Get Comfortable. Sleep Better
Are you as comfortable in your bedroom as you could be? We have talked about the effect environmental factors such as light, noise, temperature have on sleep quality – but comfort also plays an important role. Considering we spend almost a third of our lives in bed, it is important we try to create a bedroom space that is relaxing, inviting, and comfortable. It may sound obvious, but the more comfortable you are – the better you will sleep!
Comfort is personal. What is comfortable for you, is not necessarily so for another person. While we cannot specify comfort, we can provide some key tips focussed on the elements in the bedroom that have the most impact when it comes to creating the ideal comfortable, cosy hideaway:
Start with a quality mattress
Do you like your bed to feel firm and supportive, or extra plush, like sleeping on a cloud? Your body spends more time in contact with your mattress than almost anything else, so it’s important that you choose one that’s right for you.
- Buy the best quality mattress you can afford. Given that how well you sleep affects every part of your life, think of it as an investment your overall health and happiness!
- Firm or soft? Memory foam or innerspring? There are many options to choose from, so be sure to try different mattress constructions to see which one you prefer.
- Take your time. You’ll likely have your mattress for up to seven years, so don’t rush into a decision. Make sure you spend at least 10 minutes on each mattress you try, so you can really feel how it conforms to your body in your usual sleep position.
- Buy the largest size you can comfortably fit in your bedroom, to ensure there is enough space to spread out. There’s no way you will get a good sleep if you’re 6 foot tall and sleeping in a single bed!
- Know your pain points. Is temperature an issue for you, or do you suffer asthma for example? There are numerous comfort components and treatments that offer a variety of benefits. If you’re a hot sleeper for example, breathable quilting materials and gel-infused comfort layers can help dissipate heat. While some mattresses are approved by the National Asthma Council’s Sensitive Choice program, as they offer protection from dust mites and bacteria. So before heading out to the shops, do a little research to find out what might work for you.
Add a supportive pillow
Choosing the right pillow is just as important as finding a comfortable, supportive mattress. Your pillow should gently support your head while keeping your neck and spine aligned. If your pillow is not providing the support you need, you may toss and turn and wake up with aches and pains in your head and neck.
As with mattresses, pillows come in many different shapes, sizes and materials. Make sure you try different fillings and heights to find the one that’s right for your size and sleep position. Always buy a new pillow when you purchase a new mattress, as the two work together to deliver you a comfortable, supported, aligned sleep.
Top it all off with comfortable bed linen
Its easy to be distracted by sumptuous quilts and stylish accessories, but make sure they’re also going to provide you with a comfortable sleep.
- Always use a mattress protector to protect your investment and comply with the warranty.
- Choose breathable natural fibres where possible, to help regulate temperature.
- Invest in a warmer quilt or blankets for the cooler months, and a lightweight cotton or silk quilt for the warmer months, if appropriate to where you live.
- Plush blankets and cushions will make the room look inviting, and encourage you to lay down and relax. While these help to create the right mindset for sleep, make sure they can all be easily removed so you can truly rest and recuperate.
Other tips for comfortable sleep
- Choose lightweight, breathable pyjamas, or none at all.
- Keep the room well ventilated, open a window if possible.
- Try sleep technology to monitor your bedroom environment eg: temperature / humidity / sound / light / movement.
- Feet first. The floor by your bed is the last thing you touch before you get into bed and the first thing you set foot on in the morning, so if you don’t have carpet, invest in a rug for beside your bed. Choose one that feels great and has colours and textures that complement your room. Consider shag, silk, chenille or even faux fur.
