee that the product does not contain harmful substances, which is especially important for those who want a healthy lifestyle without hidden toxins.
4. Psychological impact: colors, patterns and a sense of familiarity
It’s not just about physical contact. The visual and emotional aspects of bedding play a surprisingly powerful role. Calming colors, natural tones, and subtle patterns can help calm the nervous system before bed. Fabrics with a soft sheen (like satin) create a sense of luxury, while minimalist, natural colors—like sand, beige, blue, or soft green—inspire relaxation.
5. Which bedding do experts recommend? (And tasteful shoppers)
According to opinion JYSK-'s experts Kathrine Møller Vinthe are the best choice of bedding from 100 % cotton – especially those with natural processing, without aggressive chemicals. This year's stars include:
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- ELMA – enzyme-washed cotton bedding that's as soft as a cloud. A family favorite.
- BERTHA – cotton satin with floral patterns in natural tones. Ideal for those who want aesthetics and functionality.
- IDA – trendy black and white with a designer touch. Soft as a shirt, elegant as a penthouse.
Conclusion: Better sleep starts sooner than you think
No, you don't have to replace your yogi with a 1,000-euro yoga mat. You don't need sleep therapy or personalized sleep cycle analysis. Sometimes, simply changing your bedding is enough. With natural materials like cotton, you create the conditions for better, more restful, and healthier sleep - without any extra effort.
And let's be honest - sleeping in a bed that smells like fresh cotton and is soft as a hug is one of those pleasures that everyone should have. Every night.
