The Spring Bedding Guide

With Corinne Bentzen of The Company Store

Photo: @donnadotanphoto ; Styling: @anthony_amiano

As the days grow warmer and the evenings longer, it’s time to refresh your bedroom for the season ahead. To help guide the transition to warmer-weather bedding, we turned to The Company Store's Corinne Bentzen for expert insights on curating a cozy, stylish sleep environment that’s both breathable and luxurious. Whether you're swapping out heavy duvets for lighter layers or opting for cool, crisp linens, these tips will ensure your bed feels just as inviting during the sunny season as it does during the cooler months. Read on for tips that will serve you all season long.

Warm-weather bedding can be tricky! How should one approach:

The best bedding for summer truly depends on individual preferences. Some sleepers like it warm and prefer light layers, while others may keep the AC on high and like to cuddle under a cozy comforter. However, generally speaking, the best fabrics for summer bedding are made of natural fibers that are lightweight and breathable, such as cotton, linen, and rayon made from bamboo.

Typically when we think of bedding we think in layers. What are the layers one should have on their summer bed:

Breathable bedding layers are key to keeping cool during the summer. The first step would be to choose sheet fabrics made for summer like linen, lighter-weight percale, or bamboo. In addition to breathable sheeting, consider the following layers:

Lightweight Comforters: People don’t always think about a comforter for summer, but our lightweight comforters are perfect for all seasons. They’re breathable, so you don’t overheat while you sleep, and when it comes to filling both down and down alternative work in warm weather. If you want to cover your comforter, choose a duvet cover in a summer-ready material for just-right comfort. The materials you’d look for in sheets also apply here: opt for lightweight, breathable materials that wick away moisture for the best sleep.

Quilts, Blankets, and Throws: Keep a throw blanket or lightweight quilt at the foot of the bed. If you wake up chilly, pull up the extra layer for a bit of warmth. You can skip the comforter and layer a quilt. Choose from ultra-lightweight blankets or more substantial options to suit your needs. Cotton, bamboo blend, lightweight down or down alternative, and summer-weight wool blankets are perfect.

Mattress Pad or Toppers: A mattress pad or topper can help regulate your body temperature. Choose a cooling gel or foam mattress topper for comfort. Or, try a wool mattress pad: Wool is moisture-wicking and helps regulate your body temperature naturally, so it’s perfect in any season.

What kind of sheets should you use, and why:

When it comes to choosing the right sheets, it's really a matter of personal preference. However, there are a few universal principles that can help guide you toward making the best choice.

First and foremost, breathable, high-quality fabrics are key. Materials like cotton, linen, and bamboo are excellent options because they allow air to circulate, helping to regulate your body temperature throughout the night. For example, Egyptian cotton is renowned for its softness and durability, making it a popular choice for those seeking a luxurious sleep experience. Linen, on the other hand, is highly breathable and gets softer with each wash, making it ideal for hot sleepers or those living in warmer climates.

The type of weave you choose also plays a factor. A light Percale sheet is crisp and cool, suitable for warmer climates or hot sleepers. Sateen weave sheets, with their silky feel, are perfect for those who prefer a warmer, cozier sleeping environment. Both options are great for year-round use.

Tell us: What’s the difference between a quilt and matelasse, and when should you use each:

While both quilts and matelassé are popular choices for bedding, they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics. A quilt is made up of three layers: a top layer, a batting layer (fill layer), and a backing layer, all stitched together. This stitching not only holds the layers in place but also creates a textured, often decorative pattern on the quilt’s surface. Quilts tend to have a cozy, handcrafted feel, making them perfect for adding warmth and a personal touch to a room.

On the other hand, matelassé refers to a specific weaving technique that creates a raised, padded effect, . Matelassé fabric is typically woven on a jacquard loom, giving it an embossed, textured appearance with intricate patterns like florals or geometrics., It offers a luxurious and polished look, often used for coverlets or decorative accents. It is just one layer of fabric without a fill or batting layer.

In essence, if you’re looking for something warm and layered, a quilt is the way to go, but if you want a sophisticated, textured look without the bulk, matelassé is a fantastic option.

What’s the best way to make a bed if you’re a hot sleeper during these warm months:

For someone who sleeps hot, we recommend our Cooling Mattress Pad and Relaxed Linen Sheet Set and Duvet Cover paired with our Premium Lacrosse Down Comforter in lightweight. This combination creates a minimal, breathable bed that keeps you cool while still offering comfort. I also love adding a lightweight quilt, like our Voile Quilt, at the foot of the bed for those nights when an extra layer is needed. This setup gives you flexibility and ensures you stay comfortable without overheating.

What is your favorite bedding to use from The Company Store during the summer:

Personally, I love our Linen as well as our Narrow Stripe Classic Cool Cotton percale collections.

What is your favorite tip(s) when it comes to making beds in the summer:

At The Company Store, we have an array of bedding fabrication that fit every sleep preference. One of my favorite tips for summer is to layer with breathable fabrics - starting with lightweight, breathable materials like linen or percale cotton for your sheets and duvet covers. These fabrics allow air to circulate, keeping you cool and comfortable during hot summer nights.

More on Corinne & the Company Store

Tell us a little about how you started at The Company Store and what exactly you do:

I joined five years ago and am thrilled to be surrounded by a leadership team of impressive women. Day in and day out, we strive to bring comfort and joy to our consumers. I start the week by reading our tough reviews from unhappy customers and strive to address their feedback and we end the week with all the great reviews and feedback we get from our customers to remind ourselves why we do what we do!

The Company Store is an institution in quality bedding for over 100 years. What is your favorite thing about being at a heritage brand?

One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of The Company Store is our rich legacy of delivering unparalleled quality and comfort for 113 years. Knowing that we have consistently provided premium materials and expert craftsmanship to our customers is incredibly fulfilling.

Every product we create reflects decades of experience and dedication to excellence. We don't just make bedding; we invest in creating comfort, color, and exclusive designs that are meant to bring comfort and joy to our customers. Our focus on high-quality materials ensures that each item looks beautiful, stands the test of time, and offers lasting comfort. Being at a heritage brand like The Company Store means being part of a tradition that values excellence and innovation while maintaining the timeless principles that have earned us our loyal following.

What is your favorite thing about working for The Company Store specifically:

Undoubtedly the incredible team I get to collaborate with every day. We have a group of highly experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the table. This expertise not only elevates our work but also fosters an environment where learning and professional growth are constant.

Beyond just experience, there's a genuine family atmosphere here. Everyone is incredibly supportive and caring, we all share a commitment to high-quality standards and take immense pride in the products we create, ensuring that every detail is perfect. This dedication to excellence fuels my passion and motivates me to contribute my best work.

Lastly, the level of creativity at The Company Store is nothing short of amazing. From brainstorming sessions to final product designs, the innovative spirit is contagious. It’s inspiring to be part of a company that not only values creativity but actively encourages it.