UK households urged to make one bedroom change in autumn to slash heating bills
This expert advice about choosing the right mattress and bedding in the lead up to autumn could help you shave money off your household bills, all while keeping your bedroom stylish
The arrival of cooler temperatures makes for a great occasion to revamp your bedroom.
When choosing bedding for the brisk season, it’s important to keep in mind not just style but comfort and functionality as well. Martin Seeley, CEO of MattressNextDay, has shared his expert recommendations for refreshing your bedding just in time for the arrival of autumn.
His advice is designed to keep you warm enough to keep heating bills down come winter.
Weighted v electric blankets
Martin says this makes for a cost-effective alternative to electric blankets that can contribute to higher bills. These blankets are particularly well-known to insulate heat—reducing the loss of body heat compared to quilts and duvets.
“Not only can it help you sleep better thanks to its grounding effect, but the dense layers of fabric and fillings like glass beads or pellets work to trap heat and create a warm, cosy microenvironment,” says Martin.
Choose the right duvet
Duvets are often classed by tog ratings, which translates to how well it retains heat. While a higher tog means better insulation, Martin says this does not always guarantee greater thickness.
He explains that because common synthetic fillings can be less effective at retaining heat than natural materials, a 10.5 tog duvet makes for the best option to keep you warm and comfortable.
Consider a memory foam mattress
"Mattresses might not be the first thing you think about when creating a warmer sleep environment, but the type you choose can make a big difference,” says Martin.
He says that memory foam mattresses in particular come in handy during the colder months because the dense foam moulding to your body reduces airflow, which should mean heat gets retained more easily. This is why memory foam mattresses can feel warmer than other types of mattresses.
A layered approach to bedding
Choosing your bedding and designing your bed setup with a layered approach is a great way to regulate warmth, according to Martin. “Blankets and throws are one of the simplest ways to create a cosy bed setup for autumn and winter.”
As the temperature drops, he recommends swapping in heavier fabrics and using a “three-layer cake” approach to bedding.
“Start with flannel sheets, which have a brushed texture that adds extra warmth and comfort. Then, add natural fabrics like cotton or microfibre for your duvet cover, ideally with a thicker weave to help retain heat. Finally, finish with the ‘icing’, a wool or fleece throw, which not only keeps you warmer but also adds a seasonal touch.”
He also emphasises that the right colour palette can contribute to cosiness, advising sleepers to opt for earthy tones and neutrals.