For a sound sleep

Choose the bed sheets the right way:

Do you remember when all bed sheets were white cotton? If so, you're probably amazed at how many options are on the market now.

You can add colour, style, and pattern to your bedroom with the newest bedding. Read here what you should do and know before you spend your money to buy new bed sheets.

Measure your bed

You're probably familiar with a twin or single size bed. But did you know that there is no absolute standard measurement for beds with these names?

While the top measurements are rather consistent from maker to maker, there is some variation. So before you go shopping, measure your bed carefully, noting the dimension from top to bottom, side to side, and the thickness of the mattress. Some are wider than others or longer.

Be sure you know exactly what you need when you shop.

Choose cotton or blends, flannel, silk, or satin

For sheets you'll sleep on every day, treat yourself. Choose the best you can afford. After all, you'll hopefully spend eight hours a day lying on them! Cotton is the most popular sheet fabric, but some people prefer non-wrinkling cotton blends.

For chilly climate flannel is cozy. For luxury, choose satin and silk. You might buy a pair of pillowcases in different styles and see which you like best, how they feel to sleep on, how they wash. Then decide if you want a whole set.

Check the sheet measurements

You know the exact size of your bed. Now check the exact size of the sheets. Be sure that the fitted sheet is deep enough for your mattress.

Remember that many sheets will shrink as much as seven percent in the first washing.

Check the laundering instructions

Silk sheets are sensuous and wonderful, but will you have to have them dry cleaned each week? Can you afford that? Be sure that you'll be able to care for your new bed sheets the way the manufacturer recommends.

Housekeeping.com