Bed Sets

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Frequently Asked Questions

A UK bed linen set usually includes a duvet cover and one or two matching pillowcases. Fitted and flat sheets are normally sold separately, so check the contents on the product page before buying. Buying the sheet in a coordinating plain colour often looks smarter than a fully matching set.

A thread count of 200–400 in good long-staple cotton is the sweet spot for softness and durability. Very high counts are often inflated by counting multi-ply threads and do not guarantee a better feel. The quality of the cotton fibre and the weave matter far more than the number on the label.

Percale is crisp, matt and cool, which suits warm sleepers and anyone who loves the feel of hotel sheets. Sateen is silky, has a soft sheen and feels warmer. Linen breathes well, becomes softer with every wash and gives an easy, relaxed look, though it creases naturally. Linen also lasts many years with care.

Match the cover to your duvet, not the bed. Standard UK sizes are single 135 × 200 cm, double 200 × 200 cm, king 230 × 220 cm and super king 260 × 220 cm. Choosing a duvet one size larger than your bed gives a more generous drape and stops a partner pulling the covers away.

Two or three per bed: one on the bed, one in the wash and one in the cupboard. Wash bedding weekly at 40–60°C. Having a spare set means you can change the bed straight away rather than waiting for one set to wash and dry. Rotate sets evenly so they wear at the same rate.

Wash at 40–60°C with a gentle detergent, turning duvet covers inside out and fastening buttons or zips. Avoid overloading the machine, which causes creasing and wear. Line-drying keeps cotton fresh and saves energy, while removing bedding promptly from the dryer reduces ironing. Shake bedding out before drying, and dry duvet covers fully to prevent musty smells in the airing cupboard.

Bed Sets

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Frequently Asked Questions

Bed Sets

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Frequently Asked Questions

What comes in a bed linen set?+

What thread count is best?+

Should I choose percale, sateen or linen bedding?+

What size duvet cover do I need?+

How many sets of bed linen do I need?+

How should I wash bed linen so it lasts?+