Guide to Choosing the Perfect Bedding

Idealios patalynės pasirinkimo vadovas

Good bedding is so much more than just a décor detail. It is one of the key elements that directly impacts your sleep quality and overall wellbeing. High-quality fabrics and the right size can turn your rest into true comfort, help prevent allergic reactions, and provide deep, uninterrupted sleep.

How bedding affects your sleep quality

 

A cozy bed made with light bedding, symbolizing comfort and calm

 

Have you ever wondered why a hotel bed feels unbelievably comfortable? The secret isn’t just the mattress — a large part of that magical feeling comes from high-quality bedding. And it’s not a luxury. It’s a conscious choice to invest in your health. We spend about a third of our lives in bed, so the environment we rest in has a huge impact.

Poor-quality bedding can easily turn your nights into a nightmare. Synthetic, non-breathable materials trap heat, irritate the skin, and disrupt your body’s natural thermoregulation. Eventually, you start tossing and turning, waking up sweaty and uncomfortable.

A direct impact on your rest

High-quality bedding, especially when made from 100% natural cotton, acts like a smart regulator for your sleep. It adapts to your body temperature: when it’s warm, it cools you down, and when it’s cold, it gently keeps you warm. This helps prevent sudden temperature changes — one of the most common causes of unexpected wake-ups.

The texture of the fabric also plays a major role. A soft, pleasant-to-the-skin material like cotton sateen sends calming signals to the brain, helping you relax and drift into sleep. The opposite is also true — rough or “scratchy” fabrics irritate the nervous system and prevent deep rest.

The sense of calm created by well-chosen bedding is not just emotional. Scientific studies show that the colors and textures of your sleep environment directly influence stress hormone levels and the stability of your sleep cycle.

The health and wellbeing benefits of good bedding

Investing in quality bedding pays off not only in better sleep but also in real health benefits. Here are some of the most important ones:

  • Lower allergy risk. Natural, breathable fabrics like cotton prevent moisture buildup. This creates an unfavorable environment for dust mites and mold.
  • Healthier skin. Cotton allows the skin to breathe freely, absorbs excess moisture, and doesn’t irritate even the most sensitive skin. This helps prevent rashes and irritation.
  • Better emotional balance. Good sleep is directly linked to better mood, higher productivity, and lower daily stress levels.

When you understand how bedding affects your body and mind, making the right choice becomes much easier. It’s not just a piece of fabric — it’s an important part of your overall wellbeing.

Comparison of the most popular bedding fabrics

 

Bedding sets in various colors and patterns neatly arranged on a shelf

 

Choosing the right bedding fabric is almost like choosing a good sleep partner. Every material has its own character, strengths, and sometimes little quirks. To find the perfect match, it’s important to understand how the most popular fabrics differ and which one aligns best with your personal needs.

So, let’s dive deeper into the world of fabrics and compare the key players: versatile cotton (including its variants – sateen and canvas) and refreshing linen. We’ll evaluate each based on essential criteria – from how it feels on the skin to how easy it is to care for.

Cotton – the queen of your bedroom

Cotton is the undisputed leader in the bedding world — and for good reason. It’s a natural fiber loved for its versatility, softness, and breathability. Cotton absorbs moisture extremely well, making it comfortable to sleep under in both cool nights and hot summer weather.

It’s no secret that the healthiest sleep comes from bedding made of natural fibers. Cotton is especially valued in Lithuania for its ability to adapt to changing seasons and for the exceptional coziness it provides. Most importantly, it is a 100% natural fabric that doesn’t irritate the skin, making it an ideal choice for people with sensitive skin.

However, “cotton” is a broad term. It is used to produce two very different — yet equally popular — fabrics: sateen and canvas.

Sateen: a touch of luxury

When people hear the word “sateen,” many imagine a slippery, shiny, often synthetic material. But that’s a myth. True cotton sateen is not a material in itself, but a special weaving technique that gives the fabric exceptional smoothness, a subtle sheen, and a luxurious feel.

Imagine the soft, pleasantly cool touch of silk — that’s exactly the feeling high-quality sateen provides. Thanks to its specific weave (typically one thread on top and four underneath), the surface is extremely smooth and wrinkles less than other cotton fabrics.

  • Benefits: Extremely soft, pleasantly cooling, luxurious appearance, and less prone to creasing.
  • Best for: Those who love luxury, softness, and anyone who feels too warm while sleeping in summer.

Canvas: reliability and durability

Canvas is also cotton, but its plain weave (“one over, one under”) gives it completely different characteristics. Canvas is visually sturdier, slightly heavier, more open-woven, and can feel a bit rougher than sateen at first. It resembles that classic, cozy grandmother-style bedding that becomes softer and more pleasant with every wash.

This fabric is incredibly durable and can withstand countless washes without losing its shape. Thanks to its excellent breathability and strength, canvas is a very practical choice for everyday use.

  • Benefits: Long-lasting, breathable, easy to care for, and becomes softer over time.
  • Best for: Those who value practicality, natural materials, and durability.

Linen: natural refreshment

Linen is a true lifesaver on hot summer nights. This natural fiber has an exceptional ability to absorb moisture and dry quickly, so even if you sweat more, you’ll still feel fresh. Linen bedding is slightly rougher to the touch, but that’s exactly what gives it its unique charm and even a gentle massaging effect.

Linen is one of the most sustainable and strongest natural fibers. Although it may feel a bit stiff at first, it becomes softer and more pleasant with every wash.

Additionally, linen is naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for people with sensitive or allergy-prone skin. While it wrinkles much more than cotton, those natural creases give linen its relaxed, effortless elegance.

If you want to dive deeper into the world of fabrics, check out our article on the most popular fabric types and their characteristics.

Comparison of bedding fabric properties

To make your choice easier, we’ve prepared a simple table comparing the key properties of cotton (sateen and canvas) and linen. This will help you quickly understand which option is the best fit for your bedroom.

Fabric Softness Breathability Best season Care Price
Sateen Very soft Excellent All seasons, especially summer Requires gentle care Medium / High
Canvas Medium, softens over time Excellent All seasons Very easy Affordable / Medium
Linen Rough, softens over time Exceptional Summer Simple care, but wrinkles easily Medium / High

We hope this comparison helps you evaluate which bedding fabric best suits your sleep habits, comfort preferences, and budget.

How to choose bedding based on your needs

The search for the perfect bedding begins not in the store, but in your own bedroom. Before thinking about colors or patterns, you need to pay attention to your body and your sleep habits. What feels like ultimate comfort for one person may cause sleepless nights for another.

This section acts as a personal guide to help you match your lifestyle with the right bedding fabric. Let’s look at how your personal needs — such as body temperature or skin sensitivity — shape the final choice.

If your skin is sensitive or prone to allergies

Sensitive skin needs extra softness and, most importantly, natural materials. Synthetic fabrics often don’t “get along” with the skin — they restrict breathability, increase sweating, and can trigger irritation or even allergic reactions. If this sounds like you, your priority should be a 100% natural fiber.

  • Cotton. One of the safest and most time-tested choices. Cotton is naturally hypoallergenic, highly breathable, and effectively absorbs moisture. This keeps your skin dry and comfortable throughout the night.
  • Linen. This fabric is also appreciated for its anti-allergic properties and exceptional breathability. Linen evaporates moisture quickly, creating an unfavorable environment for bacteria and dust mites. However, if your skin is extremely sensitive, linen may feel too rough and cause irritation.

Try to avoid fabrics treated with harsh chemical dyes or formaldehyde, which is sometimes used to reduce wrinkling. It’s better to choose manufacturers who use safe, certified dyes.

What to do if you’re too hot one night and too cold the next?

Do you often wake up sweaty and push the blanket away? Or maybe the opposite — you’re always reaching for an extra throw because you’re cold? Your body’s natural tendency to overheat or feel chilly is one of the most important factors when choosing bedding.

Properly chosen bedding works like a personal thermostat. It helps maintain a stable body temperature — essential for deep, restful sleep.

If you tend to overheat and sweat:

You need a fabric that absorbs moisture effectively and allows your body to cool down naturally. The best choices are linen and cotton. These fabrics act like open windows — they let air flow freely, moisture evaporates quickly, and you stay fresh. Cotton sateen is an excellent option as its smooth surface feels pleasantly cool against the skin.

If you often feel cold:

You need a fabric that helps retain body heat while still allowing your skin to breathe. A denser weave like cotton sateen or a sturdier canvas cotton creates a cozy microclimate and prevents your body from cooling down. In winter, a down duvet with a cotton cover can enhance the feeling of warmth even further.

How to balance comfort and budget

While high-quality bedding is an investment in good rest, it doesn’t mean you need to empty your wallet. The key is to find the perfect balance between the comfort you want and a reasonable price.

Need Recommended fabric Budget
Luxury and softness Cotton sateen Medium / High
Practicality and durability Cotton canvas Affordable / Medium
Natural freshness and coolness Linen Medium / High
Sensitive skin, allergies Cotton canvas, sateen Depends on the fabric

It’s worth remembering that long-lasting, high-quality bedding always pays off in the long run. For example, when you invest in a good cotton canvas set, you can be sure it will serve you for many years and become even softer with each wash. It’s a smart choice for those who value durability.

Once you answer a few questions about your skin type, body temperature, and budget, you’ll be able to make a decision that not only enhances the look of your bedroom but, most importantly, ensures deep, restorative sleep every night.

Bedding sizes: how to choose correctly

Is there anything more frustrating than realizing that a brand-new duvet cover is hopelessly too big, or that a fitted sheet simply refuses to stretch over the mattress? You’ll probably agree — this is one of the most common mistakes when buying bedding.

The good news is that this problem is easy to avoid. All you need is a few minutes and a measuring tape. Here is a short but essential guide on how to measure your bedding items and confidently choose the perfect fit. Once you know the exact dimensions, you can shop peacefully — both in-store and online.

How to measure your bedding correctly

Before you begin searching for a new set, make sure to grab a measuring tape. Precision is everything here. Don’t measure “by eye” — write down every centimeter carefully.

The three main things you need to measure:

  1. Duvet. Simply lay your existing duvet flat on the bed or floor and measure its length and width. Write down these numbers — they will guide you when choosing a new cover.
  2. Pillows. Do the same with your pillows — measure their length and width. Although most pillows come in standard sizes, exceptions do exist, so it’s always better to check.
  3. Mattress. This part requires a bit more attention. You must measure all three dimensions: width, length, and most importantly, height. Mattress height is the key factor when choosing a fitted sheet.

Don’t forget the mattress height! Most standard fitted sheets are designed for mattresses that are 20–25 cm tall. If your mattress is higher, look for deep-fit sheets or consider a custom-made option.

Standard bedding sizes and their equivalents

Although personal measurements are always the most reliable method, it’s helpful to know the most common standards used in Lithuania. The table below lists the most popular bedding set sizes and the corresponding duvet and pillow cover dimensions to help you navigate product descriptions.

Set type Duvet cover size (cm) Pillow cover size (cm)
Single set 140x200 50x70 (1 pc.)
Double set 200x200 or 200x220 50x70 (2 pcs.)

 

Although these standards are the most common, you will certainly find other variations on the market. That’s exactly why taking your own measurements is so important — they protect you from unpleasant surprises when you unpack your new purchase.

Once you have all the measurements, you’ll know exactly which duvet and pillow covers and which fitted sheet to choose. When shopping at Rustilė, keep in mind that all our fabrics are 100% natural, so they naturally shrink. Normal shrinkage is about 3–5% from the original size. Therefore, we recommend choosing a duvet cover that is about 5% larger. For example, for a 140x200 cm duvet, choose a 145x210 cm duvet cover. For a 200x220 cm duvet, after the first wash, the best fit will be a 210x230 cm cover.

You can choose pillowcases in the same size as your pillow, as the pillow will naturally fill out even a slightly shrunken cover. However, if your pillow is very thick or firm, you can add a few extra centimeters on each side.

When buying a fitted sheet, choose one that matches the length and width of your mattress, but is at least 10 cm higher.

If you want to dive deeper into avoiding sizing mistakes, read our detailed guide on how to choose the correct bedding cover size. You’ll find even more practical tips there.

The right size ensures that your bedding not only looks beautiful but is also comfortable. Your duvet won’t bunch up inside the cover, and your fitted sheet will stay securely in place all night long. That’s what allows you to enjoy truly calm and comfortable rest.

How to make your bedding last: care secrets and tips

 

A gently folded bedding set, ready for use.

When you invest in a truly high-quality bedding set, you naturally want to enjoy it for as long as possible, right? But sometimes even the most luxurious fabric loses its charm quickly due to incorrect care. The good news is that a few simple habits can work wonders and significantly extend the lifespan of your bedding.

And by the way, proper care begins even before the first night. It’s always worth washing new bedding — not only to remove any lint or dust from the production process but also because the fabric becomes softer, smoother, and cozier.

Golden laundry rules

The first and most important step — always check the care label. The manufacturer provides everything you need to know about that specific fabric. Ignoring these recommendations may result in irreversible damage to your beloved bedding set.

One of the most common mistakes is washing bedding in water that is too hot. Although it may seem that high temperatures kill bacteria more effectively, in reality they weaken the fabric fibers, fade the colors, and can even cause shrinkage.

  • For cotton sateen and canvas, 40°C is usually more than enough. This is the perfect balance — it removes dirt effectively while still being gentle on the fabric.
  • Light and white bedding can be washed at higher temperatures, up to 60°C, but keep in mind that the fabric may shrink more.
  • Colored fabrics should always be washed separately from whites to avoid unpleasant color surprises.

Choose gentle, liquid detergents — preferably without bleach or other harsh chemicals, especially when washing patterned bedding. Strong agents can damage the fabric’s structure and “eat away” the prints.

Important: before placing covers in the washing machine, turn them inside out and close all zippers. This protects the fabric surface from friction, and the zippers won’t damage other laundry items.

Drying and ironing — just as important

Drying your bedding correctly is just as important as washing it properly. The best and most fabric-friendly method is to let it air-dry naturally, preferably outdoors.

If you still prefer to use a dryer, be sure to choose a low-temperature setting. Heat weakens cotton fibers and can cause even more shrinkage. To reduce wrinkling, remove the bedding from the dryer while it is still slightly damp.

Ironing not only gives your bedding a neat appearance but also softens the fabric even more. The best way to iron cotton is while it’s still slightly damp, using a medium heat setting.

If you want to maintain the highest quality and durability, it’s worth learning how authentic Lithuanian-made bedding is crafted and cared for — it’s made following time-tested standards.

How often should you change your bedding?

Although it depends on personal habits, the general recommendation is simple: change your bedding every 1–2 weeks. This keeps your sleep environment hygienic and prevents the accumulation of sweat, skin cells, and dust mites. By following these tips, you can enjoy bedding that stays soft, bright, and comfortable for years.

How to successfully buy bedding online

Online shopping has long become a part of everyday life. It’s convenient, fast, and offers a much wider selection than you could ever browse in physical stores. But when it comes to something as personal as bedding, many people naturally wonder — how do you choose the right product without touching it?

How to recognize quality through a screen

Even though you can’t feel the fabric through your screen, you can absolutely evaluate the quality by carefully reading the product description and examining the photos. Professional sellers always try to provide as much information as possible so you can get an accurate sense of the product.

Read the product description carefully:

  • Composition. Look for clear statements such as “100% cotton sateen” or “100% cotton canvas.” If you see vague descriptions like “cotton blend,” “synthetic cotton sateen,” or “microfiber,” and you’re specifically looking for natural materials, you should be cautious.
  • Country of origin & certifications. If the bedding is made in Lithuania or the European Union, that’s often a sign of good quality. And the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification guarantees the product is free from harmful substances.
  • Guarantees. Pay attention to what kind of guarantees the seller provides. Rustilė offers a 30-night bedding trial and a 365-night warranty for seams and zippers. This shows strong confidence in the quality of their products.

Signs of a trustworthy seller

Choosing a reliable seller is just as important as choosing a high-quality product. Here are a few things that help distinguish professionals from amateurs:

  • Reviews. Check customer reviews on the website, social media, or independent platforms. Real photos and detailed comments are a true goldmine of valuable insights.
  • Customer service. Before buying, you can run a small test — contact the seller and ask a question by email or phone. A quick and professional response shows that the company values its customers.
  • Clear return policy. Trustworthy stores always clearly explain their return terms. For example, a 30-night trial guarantee is an excellent sign. It shows that the seller is fully confident in the quality of their products.

Clear company details and contact information also build trust. Transparency is one of the most important elements of reliable e-commerce.

Secure payment and delivery

Online shopping in Lithuania became popular incredibly quickly. The e-commerce boom, which started back in 2007, significantly changed the home textiles market. Imagine this: in just 13 days of 2013, as many goods were sold online as during the entire year of 2008! This perfectly illustrates how fast Lithuanians embraced digital shopping. You can read more about the development of Lithuanian e-commerce here.

Today, paying online is completely safe as long as you follow a few simple rules. Choose stores that offer reliable payment methods:

  • Payments through Lithuanian banking systems.
  • Card payments via trusted partners (e.g., Stripe).

Also pay close attention to delivery terms. Trustworthy sellers often offer free delivery above a certain order value and clearly inform you how long shipping will take.

When buying bedding online, simply be attentive to details. Clear product information, customer reviews, and transparent guarantees will help you make the right choice and enjoy a high-quality purchase without stress.

Frequently asked questions about bedding

When choosing bedding — especially online — questions always arise. Will this fabric really suit me? How often should I change it? Will sateen be too slippery? We’ve gathered the most common questions and prepared short, clear answers to help you feel confident.

Which fabric is the best?

There is no single “best” fabric — it all depends on what you are looking for and what you value most.

If you dream of luxurious softness, a subtle sheen, and a pleasantly cool feel against the skin, your clear favorite will be cotton sateen. And for those who value practicality, natural coziness, and durability, nothing beats reliable cotton canvas.

How often should you change your bedding?

Hygiene specialists recommend changing and washing your bedding about once every one to two weeks. While you sleep, you sweat, your body releases natural oils, and dead skin cells shed — all of this accumulates in the fabric.

Regularly changing your bedding prevents dust mites and bacteria from multiplying, keeping your sleep environment clean and healthy. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin or tend to experience allergies.

Is cotton sateen slippery?

This is probably the most common myth! Real 100% cotton sateen is definitely not slippery. Thanks to its special weave, the surface is incredibly smooth and soft, but it has nothing in common with the slippery feel of synthetic polyester.

High-quality sateen gently wraps around your body, offering a luxurious feel, but it will not make you “slide around” in bed.

How to reduce wrinkling?

Natural fabrics always wrinkle a little — that’s simply their nature. However, you can minimize it quite effectively. Here are a few proven techniques:

  • Wash loosely. Don’t overload the washing machine — allow the bedding to move freely.
  • Take it out immediately. As soon as the washing or drying cycle ends, take the bedding out right away.
  • Dry with care. If you use a dryer, choose a low-temperature and gentle program.
  • Iron while slightly damp. This is the most effective way to smooth out even the most stubborn wrinkles.

Remember: a bit of natural wrinkling is a hallmark of quality fabrics like canvas or linen. It gives the material authenticity and shows that you’re sleeping on a breathable, natural fiber.

How to choose the right fitted sheet size?

For a fitted sheet to fit perfectly, you need to know three mattress measurements: width, length, and most importantly, height. Mattress height is often forgotten, yet it’s the deciding factor.

Most standard fitted sheets are suitable for mattresses up to 25 cm high. If your mattress is taller, look for deep-pocket sheets or consider a custom-made option. This ensures the sheet will wrap the corners securely and won’t slip off.


Discover the perfect bedding for your bedroom at Rustilė online store. We offer a wide selection of 100% cotton sateen and canvas products, as well as custom sewing solutions, so your rest is as comfortable as possible. Visit Rustile.lt and feel the difference in quality.

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