Violet Linen Ruffle Hem Pillowcases

Our Easy Method for Building Your Perfect Bed Set

When you crawl into your bed and slip under your covers, you want that “ahh” feeling. To enhance your sleep and your space, skip the “bed in a bag” options and look into custom linen bedding solutions. With a little guidance and our Build Your Bed Set tool, you can get those “ahh” moments and ditch the “eh” with linen sheets, duvets, and more in the colors and sizes you need for a perfect night’s rest (and a magazine-worthy bedroom).

Understanding the Pieces of a Linen Bed Set

French Blue Linen Fitted Sheet

In order to build a bed set that is cohesive and functional, you must thoughtfully consider every piece. Each component of curated linen bedding should complement the overall design of your room. Linen bedding is the perfect foundation for your bed set, offering understated elegance and easy care with a number of health benefits.

Use our handy Build Your Bed Set tool to mix colors and styles of linen bedding to suit your own personal design aesthetic. This tool helps you visualize the following components to find the best linen bedding for your bed. Read on to learn more about each of these components and why you should add them to your custom bed set: 

  1. Fitted sheet
  2. Flat sheet
  3. Duvet cover
  4. Pillowcases
  5. Bedskirt
  6. Euro pillowcases
  7. Blackout curtains 

How Do I Find the Right Pocket Depth for a Fitted Sheet? 

A fitted linen sheet is a critical component of every linen bedding set and must have elastic pockets deep enough to snugly cover the mattress without slipping off during the night. Measure your mattress height to ensure the proper fit. Choose a pocket depth of 8 inches for slim bunk bed mattresses or a pocket depth of up to 18 inches to fit the plushest pillowtops.

Do I Need a Flat Sheet?

Opinions are divided on flat sheets, and some people opt to forgo them altogether when using an easily washable duvet cover. Others prefer to double up on flat sheets with the triple-sheeting method, simplifying their linen bedding purchase and creating an easy wash routine.

We recommend including at least one flat linen sheet when building your bed set because they are such versatile pieces. Though they are most typically used to protect a difficult-to-wash item like a comforter, flat sheets also shine in other applications. They can be draped over the foot of the bed to protect it from pets or even used as a curtain or tablecloth in a pinch!

What is a Duvet Cover?

Cool Gray Linen Duvet Cover With Ties

A linen duvet cover is the practical answer for adding an easily washable, warm layer to your bed. Many people wonder what a duvet cover actually is and how it’s different than a comforter. A duvet cover slips over a comforter-like insert and is held in place with ties in each corner. The duvet cover, unlike a comforter, allows for easy at-home laundering, saving money and time spent on trips to the dry cleaner. 

How Many Pillowcases Do I Need?

Pillowcases protect your pillows from sweat and body oils and thus require frequent washing. Having extra linen pillowcases on hand ensures that you keep the fabric nearest your airways and delicate facial skin clean and allergen-free. Opt for two sets to easily swap out on wash day. 

Why Should I Use a Bedskirt? 

A bedskirt or dust ruffle is an optional component when building a bed set, but it’s a detail that can make a huge difference. Linen bedskirts can hide unsightly leg supports or storage boxes under a bed, as well as prevent dust from accumulating. A dust ruffle also covers the bed’s foundation or box springs, which may peek out when the bed is unmade. They’re available in multiple styles, from clean lines to romantic ruffles.

How are Euro Pillowcases Different than Standard Pillowcases?

Euro pillowcases are another optional bed set addition that can be impactful for both design and practical use. Unlike rectangular American pillows, Euro pillows are square. These pillows are mostly decorative and create interest when layered atop standard bed pillows. You’ll want to order a set of linen Euro Pillowcases if you plan on having decorative throw pillows to complete your bedding set.

Do I Really Need Blackout Curtains as Part of My Linen Bedding Set? 

It might not feel related since curtains don’t go on the bed, but linen blackout curtains can turn a mediocre bedroom into a sleep haven. Blackout curtains can transform your sleep by turning your room extra-dark, which boosts melatonin production, helping you fall asleep faster. Linen Blackout Lining Curtains are a way to stylishly build your bed set, tying your whole room together while also helping you prioritize your sleep health. 

Creating a Color Palette for Your Linen Bed Set 

Linen Color Swatches Pouch

Our Build a Bed Set tool models the various color options available for each linen bedding component to help you visualize the perfect color palette for your room. Layer the bedding options in your favorite colors for a virtual “try-on” before you buy! There are several ways you could mix and match our stunning linen hues for a stylish color scheme: monochromatic, coordinating, or contrasting. 

Monochromatic Color Palette

For a clean, sleek bedding look, choose the same color for all your pieces. Far from boring, a monochromatic palette is a confident, high-style approach that works for a variety of colors. Optic White is a favorite for spa-like retreats, while Cool Gray suits a modern industrial style. 

Coordinating Color Palette

Choosing various shades of the same hue can create interest and depth while maintaining an elegant look. Try linen sheets and pillowcases in Ivory paired with a duvet cover in Natural. Pale Blue and French Blue also coordinate stylishly and are a sophisticated alternative to simple neutrals. 

Contrasting Color Palette 

Hues from opposite sides of the color wheel contrast for fun visual interest and make a space feel exciting. Pairing French Blue and Rust Red can imbue a nautical feeling to a space, but adding linen Euro Pillowcases in a complementary accent like Mustard creates a striking palette for a contemporary bohemian design.

Adjusting Your Linen Bed Set Seasonally

The bed set you build in summer may not suit your needs the same way in winter. One of the benefits of building your bed set piece by piece, rather than purchasing a “bed in a bag” product is that you can swap out individual pieces to adjust for your seasonal preferences. 

For cooler seasons, you may enjoy the warmth of a fluffy duvet or quilted bedspread. In summer, however, you may want to swap to a lighter-weight linen coverlet

You may also wish to adjust your color scheme by season. Styling your room with brighter colors in winter can add cheer to gray days, while swapping to cooler neutrals in summer provides a visual respite from the sweltering heat. 

Storing Your Linen Bedding  

White Linen Box Stitch Quilt Bedspread

As you build your bed set for each season, you’ll want to ensure you store your off-season items properly to protect your linen bedding. Following a few simple steps before storage will ensure you aren’t met with any unpleasant surprises when you reset your bed for a new season. 

  1. Freshly launder your linen bedding to remove any soils that could attract pests.
  2. Fully dry to avoid trapped moisture that could damage your linen.
  3. Store in a dry place with plenty of ventilation to prevent musty smells.
  4. Add a desiccant pack to help prevent humidity from building up.
  5. Avoid plastic storage boxes to protect against discoloration. 

Building a bed set that suits your needs and design is easier than you think. Choose your components using the template in our Build Your Bed Set tool, then select a color palette that fits the mood of your space. You’ll enjoy your perfectly curated linen bedding set that has you saying “ahh” in no time!

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