Before you can build a luxurious bedding set, you need to know about the different bedding parts. To help you, we’ve put together a handy guide about the basic parts of bedding and each piece's role. We’ll guide you through selecting the right pieces for your preferences and style and discuss how to maintain and care for them. Let’s begin.
The Essential Parts of a Bed Set
Mattress Protectors and Toppers
Mattress protectors shield your mattress from dirt, sweat, and allergens. They come in a wide range of materials, including cotton, down, wool, polyester, and vinyl. Some also have waterproofing, cooling elements, and hypoallergenic properties. Which type you choose will depend on your sleeping preferences and household needs. If you want to add extra cushion to your mattress, consider choosing a mattress topper instead.
Down Alternative Mattress Topper
Pillows
A standard bedding setup has a mix of bed pillows and throw pillows. Bed pillows are your main sleeping pillows and play an essential part in how well you sleep at night, so you’ll want to choose pillows that fit your sleeping style and position (i.e., back, side, or stomach).
For example, a quality down pillow, like Peacock Alley’s white goose-down pillow, often appeals to many styles. (Plus, it’s responsibly sourced and incredibly soft.)
If you prefer firmer support, opt for duck feathers mixed with down. And for an allergen-free alternative, go with a down-alternative pillow made of luxe fibers that offer the same loftiness of down.
White Goose Down Pillow
Down Alternative Pillows
Silk Pillow Enhancer
Sheets
There are three main types of sheets: fitted, flat, and pillowcases.
A fitted sheet hugs your mattress tightly, keeps everything in place, and adds extra protection and softness. While some consider flat sheets an optional layer, they add a layer of warmth and help keep your duvet or coverlet clean. And finally, pillowcases protect your skin and keep your pillow fresh.
The type of material you choose for your sheets will depend on factors like allergies, sleeping temperature, and texture preferences.
Blankets, Duvets & Comforters
Blankets are single-layered and come in various levels of thickness, which can be ideal if you’re looking for a lighter layer. Comforters and duvets, on the other hand, offer more insulation and are great for sleepers who need extra warmth. They have two layers of fabric (like cotton, wool, down, or silk) with a filling between those layers.
All Seasons Cotton Blanket
Riviera Waffle Weave Blanket
But how exactly do comforters and duvets differ from each other? The main characteristic that sets them apart is that a comforter is one part, and a duvet is two: an insert and a cover. Duvet inserts and comforters made of down are known for being extremely soft, breathable, and durable. But if you suffer from allergies or need a more budget-friendly option, a quality down alternative is also a great choice.
Whether filled with the finest European goose down or our Dacron® down alternative, Peacock Alley’s duvet inserts can help you get a good night’s sleep.