winter bedding guide
To stay warm in bed during winter, switch from summer sheets to brushed cotton, and opt for a duvet with a tog rating over 10 for the ultimate cosiness. You can also use extra blankets in bed for a warming touch that creates a calming weighted blanket effect.
To reduce energy costs, keep your bedroom warm with insulation and by blocking draughts
The cosy season is finally here, so there’s no better time to prepare your bedrooms with all of the winter essentials. Have you been wondering what's the best winter bedding, which duvet tog to use and what materials will feel the most snug? Tuck into this handy guide so you can hibernate peacefully during the cold months ahead.
what type of bedding is best for winter?
Stepping outside may be a shock to the system, but it’s all the more reason to get warm and cosy within your sheets. So, what’s the best way to layer your bed for extra heat? From choosing the thickest materials to exploring innovative gadgets that’ll keep you toasty, there's lots of options available.
If you want to feel like you're getting ready for hibernation, switch out your summer bed sheets for fleece or brushed cotton sheets – the warmest options for the winter. We also recommend opting for a higher tog duvet and wool blankets which you can layer up if you get extra chilly at night. These materials are known for trapping heat, keeping you extra comfortable when you hit the hay.
Lastly, if you still need a helping hand in staying warm at night, incorporate an electric blanket into your bed set-up. Our selection not only consists of dual-controlled options, allowing you and your partner to choose a level of heat that works for both of you, but are completely safe to use too.
is linen bedding good for winter?
Yes, although it’s associated with summer, linen is a great material for the winter months because it’s breathable, temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking, layering friendly, durable and extremely soft. It’s also a great winter bedding option for allergy sufferers as it’s naturally hypoallergenic.
what is the best winter bedding for couples?
You’ll need to determine each of your sleeping preferences before you commit to winter bedding that works for both of you. For instance, try an all-season duvet that offers breathability and insulation, especially when paired with body heat. We’d also recommend a dual control electric blanket so you can both find a temperature that works for you individually. Lastly, layers come in great when sharing a bed as you can wrap up as much as you’d like without making the other person too hot or cold.
what is the best tog for a winter duvet?
what is the best tog for a winter duvet?
Typically, duvets with a tog rating over 10 are best for winter, but lower ones may be suitable for 'hot sleepers' - in other words, people who overheat while in bed and struggle to cool down during the night.
different tog ratings explained
1, 3 and 4.5 tog – ideal for summer use or for hot sleepers as these are the coolest duvets.
10.5 and 12.5 tog – the best winter duvet tog, ideal for the colder seasons as these duvets will keep you warm but not too hot.
13.5 and 15 tog – ideal for those who need the most insulation from the cold during the winter.
how many blankets should be on a bed in the winter?
How many blankets you use depends on personal preferences and various other factors. For example, how many layers you’re wearing in bed, the temperature outside and the quality of your winter bedding.
Most people use one or two blankets on their beds in winter. One will trap the hot air and another will create an extra layer of warmth. Using more blankets will also increase the weight on top of you, which can benefit those who like the calming benefits of light pressure while sleeping. If you like this feeling, discover our range of weighted blankets which as designed to mimic a hug.
how to layer bedding for optimal winter warmth
The best way to layer your bed in winter is to use warm bed sheets (i.e. brushed cotton, flannel, fleece), choose a 10.5-13.5 tog duvet, layer a blanket or quilt on top and then top it off with a throw and cushions for extra insulation. Materials like wool combined with weighted blankets can add warmth and texture to the set-up.
what can I use instead of a duvet in the winter?
While a duvet or quilt will offer you the most warmth, if you find yourself in a situation where you need to replace it, you could opt for several sheets or blankets and throws to keep yourself warm. An electric blanket, hot water bottle and cosy pyjamas will also help you to stay extra warm without the need for a duvet.
Do you share your bed with someone? If so, it will naturally be warmer under the sheets due to the extra body heat. That means that fur babies are also encouraged to join you this winter. But perhaps you’d rather keep them in their warm pet beds.
does a blanket go above or below a duvet?
If you’re using blankets in conjunction with your duvet, place them underneath to enhance the insulation effect and add even more snuggly comfort to your bed.
should I get an electric blanket?
Over recent years, an electric blanket has become a popular addition to beds across the UK because they provide that convenient extra level of warmth that you can't match. With an easy-to-use remote, a safety guard against overheating and a rapid warming effect, it's a no-brainer.
An electric blanket should be positioned on top of your mattress and under your sheet, secured at the corners when fastening straps are provided. We have a range of electric blankets to suit your sleep preferences, available in fleece and luxury options designed for couples or solo sleepers. These are complete with a variety of control options to suit your desired temperature range.
when should I change my bedding to winter?
While it’s mostly down to personal preference, we recommend switching out your bedding when the average night time temperature drops below 10°C. This is usually in late September or October when the chillier temperatures set in, meaning layers are needed
how can I make my bedroom warmer in the winter?
Turning on the heating is the quickest way to make your bedroom warmer in the winter – but it can be costly. In order to keep things as warm as possible without rising energy bills, keep the door closed and use draught seals against any gaps. You should also make sure your windows stay closed while insulating the space with blinds or curtains. Add rugs to your bedroom if you’ve got wooden or laminated floors.
final tips for the best winter bedding
To summarise our advice, discover our top tips for creating a warm bed for winter below
Switch from summer sheets to brushed cotton - to stay cosy all night long
Opt for a duvet with a tog rating over 10 for the ultimate snug bed
Layer with extra blankets and sheets to trap in your body heat
Incorporate an electric blanket for that extra dose of warmth
Keep your bedroom cosy with insulation and blocking out draughts
We hope we’ve inspired you when dressing your bed for winter. If you found this article helpful, read our blog on how to keep warm in winter for even more useful advice.
shop winter bedding
Shop warm, plump duvets, snugly fleece throws, electric blankets, and warm covers to banish the cold from your bed at Silentnight. Why not go extra warm with winter bedding sets and bundles?