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Bed Linens 101
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The average person spends a third of their life in bed – and for newlyweds, this amount can be much higher. That’s why you deserve ultimate comfort and luxury in the most important room in your home: the bedroom.
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Between the Sheets
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Obviously, everyone needs sheets. There is a wide range of materials to choose from, from a polyester blend, to 100% Egyptian cotton. There is an even bigger range of prices. Sheets come in a variety of styles, sizes and colors. We suggest purchasing three sets of sheets for each bed (one for the bed, one for the laundry and one for the linen closet). This way you don't have to make yourself crazy to do the wash when you're ready to just go to bed. Live a little, and give yourself some breathing space.
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The most popular and traditional fabric for sheets is 100% cotton, but linen and silk are excellent high-end choices too. For easy care, try a cotton/polyester blend.
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Thread count is an important indicator of quality, but what exactly does it mean? Thread count describes the number of threads per square inch in a cotton sheet, ranging from 200 to 1000. The higher the thread count, the softer the sheet.
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Natural fibers are renowned for their “breathability,” a must for maximum comfort.
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Egyptian cotton, with its fine yet strong fibers, is the most durable and softest type of cotton.
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Percale sheets are made from fabric with a plain weave and at least a 180 thread count.
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Don’t worry, Sateen sheets are not the same as satin sheets. A unique weave makes them lustrous and silky, but not slick and shiny.
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Bed Basics
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Here are some terms you’ll need to know when you go to register for or purchase bed linens:
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Bed Skirt
- Covers the box spring and hangs to the floor, good for hiding under-bed storage and dust bunnies.
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Comforter
- Can be filled with down or natural fibers, if you choose down make sure it is quilted or feathers might shift over time. It's quality that counts, and the right comforter can provide a lifetime of pleasure and reliability. You may have to invest a little more, but it will pay off in the long run.
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Duvet/Comforter Cover
- A bedtime essential for anyone with a down comforter. Plus it allows you to change the look of your bed in a jiffy.
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Universal Fitted Sheet
- A fitted sheet large enough to cover a mattress up to 15" deep with elastic sewn around the entire bottom of the sheet.
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Mattress Pad
- A quilted pad tailored to fit your mattress like a fitted sheet. Goes under your fitted sheet for extra comfort and protection.
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Feather Bed
- The ultimate in warmth and comfort– a giant feather pillow that you can sleep on.
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Euro Pillow
- Used as a decorative accent and back support, a European-size square pillow is a great addition to a glam bed, plus it has it’s own specially-sized sham.
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Neck Roll
- A small, cylinder-shaped, decorative pillow.
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Pillow Sham
- A decorative pillow cover with a ruffled or tailored outer edge that is placed over a pillowcase.
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Caring for Your Linens
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Linen care doesn’t have to be a chore. Follow manufacturers directions or use this handy guide:
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Machine wash fine linens in cool water with mild detergents.
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For long life, do not use brighteners or bleaches.
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Dry on low heat.
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To avoid excessive wrinkles, remove sheets from the dryer before they're completely dry.
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Touch up with a warm iron if necessary.
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