The bed sheets of all kinds demand periodic laundering and cleaning due to continuous use. Although the method adopted differs with the kind but what remains unaltered is its significance in enhancing its long-lastingness.

Therefore you are called for to know various suitable cleaning methods to take care of your bed linen. In case you are wowing with Egyptian cotton sheets and wish to make most of it for long duration of time then better continue with the story.

As a matter of fact such kinds of sheets are expensive by nature of them being the very luxurious ones coupled with their long durability. Since the ordinary cotton sheets might be very comfy when it comes to choosing summer bedding yet it is less reliable when it comes to maintenance and care.

The opulence and the coziness of it are simply unbeatable. What’s more the bedspreads are also very sui generis in the sense that these instead of losing their quality after every wash tend to become more and more luxury of course provided that its suitable care is taken. So here are the steps in your pursuit of increasing its life-span.

•First basic recommended step is that although we all are getting short of time and hence many a times you might want to clean different kinds of spreads numerous times to save time. If all of them are of one kind then bingo. Else you better reconsider your decision of washing differing ones altogether.

Since washing the Egyptian cotton bed sheets with other ones like low quality polyester ones may ultimately spoil its lavish and majestic look. So better take some pain in order to gain.

Besides it even if you are willing to wash it other designer dresses then too the risk of it losing its majestic looks prevails as you never know when the hooks, zippers and buttons can make you regret. So in nutshell “prevention is better than cure.”

•Make use of mild-laundry agent plus non-chlorine bleach to restore its fresh looks. Non-chlorine one is advised since the chlorine based ones is known for degrading it gradually. So the best tool to brighten it up is the non-chlorine one isn’t it. After cleaning remove the bed linen as soon as possible from the washer to prevent the emergence of any kind of wrinkling.

Furthermore before placing Egyptian cotton bed covers in the dryer do make sure to wobble it up. It will go a long way in minimizing the frequency of wrinkles that it can have.

•You are further advised to dry the cover on a warm temperature setting for a minimum dry period. The dried ones must be taken out of the dryer as soon as possible to rule out the development of wrinkles if any.

And if they have developed then you need not panic as there is a way to eliminate it. To do so you are required to re-dry the Egyptian cotton bed linen with the drenched cloth for few minutes again. And therein you’ll have the one without folds.

•Ironing is not required yet if you want to do then you can go ahead with the warm iron.

The kind of the bed pillow chosen actually determines your mood after resting. As in case it’s in the fine state then for sure your mood will be very pleasant. But if it is not in the desirable state then you are likely to have a night of troubling tosses and turns. So what is required to keep them in the preferable state?

Of course the timely and proper care of pillows is what needed. But since they differ in diverse forms and can have multiple kinds of fillings. So the cleaning and caring watchfulness further differs. Therefore if you wish to extend their durability then just continue further to rest cozily for long.

As already mentioned beforehand the stuffing is contradistinctive in nature. So there are certain ones with manufactured ones to the ones having genuine material like down ones. So let’s start taking a look at different means of caring them.

As a matter of fact the synthetic filling ones are more promising due to long-lastingness coupled with lesser immoderate price as compared to natural fillings ones. What’s more they are comparatively simpler to clean than the organic pillows. The best method that can be put to use for cleaning them is the producers’ washing instructions. So first step that you are demanded to do is keeping proper record of the labels of new ones.

This is required as you certainly want to keep in view the particular cleaning directions and important fabric composition and any other relevant advice. Normally it is free from danger to wash them in the mercantile washer and dryer. In reality being very broad in size and shape must be washed separately rather than with other sorts of beddings and material.

Foam pillows are more or less similar to the synthetic ones with loose stuffing. Thus these can be cleaned in the manner similar to the above one. So again you are called for to follow the maker’s directions regarding the cleaning methods. However you can also hope to launder them in warmish lathery water with hands. Yet if you are short of time then you can also get them tidy up in the mercantile washer.

While laundering them make sure that you don’t remove the protective cover of it. This is advised so as to prevent the probable wearing away. One more point that you are anticipated to care for includes that never ever let the dry cleaner dry such headrests in the commercial dryer.

The natural supports are the ones that insist upon more care and look after. Hence you are well advocated to let them launder by the professional people only. This is too not every now and then. But you are encouraged to go for it when there is the genuine need. Since these must be cleaned minimum times. Hence it will be more excellent if you regularly fluff it along with keeping them in some protective cover.

There are two points that you are advised to stick to. First being never let the down pillow dry under sunshine since doing so can trigger displeasing fragrance. Secondly make sure that it is completely dry after cleaning and washing. As if even a bit of water remains then it can invite the undesirable mold and mildew.

At last all the best for your freshening up efforts and expecting that the above tips will go a long way in ensuring comfortable sleep for long.
 

Beddings literally mean the mattress, pillows and coverings such as sheets, quilts, and blankets that are used to prepare a bed. Before coming onto as to how to choose perfect bedding don’t you think it’s appropriate for you and me to comprehend the significance of it? Certainly there is hence let’s find it out. What else supporting point can be mentioned than the fact that all of us spend one-third of our lives in a bed sounds very astonishing but very true. It implies that by the time you cross 50 years of age you would have put away 16 years on bed itself.

Thus, keeping in view the long time duration that you’ll be spending on it only makes sense for you to look at the various aspects while making a selection of it isn’t it. So are you all set to discover the several facets of it to sleep comfortably as there are many of us who aren’t aware of the momentousness of the excelling one in sound sleep? In case you are nodding your heads then just read further to have more sweet dreams in time to come.

There are other reasons too which demand timely turnover. Normally it’s observed that people go for modification of it either when they are shifting the home or simply when wishing to have the improved home décor. Home décor plays a vital role in delighting us whenever we return back to home after numerous hours of working and exertion. Even if you are the home manager then as well its signification just can’t be overlooked as it goes a long way in gladdening your heart. So is home renovation is meaningful without altering the bed linen?

Certainly not hence you are well encouraged to pay attention to it as it can hook on the layout of your room. What else you can expect from the carefully selected one to do for you. As far as little ones’ bed spread is concerned it very often calls for the frequent alternations as their world is too disposed to the fast modifications like the ever changing world of technology. Thus again you are expected to do the periodic turnover to let them feel that they are maturing and what can be stylish mannerism than to stretch for change in bed linen.

Yet in other situation the guest rooms’  cover also necessitate the modification as don’t you know that “The ornaments of your house will be the guests who frequent it.” So we are sure that you will never ever wish to disappoint them by offering the very same one for number of days. In fact usually the guests dislike the idea of staying at some hotel due to same bed spreads being given for days. Hence we are certain that you won’t give the guests the hotel like feeling and hospitality at your dwellings! Additionally various hospitals likewise appeal for consistent renovation to check the dispersion of infections.

The word perfect signify excellence or ideal in every way which is probable to alternate with the individuals’ perceptions and past notions. But one thing remains doubtlessly interchangeable i.e. the matchless coziness plus the restfulness which one looks forward to in the bed. Thus this absolutely insists upon heedful ways as to how to choose perfect bedding isn’t it. There are three determining aspects which carry weight and thus call for your contemplation. These are 3 Cs i.e. cosmopolitanism, coloration and class.

Let’s start rolling the ball of selecting the perfect one by preferring the class initially. Thus you are encouraged to go for the high end ones that are second to none in quality as these will sure prove themselves as long-lasting and cozy. There are abundant fabrics which come in the same category and thus require your deliberation. These include silk, linen or high thread count Egyptian cotton which can be depended for sleeping in the lap of luxury as an undisputable king/ queen. After taking into account the class next aspect which you need to look at is the coloration which must be in tune with the kind of mood desired in the bedroom.

For instance in order to have the very same bit livelier one then you can take note of yellow one which is remarkable for its unique cheerfulness coupled with warm nature. If looking for the comforting bedroom then you can think about light hues of green and blue in your comforter and pillow shams to feel more relaxing. To fuse vitality in your bedroom you can think about the hot colors i.e. deep pinks and warm oranges shade. You absolutely can’t go wrong with the ground tones like tan, brown and moss green which just look awesome if desiring to have the loving and welcoming mood.

Furthermore you are also required to prevent the conflicting of the selected color bed linen with rest of the home furnishings. These include floor covering, paints and the home furnishings in the form of indispensable furniture. Additionally you are also expected to keep in view your residence’s location as it also impacts the selection of splendid one. As a matter of fact if your dwelling is a country cottage then you are well advised to refrain from putting to use a daring color scheme of red, white and black color. If wishing to know more about the suitable color schemes then you are squarely prompted to surf internet together with going through the various home furnishing guidance magazines.

Prior to making the final settlement of the bedding in a particular coloration make sure to ask the swatch as many a times it’s noticed that the particular colored cover ensemble only look good in the shops or internet outlets. If this is not feasible due to one reason or the other you can take in to the consideration of purchase of pillowcase or sham. And mind you the investment is very cheaper when compared in contrast to the risk of total collection looking out of place or not in the fashion as desired.

After concentrating on class and coloration it’s time to shift our attention towards the equal significant cosmopolitanism which must also be paid heed to. The reason behind recommendation is that it reflects who you are as a person? And thus you definitely want to convey the right meaning else who knows the unwanted consequences than you. Thus you can go for the voguish African safari with zebra bed in a bag in case you very adventurous and like challenges. In situation you unmistakably adore the conventional patchwork pattern then you are called upon to stretch for the same.

Besides it you are also guided to pay attention towards the complementing addition pieces which will make a bow with your entire bed spread collection. You can further also see about the bed in a bag which is noteworthy for bringing unmatched congruousness in the room whose composition differs with the normal ones as compared to the designer one.

At last expecting you all must have gained some valuable inputs regarding the selection of splendid cover which is sure to help you out in your endeavor of having the sweet dreams.

Modern comforters have become style statement and shows of the fashion sense of the user. But sometimes question arises how to take care of these giant comforters and how to wash them. There are 3 steps to caring for a comforter; maintenance, cleaning and storage. 

Continuous Maintenance
Poor maintenance may result in a build up of dust mites and allergens in your comforter. Continuous maintenance keeps the comforter clean, healthy and fresh. These steps should be taken to keep it well maintained:

Duvet or a comforter cover
Using a duvet cover keeps the comforter clean. Compared to the comforter, it is easier to remove and wash. In fact, if duvet cover is used, the comforter would need washing only once every 2 to 3 years. It is better to buy colorful duvet covers and keep updating them according to one’s tastes, rather than buying a colorful comforter and avoiding the duvet cover. Also, with a duvet cover, there is no need for a top sheet, blanket or bedspread.

Fluffing
At least 2-3 times a week the comforter must be fluffed to revitalize it. Shaking the comforter out, when making the bed will fluff it out. By providing a steady flow of air, the down will continue to loft.

Airing
The comforter should be aired out occasionally. This helps maintain its loft and keeps it fresh and clean. If airing the comforter outside is not possible, it may be put in the dryer on a fluff cycle.

Cleaning
Small stains on the comforter can be spot cleaned and dried with a hand-held hair dryer. Full scale cleaning at home or at a cleaners’ should be undertaken every 2-3 years or earlier if it is absolutely necessary. To keep the warranty intact the manufacturer’s instructions must be followed.

Dry Cleaning
It is an easy option; however, it leaves chemical residues behind and is quite expensive.

Machine wash
Almost all of our comforters are machine washable.  Professional laundering is the best option, albeit it is expensive.

If it has to be home washed, a comforter should be washed in warm water using a small amount of mild liquid soap or special washing liquids available in the market. It’s better to use a front loading commercial size machine and a gentle cycle. Bleach or fabric softener should not be used since they leave a sticky residue behind that causes clumping. After the wash cycle, the comforter must be run through 2 rinse cycles so that all soap residues are removed.

Drying
The comforter should not be dried on a line since line drying does not break clumps. The down will remain in wet clumps and could develop mildew. It should be tumble dried on a low heat setting. Some tennis balls or clean canvas tennis shoes may be put in the chamber to help break up large clumps of down while drying. Drying may take several hours depending on the size and weight of the comforter. It should be completely dry because trapped moisture may cause mildew and clumping of down.

Storage
Before storing the comforter, one must ensure that it is clean. The duvet cover must be removed and the comforter should be put in breathable, cotton bag or sheet. It should not be put in a crammed space since it may cause the feathers to crush. Plastic covering should not be used since the odor may be transferred to the comforter or mildew could form. It should be stored in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area. It is also a good idea to air out the comforter every 6 months even if it is not being used.

Following these steps will provide a long life to the comforter.

Decorating one’s bedroom is a exciting task for most of us. Here are some pointers that must be kept in mind while creating the bedroom of one’s dreams:

Creating a Multipurpose room instead of a bedroom
The sole purpose of a bedroom is providing rest and relaxation. Work tables, computers, laptops or exercise equipment like tread mills etc have no place in the bedroom. They are a source of distraction and spoil the peaceful sleeping environment of the bedroom. There should be separate work and exercise areas in the house.

Picking style or trends over functionality and personal choice
A light colored rug may look amazing for the bedroom, but think of the dog or young children at home who may spill things on it. The bedroom should be done up with accessories that are stylish and trendy but not at the cost of functionality or comfort. Before buying those gorgeous pieces of furniture, or bedding sheets or comforters, one must ask themselves if they really require those things and if they would suit their lifestyle.
Heavy brocade may look fantastic but may not be very comfortable to sleep on. Synthetic fibers may be pretty and inexpensive but natural fibers would be a healthy choice. One should never buy anything from an over insistent salesperson. Chances of buying something that is not one’s preference are more. Personal style and taste rather than trends should dictate bedroom décor.

Disrupting the harmony of one’s sanctuary
The bedroom is a place where one should be at complete ease with oneself. It should have an inviting aura around it, something that makes one relax and calm down after a hectic day. Bringing things like television, treadmills, work or food in the bedroom disrupts the harmony or the ambiance that has been created with a lot of effort. It may not always be possible to keep the computer, treadmill or television out of the bedroom due to paucity of space elsewhere. In such cases these things should be kept out of sight, in an armoire or an entertainment unit.

Inadequate storage facilities
The rules of both Feng Shui and Zen recommend removing all sort of non essential items from open spaces in the bedroom to create a clutter free area. Adequate storage spaces like cabinets, armoires, dressers, additional shelves, shoe racks, under bed storage etc can help in achieving an uncluttered look. Furthermore, furniture with storage areas can be chosen. Nightstands with small drawers can be used to stash reading material or spectacles. A trunk or storage bench at the foot of the bed may be used for storing extra blankets or pillows.

Too many pillows
Try to avoid using a lot of pillows on the bed. Objectively consider how many pillows would be required as a minimum and then add a few decorative pillows to accent the setting. Ideally around 7 pillows should be enough for most people. If pillows cover half the bed, the partner keeps grumbling about having to deal with too many pillows before going to sleep, it takes 15 minutes to arrange the pillows every morning, its time to reduce the number of pillows you are using. A few throw pillows look nice but too many look like a pile of useless pillows.

Excessive matching
Bed sheets, bed skirt, comforter, pillows, furniture, drapes and valances in an identical floral or lined pattern give an overwhelming, claustrophobic effect to the room. Walls seem to be closing in, in a room where everything is matched excessively. Therefore, one must avoid this trap and focus on a matching a basic color palette rather than prints and designs.

Over accessorizing
Many people cover all open surfaces, in their bedroom, with little collectibles which have sentimental value or which just look nice. However, these knick knacks lend a cluttered look to the room. Since a cluttered bedroom leads to a cluttered mind, over accessorizing the room should be avoided. A few well placed decoration pieces would look orderly and create a relaxing environment.

Bare windows
Window treatments are an important part of the bedroom’s décor. The drapes provide privacy and block out unwanted early morning light. Ideally sheer drapes should be used in a combination with dark, lined drapes and valances, to create a dramatic effect. Roman shades, blinds, blackout lining may also be used for window treatments. The fabric and color of the window treatment should match the theme of the bedroom.

Rushing through it all
All good things take time. It is advisable to invest proper amount of time in picking out things for decorating a bedroom. Doing things in a hurry will result in a uncoordinated look and an unsatisfying decorating experience. It is tempting to do things quickly but one must remember that the result is only as good as the effort. Buying things one at a time would give the room much more character, than buying everything at the same time. So take your time and stop rushing.

Lighting woes
A single overhead light may not be sufficient in a bedroom. Accent and decorative lights like hanging paper lanterns should also be installed. It is also important to put in task lights such as reading lights. The lights should also have a dimmer switch.

Uncoordinated colors
While it is important to choose soothing colors, color coordination must be kept in mind. Light blue, sage green and other neutral colors are a good idea. A toned down version of one’s favorite color is also a good idea. Faux painting techniques should be avoided in the bedroom. They draw one’s attention and may distract you from sleep.

Using secondhand Mattresses
Tempting though it may be, buying a second hand mattress, is not a good idea. It may come cheap but it brings a lot of hidden costs with it. It may harbor dust mites or other pests and is likely to be worn down. A second hand mattress may be cheaper but it may prove to be a lot costlier in terms of health and hygiene. If the mattress is more than 9 years old, has become lumpy, has started sagging in the middle and does not allow restful sleep, it is time to replace the mattress.

Surprisingly, it doesn’t take an expensive vacation in Paris or a few weeks in the country to rekindle the romance in a relationship. All it takes is a few tweaks and turns in your bedroom décor. Follow these tips to create the most romantic getaway you have ever been to:

Create a canopy around your bed
There is nothing more romantic as a four poster bed and a canopy or long curtain panels around it creating an inviting spot to snuggle into. If it seems impractical to purchase a four poster, a romantic canopy can be created simply by using a sewing machine, a few yards of gauze or net fabric and some eye hooks. Screw eye hooks into the ceiling at each corner of the bed, and draw the fabric through, so that it drapes near the ground, overhead, then down again. Repeat the same on both sides of the bed. A gorgeous canopy bed is ready.

Romantic Bedding
Luxurious sheets, plush pillows and a comfortable mattress are the key to romantic bedding. Soft demure fabrics like silk, chenille or velvet paired with sateen sheets feel very romantic. A lot of fluffy pillows on freshly laundered sheets and a well made bed complete the romantic look of the room. Matching curtains and valances preferably of a sheer light colored fabric add to the aura.

Romantic Accessories
Accessories such as chandeliers, scented candles, potpourri etc create a romantic atmosphere in the bedroom. They give a look of luxury and drama to the room. A beautiful throw rug and layered window treatments add even more drama to the setting. It is a good idea to install a small bar of good wine, preferably Champagne or other sparkling wine varieties with the appropriate wine glasses. Some strawberries and whipped cream may also be kept there to indulge your sweet tooth.
Pretty wicker baskets, upholstered chairs, small accent tables with vases of fresh flowers or decorative candles on them add character to the room.

Color Choices
Romantic bedrooms can be decorated with warm, cozy colors such as maroon, deep green, gold and light shades of brown, or with light, airy colors like pale or dusty blue, pink, sage and ivory. More than 2-3 colors should not be used in the bedroom because they tend to make the room overwhelming rather than restful.

Romantic Lighting
Most people prefer soft, dim lights rather than bright and harsh lights in a romantic bedroom. So installing dimmers would be a good choice. Candles scatter a soft, subtle and romantic glow across the bedroom. Small accent lamps, antique lanterns, decorative oil lamps and wall scones are also a good idea.

Romantic Flooring
One must choose flooring that encourages a romantic atmosphere. Light colored throw rugs, pastel or cream colored carpets promote a sense of comfort and relaxation. Thick and fluffy carpets can also be quite romantic. The basic focus must be on creating a warm and inviting aura in the room.

The bedroom must be well organized and clean. Dust ridden surfaces, knick-knacks scattered all around the bedroom and things lying out of their places are huge turn offs. Nothing kills romance faster than clutter.

A guest room is a room for friends and family. It is important set up the guestroom in a manner that the guests feel at home. It is one’s little touches to the guest room that makes guests feel comfortable and welcome.

Guestroom is for the Guests:
It is very tempting to use the open spaces and closets as storage spaces for one’s own things. One must keep in mind that the guest bedroom is a room for the guests, not a place for keeping that tread mill or unpacked boxes, even though no guests may be expected for some time. Even if you store some items in the guest room, it is a good idea to leave some empty drawers and closets so that the guests do not feel unwelcome. Once the room is uncluttered it will transform into a warm and inviting room for the guests.


Guestroom Bedding
When deciding on bedding for the guest room, one must keep in mind that different people prefer to sleep in different levels of warmth. So instead of one thick comforter it is better to use layers in bedding. Multiple blankets would enable the guests to use as many or as less blankets as possible.

One should avoid dressing the bed with too many decorative pillows because the guests may not know where to put the extra pillows while sleeping. However, a minimum number of pillows must be made available. They must be hypo allergic and of medium firmness. One must also consider privacy needs of their guests. It is a good idea to tread on the side of caution and install heavy drapes on windows and locks on the doors.

Guestroom Décor
Another issue is the décor of the guest bedroom. Since the room would be used by a number of people, with diverse preferences regarding bedroom décor, the room must be done up in a neutral style. Subdued paintings and artworks, having universal appeal may also be used.  The color coordination of the guest bedroom should also be warm and attractive. Shades of brown and yellow create an inviting atmosphere.

Guestroom Accessories
The room may be accessorized with nightstands, lamps and alarm clocks. Putting the guests’ favorite magazines or books on the nightstand or the book case can add a personal touch to the guest room. A side table and a comfortable chair can also be put in the guest room. Nightlights must be installed so that they can find their way around in a place that is new to them.

When decorating a guest room, think of what you would like if you were to stay at someone else’s place. Make all the essentials readily available so guests do not have to ask for things. The guests would appreciate the host’s thoughtfulness if they put some extra shampoo, lotion, mouthwash in their room.

Since guest rooms are used only occasionally, they may feel stale and stuffy. Therefore, the windows must be left open from time to time and the room should be cleaned on a regular basis. scented candles or fresh flowers may also be put in the room to make it more welcoming.

A bed is something that we buy only twice or thrice in our lives. Once purchased it lasts for a number of years.Therefore, a bed is one of the hardest pieces of furniture to buy. It has to look and feel good. It has to provide comfort and support so that we can get quality sleep. Ideally a bed should be replaced every 10-12 years. However if the bed creaks and crunches when someone moves on it, it is time to buy a new bed even though it may not be that old. These tips will make the process of buying a bed a lot easier.

Buy a New Bed
Tempting though it may be, buying a second hand bed, is not a good idea. It may come cheap but it brings a lot of hidden costs with it. It may not meet current safety standards. It may harbor dust mites or other pests and is likely to be worn down. A second hand bed may be cheaper but it may prove to be a lot costlier in terms of health and hygiene.

Decide what style bed you want?
There are two ways to tackle this issue. One may decide the theme or the décor style of the room first and then decide on the type or style of the bed they want or they may start with the bed and decorate the room around it. For example one may pick out a vintage theme. Modern platform beds would be automatically ruled out for this bedroom. Wooden headboards and canopy beds may be more appropriate.

Beds also have different kind of frames or bases such as bedsteads, divans, storage beds, beds with headboards, folding beds, bunk beds etc. Modern manufacturers have also added sleep number adjustable beds, orthopedic beds and waterbeds to the list. Decorative bedsteads provide a classic or contemporary look to the bedroom. Divans act as mattress base. They may have coil springs or a solid top. They also come with built-in drawers to provide additional storage space.

Size
It is very important to know the size of the one requires. Generally, it is advised to get the largest sized bed one can afford. However, while the bed should be large enough to easily accommodate those sleeping in it but not so large that it overwhelms the bedroom. The bedroom should be measured before deciding what size bed one is going to buy. Eight inches should be added to the length of the bed for the headboard and the footboard to get the total length and width of the bed. Enough space should be left for moving around and for opening doors, windows, cupboards and closets.

Beds come in six different sizes; king, California king, queen, full or double, twin and twin extra-long. The first three work well for one or two people. One must think about whether they would be sharing the bed and much each partner moves about while sleeping before deciding on the size. A full bed or a twin sized bed works for one child or one adult. Bed sizes differ in different countries. So it is recommended that one should compare notes with the manufacturer before buying the bed.

Quality
When it comes to a bed, quality is very important. Mattresses and bedding may be changed frequently but a bed frame is something that stays for a longer period of time. So, one must purchase a solid, sturdy and durable piece of furniture.

The comfort and life span of the bedding and the mattress is affected by the choice of the bed. The bed should be a place that one looks forward to going to at the end of the day to relax, feel the stress drain away, and go to sleep so one can recharge for the next day. So, one must be cautious while purchasing a bed.

A swanky hotel room with its plush interiors, luxurious setting, mellow tones and an inviting ambience is enough to make one forget their worries and drown in the sumptuous experience that a hotel offers. It is possible to recreate the hotel like environment in the bedroom.

Usage of Space:
A hotel room contains everything one might require while staying there. Work tables, seating areas, entertainment units, storage space, cabinets, side tables, coffee makers, mini refrigerator, dressers and mirrors are arranged in a limited space in a manner that they are functional yet not cramped. Although some of these things are not necessarily required in a bedroom at one’s home, one must make use of all the available space.

The Bed:
Upon entering a hotel room the first thing that hits a person is the inviting bed and the crisp and clean bedding. Everything from the type and size of the bed to its bedding and how well it has been made, contribute in making it tempting and irresistible. The bed is the foundation or the focal point of the bedroom. Consumers are spoilt for choice when it comes to bed. There are simply too many options available in the market like platform beds, canopy beds, metal beds, poster beds etc. Therefore, one must buy the best bed they can afford.

The Bedding and Pillows:
When it comes to bedding, hotel bedding can be recreated only by purchasing high quality bedding. It’s a good idea to let go of the bedspread. Instead a bed skirt and a duvet should be used. High quality bed sheets can give a luxurious feel to the room. The quality of sheets is determined by its thread count and material. For instance egyptian cotton sheets of high thread count are considered uber luxurious. Pillows also contribute in giving the ‘high class look’ to bedding. Euro shams, throw pillows and throw blankets may be used for additional color and comfort.

Lighting:
Another feature that makes the first class hotel room an experience in itself is the lighting. One should go in for plenty f soft lights rather than one source of strong light. There should be a switch at the entry for bedside lamps. Closet lights, individually controlled reading lights and dimmer controls add to the ambience. Lighted makeup mirrors and ample light in the bathroom are also recommended.

Fragrance:
The fresh fragrance that makes one feel even better upon entering the hotel room can be recreated in one’s bedroom by using pot puree and by installing proper ventilation or air purifying systems. Sun control shades should be used so as to keep natural light out when required. Carpet pads, padded upholstery on the wall panels and the head board would add a touch of luxury to the room.

It is also important to personalize the room by adding family photographs, favorite books or paintings because the room, after all, is an extension of one’s personality. The color scheme used for painting the room and for decorating it should be monochromic. A primary color and a related coordinating color should be used to create a stylish sanctuary. Stressful environment, ever increasing work hours have made good quality sleep more important than ever before. If creating a hotel like environment helps you sleep better then you should definitely do it.

Sleeping is very important for our body. Good quality sleep gives the body much needed rest. Sleep bolsters memory, keeps the body healthy, reduces stress, helps the body make repairs and makes us ready and alert for the next day. People who get less than 6-7 hours of sleep every night tend to develop more diseases.
Night time is torturous for those who keep tossing and turning in their beds, waiting to go into Morpheus’s arms. Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, insomnia, restless leg syndrome and narcolepsy result in poor performance at work or in studies, lead to depression and make one feel chronically tired and stressed out. Clinical help is available for these disorders.

Modern medicines and therapies can cure these diseases. However, there are many people who don’t suffer from any serious sleep disorder but they still can’t sleep well. They take sleep for granted and fail to observe some simple but healthy habits that help get a restful sleep. Here are some tips, also called sleep hygiene, which will help one sleep like a baby.
Create a better sleep environment:

Bedroom environment has a major impact on the quantity and quality of sleep we get. It is a good idea to sound proof the room and keep the lights to a minimum. Proper ventilation, fresh air and optimal room temperature help one sleep better. The bed should be used only for sleeping. Work, eating and all other things should be kept out of the bed. The size of the bed should be adequate. It must not let the occupant feel cramped. There must be enough room to stretch out.

Bedding material should be soft, comfortable, breathable and soothing. Scratchy and dirty sheets should be changed immediately. Nowadays mattresses and pillows come in a variety of sizes, fill, firmness and support level. It is important to find the type which is suitable for you. Spray the room, pillows and blankets with a light soothing scent. It has a calming effect.

Regular exercise during the day:
A sedentary lifestyle and lack of exertion may contribute to sleeplessness. Regular physical exercise such as walking, stretching, aerobics etc in the morning or afternoon helps improve the quality of sleep. Exercising just before going to bed can be detrimental to sleep since it increases the heart rate and tires the muscles.

Limit daytime naps:
Many people don’t have a problem falling asleep at night, even after sleeping for a couple of hours during the day. However, those that do have a problem sleeping at night should avoid sleeping during the day. Power naps of 15-20 minutes are a good idea.

Avoid Stimulants:
Stimulants such as alcohol, caffeine and nicotine should be avoided for at least 4-5 hours before bedtime. Coffee, chocolate, tea come in the category of stimulants. Alcohol does help induce sleep, but it doesn’t give a GooD night’s sleep because of certain compounds it contains that keep some organs (like the stomach) active. Similarly sugary snacks, high liquid intake or rich, fatty food may interfere with sleep.

It is a good idea to have dinner 2-3 hours before sleeping. A full stomach may interrupt sleep. Foods such as milk, turkey, yogurt, ice cream, soy beans, tuna, and peanuts contain the amino acid; Tryptophan, which helps the body produce serotonin in order to relax. These foods may be taken as a light snack before sleeping. Too much protein should be avoided before bedtime.

Regular sleep schedule:
Keeping regular bedtime hours may not be practical but it is good for the body. Time of day serves as a powerful cue to the body clock that it is time to sleep and awaken.  The routine should not be broken on holidays or weekends. Overall sleep quality would improve by this.

Relaxing bedtime routine:
A relaxing routine before bedtime sends a signal to the brain that it is time to sleep. The routine may consist of one or more of these; a warm bath, soft music, quiet reading etc. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga, visualization or muscle relaxation relieve anxiety and help one fall asleep. Try to relax the entire body, including the tongue, jaw, face and forehead.

Quiet steady sound:
Some people find it easier to fall asleep to a quiet steady sound.  Humming noises made by small fans on low setting or constant ticking noises made by a watch help some people fall asleep. For others the sound may induce stress and make sleep harder because they keep thinking about the time that is passing away. See what works for you.

One must wear comfortable clothes while sleeping. Restrictive clothes that impede movement are a bad idea. Wearing socks is a good idea for those suffering from cold feet. The blankets and clothes must not overheat the body or make you feel cold. Counting sheep, looking at a clock, thinking about the consequences of not getting enough sleep, drive it further away.

Try to concentrate on something that is relaxing. It is better to get up and do something boring or constructive if sleep eludes you for 20-30 minutes. When waking becomes boring enough or interesting enough, sleep is bound to come.  You’ll fall asleep the instance you stop trying to do it. Now go get some ZZZZ’s.