Last updated May 6, 2021 | Bedding, Sheets
If you’re on the lookout for new bed sheets, you could be walking into a whole new world of terms you’re unfamiliar with.
What the heck are thread counts? Why does the weave matter? Did you think that “ply” only applied to toilet paper?
A whole lot more than you may expect goes into making high-quality bedding. We’re going to get down to the basics of bedroom décor and break down how to shop for the best bedding.
What are Thread Counts?
Thread counts are a measurement of the number of threads in one square inch of fabric. It lets you know how tightly the fabric is woven.
Manufacturers calculate thread counts by adding the warp and weft threads in a certain area. This means that they add how many threads run lengthwise and how many run widthwise.
If your sheets have 110 warp threads and 110 weft threads in a square inch of the fabric, it has a thread count of 220. Many people think they should use thread count as a way to indicate how soft the fabric feels.
Companies that market bed sheets use thread count as a selling point to indicate that their sheets are of a higher quality than their competitors. What feels more luxurious than knowing your room is decked out in high thread counts and exotic ceiling fans?
The truth is a little more complicated than that.
What is the Best Thread Count?
In truth, there is no “best thread count.” The quality of your sheets depends on the quality of the threads, not the thread count. In fact, each type of fabric has a different ideal thread count.
At the very least, your sheets should have a minimum thread count of 200. Anything less than 200 is loosely woven and won’t feel as soft.
Both the type of fabric and how it is woven will make a difference in what thread count to look for.
For example, percale is a “plain weave” pattern. It has a one over, one under pattern. Percale sheets should have a thread count between 180 and 200 to be considered average quality.
On the other hand, to achieve an average quality set of sateen sheets, they must be tightly woven. They would have a thread count between 250 and 300.
Here are the thread counts for high-quality fabric depending on the material:
- Linen: 80-140
- Cotton: 200-400
- Egyptian Cotton: 300-400
- Bamboo: 300-500
As a side note, linen sheets don’t typically list the thread count on the packaging. High thread counts should be avoided when buying linen sheets.
Also, many popular materials for making bedsheets don’t use thread counts to measure the quality. For example, silk is measured in a unit called a “momme.” This is a measurement that looks at how much a 45 inch by 100-yard piece of silk weighs.
Microfiber, jersey, and flannel are measured in grams per square meter, or GSM.
Does High Thread Count Mean Better Sheets?
In short, no. A higher thread count doesn’t always mean more comfortable or higher quality sheets. This correlation between a high thread count and more comfortable sheets usually tapers off at a certain point.
For most fabrics, once you’ve hit the 600 thread count marker, generally the only noticeable difference will be the price tag. High thread counts, in the 600-800 range, won’t feel any softer or last any longer than the sheets in the 200-600 range.
Plus, if manufacturers packed more than 800 threads in a square inch, your fabric would be bulky and would stifle airflow.
Important Aspects of Good Bedding
Now you understand the basics of thread counts and how to spot good sheets based on that number. But, as we mentioned, there is so much more that goes into making high-quality bedding. Fabric material, weave pattern, and ply count all matter too.
Fabric Material
For higher-quality bed sheets, look for labels that tell you that they were made with extra long fibers. For example, long-staple or extra-long-staple cotton ensures that the fibers won’t stick out from the weave and become uncomfortable.
Another good option for cotton sheets is combed cotton. Cotton is considered “combed” when the manufacturers remove short fibers from the cotton before they spin it.
In general, all-natural fibers will have a much better feel than anything made from polyester.
Weave
There are two different kinds of weaves: plain and satin.
In a plain weave, the horizontal and vertical threads alternate one after the other throughout the weave. Think of it like a checkerboard pattern.
With a satin weave, the weft threads lie along four warp threads at once. This allows there to be more vertical threads in each weave and creates a much softer, smoother sheet.
Sheets with a plain weave are great for people who get overheated overnight. The weave allows for plenty of airflow to help keep you cool.
Sheets with a satin weave are a little better for colder nights. They’re more tightly woven and they feel heavier and more sturdy.
Ply Count
Single-ply sheets are sheets with one strand of yarn per thread. These are more high quality because they use strong, fine threads to create their weave.
Multi-ply sheets use more strands because the threads are more prone to becoming brittle and breaking. They feel more coarse and thick.
Finding the Best Bedroom Decorations
Who knew that buying bed sheets would be so complicated? When it comes to finding the best quality sheets you can afford, there is a lot of information to consider. Just remember that high thread counts and high price tags don’t always mean a better sleeping experience.
At the end of the day, you need to be happy with the decision you made. If you find that you’re more drawn to the way a lower thread count feels, there’s no shame in using them! It all depends on your personal preferences and what makes you comfortable when you rest your head at night.
For more design tips and tricks, keep reading!
Mar 5, 2021 | Pets
You just got a cat tree for your cat, likely because you’re sick of it scratching up the furniture, even though you’ve purchased the best cat proof couch cover! But now, you’re looking for ways to furnish the tree, or you want to change the carpet it came with. Once you attach a carpet to your cat tree, your cat will be able to find warmth and scratch until their hearts content.
Your cat can also scratch at the carpet of their cat tree instead of your furniture. Now that you want to attach a carpet to your cat tree, you don’t know how to do it. Rest assured, this article will be telling you how to attach a carpet to your cat tree.
Gather the Supplies
The first thing you need is a bare cat tree without any carpet. So if your cat tree came with a carpet, you have to remove it before you commence. At this point, you must have the carpet you want to put on your cat tree. Choose a carpet that won’t be too rough on your cat’s skin but one that is very fluffy and soft. After, you will have to go to a store and get a hammer, nails and a box knife. Don’t attach a carpet to your cat tree in the house; take it to the garage. You wouldn’t want your cat to step on nails.
Remove the Previous Carpet From the Tree
Most cat trees come with some covering, so you have to make sure you remove it before attaching a new one. You have to take great care when you’re removing the previous carpet from the cat tree so you won’t damage the cat tree. A lot of carpets that come with cat trees are easy to remove, so you can use a solution to weaken the adhesive and remove it. If you don’t know how to remove a carpet from the cat tree, you should hire a professional to remove it. You can call a carpenter to remove the carpet you don’t want any longer from your cat tree.
Cut the Carpet To Appropriate Size and Attach the Carpet Using Nails
This part is going to require precision and measurement on your part. Calculate the size of where you want to attach the carpet to and cut it out on the carpet. Once you’ve cut out the carpet according to the size of the cat tree, you can then begin to attach it. You will use your nails and hammer to attach the carpet to your cat tree. You should attach the carpet in a part of your house where your cat won’t interfere. The loud noise will disturb your cat, so you should do it far away from where they stay.
It is important to know when to change the carpet on your cat tree. Carpets get worn because of your cat clawing on them. Once you see the carpet on your cat tree has many patches and is no longer cushiony, change it. You also need to make sure you get a quality carpet that won’t shed. Put a new carpet on your cat tree, and your cat will never want to leave their cat tree.
Mar 2, 2021 | Bedding, Sheets
Picture this: You have some beautiful bed sheets that impress everyone that comes across it. You’re delighted with them in all aspects, except for one. Every time you place them in the washing machine or dryer, they roll up into balls that cause them not to get washed or dry thoroughly. Additionally, it becomes a hassle trying to unroll them after a wash and eliminate the annoying creases. If this is you, then you are far from alone. While the best trick is to use the best dyer sheets, when it comes to washing it’s not so simple.
This annoying problem is what many people complain about when washing their bedsheets, and it can take hours away from the washer trying to fix creases or rewash. Luckily, there are certain things you can do to fix this issue. Here are five actions you can do to keep your sheets from balling up.
When Done Washing, Uncouple
When we’re done washing, many of us have half a mind to ball up our sheets together and dump it all into the dryer. However, this simple act will act more hours to your washing than you bargained for. Instead, it is essential you carefully untangle sheets before you wash.
If you have the time, it would be best not to wash too many sheets at a time; two is the required maximum. Also, you should make sure you also untangle any other pillowcases from the main bed sheet.
Dryer Balls Are Useful
Dryer balls are objects designed with the intention of stopping bed sheets from getting balled up. They work by simply dropping the balls into the dryer drum with your bedsheets. These dryer balls help to allow air to circulate in the dryer and help to keep your bed sheets separate. Alternatively, you can also use a few tennis if you don’t want to use dryer balls. They also perform this function effectively.
Don’t Overwork Your Dryer
Dumping too much into your dryer may cause your dryer not to function effectively, causing your bedsheets to tangle and get rumpled. Continuing to do this may even damage your bedsheets and dryer!
Duvet Covers Should Be Buttoned
Due to the size of duvets, they can quickly engulf bed sheets and pillowcases. This engulfing wouldn’t let the bed sheets wash well, and it will also increase the chance of getting balled up. That said, if you have duvets that have buttons, make sure you button them up to avoid this. If you have enough hours on your hands, you should try to wash duvets separately from bed sheets.
Sort Your Fabrics Correctly
This tip is one of the most useful pieces of information in order not to get balled up bed sheets. You should sort your fabric based on texture, size, or any other way you want to categorize them.
If possible, you should try and wash bed sheets separately from other household fabrics such as hand towels, pillowcases, and tea towels.
The Bottom Line
Sometimes, getting your bedsheets balled up is inevitable. However, these tips mentioned above can help you prevent that from happening as much as possible.
Mar 1, 2021 | Bedding, Sheets
Something to love about the fashion industry and clothes, mainly, is the variety of fabrics available. This variety allows you to try different styles and combine them to create new, revolutionary looks. One of the best fabrics to try this with is flannel.
Flannel is a warm and soft material that we use to make shirts, pants, underwear, and of course the best flannel sheets. People use this fabric mostly for winter due to its soft, warm and cozy texture. The flannel’s elegant look makes it a top choice among bedding enthusiasts to top it all off.
However, as comfortable as it is to sleep on this fabric, it is also one of those fabrics that must be carefully and adequately cleaned to retain its quality.
This is why you should properly manage and wash flannel sheets to maintain their elegance and beauty.
All The Conditions To Meet
- Warm Water: Since flannel is a delicate fabric, you need to make sure you wash in warm water. A temperature that is too cold or too hot may cause the flannel to get rumpled.
- Mild detergent: To wash this fabric, you will need gentle detergent. The strong detergent may irrevocably damage your flannel sheets.
- Fabric softener: This product is a must if you want to keep your flannel fabric in tip-top shape. Alternatively, you can also use white vinegar or dryer sheets.
How To Wash Flannel
- It would be best if you started by putting warm water in your washing machine. As mentioned earlier, never wash flannel in cold or hot water as this may cause your sheets to get rumpled. Throughout the wash, it would be best if you kept the water warm.
- You can then add your mild detergent to the water. If you use regular detergent, it will work as expected but will cause your flannel to fade over time. Hence, it is essential not to overlook this warning. Harsh detergent, bleach, and other strong chemicals will damage your fabric irredeemably.
- The permanent press or the gentle cycle setting is how you should wash your flannel, depending on what model of washing machine you have and how big the sheets are.
- After you’re done washing your flannel, you can decide to hang it to dry or dry it using your washing machine, although hanging to dry may be slightly better. If you’re using your washing machine to dry it, then you should make sure you remove it immediately it gets dry. If you leave it in the dryer for too long, it will cause the fabric to weaken. It would also be best if you dry it in low or no heat, as this helps to preserve the fabric’s quality for a longer amount of time.
Some Additional Tips
When the flannel gets washed over time, it tends to get smaller. That said, if you want to buy a flannel shirt, make sure you get one slightly bigger than your bed. If your flannel sheets are shedding, you may be able to solve this by adding one-half cup of vinegar.
If you follow these fantastic tips on how to wash and adequately take care of flannel, then you will most likely have that beautiful piece of fabric for a long, long time.
Last updated Feb 25, 2021 | Pillows
Can you put lavender oil on your pillow? The answer might surprise you.
Pouring a few drops at night on your pillow is how many people try to get some sleep. Lavender oil is helpful, but, it can get rather messy. That is why some experts suggest you place the drops on a cloth and place that on your pillow before you sleep.
How Using the Levander Oil Helps
Let’s be honest. Many of us have regular demands and issues that come up. Those issues are hard to deal with when you suffer from a lack of sleep. You cannot perform at your most optimum level if you have not had a good night’s sleep.
That is why many people turn to lavender oil to get the much-needed sleep they need. You could be one of those people too. That is why many have started using a few drops of the oil at night to get that deep and restful sleep they need.
What Are the Benefits?
1. It’s Natural
It is 100% natural. It is now being steam-distilled from the lavender plant. BTW: It is very popular in Rome, Italy, and other surrounding areas. It was added to bathwater to give it a fresh, clean experience.
After you took a bath in it, most people remarked that they fell fast asleep at bedtime, especially if you took the bath right before you went to bed. I have used it in baths myself. I can attest to how good the product is.
You can Google the ingredients and find that it is 100% pure.
2. It Helps Treat Anxiety, Stress and Depression
Some of the more recent studies also conclude that the oil is great for treating things like anxiety, stress and depression.
The other great thing is that you will wake up the next day feeling completely well-rested. There are no side-effects like grogginess, a stomach ache, r headaches(as you might get with other over-the-counter sleep aids( some, not all).
3. It’s Safe
It is also much safer than using an alternative method to falling asleep. Some people use over-the-counter remedies( like sleep aids and other things of that sort).
They start to become addicted to a sleep aid, and that causes other problems.
I am only speaking about a few people here. Some people do not have those side-effects and can control how much they take and when.
However, and, more importantly, it is better to use something like lavender oil as opposed to taking a chance on something that could cause other mental health issues.
How Do You Use It?
It depends on the person. Some people like to rub it on a part of their body at night. Others like to place a cloth on top of a pillow and apply a few drops(as I mentioned above). Other like to apply the drops to their face( and, yes, you can do that).
The best part is that the oil is natural to the skin. You will not have any burning or irritation. You also will not have to scratch the itch( like you do with other remedies). You can fall asleep knowing that the oil is doing its job.
Other Lavender Choices
There are other options if you do not want to risk damaging your pillow and bedsheets.
- You can buy the spray. It is not that expensive. It comes as a room spray. You spray your bed with the aroma. The aroma will do its thing and you fall fast asleep.
- You can also buy a lavender pillow. It is called a “lavender sleep pillow”. You can place it under your head or right beside you. It will work wonders and give you that deep sleep you want so badly.
Three More Natural Sleep Aids Backed by Scientific Research
1. Melatonin
It is a natural hormone. It tells your body( in a natural way) you need sleep. This is a great option for those who work at night and sleep during the day. Melatonin is perfect for those who are suffering from jet lag and are in dire need of sleep. You do not have to drink several cups of coffee to stay awake.
2. Valerian Root
Some people might not have heard of this one since it is more popular in Asia and Europe. It helps people who suffer from menopause, depression, and anxiety. It is known as a “sleep-promoting” herbal supplement.
One study reports that taking between 300-900 mg of Valerian Root before bed improves your chances of getting that deep and restful sleep. However, as most already know, studies are subjective at times. Some studies relied on the perception of sleep instead of the sleep state itself.
That is why we encourage you to choose lavender oil instead (particularly in cases of pregnant and lactating women).
3. Passion Flower
This is probably a new one for many of you. It has been known to help people who suffer from insomnia and bad dreams.
Sleeping issues like bad dreams and night terrors for a prolonged period have been known to give people insomnia as they get older. Not knowing if you are going to have a good or bad night is something that plagues a lot of people(myself included).
The only issue with Passion Flower are the studies. Many of them concluded weak results at best. That is why experts argue that sticking with Lavender Oil is the way to go.
Summary
There are many different sleep remedies on the market. However, lavender oil remains the one thing on the list that most people use above all others. Many of the other products are pure, but the only one gives you that 100% action plan you need is the lavender oil. There is no second-guessing with lavender. You do not have to worry about addiction or weak results with it either.
To answer the question: yes, you can put the oil on your pillow. To get that much-needed sleep it is highly recommended that you do.
Last updated Feb 9, 2021 | Pets
Dogs are active animals. They love sniffing, playing, and exploring, but they also need to take a rest. Undoubtedly, dogs can sleep on the floor, sofa, on your carpet, or even in your bed. Yet, every canine pet deserves a place for them to rest because dogs spend about 12 to almost 24 hours of sleep every day.
A right dog bed can offer that perfect, cozy, and quiet spot for any pup. In addition to placing a stylish effect on your home décor, a dog bed can provide loads of benefits not just for your pet but for you as well. Some of the reasons why your dog deserves a bed of his own:
- Any specially designed dog bed can provide your puppy with a soft and warm place to slumber his joints after a day of activity. It can offer cushioning and insulation against the cold hard floor. Not to mention, as dogs move to their senior years, this is also essential.
- A dog bed can also provide privacy, security, and personal space for your beloved four-legged companion. Canine’s wild ancestors are territorial, so your dog will appreciate it if he has a special place to claim as his own.
- Giving your dog a bed to sleep on can also secure your home. It can keep his fur, dirt, or him to dander off your furniture and your bed. It can also protect your family members if they have allergies.
Just like us, dogs have their preferences when it comes to a comfortable place to catch their sleep. So, before you buy your furry friend his very own bed, you should first consider the following variables.
Things to Consider When Choosing A Dog Bed
Size of Your Dog
The first step to consider is to decide on the right size bed for your dog. Choosing the wrong size bed may lead to potential issues like sore joints and muscles, not enough restful sleep, and hip and back problems. Selecting the correct bed size, on the other hand, will ensure that they have plenty of room to stretch out, to get enough support, and to be comfortable.
To do this, make sure to measure the length and width of your dog correctly. The length should be measured from the nose’s tip to the tail base with an added allowance of 6″–12″. Measure the width from shoulder to shoulder at the widest point and add another 6″–12″ to the final number to ensure that your dog has enough space to move around. A dog’s weight can also determine many dog beds sizes. However, it’s still best to check the bed measurements to ascertain that it is snuggly for your pet.
Sleeping Habits
Another factor to consider when choosing a comfortable dog bed for your dog is recognizing his sleeping style. How your dog prefers to sleep can influence how much space they have. Many dogs sleep in multiple ways, so make sure the bed you end up with is spacious enough to accommodate all.
- Sprawlers – Tends to like to stretch out in all directions. These doggies prefer to take up lots of room and want to use the entire surface of the bed. They can find themselves in the most hilarious of sleeping positions. The right mattress for these dogs is a roomy pad or a rectangular pillow bed.
- Curlers – This is a typical sleeping style for dogs when they like to curl up to go to sleep. They prefer the comfort of curling as it is a remnant of the pack mentality. Dogs used to curl up in a ball to provide warmth, conserve body heat and protect their vital organs from predators. Dogs who love to fall asleep in this ball position may prefer a smaller, round, oval, or bolster bed.
- Burrowers – These dogs love to dig in and go under the covers. Burrowers prefer to make a cozy nest, creating that cave feel. They often sleep right next to you in the bed and burrow under the blankets. The right type of bed for these styles are domed or hooded dog beds.
- Leaners – Leaners favor having their heads leaning against something and enjoy the feeling of support, making bolster beds the best option for this sleeping habit. You can also choose a dog sofa for them.
Age and Health
Considering your dog’s age and health will also influence the bed’s style and size that you will purchase for your puppy. If your pet is a senior dog or has joint issues, you may want to get a more extensive and spacious bed for them to stretch out and find a cozy spot for them to nap.
What Are the Different Types of Dog Beds?
Pillow or Cushion Dog Bed
This is one of the basic dog beds that is simply a large cushion or a fluffy pillow. This type of bed comes in various designs, sizes, colors. And an excellent choice for canine pets that love to sprawl out. However, this may not be the ideal bed for your dog due to certain downsides such as offering no support on your dog’s joints, it traps heat as your dog lies on it, they’re difficult to clean, and they don’t last long.
Bolster Dog Bed
Bolster dog beds are just the right bed for any size dog who loves to lean against something when they are sleeping. With its built-in support on each side, dogs can stretch out, lay on their side, or curl up. A Bolster dog bed, which is usually round or oval, can also provide a naturally comfortable position, offer the feeling of security and give your pooch the same kind of buttress when your lap is unavailable–which makes dogs love this type of bed.
Orthopedic Dog Bed
As the name suggests, this kind of dog bed is typically a mattress that provides orthopedic support. Getting your dog an orthopedic dog bed can provide him with many benefits such as prolonging healthy joints and is convenient for dogs who have arthritis, hip dysplasia, joint problems, bone or soft tissue injuries. It is also the right choice for skinny or lean breeds and older dogs. If you want to know more about orthopedic dog beds, you can check out these shopping guides for dogs to help you out.
Temperature-Controlled Dog Bed
This type of dog bed is excellent for use in either warm or cold environments. A heated dog bed, for example, is cozy and warm that is also beneficial for older dogs. Moreover, it is suitable for smaller dogs as they quickly lose body heat. It gently soothes and reduces stiffness, which is perfect for dogs suffering from painful joints.
Opposite to this kind of dog bed is a dog cooling bed. This type of dog bed is also suitable for senior dogs as it provides a lot of upsides for your pooch, such as avoiding dehydration, allowing proper sleep, reduces shedding, keeps your dog clean, prevents cold as well as making your pup feel good.
Elevated or Raised Dog Bed
Another type of dog bed appropriate for older canine pets is an elevated or raised dog bed. It is applicable for dogs with mobility issues as it makes it easier for them to get in and out of their dog bed. It can also help with temperature control, plus they’re portable. This kind of mattress is usually outside to keep your pooch off the warm ground.
Memory Foam Dog Beds
Memory foam dog beds are soft and supportive. It’s not just humans who like to feel comfortable when we sleep. These bed use memory foam to accommodate all manner of curves and bumps to relieve pressure on sore doggy joints. Sign up to the Sleep Republic newsletter for $20 off any Pillow, Protector, Sheets and memory foam dog bed!
Final Thoughts
While many of us love to snuggle with our furry pooch and share our beds with them, sleeping with your dog can lead to a poor night’s rest for you. A disruptive night’s rest can affect your mood and can lead to less productivity the following day. That’s why it’s also necessary for him to have his very own place to sleep and note the information above. Besides, we don’t want to experience buying a cute dog bed for your pooch only to discover that he wants to lie anywhere but there. It’s also crucial to consult your dog’s vet to help you decide on the best dog bed suited for your pet.
