Choosing the Right Bedding: Questions Answered
Three fundamental bedding decisions determine your comfort: tog selection, size matching, and fill material. The answers below are ordered from the most to the least frequently asked question by UK buyers.
Why do my fitted sheets keep coming off the mattress?
The problem is almost certainly that your sheet only has elastic at the corners, which leaves the middle of the mattress held in place by hope and friction. When you move during the night, that friction gives up and the sheet follows wherever your body takes it. The solution is to look for a sheet with full elastic edging, which wraps around the entire perimeter to keep it secure. Full details in our guide to Choosing the Right Bedding: Togs, Materials & Fit.
What is a Tog rating and what number do I need?
A Tog rating measures how well a duvet traps warm air, with higher numbers providing more insulation. The standard advice based on the outdoor weather can be misleading; choose a tog that matches the temperature inside your room, which is often more consistent than the season outside. Full details in our guide to Duvet Tog Guide: What Tog Duvet Do I Need?
Is Egyptian cotton worth the extra cost?
Egyptian cotton is often marketed as a premium option, but the label is sometimes used to justify a higher price tag rather than reflecting a significant difference in quality. The material itself is known for being long-staple, which can make it softer and more durable than standard cotton, but you still need to check the thread count and weave. It is worth the jump in price only if you specifically value that level of softness and longevity over budget options. Full details in our guide to Choosing the Right Bedding: Togs, Materials & Fit.
What is the difference between down and synthetic duvets?
Down is the soft, fluffy underlayer from a duck or goose’s chest that traps air effectively, while synthetic duvets are usually made from hollow fibres designed to mimic that insulation. The choice comes down to your priorities regarding warmth, weight, and allergens, as down is generally more breathable and compressible but can trigger allergies. Synthetic options are often hypoallergenic and easier to wash, making them a practical choice for many UK households. Full details in our guide to Down vs Synthetic Duvet: Which Is Best for You?
Which pillow fill is best for side sleepers?
Side sleepers generally need a pillow that provides substantial support to keep the spine aligned, which usually means a firmer fill that prevents the head from sinking too low. A fill that offers good contouring and height is essential to avoid neck strain during the night. You should look for materials that maintain their shape well under pressure to ensure consistent support throughout the night. Full details in our guide to Best Pillow Fill for Side Sleepers and Other Positions.
How thick should my mattress topper be?
Choosing the right thickness is crucial because if you add a topper that is too deep, your existing fitted sheets won’t fit over the new total height. A topper that is 5–7 cm thick is usually the sweet spot to avoid fitting issues on most UK mattresses. A 10 cm topper is only worth considering if your mattress is unusually thin or you are on a very firm surface. Full details in our guide to Mattress Topper Thickness Guide: How Thick Should It Be?
How heavy should a weighted blanket be?
The general rule of thumb is that a weighted blanket should be around 10% of your body weight. If the blanket is too light, it won’t create the calming effect you are looking for, and if it is too heavy, it can feel crushing. Getting the weight right ensures the blanket feels like a gentle hug rather than a safety hazard. Full details in our guide to Weighted Blanket Weight Guide: How Heavy Should It Be?
Why does my duvet feel damp or clammy in the morning?
This feeling usually happens because your duvet is trapping moisture against your body instead of allowing it to escape, which can occur if the filling isn’t breathable or if the tog is too high for the room temperature. Some fills are better at managing moisture than others. Switching to a more breathable material or adjusting your tog rating can help regulate your body temperature and prevent that clammy sensation. Full details in our guide to Down vs Synthetic Duvet: Which Is Best for You?
What is a deep fit sheet and do I need one?
A deep fit sheet is designed for taller mattresses, usually featuring extra elastic or a longer skirt to prevent slipping. If you have a newer mattress or one with a topper, a standard sheet might leave gaps at the corners or slip off completely. You need to measure your mattress depth accurately to ensure the sheet you buy actually fits without wrestling it into place. Full details in our guide to Choosing the Right Bedding: Togs, Materials & Fit.
Can I use a summer duvet in the winter?
Using a summer duvet during the winter will likely leave you feeling cold, as a summer duvet is designed for much cooler room temperatures and provides significantly less insulation. The tog rating is the key indicator here, with summer options usually sitting around 4.5 and winter options ranging from 10.5 to 13.5. You should swap your bedding based on the thermostat setting in your bedroom rather than the calendar date. Full details in our guide to Duvet Tog Guide: What Tog Duvet Do I Need? For the full picture, including the UK size-compatibility chart referenced above, start with our Choosing the Right Bedding: Togs, Materials & Fit.