Latest from Ideal Home in Bedroom

Sorry, light blue, interior designers say these are the 3 calming shades the most stylish bedrooms are using instead in 2026 and beyond

Amy Lockwood — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 07:00:00 +0000

If you're looking for a paint colour that will create a calm, soothing bedroom, then blue is a shade that may well be high on your agenda.

The colour of the sky and the ocean, blue's strong connection to the natural world means it's a hue which creates feelings of spaciousness, relaxation, and restfulness; all great qualities in a sleep space.

However, as we move into the last half of 2026 and beyond, there are some shades of the colour that are – to my mind at least – beginning to look a little dated.

The good news is that interior experts say that there are three subtle tweaks to blue bedroom ideas that can bring this popular shade bang up to date.

(Image credit: Future PLC/James Merrell)

Why are blue bedrooms so popular?

But first up, why do our interior experts all agree that blue is such a great choice for a bedroom?

'Blue is one of those colours that the mind and body just respond to,' says Laura Hammett, creative director of interior design studio and homeware brand, Laura Hammett Living, 'and there’s a psychological reason. Blue tones are proven to calm the heart rate and ease the nervous system, perfect for a restful space.'

However, not all blues are created equal, and our interior experts say this is a colour that can require a little know-how to avoid it slipping into feeling cold or stark, as well as to ensure it doesn't feel dated as we begin the slow wind-down towards the end of the year

These are the subtle tweaks to blue that our interior experts recommend for a stylish and on-trend bedroom in 2026 and beyond.

1. Barely-there-blue

(Image credit: Paint & Paper Library)

If you're considering a pale blue bedroom, our experts advise being wary of icy blue or pastel blue shades, both of which are bedroom colours that can now feel outdated.

Instead, they suggest opting for one of 2026's hottest bedroom colours, a tone we're dubbing 'barely-there-blue', or, as Laura Hammett describes it, 'hazy dove'.

'Barely-there blue is a beautiful choice for bedrooms because it behaves almost like a neutral, but with a subtle freshness that keeps a space feeling light and airy,' explains Sophie Pringle, founder of interior design studio Pringle & Pringle.

'It’s particularly effective in smaller or darker rooms where you want colour, but not weight,' adds Sophie.

'Barely-there-blue is one of those shades that instantly makes a bedroom feel lighter and more restful without overwhelming the space,' agrees Marianne Shillingford, creative director and colour expert at Dulux.

Dunelm

'Pale Sky' Matt Emulsion Paint

COAT

'Slept Through' Flat Matt 2.5L

Dulux Heritage

'Light French Grey' Velvet Matt Emulsion 2.5L

How to style

'We like to use these barely-there tones across the whole room, including walls, ceiling and woodwork, to create a soft, enveloping effect,' says Sophie. 'When everything is painted in the same gentle shade, the boundaries of the room blur slightly, which can make the space feel larger and more serene.'

'These softer shades also work beautifully as a backdrop for layered textiles in slightly deeper or contrasting tones, which stops it feeling too flat,' says Sophie.

'Colours like Dulux Heritage’s Light French Grey have a really understated elegance and work beautifully alongside warm neutrals, soft linens and natural wood to create a scheme that feels calm, timeless and easy to live with,' adds Marianne.

OKA

Plain Velvet Cushion Cover

John Lewis

Washed Linen Bedding

Dunelm

Amalfi Table Lamp

2. Seafoam

(Image credit: Lick)

Seafoam or a soft turquoise blue is another great alternative to a more standard, pale or mid-tone blue.

'If you slide towards the green family with some sagey undertones, you introduce that quiet connection to the natural world that makes a space feel instinctively calm and grounding,' explains Laura.

'A soft turquoise brings a real sense of vibrancy and optimism to a bedroom,' says Sophie. 'It has a natural connection to both blue and green, which gives it an uplifting quality while still feeling rooted in nature. When used thoughtfully, it can bring real personality to a space without feeling overwhelming.'

You might also want to consider swapping out a straight blue for a more vibrant shade of turquoise, 'it's a lovely way to introduce a little more personality into a bedroom while still keeping the space feeling fresh and uplifting,' says Marianne.

Lick

'Blue 03: Light Blue Green Paint' Matt Emulsion Paint

Paint & Paper Library

'Ice V' Architect's Matt 2.5L

Lick

'Blue 08' Supreme Ultra Flat Matt Paint 2.5L

How to style

'We tend to use turquoise more sparingly or as part of a tonal scheme, either on joinery, panelling, or as a feature wall, and then balance it with more muted, grounding tones elsewhere in the room,' says Sophie.

'Natural materials such as rattan, pale woods and neutral linens work particularly well alongside it, helping to soften its intensity and keep the overall scheme feeling calm and cohesive.'

'I'd soften the look with warm neutrals or accents of ochre, terracotta or natural materials for a space that feels balanced and inviting,' suggests Marianne.

Habitat

XL Wicker Table Lamp

Secret Linen Store

Teal 100% Linen Duvet Cover

Habitat

Derwent Oak Bedside Table

3. Inky or sea blues

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Another way to make blue feel fresh is to avoid pale or mid-tones and go for dark ink or deep sea blues. Why? 'Dark and inky blues are incredibly effective in bedrooms because they create a sense of depth and intimacy,' says Sophie.

And whilst you might think a navy bedroom isn't an option if you have a small bedroom, Sophie disagrees. 'Rather than making a space feel smaller, these deeper tones can actually make a room feel more enveloping and restful, which is exactly what you want in a bedroom,' she says.

'Deep navy and inky blues, such as Slow Swing, are perfect if you're looking to create a bedroom that feels cosy and cocooning,' agrees Marianne. 'They're surprisingly versatile and add real depth to a space.'

'These midnight shades are perfect for busy people who find it hard to switch off at night because they create the ultimate visual cocoon which can help us feel safe, relax and sleep better.'

Dunelm

'Ink Blue' Matt Emulsion Paint 2.5L

Dunelm

'Luxe Navy' Matt Emulsion Paint 2.5L

Little Greene

'Royal Navy' Absolute Matt Emulsion

How to style

'We often use these shades across the whole room for maximum impact - particularly in spaces where you want to create a more dramatic, cocooning atmosphere,' shares Sophie. 'When paired with soft, layered lighting and lighter textiles, navy becomes incredibly sophisticated rather than heavy.'

'Metallic accents, particularly aged brass or soft bronze, also work beautifully against darker blues, adding warmth and subtle contrast without disrupting the overall calmness of the scheme.'

Or, 'pair with crisp white bedding, warm timber furniture and tactile fabrics like linen or velvet to stop the room feeling too dark,' suggests Marianne.

M&S

Pure Linen Bedding Set

Habitat

Pebble Mango Wood Table Lamp

M&S

Pure Cotton Velvet Bedspread

Take note of these subtle tweaks, and you'll be able to create a timeless blue bedroom that feels soothing, restorative, and bang on trend as we look towards 2027.

7 things to do to avoid bringing bed bugs back from holiday – this is how to prevent an 'unexpected infestation' in your home, according to experts

Amy Lockwood — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 07:00:00 +0000

There are many things you might want to do this summer, but I'm pretty sure that dealing with a bed bug infestation is not one of them.

Unfortunately, pest experts warn that hot weather combined with summer holidays and increased travel can equal the perfect conditions for bed bug outbreaks.

So, how do you avoid bringing bed bugs back from holiday and ensure you and your family stay safe from unwelcome hitchhikers? After all, nobody wants to return from holiday only to have to start googling how to get rid of bed bugs.

I asked professional pest experts to share their advice on how to avoid an 'unexpected infestation' in your home this summer.

(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

Why is summer such a problematic time for bed bug infestations? As James Rhoades, founder of specialist bed bug heat treatment company ThermoPest, explains, 'in colder weather, bed bugs slow down and often slip into a semi-dormant state. However, in high temperatures, they begin feeding again.'

'Warmer surroundings speed up their metabolism, helping them lay eggs faster and move around more frequently,' says James, 'and hotels, guest houses, and short-term rentals can become hotspots for bed bugs.'

Unfortunately, if you do knowingly or unknowingly encounter bed bugs on holiday, then, as James says, 'they can easily be brought back from holiday hidden in suitcases or laundry, if they've been placed on bedding, soft furnishings or carpet in a bed bug infested room.

Once in your home, 'bed bugs spread quickly,' says James, which can soon lead to an unexpected infestation. That's why 'early detection and prevention are key.'

This is everything you need to know to avoid bed bugs on holiday, and, most importantly, to protect your home on your return.

How to avoid bringing bed bugs back from holiday

1. Choose your luggage wisely

(Image credit: Getty Images/Mainely Photos)

According to our experts, bed bug prevention begins before we even begin our summer travels, and one of the most important things to consider is your luggage.

That's because 'bed bugs can crawl into your luggage, clothing and other personal items, and you can bring them home without even knowing,' explains Mihail Velev, pest control technician at Fantastic Pest Control.

However, luckily some expert knowledge can help here. 'Bed bugs find it harder to climb onto hard surfaces, so opt for hard-case luggage rather than a fabric one,' advises James.

You might also want to pick a light-coloured plastic suitcase, says Mihail. 'Bed bugs are less attracted to plastic, and the lighter colour makes them easier to spot.'

M&S

Amalfi 4 Wheel Hard Shell Large Suitcase

This hard shell M&S suitcase is a great option.

Dunelm

Constellation Skyline Hard Shell Suitcase

Or, Dunelm has similar hard shell designs which are currently on sale.

Amazon

Ziplock Bags for Clothes

Mihail also advises putting clothes inside 'plastic bags or travel luggage bags with zips,' for extra protection.

2. Do a thorough inspection of your hotel room

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Next up, our experts recommend having a 'bed bug prevention' plan in place for arrival at your holiday accommodation. And as Mihail warns, don't assume that just because your accommodation looks well-maintained, you don't still need to be cautious.

'It’s false to assume that bed bug infestations only happen to dirty properties,' says Mihail. 'Many luxurious hotels get infested by these pests, and they can be found in well-maintained homes as well as in dirty ones.'

Best practice means 'not placing your luggage on the bed as soon as you arrive,' says James. 'First, inspect the mattress by pulling back the sheets and checking the seams and corners for dark spots. Also check the headboard and any upholstered furniture for telltale signs of bed bugs such as tiny rust-coloured spots or shed skins.'

'If you suspect bed bugs or an infestation, request a new room immediately, ideally as far away from the affected area as possible,' says James.

3. Protect your luggage

(Image credit: Future PLC/Douglas Gibb)

Then, protect your luggage from unwanted intruders throughout your trip. 'Luggage is the easiest way to bring bed bugs home, especially after being in a confined space,' says James.

Instead of placing your luggage on the floor, bed, or an upholstered chair where bed bugs might be hiding, 'store it on a metal rack,' advises James. 'Bed bugs struggle to climb smooth surfaces.'

No metal luggage rack in the room? Then consider 'placing your belongings on a tile floor away from any upholstered furniture,' advises Mihail. The bathroom can be a good option here.

Then, throughout your holiday, 'if possible, keep your luggage closed or zipped up at all times,' says James, 'or use large plastic bags to seal your luggage throughout your stay.'

4. Protect clothing during your trip

(Image credit: Getty Images/ d3sign)

Next up, protect your clothing during your stay. 'It’s common for bed bugs to easily hide in your clothes, so it’s especially important to protect your clothes when travelling, even the clothes you travelled in,' says James.

'Bed bugs tend to gravitate towards the scent of humans, so keep your worn/dirty clothes in a separate plastic bag until you can wash them.'

'Don’t leave your clothes out, especially if you suspect bed bugs; try keeping them in vacuum-sealed bags during your trip to prevent them from getting in.'

5. Check your luggage upon return home

(Image credit: Future/Tom Meadows)

'Coming home is when bed bugs often make their way into your living space,' warns James. To avoid this, 'unpack everything, directly into the washing machine and run a hot wash.'

'Wash all your clothes and fabric items in hot water, regardless of whether you’ve used them or not,' agrees Mihail.

'Then, visually inspect your suitcase inside and out, paying close attention to pockets, seams, and linings for any signs of bed bugs such as dark spots, shed skins, or live insects,' says James.

'If you travel frequently, making this a routine step can help you spot potential issues early before they spread.'

6. Reduce hiding spots in the bedroom

(Image credit: Future PLC/Anna Stathaki)

It can also be useful to take preventative measures once you return home, that way any unwelcome hitch hikers can be easily spotted.

'Bed bugs like to stay hidden during the day and emerge at night to feed,' explains James. 'The more cluttered your sleeping area is, the more places they have to conceal themselves.'

'Keep floors, bedside tables, and the space around your bed clear of excess items to make it harder for them to find shelter,' advises James.

7. Wash bedding regularly

(Image credit: Future PLC)

You might also want to up your bedding washing schedule for the first few weeks after your trip away, and if you can, use a hotter wash than normal.

'Heat is one of the most effective ways to kill bed bugs at every stage of life, from eggs to adults,' explains James.

'If you suspect an issue, make sure to wash your bedding regularly at 60°C or higher and follow with a hot tumble dry. This ensures that any insects or eggs clinging to the fabric are destroyed.'

For items that can't be washed, steam cleaning can also kill bed bugs that might be lurking inside.

Follow our experts' top tips, and you'll be able to enjoy your summer travels without bed bugs ruining the holiday vibes.

5 stylish paint shades that make stuffy bedrooms feel cooler, according to paint pros – you can finally say goodbye to hot, sleepless nights

Kezia Reynolds — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 11:00:00 +0000

If your bedroom feels permanently hot and stuffy, and a good night’s sleep feels like a thing of the past, then it might be time to switch up the colour of your room for something cooler…

Your bedroom paint ideas have more influence over how you feel than you might think, and certain colours can even make a stuffy room feel cooler. I’ll be clear: this is a psychological trick, and won't physically make the temperature drop.

While this year’s bedroom colour trends are on the cosy side rather than cool, paint experts say these are the five timeless shades that will trick your brain into thinking your bedroom is a calm, tranquil environment.

1. Blue-greens

(Image credit: Future PLC/Kasia Fiszer)

Blue-greens such as teal and turquoise can help make your bedroom feel cooler as they are fresh, cool-toned colourways. Turquoise is having a revival this year, making it a perfect choice if you want your bedroom to look on-trend, too.

‘Blue-greens are a good choice for bedrooms that need to feel calm but not cold. They have the freshness of blue, with the softness of green, so they can make a room feel cooler while still feeling comfortable. These shades work well in south-facing bedrooms where the light can feel quite warm during the day,’ says Cathryn Sanders, head of creative at Earthborn.

Farrow & Ball

Farrow & Ball Estate Green Blue No.84 Wall & Ceiling Emulsion Paint, 100ml Tester Pot

Johnstone's

Johnstone's - Colour Sample Tester Pot - Teal Topaz - 75ml

Vintro

Vintro Matt Emulsion Turquoise Tester Pot 125ml (christabelle)

2. Blue

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Kirsty Noble)

Blue hues have been massively popular in 2026; one trending shade that will dominate autumn, too. Again, this is an excellent choice for stylish people who want their bedrooms to feel cooler.

‘Blue is the one I reach for first. We link it to water, sky and shade, so your brain reads a blue room as cooler than it actually is. Go for a soft, chalky blue rather than a bright primary, something like Farrow & Ball’s Borrowed Light, so the space feels breezy rather than cold,’ says Lisa Hensby, founder and creative director of Lisa Hensby Design & Build Studio.

Dulux

Dulux Bright Skies Matt Emulsion Paint, 30ml

Farrow & Ball

Farrow & Ball Estate Borrowed Light No.235 Matt Wall & Ceiling Emulsion Paint, 100ml Tester Pot

Dunelm

Ashley Blue Matt Emulsion Paint

3. Sage green

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

Who doesn’t love a sage green bedroom idea? It is one of the most popular bedroom colourways, largely due to its beautiful, calming look. But because of its cooler undertones, it can also help make a stuffy room feel cooler.

‘Green is a useful bedroom colour because it feels connected to nature. A soft sage or grey-green can help take the heat out of a room visually, without making the space feel stark. Shades such as Gregory’s Den or Sapling work well because they sit quietly in the background and are easy to pair with light neutrals, linen and wood,’ says Cathryn.

Johnstone's

Johnstone's - Matt Wall & Ceiling Paint - Natural Sage - 2.5l

Crown

Crown Walls & Ceilings Sage Green Matt Paint Tester Pot - Sample 40ml

Lick

Lick Green 02 Peel & Stick Tester

4. Off-white

(Image credit: Future PLC/Anna Stathaki)

White bedroom ideas are a classic choice, but opting for an off-white, especially if it has a grey undertone, can help make the room feel cooler.

‘If you'd rather stay neutral, choose an off-white or grey with a cool undertone rather than a warm, yellow-based one. Cool undertones bounce the light around and keep the room feeling airy and open, where warm neutrals will cosy it up,’ says Lisa.

Lick

Lick Greige 01 Peel & Stick Tester

Dulux

Dulux Walls & Ceilings Tester Paint, Goose Down, 30 Ml

COAT

100% White

5. Pale lilac and greyed pinks

(Image credit: Future PLC/ James French)

If you want something more feminine, or don’t want to sacrifice pretty colour in your bedroom, some purple and pink colourways can have a cooling effect, whilst allowing your interior’s style to shine.

‘Pale lilac, grey-pink and soft mauve tones can also help a bedroom feel cooler because they have a gentle blue or grey undertone. These colours are useful if you want something softer than blue, but still want to avoid warmer shades such as yellow, orange or terracotta,’ says Cathryn.

Dulux

Dulux Easycare Washable & Tough Tester Paint, Violet White, 30 Ml

Farrow & Ball

Farrow & Ball Estate Peignoir No.286 Matt Wall & Ceiling Emulsion Paint, 100ml Tester Pot

Dulux

Dulux Walls & Ceilings Tester Paint Sweet Embrace - 30ml

Which cooling colour would you choose for your bedroom?

I asked sleep experts how to stop snoring – from sleeping position to pillow setup, this is their advice for a more peaceful night’s rest

Amy Lockwood — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 07:00:00 +0000

If you’ve ever been kept awake by a snoring sleep partner, then you’ll know exactly how disruptive this condition can be to a good night’s sleep.

Equally, if you are the snorer, you might be getting just as frustrated by a broken sleep that leaves you feeling tired and badly rested in the morning.

That’s why I asked three sleep experts for their top tips on how to stop snoring.

From the sleeping positions that reduce snoring to the best pillow type and height, this is their advice for reducing snoring and getting a better night’s sleep.

(Image credit: James French)

What is snoring

First up, what exactly is snoring, and why might we do it? ‘Snoring can be a natural process,’ explains Hannah Shore, head of sleep science at sleep retailer Mattress Online. ‘It’s caused when the muscles relax in the upper airway, just like the rest of our muscles relax whilst we are asleep.'

'The snoring is the sound of air being forced through this smaller, relaxed gap,’ says Hannah

However, natural or not, if your snoring is loud enough to wake either yourself or your sleep partner, it’s something you might prefer to avoid, and, luckily, our experts say there are some easy ways to do so.

How to stop snoring

1. Consider your sleeping position

First up when it comes to preventing snoring, consider your sleeping position.

‘For many people, sleeping on their side is one of the most effective ways to help reduce snoring,’ explains Sammy Margo, Chartered Physiotherapist and sleep expert at sleep retailer Dreams.

‘When you sleep on your back, gravity may cause the tongue and soft tissues in the throat to fall backwards, partially blocking the airway, which may increase the likelihood of snoring.’

In contrast, ‘side sleeping helps keep the airways more open,’ says Sammy, ‘making it particularly beneficial for those who experience mild snoring or disrupted sleep.’

The Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow (Image credit: Future / Amy Lockwood)

‘When you lie on your back, gravity pulls the tongue and soft tissues backwards, narrowing the airway and causing the vibrations we hear as snoring,’ agrees Dave Gibson, sleep expert, Registered Osteopath, and founder of The Sleep Site.

‘As a result, many people find that their snoring is noticeably worse on their back and improves once they train themselves to stay on their side,’ shares Dave.

Although that does raise another question. It’s all very well saying ‘sleep on your side’, but our preferred sleeping position easily becomes ingrained.

If you’re a back sleeper who is struggling with snoring, how do our experts advise making the switch from back to side sleeping?

2. Sort your pillow setup

As Ideal Home’s Sleep Editor, I know just how important choosing the right pillow is. The type of pillow we sleep on also has a significant effect on how comfortable we find various sleeping positions.

If your pillow is too low, you won’t find lying on your side that comfortable, so you’re much more likely to return to back sleeping. Therefore, investing in one of the best pillows for side sleepers can be crucial to this anti-snoring advice working.

‘With side sleeping being the ideal position to reduce snoring, the aim for any pillow setup is to support you in this position throughout the night,’ agrees Dave.

‘For side sleeping, a medium-to-high loft pillow that fills the gap between the shoulder and head works well. This prevents the head from tilting back or the chin tucking into the chest, both of which can restrict airflow,’ Dave advises.

(Image credit: Future Studios / Philip Sowels )

‘Some people find that a slight elevation helps if nasal congestion contributes to their snoring,’ adds Dave, ‘but it should not be too high. The goal for the overall pillow setup should be comfort as well as reduced noise, without forcing the neck into an unnatural position.’

‘The right pillow can make a significant difference when it comes to reducing snoring,’ agrees Sammy. ‘The aim is to keep your head, neck and spine properly aligned while helping to maintain an open airway throughout the night.’

I’ve included three of my tried-and-tested top pillows for side sleeping below.

Levitex

Sleep Posture Pillow

If you're transitioning to sleeping on your side, it's important to find a pillow the right height to keep your head, neck, and spine aligned. This can be easier said than done, as we all have different shoulder widths and mattress tensions. Levitex's Sleep Posture pillow is available in four heights, which makes it *much* easier to find the exact right fit for you.

My Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow review has more detail.

Woolroom

Natural Latex Washable Wool Pillow

This pillow is available in two heights, so there isn't as much choice as in the Levitex range. However, it is *the* most comfortable side sleeping pillow I've tested. Most side-sleeping pillows are very firm, whereas this pillow is made from latex, which gives it some 'give' and bounce, which I loved.

My Woolroom Natural Latex Washable Wool Pillow review explains more.

Panda

Memory Foam Pillow

Panda's memory foam pillow is a great value buy that offers comfortable side sleeping at a more affordable price. It only comes in one height option, but its rectangular design fits the gap between the ear and the mattress well, so if it suits your body frame, it could be a great option. Like my other three choices, it also comes with a sleep trial so you can test it out before you commit to keeping it.

Find the full lowdown in my Panda Memory Foam Pillow review.

3. Invest in a body pillow

Our sleep experts also point out that it’s not only the pillow under your head that can help with snoring. You might also want to consider using a body pillow.

‘Body pillows can be a useful option for people looking to reduce snoring, especially if they find it difficult to stay on their side throughout the night,’ says Sammy. ‘They make side sleeping more comfortable and may help you stay in that position for longer, reducing the chances of rolling onto your back or front while you sleep.’

‘Body pillows are particularly useful for people who start the night on their side but tend to roll onto their back, or front, as they sleep,’ agrees Dave.

‘If you tend to roll onto your back, you would position the pillow behind you to stop yourself from falling backwards. If you want to prevent rolling forward, you could hug the body pillow and place part of it between your knees.’

‘Body pillows don’t directly stop snoring, but because they help you maintain a side-sleeping position throughout the night, they can reduce snoring in people whose symptoms are typically worse when lying on their back,’ summarises Dave.

Simba

Body Pillow

I find the 'banana' shape of this Simba body pillow really useful to 'hug' when side sleeping, as it prevents me from rolling onto my front during the night.

Woolroom

Washable Wool Body Pillow

Although, if you're a hot sleeper like me, this wool-filled body pillow is much cooler to sleep next to. I can also tuck it behind me to stop me from rolling onto my back.

Silentnight

Body Support Pillow With Pillowcase

A cheaper alternative is this Silentnight option. It's softer, which means it offers a little less support, but it's another useful option to use behind your body to prevent rolling onto your back.

All this said, although changing your sleeping position can definitely help to prevent snoring – as can choosing the right pillows to support you in that process – our experts make sure to point out this isn’t the only fix that may be needed.

As well as considering your sleep setup, ‘you need to find out what is *causing* your snoring,’ says Hannah. That’s because not all snoring is the same.

Hannah offers the following ‘cheatsheet’ to help you dig into the nitty-gritty of what’s keeping you (or your partner) awake at night.

Common causes of snoring

Do you only snore on your back? 'If so, some of the pillows discussed previously may help,' says Hannah.
Do you only snore after alcohol? 'This is due to the relaxation effect alcohol has on our muscles,' explains Hannah. 'Alcohol relaxes the upper airway muscles more than normal, reducing the space for free-flowing air. You may find that reducing the amount of alcohol you drink improves your snoring.'
Do you only snore in the summer months? 'This could be allergies causing inflammation in the upper airway and reducing the space further than normal,'' advises Hannah. 'Try antihistamines or anti-inflammatory remedies.'
Are you overweight? 'Sometimes, when we gain a little extra weight, it can sit around our necks and (weirdly) our tongues,' says Hannah. 'This can reduce the space in the upper airway when we sleep. You might find that losing a little weight can improve your snoring.'
Is your snoring loud and irregular? Do you have long pauses? 'If so, this could be a sign of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), and you may want to go seek medical help for your snoring,' warns Hannah.

(Image credit: DOUGLAS GIBB PHOTOGRAPHY)

‘If your snoring is loud or frequent, or is associated with pauses in breathing, choking or gasping during sleep, morning headaches, or excessive daytime sleepiness, it is worth speaking to your GP about an assessment for obstructive sleep apnoea,’ agrees Dave. 'This common sleep disorder is associated with increased cardiovascular risk if left untreated.’

So, before elbowing your partner in the side because they’re snoring for the umpteenth time this week, or deciding on a sleep divorce and shutting the door on the noise, encourage the snorer in your life to seek a GP appointment, just in case.

If the doctor offers a clean bill of health, adopting the sleep setup changes our experts advise can make a big difference to snoring.

Invest in a pillow the right height for comfortable side sleeping, along with a body pillow – or simply a spare pillow that can be tucked between the knees, wedged behind the back, or hugged at the front to prevent rolling onto the back – and you’re well on your way to stopping the snoring and creating a more peaceful night's sleep for all involved.

I tested the M&S 'Stay Cool' mattress topper during a heatwave – as a hot sleeper, here's what I thought of the £75 cooling buy

Zoë Phillimore — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 07:00:00 +0000

I put the M&S Stay Cool 10cm Depth Mattress Topper to the test to see how it compares to the best cooling mattress toppers on the market.

In a nutshell

As a sleep-product reviewer, I’ve tested some of the best mattress toppers out there, including two of my favourites for hot weather or hot sleepers: the Woolroom Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper and the Simba Cool Foam mattress topper.

So when I heard about Marks & Spencer’s latest cooling mattress topper – the relatively inexpensive M&S Stay Cool Mattress Topper, which is £75 for a single – I was keen to give it a test run.

Overall, I was fairly impressed. This topper doesn't offer much support, but if you like a soft, sink-in sleep surface, I found its 10cm deep polyester fill was comfortable.

I’m also a fairly hot sleeper, who, like Goldilocks, struggles to sleep unless my temperature is “just right”, and whilst I didn't find this topper actively cool, it also didn't make me overheat (even when testing it during a heatwave).

The main downsides (for me) are the fact it can't be washed, needs regular shaking to 'refluff' it, and I do prefer a bit of a more supportive sleep surface.

However, the M&S Stay Cool is good value for money, and, whilst some toppers do offer better cooling relief for hot sleepers (more on those below), if you're looking for a soft topper that can provide a 'breaker' layer between a sweat-inducing mattress and your body, it does the trick without breaking the bank.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Zoe Phillimore)

Specifications

RRP: £75 / £85 / £95 / £105
Sizes: single / double / king / super-king
Depth: 10cm
Construction: polyester cover, polyester wadding fill
Care instructions: do not wash, do not tumble dry, do not dry clean
Manufacturer sleep trial: no

(Image credit: M&S)

Attaching the topper to the bed

The M&S Stay Cool mattress topper comes in a large fabric carry case. This might be handy if you need to pack it away often – if it’s for a sofa bed or a campervan, for example. The bag is definitely designed to be reused, with reasonably strong zips and reinforced edges.

The mattress topper itself was folded inside the bag, and was easy to pull out and slide onto my bed. There was no off-gassing smell or waiting for it to replump like you get with memory-foam mattress toppers.

When it comes to attaching it to your bed, there are thick elasticated straps at each corner. This easily slid over even my very thick Brook + Wilde mattress.

There is no anti-slip coating on the bottom of this topper, but this didn’t seem to matter as it stayed in place well.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Zoe Phillimore)

Comfort

I took the Simba Cool Foam topper off my bed to test the M&S Stay Cool topper. The Cool Foam is a medium-feel topper, and the M&S Stay Cool is noticeably softer still. This topper is definitely designed to soften a mattress rather than to boost support.

This stacks up when you look at what the fillings are in the M&S Stay Cool topper. It’s made from 100 per cent polyester. This tends to be much squishier than fillings such as memory foam and the micro springs you find in hybrid mattress toppers.

I found that when I lay on it, it gave an immediate feeling of comfort – like being wrapped in a duvet. However, it lacks much responsiveness. Responsiveness is the term sleep experts use when we’re talking about how a sleep surface bounces back and how easy it therefore is to move on your mattress.

If you’re a combination sleeper – ie. you move from back to side to front while you’re sleeping – you’ll appreciate a more responsive sleep surface.

I am a combination sleeper (side and back, if you’re wondering), and found that moving around was fine for me but it wasn’t as smooth as it is on a spring mattress/mattress topper. If you have mobility issues, its sink-in softness may mean it's not the topper for you.

During testing, I used the Stay Cool mattress topper on an already very comfortable mattress so I wasn’t using the topper to improve the feel of my sleep surface.

However, I do think it would work brilliantly to soften up a too-firm mattress, or add an extra layer of gentle comfort. It would be ideal to give a bit of cushioning to those dreaded university student mattresses for example, or to offer a little extra “ahhh” feeling to a mattress or sofa bed in a spare room.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Zoe Phillimore)

Temperature regulation

Because of its 'Stay Cool' name, the temperature regulation on this mattress topper is one of things I was really interested in. Especially seeing as this topper is made of 100% polyester, and synthetic fibres are often prone to *causing* overheating in bed, not preventing it.

However, while there are no active cooling gels, or cooling fibres, in this topper, it is lofty at 10cm. This means that there should be space between the polyester wadding, which potentially allows for good air flow through the topper, removing hot air and replacing it with cooler air under the body.

I tested this mattress topper during an absolutely scorching British heatwave – record-breaking, in fact. I found that I didn’t overheat on the topper, but I wasn’t completely convinced that it was any more cooling than a decent mattress or a natural-fibre mattress topper.

However – and this is important – I didn’t wake up in a sweaty mess on this mattress topper. Did it make me actively feel cool? No, but it didn't make me feel hotter either. And this can't be said of many of the toppers I've tested.

I do wonder if its breathability might be impacted over time as the wadding compresses under my body weight and those 'air pockets' are lost, but I’m a fairly hot sleeper, and as I say, my sleep wasn’t disturbed when I tested the Stay Cool mattress topper.

Overall, I found the Woolroom Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper, Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper, and Simba Cool Foam Mattress Topper cooler to sleep on. But although I found they did a better job of offering relief in hot weather, they are more expensive.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Zoe Phillimore)

Care instructions

Caring for this mattress topper is, I guess, very simple, in that you can’t really care for it. The care instructions say that you can’t machine wash or dry clean it.

Considering it's made from polyester (which is usually a fabric that can be bunged in the washing machine on a high temperature), I found this quite surprising. The Silentnight Deep Sleep Ultimate 1000 Mattress Topper we recently tested uses very similar materials, and that can be washed at 40C and tumble dried.

However, whilst this might put off some, you could get around the issue by using a good mattress protector over the topper to maintain a clean sleep environment. You might just want to opt for an extra-deep protector as the loft on this topper is quite high.

I also found that after a week of sleeping on the topper, it needed a bit of a shake-out and fluffing when I changed my bed sheets. This wasn’t a big job, but if you have a larger bed, it does require a bit of upper-body strength. It is box-baffle stitched, which helps keep the fillings in place.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Zoe Phillimore)

Sleep trial

M&S doesn't offer sleep trials on any of its bedding, which, considering competitors such as Simba, Panda, and Woolroom do, I always think is a bit of a shame.

A sleep trial does help you to assess whether a piece of bedding works for your sleep setup before you commit to keeping it, so without a trial available, it does come down to making your best guess about whether the Stay Cool topper is for you.

Value for money

At £75 for a single and £85 for a double, this topper is pretty reasonably priced.

It's certainly a lot cheaper than some of the best cooling mattress toppers we've tested. For instance, the highly breathable Woolroom Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper costs £289.99 for a double, and the cooling graphite-infused Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper costs £349 for a double.

However, I didn't feel the M&S Stay Cool's cooling powers were quite as good as those more expensive options, and, when you compare it to other toppers of a similar construction, it's actually a little expensive.

For instance, the Silentnight Deep Sleep Ultimate 1000 Mattress Topper is also 10cm deep, offers a similar polyester construction, can be machine washed, and the Silentnight Deep Sleep Ultimate 1000 Mattress Topper currently costs £39.99 at Amazon, or it's £59.99 for a double of the Silentnight Deep Sleep Ultimate 1000 Mattress Topper at Argos.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Zoe Phillimore)

How I tested

Usual sleep position: side
Tension preference: medium-firm
Sleep problems: hip pain

I tested a king-size version of the Stay Cool mattress topper over the course of a week in a record-breaking British heatwave. During this time I slept on the topper, paying attention to comfort levels and how it affected my sleep. I also pondered how hot I felt sleeping on the topper – this is after all a cooling mattress topper. Lastly, I considered how easy it was to attach to the bed, ease of care, and value for money.

Interior designers are ditching bedside tables in small bedrooms – these alternative solutions will make your room feel ‘lighter and more spacious’

Amy Lockwood — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 10:50:00 +0000

Small bedrooms will always suffer from space-related struggles, but I've recently come across a clever trick to make the most of every inch in a tiny room, and it involves ditching an 'essential' piece of bedroom furniture.

Ditching your bedside table might sound like an impractical choice, but hear me out. I first spotted the trick when former Interior Design Masters winner, Roisin Quinn, made the bold decision to ditch the bedside tables from her recent bedroom makeover.

I have to admit, I think it's an ingenious decision. At least now that I've recovered from the shock of seeing this 'essential' piece of furniture removed. What's more, design experts say this is a growing trend, especially in small bedrooms.

If you're the owner of a small bedroom, listen up as these are the space-maximising alternatives that Roisin and our other design experts are using instead of the traditional bedside table.

Roisin's bedroom with a Button & Sprung bedRoisin Quinn / Button & Sprung

Roisin Quinn / Button & Sprung

Now, when I first heard that Roisin had ditched bedside tables in her small bedroom, I was a little unnerved.

'But... where do you put your phone/glasses/book/other nighttime essentials you can't live without?!' I may have anxiously asked.

After all, we've all seen those minimalist homes with zero clutter on any surface, but here in the real world, I seem to amass essential 'stuff' at a rate of knots. And that stuff has to be put down *somewhere* at night.

Thankfully, eliminating the bedside tables doesn't mean no overnight storage. It simply means thinking outside the box as to what that storage looks like.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)

'We didn’t have room for traditional bedside tables,' explains Roisin. However, 'I realised I barely used them anyway; I just needed somewhere to put the essentials.'

Roisin's solution? To ditch the bedside tables and add an alternative form of storage to the bedroom: namely, wardrobes.

And when it comes to housing those overnight essentials that you need close to hand? 'We built shelves into the wardrobe instead,' explains Roisin.

It may be out-of-the-box thinking, but 'I absolutely LOVE them, says Roisin. 'It’s one of the best design decisions we made in this room, and it keeps everything within easy reach while making the bedroom feel so much less cluttered.'

(Image credit: Future PLC / Dominic Blackmore)

That said, if your floor space is limited and you want to ditch your bedside tables, wardrobes aren't the only alternative.

'There are several space-saving alternatives that provide both style and functionality,' Roisin shares. 'Floating shelves, narrow picture ledges or clip-on bedside trays offer convenient surfaces without taking up floor space, while wall lights free up room by replacing table lamps.'

'A headboard with built-in storage or a bed with under-bed drawers or ottoman storage can also help keep essentials organised,' advises Roisin.

The designer has a Button & Sprung ottoman bed in her room, along with a statement headboard that draws the eye away from anything that might otherwise feel 'missing' in the room.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Joanna Henderson)

According to design experts, Roisin's choice also illustrates a growing trend in bedroom design.

'We're seeing a shift away from traditional bedside tables,' says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director of interior design studio Kelling Designs. 'Particularly in smaller bedrooms, where every centimetre matters.'

Rather than squeezing in furniture that makes the room feel cramped, like Roisin, Emma suggests using 'more integrated solutions such as floating shelves, slim wall-mounted ledges or bespoke headboards with built-in niches.'

'Each of these solutions will provide just enough space for the essentials while keeping your floor clear, which instantly makes the room feel lighter and more spacious,' says Emma.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Chris Snook)

'When space is tight, I always prefer to think in terms of integration rather than addition,' agrees interior designer, Laura Stephens. 'Floating or wall-mounted solutions are a brilliant way to keep a bedroom feeling light and uncluttered while still providing everything you need within easy reach.'

'In many of our projects, we’ve used simple floating shelves in place of traditional bedside tables,' says Laura, 'they're just large enough for a book, a glass of water or a small object you want close by.'

'When combined with wall-mounted reading lights, this removes the need for any freestanding furniture altogether, which instantly frees up floor space and helps the room feel more open.'

'I also like to build in subtle architectural details wherever possible,' says Laura, 'such as a shallow ledge within joinery or a recessed niche beside the bed.' Exactly the solution Roisin chose for her bedroom.

'These small interventions are incredibly effective because they don’t visually interrupt the space, but still offer functionality,' explains Laura.

Bedside table alternatives

Argos Home

Jak 80cm Floating Shelf

A floating ledge or shelf provides bedside storage space in a small bedroom, without taking up floor space.

Mustard Made

The Ledge - Small

This slimline wall ledge takes up barely any space, and comes in a great range of eye-catching colours.

Dunelm

Georgi Floating 1 Drawer Bedside Table

Although you don't have to go slimline. Simply wall-mounting this bedside cabinet means you can see the floor, which makes the bedroom feel much more spacious.

LA REDOUTE INTERIEURS

Ladara Rattan Storage Headboard

You could opt to stash your nighttime essentials into the sides of a storage headboard, instead.

Black Ryker Rechargeable Wireless Wall Light

Opting for wall-mounted lights on either side of your bed eliminates the need for a surface to sit a bedside lamp on.

Habitat

Ruxley End Drawer Storage Bed

Opting for a storage bed is another great way to make the most of every last square inch of space.

As Laura concludes, 'in a small bedroom, every element needs to earn its place, and removing bulky bedside tables and replacing them with pared-back, built-in or wall-mounted alternatives is one of the simplest ways to create a calmer, more spacious-feeling room without compromising on practicality.'

'It's less about fitting in as much furniture as possible and more about making the room work intelligently,' agrees Emma. 'That's very much where bedroom design is heading.'

M&S just elevated linen bedding to a whole new level – I'm a Sleep Editor, and I've never seen this cool and breathable fabric look so luxe before

Amy Lockwood — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000

I love linen bedding. As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the past five years testing the best bedding on the market, and, as a hot sleeper, I've learnt that I definitely sleep best under a cool and breathable linen bedding set.

However, I know that not everyone feels the same way. If you prefer the look of crisp, crease-free cotton sheets, then even the best linen bedding can feel a little *too* laidback and crumpled.

However, Marks and Spencer has just changed all that. In my opinion, the new M&S Pure Linen Bedding Set is the ideal solution if you want to benefit from a cooler sleep whilst still retaining elevated hotel-luxe vibes in your boudoir.

M&S

Pure Linen 190gsm Bedding Set

The new linen collection is available in four smart colourways; white, linen, charcoal, and navy.

Why is this bedding set so different? Two things. First, this 190gsm fabric has a more structured feel than most linen bedding. That means that it drapes a little more smoothly when it's on the bed, which results in a more refined look.

And secondly, those smart piped edges. It may seem like a small detail, but when it comes to bedding that delivers hotel-luxe vibes and brings a more 'expensive' and elevated feel to the bedroom, it is *all* about the detail.

(Image credit: M&S)

Piped edges frequently feature on high-end cotton bedding, but it's a detail I haven't seen incorporated into a linen bedding set before. And, to my mind at least, it adds a whole new look to this timeless fabric.

Plus, you still get to benefit from linen's *fantastic* breathability. Something especially important in this increasingly long run of hot weather we've been experiencing in many parts of the country.

That's because good breathability equals good airflow, and bedding that allows good airflow enables the body to regulate its temperature better, which in turn results in a deeper and more restorative sleep.

Little wonder then that I'm not alone in being impressed by M&S' new launch. 'Beautiful quality linen,' says one 5-star review on the M&S website. 'Smart piping elevates the look.'

(Image credit: M&S)

'Great quality,' raves another owner. 'The piping on duvet cover and pillowcases is a nice addition... so far best linen bedding I have purchased. Highly recommended.'

'Cool to sleep in and washes well,' says another happy M&S shopper.

When it comes to where to buy bedding that offers both cool sleep and hotel-luxe design, M&S is clearly the place to shop.

Plus, Marks and Spencer is one of the best places to snap up affordable linen bedding; its non-piped bedding set is the most budget-friendly I've tested. I've rounded up a few more of the brand's most cooling sleep solutions below.

M&S

Pure Linen 190gsm Bedding Set

The piped detailing on this linen duvet cover makes it look uber expensive, and you get two pillowcases included in the set.

M&S

Pure Linen Bedding Set

It has a more relaxed look, but this M&S linen bedding set offers great value for money.

M&S

Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Fitted Sheet

Pair a linen duvet cover with one of M&S's ingenious cooling fitted sheets, and you have your hot-weather sleep setup sorted.

5 bedroom trends that are robbing you of a good night's sleep – and the simple swaps experts recommend

Rebecca Lawton — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Hardwood flooring, statement lighting and a home office set-up in the corner could be among the bedroom trends ruining your sleep without you even realising it.

There's no shortage of stylish bedroom trends promising to transform your space, but some of the most popular looks may be making it harder to unwind at the end of the day. 'We're seeing a real shift towards designing bedrooms that support wellbeing rather than simply looking beautiful,' explains Alisdair Gray, director of interior design studio Cousins & Cousins. 'Many of the trends that have become popular in recent years can absolutely work, but it's all about balance.'

From home offices that blur the lines between work and rest to hard flooring that reflects noise, experts say these are the trends you might want to rethink. The good news is, you don't need a completely new bedroom design for better sleep - a few simple swaps can do the trick.

1. Hardwood and laminate flooring

Hardwood and laminate flooring have become some of the most popular bedroom flooring choices in recent years. 'This is thanks to their contemporary look, easy maintenance and ability to complement the rise of natural, biophilic interiors,' believes Alisdair.

While hardwood and laminate don't create noise, they don't absorb it either, which is where the problem lies, explains Dr Maja Schaedel, co-founder of The Good Sleep Clinic. 'Instead of the noise being dampened, any sound tends to bounce and linger which can be more disruptive,' she says.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Maxwell Attenborough)

Thankfully, you don't need to ditch your hardwood flooring altogether. 'Pairing hard floors with rugs, upholstered furniture and other soft furnishings helps absorb sound and creates a much calmer environment,' says Alisdair.

2. Home offices in the bedroom

Since hybrid-working became the norm, the demand for home offices has increased. For many households, that means utilising the space you have - such as a corner of your bedroom. But according to sleep experts, this is one of the most common bedroom trends robbing you of a good night's sleep.

(Image credit: Future PLC)

'When the bedroom is repeatedly used for work, the brain may begin associating the room with concentration, deadlines and problem-solving rather than rest,' explains clinical psychologist Dr Tracy King.

Working in the bedroom is a definite no-no, believes Dr Schaedel. For anyone who struggles with insomnia, she says one of the most effective therapy treatments involves keeping bedrooms solely for sleep.

'If you use your bed as a desk, your brain can get confused at bedtime, asking "Is it nighttime or daytime?" which can get in the way of being able to fall asleep and also impact the quality of our sleep,' she says.

If you can't move your workspace elsewhere, some clever home office storage ideas can help to separate work and rest. Alisdair recommends clever furniture placement, concealed storage or flexible layouts that allow your desk to be tucked away at the end of the working day.

3. Bright, layered lighting

Layered lighting has become a staple of modern bedroom design, helping to create a cosy atmosphere while making the space feel more functional. But the type of bedroom lighting you choose can make a difference to how easy it is to drift off.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Davide Lovatti)

'Layered lighting is one trend that's definitely here to stay because it allows people to adapt a room throughout the day,' says Alisdair. 'The key is choosing warmer light sources, rather than cooler, blue-toned lighting, which can interfere with the brain's ability to wind down.'

Dr Schaedel explains that lighting plays a key role in helping to regulate our natural body clock, making it one of the most important aspects to focus on. 'When you have dimmed lights in the evening, this encourages the release of melatonin, which signals that it's time for sleep,'

Opting for dim and warm lighting for two hours before bed, and using lamps rather than overhead lights can help, adds Dr Schaedel.

4. Overly layered textures

Adding texture - such as bouclé headboards, cosy throws and tactile cushions - has become a defining feature of bedroom design. Experts warn, though, that they could also be one of the bedroom trends ruining your sleep.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Caroline Mardon)

'Bouclé and heavily textured upholstery continue to be popular because they introduce warmth and tactility,' says Alisdair. 'However, layering too many competing textures, patterns and materials can create unnecessary visual noise.'

Dr King explains that our brains are constantly filtering the space around us, even when we're trying to relax. 'When a bedroom contains lots of competing textures, patterns, cushions, throws and decorative objects, it can begin to feel visually busy,' she says. 'The most useful question is “Does this room feel comforting or crowded?”'

Your bedroom doesn't need to be minimal or stripped of texture, though. Instead, try and focus on balancing soft textures with lots of visual breathing space to create a calmer, more restful sleeping environment.

Linen bedding is one of the easiest ways to do this - M&S Pure Linen Bedding is highly rated for its relaxed, textured feel without adding visual clutter.

5. Bold colour schemes

Bold colour drenching has become one of the biggest paint trends over the past couple of years, but certain shades might not create the most calming backdrop for sleep.

'Bold colour schemes, particularly strong reds, bright pinks and high-contrast palettes, remain popular as statement design choices, but these colours can be more stimulating than calming,' says Alisdair.

There is no blanket rule, though, when it comes to bedroom colour choices. As Dr King points out, what one person may find relaxing and calming, may have the opposite affect on someone else.

(Image credit: Future PLC / James French)

'For one person, deep red may feel warm, intimate and cocooning, while for another, it may feel intense, claustrophobic or agitating,' she explains. 'Bright pink might feel joyful and comforting to one person, while somebody else experiences it as stimulating or difficult to switch off from. This is why it is too simplistic to say that red is bad for sleep or that blue is always calming.'

So the good news is you don't necessarily need to pull out your paintbrush if you are drawn to bold, vibrant colours. You can look at using richer shades as accents, pairing them with softer, neutral tones and warm lighting to create a space that feels both stylish and relaxing.

Sleep-friendly bedroom buys

Dunelm

Hideaway Computer Cabinet Desk

This hideaway computer desk from Dunelm is ideal for shutting work away once you've logged off.

Addison Ross Ltd UK

Pale Denim Lacquer Rechargeable Bobbin Led Lamp

This rechargeable table lamp has a built-in dimmer to adjust the brightness as you wind down for bed.

John Lewis

Pure Wool Scallop Rug

Adding a soft rug is one of the easiest ways to asborb sound if you have hardwood floors. This John Lewis one is available in different sizes and features a stylish scalloped trim.

If any of these bedroom trends sound familiar, a few, small mindful tweaks could be all that's standing between you and a good night's sleep!

I refused to decorate my home for guests or potential buyers, and painted my lime-plastered spare bedroom bright yellow – and I couldn't be happier

Amy Reeves — Sun, 26 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000

When we renovated our last house, I painted our west-facing snug a vibrant yellow, and it was hands down the best thing we did in that house. When the sun shone, it was cheerful and bright, but it was at nighttime when it really made us happy. Yellow is not really considered a cosy colour, but with proper ambient lighting, picking up warm undertones, it is, in my opinion, unparalleled.

Now we’re in our current renovation, and I’ve been desperate to recreate the joy we found with our bright yellow room, but nowhere has seemed quite right in our three-year endeavour. However, we’ve just finished transforming a dated, damp kitchen into a guest room and guess who just finished painting it yellow!

Painting any room yellow can feel like a bit of a gamble, and you have to really match the pigments and undertones to each room, depending on the type of natural light it will get throughout the day. But if we’ve seen anything over the last few years is that we shouldn’t be decorating for guests, or even potential buyers down the road, we should utilise bold paint ideas in our homes because, quite simply, they’re ours, we’re lucky to have them, and they should make us happy.

Choosing the right paint brand and colour

(Image credit: Future/Amy Reeves)

After renovating pretty much constantly for six years (on two different houses) I have every paint swatch, sample and tester known to man. While there are certainly elements of a house you can cheap-out on, I really don’t think you can, or should, with paint. And that’s not to say all high-end brands have worked out for me. In fact, I was burned when painting our open plan space and regret it every time I try to wipe off scuff marks and it flakes away.

As our room is fresh lime plaster we had an extra element of needing a paint that lets the walls breathe. Unlike cavity walls, solid stone walls need to let moisture in and out properly so damp doesn’t build up. This includes everything from the mortar, plaster and paint finishes.

The room itself used to be our kitchen and was previously painted in a very pale buttery yellow which made everything feel quite… sickly? The tone for the natural light from the east and south-facing windows was all wrong and it only brought out the cold tones throughout the day.

We chose Edward Bulmer’s Naples Yellow as it is one of the few emulsion paints that is suitable for lime plaster and because it was a compromise between my partner and me - I wanted a warm yellow that looked cosy with just lamps on and they wanted a sunny colour that would reflect the lovely morning light the room receives. The room will also be my home office once I get my desk sorted out, so something that would wake me up and inspire productivity and creativity was a must.

'Yellow is a powerful tool in colour theory, naturally associated with optimism and energy,' explains interior designer, Paula Morrison. 'British natural light can notoriously lean cold and grey, but an earthy, historic shade like Naples Yellow acts as a surrogate sun, radiating warmth during the day and transforming into a rich, cocooning mustard under artificial lighting at night.'

To prepare the lime for painting, I used a 10:2 ratio of the paint to water as the ‘mist coat’ and applied all of the paint by hand with a natural bristle brush. Although you can use some rollers, I found the brush was a little faster and easier to apply the paint to the rougher texture. However, I stupidly thought that during the heatwave, when our village was the hottest in the UK at 38ºC putting the real coats on the room was a good idea. It took me about four days simply because I would overheat really quickly from moving so much and needed to take so many breaks. Never again!

Matching complementing colours

(Image credit: Future/Amy Reeves)

Yellow is a bold colour, especially for a spare room, and pairing it with pale colours for the wood trim or furniture just doesn’t work.

'Yellow is incredibly versatile and I would have great fun pairing it with pinks, greens, blues, and warm oranges – think of a joyful summer garden in full bloom, with climbing roses, lavender blues, fresh greens and pops of orange. Nature rarely gets colour wrong,' advises interiors expert Wendy Morrison.

'Personally, black is perhaps the only colour I would use sparingly alongside bright yellow,' she continues. 'But colour is deeply personal, and everyone responds differently. The key is layering with texture, pattern, florals and treasured pieces to create warmth, depth and personality.'

We chose a red-undertoned brown, Marmelo by Farrow and Ball, as our window trim painted in a high gloss to counter the extreme matt of the lime plastered walls. In my opinion, it looks delicious, and if I could paint my entire house this colour, I would.

From here, I paired terracotta bedding and dark-toned furniture that walks the line between cottage-ey and mid-century, like the rest of our home.

What is it like to live with?

(Image credit: Future/Amy Reeves)

Well, as we only painted a few weeks ago, it’s hard to say if we will regret it down the line but right now I absolutely love it. I’m so glad we went for it and chose to paint the ceiling in yellow, too. The low ceilings would probably have looked even lower had we split with a traditional white.

As with our dark red bathroom, I thought visitors were not going to like this room at all, but we’ve actually had some great responses. I think, especially for a spare room, having something that feels different or bolder is a nice change. That being said, my Mum has warned she will be bringing her sun glasses next time they’re stopping by, which I can’t tell if I’m supposed to take as a condemnation.

I can’t wait to get a few things on the wall to lean into the textures of the lime plaster and the brightness of the paint colour.

Get the look

Dunelm

Brannock 1 Drawer Bedside Table

Embroidered Flower Vase Cushion

La Redoute

Annaba Two-Sided Washed Linen & Cotton Duvet Cover - Double

This clever wall panelling trick can instantly make a small bedroom look larger, according to interior designers

Amy Lockwood — Sun, 26 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

When it comes to decorating, every room has its own unique plus points and challenges, and that's where a little interior design know-how can make all the difference to a successful decor scheme.

When it comes to my small bedroom, like many of us, my particular design challenges are all about maximizing space; both creating literal space via clever storage ideas and conjuring visual space to make my bedroom look and feel as large as it can.

Luckily, when it comes to small bedroom ideas, interior designers have plenty of clever tricks up their sleeves, and there's one particular trick that utilises a decorating trend you may have thought you couldn't incorporate into a small bedroom: wall panelling ideas.

This is the secret tongue-and-groove formula that interior designers use to create the illusion of more space in a bijou bedroom.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Katie Lee)

How panelling can make a small bedroom look bigger

In a small bedroom, it's understandable to be wary of adding anything to the walls that can take up extra space, so you'd be forgiven for thinking that bedroom wall panelling ideas were reserved only for those with plenty of square meterage to play with.

However, as Katerina Tchevytchalova, founder of interior design studio K’Arte Design, explains, 'when used thoughtfully, panelling can actually make a small bedroom feel larger rather than smaller.'

And as our experts reveal, this is especially true if you choose to panel the wall directly behind your bed.

'The bed is naturally the room's focal point, so highlighting this wall creates a sense of intention and visual order, making the space feel calmer and less cluttered,' explains Katerina.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Chris Snook)

'Panelling can be a great way to add architectural interest to a small bedroom without introducing visual clutter,' agrees Carina Raymond, founder of interior design studio Studio Raymond.

'A well-designed panelled wall behind the bed creates a focal point that naturally draws the eye forward, helping the room feel more intentional and considered,' explains Carina.

'Rather than making the space feel busy, it can actually bring a sense of order and structure, which often makes a smaller room feel larger and more refined.'

However, the key to using tongue-and-groove panelling to make a small bedroom look bigger isn't simply down to where you put the panelling in the room.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Cristogatin)

Yes, all our interior experts agree that creating a feature wall behind the bed is the best placement for panelling in a small bedroom, but there are also some other tricks to consider if you really want to maximise the visual effect.

Firstly, 'consider what type of panelling you are using,' says Lara Clarke, founder of interior design studio Lara Clarke Interiors. 'Vertical tongue and groove can draw the eye upwards to make the space seem higher.'

'Vertical panelling can be particularly effective, as it naturally draws the eye upwards and helps create the illusion of higher ceilings,' agrees Carina.

B&Q

Panels by Sofia Wide Tongue & Groove Paintable Wall Panel

Opt for simple vertical panels to make a small bedroom look visually bigger.

B&Q

Kraus Easy Living Acoustic Slat Wall Panel X3 Pack

Thin panels can also create the illusion of a wider wall, and this clever acoustic option can also dampen noise.

Dunelm

Wooden Slat Panel Wallpaper

Don't have the budget or DIY skills to install wooden panelling? You could always fake the look with some realistic wood panelled wallpaper.

'I’d also take the panelling all the way to the ceiling to maximise the sense of height of the room,' adds Katerina.

Next, consider the style of panelling you opt for. 'I would avoid overly ornate or heavily detailed panelling in a small bedroom,' says Carina. 'Instead, opt for simpler profiles that add texture without overwhelming the space.'

(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

'Keep the panelling profile simple,' agrees Katerina. 'Clean lines are generally more effective than highly ornate mouldings in compact spaces.

So, to maximise the sense of space in a small bedroom, we want vertical panels with a simple, clean-lined profile and to extend the panelling all the way to the ceiling.

But there is also another panelling trick the designers have up their sleeves, which can create even more visual space in the room.

'Colour drenching is one of my favourite techniques for making a room feel larger and more cohesive,' says Carina, and it's a great trick to pair with a panelled feature wall in a small bedroom.

(Image credit: Lara Clarke Studios)

'Painting the panelling in the same colour as the surrounding walls allows the eye to move seamlessly around the room without interruption,' explains Carina.

'Rather than highlighting where the walls begin and end, it softens the boundaries of the space and creates a more enveloping feel.'

'Colour drenching is one of the most effective ways to visually expand a compact room,' agrees Katerina.

'Painting the panelling the same colour as the surrounding walls allows it to add texture without creating harsh visual breaks. A seamless colour palette softens the edges of the room, helping the walls recede and making the space feel larger.

(Image credit: Future PLC / James French)

Plus, as Carina points out, 'the beauty of panelling is that even when it's painted the same colour as the walls, the shadows and subtle changes in depth still provide plenty of interest and character.'

I don't know about you, but I'm certainly now convinced that panelling is the way forward in my small bedroom.

And, thanks to our design experts' top tips, I now know exactly how to ensure this design choice adds visual space, rather than reducing it.

This is how a colour expert created the perfect engaging colour scheme for her son’s playroom – here’s how to translate it to your own home

Sara Hesikova — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Choosing a playroom colour scheme that will engage your little one just the right amount can be a tricky task – so why not take notes from a colour expert like Lick’s Tash Bradley who has both professional and personal experience with this very task? If you ask me, that’s the perfect source of inspiration for an engaging playroom colour scheme.

When thinking about who to ask for any colour-related playroom ideas, Tash Bradley was my first port of call. As a trained colour psychologist and the director of interior design at paint brand Lick, Tash is no stranger to designing homes and creating the perfect colour palettes for all kinds of rooms as she has done during more than 5000 colour consultations with her clients.

Last year, one of her clients was a little closer to home than most as she designed and created a beautiful playroom for her two-year-old son Zac, complete with great colour and paint ideas. ‘Designing Zac's playroom was one of my favourite rooms to work on. Whenever I'm designing a room, I always start with the feeling I want to create. I think about the memories I want us to make in that space and, in this case, what Zac naturally gravitates towards,’ Tash says.

The playroom colour scheme

(Image credit: Tash Bradley)

Even with playrooms, it’s important to work with the room itself and its particular dimensions, quirks and lighting. ‘It was north-facing, so naturally it didn't get a huge amount of light, especially during the winter months. Rather than fighting that, I wanted to create a space that felt bright, warm and uplifting,’ Tash says.

On the walls, she started with a neutral base of Lick White 05, available at B&Q, which allows the colourful toys to pop against it. It also has warm yellow undertones that balance out the lack of light in the room. ‘The walls, cupboards and woodwork are all painted in White 05, which is one of my favourite warm whites. It has those lovely yellow undertones that bounce light around the room and stop it ever feeling cold,’ Tash explains.

(Image credit: Tash Bradley)

But from there, things got more colourful – although the colour choices strike the perfect balance between calm and playful. ‘I chose Blue 15 for the ceiling because it's a soft, warm blue that instantly creates the feeling of looking up at the sky. Blue has a shorter wavelength of light, so it naturally helps a ceiling feel higher and the room feel more open.’

‘Because I wanted to bring in that playful energy, I painted the windowsill in Red 03. It's a small detail, but it creates a lovely focal point and nods back to those playful primary colours without overwhelming the space,’ Tash says.

Get the look

Lick

White 05 Matt Emulsion paint, 2.5L

If you're planning on injecting colour elsewhere, starting with the best white paint on the walls is a great idea.

Lick

Blue 15 Matt Emulsion paint, 2.5L

Whatever the colour scheme, painting the ceiling in blue to replicate the sky is so whimsical.

Lick

Red 03 Matt Emulsion paint, 2.5L

This earthy red is one of my all-time favourite Lick shades. And it makes for a great pop of colour in a playroom without being 'too much'.

Tiny Land

Teepee Tent for Kids with Padded Mat

Is any playroom truly complete without a play tent?! I think not. And this one comes with a padded mat included.

John Lewis

Luxe Wooden Play Kitchen

I love the look of the play kitchen. So I tracked it down, and it turns out it's this popular design from John Lewis.

Zara Home

Kids' circus paper hamper

Storage baskets for toys are a must in any play area. But you can really have fun with the designs as there are so many playful ones like this one.

On top of creating this beautiful space only last year, Tash is currently in the process of designing a second playroom for her son as the family is moving into a new house later this year, leaving London for the Somerset countryside. This is what Tash has got in store for this next project.

The next playroom

‘For the new house, I'm definitely keeping that same philosophy of creating a room that feels joyful and sparks creativity, but I think this time I'll be a little braver. I love the idea of introducing more colour through painted furniture, playful joinery or even colour-blocking, rather than relying solely on the walls,’ Tash says.

Furniture and stylish toy storage make for the perfect opportunity to incorporate some fun colours into the play space aside from the walls.

Just like with children’s bedrooms, introducing a theme to your little one’s playroom is also a great way to make it all the more magical. And that’s exactly what Tash is planning.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Siobhan Doran)

‘One of his favourite books at the moment is Mouse on the River, and every time we read it, I'm drawn to this beautiful palette of soft blues and greens that runs throughout the illustrations. It feels so calm, nostalgic and connected to nature. As the house is in the countryside, and his playroom overlooks the garden and all the trees, it just feels like the perfect starting point,’ Tash explains.

To bring this reference to life, Tash is looking to the colour wheel and a bit of colour theory which she’s, of course, very familiar with. ‘I'll almost certainly keep a painted ceiling because I love the personality it brings, and I'll continue to layer those playful primary colours throughout the room. I'm leaning towards a really soft analogous colour palette, using shades like Blue 18, Blue 03 and a beautiful soft rich olive green. Those colours all sit next to each other on the colour wheel, so they create this wonderfully harmonious, calming backdrop that's still full of personality.’

‘Then, because every room needs a little surprise, I want to bring in an unexpected accent of a rich burnt orange through furniture or accessories. It'll add warmth, energy and that playful touch that every playroom deserves.’

Get the look

Lick

Blue 18 Matt Emulsion paint, 2.5L

For Zac's second playroom, Tash is choosing a punchier but also a cooler blue with slight grey undertone.

Dulux

Overtly Olive Matt Emulsion paint, 2.5L

Tash hinted at incorporating a soft olive green shade in her project. And I think this Dulux colour fits the bill perfectly.

Kartell

Componibili Cabinet in Orange

A pop of burnt orange via some furniture? I got you. This Componibili cabinet will provide storage and since it's a design classic, it will never go out of style.

Tash concludes with how every playroom should feel, ‘The aim isn't to create a space that feels loud or overstimulating, but one that feels imaginative, energetic and full of happiness. Ultimately, a great playroom should inspire creativity while still feeling calm enough that both children and adults genuinely enjoy spending time there.’

I made a DIY bug screen to stop mosquitoes getting into my bedroom at night – it’s the best £10 I’ve spent this summer

Amy Lockwood — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

I’m sure I don’t need to tell you that it’s been warm at night recently, although, thankfully, July has seen cooler overnight temperatures than we saw during the tropical nights of the June heatwave.

That means that as long as you can open your bedroom windows at night, a cooler sleep is available. And as I've learnt in my five years as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, when it comes to sleeping better, a cooler sleep tends to go hand in hand with a deeper, more restorative sleep.

However, in my experience, opening the bedroom window at night can create its own problems. And where I live, those problems are mosquito-shaped.

That’s why, a few weeks ago, I found myself awake at 2 am, scratching the bite I’d just received on my ankle whilst a mosquito’s high-pitched buzzing sounded in my ears, and searching the internet for a solution.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Davide Lovatti)

Could I find a simple fix? No. At least, not a ready-made solution I could buy off the shelf. In other countries, fly screen mesh in a frame seems to be very common, but I couldn't find anywhere to buy a similar product in the UK. So, much googling later, I set about making one myself.

It took me several failed attempts (and a lot of disappointing Amazon purchases) to find a solution that worked, but in the end I created a DIY mosquito screen for my bedroom windows that couldn’t be simpler to install, and it only cost me roughly £10.

Should you too wish to outsmart the biting bugs and find a way to open your bedroom windows to make the most of the cool evening breeze after sunset, this is what you’ll need.

What you'll need

All you need for this fix is two items. That said, finding the *right* two items turned out to be trickier than I anticipated. Luckily, you can learn from my mistakes and head straight to the products that worked.

First up, you'll want some mesh fabric to create the window screen, and secondly, you'll need some hook-and-loop tape, also known as Velcro, if you buy the branded version, to fix that screen onto your window frame.

eBay

SISI UK Window Net Mesh Screen

I ordered a lot of different (and disappointing) 'fly mesh' before I found one that wasn't super flimsy. This net from SISI UK was by far the most robust.

Amazon

VELCRO Cut-To-Length Strong Hook & Loop Self Adhesive Sticky Tape

I used white Velcro hook-and-loop tape that was 20mm wide around all four sides of my window frame.

Amazon

SISI UK Grey Insect Mesh Cut to Size Window Screen

You can also shop some SISI UK fly mesh products on Amazon, including grey and black mesh fabric.

How I made the DIY mosquito screen

Velcro and fly mesh sourced, I then set about creating a screen that would keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay.

Now, there is one caveat to this DIY solution. The best solution I could conjure involves fixing self-adhesive hook-and-loop tape to your window frame.

I was initially reluctant to do this because I didn’t *really* want tape stuck to my window frame, and when it came time to remove it, I knew the self-adhesive would probably be tricky to take off without leaving sticky residue.

Future PLC / Amy Lockwood

However, you can’t make a cake without breaking some eggs, and after some very hot nights with the windows closed and some very itchy nights getting bitten when I opened said windows, I decided I could live with the tape.

Buy white hook-and-loop tape if you have white window frames, and I’ve found it really isn’t as noticeable as I feared. In fact, I'm happy to leave it on my windows all year round, ready for next year.

In the end, I used VELCRO Cut-To-Length Strong Hook & Loop Self Adhesive Sticky Tape. It’s self-adhesive and comes in various widths and lengths, as well as in both black and white. I used the 20mm width, which I found was the best width for my window frame.

I measured the frame around the window I wanted to leave open at night, and then bought enough tape to tape around all four sides of my window.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Amy Lockwood)

Next up, the fly screen or mesh. I tried multiple types of mesh, but by far the best was this £5.95 Fly Screen Mesh from SISI UK, which I bought on eBay. However, the brand does also seem to sell similar options on its SISI UK Amazon store.

This mesh is stiff, so it holds its shape well, and the holes are big enough to let through a breeze, yet small enough that even the smallest biting bug hasn't been able to penetrate.

I cut the mesh to size so that it covered my window opening and the frame completely, and then stuck the other half of the hook-and-loop tape along each edge of the mesh.

Because the mesh I finally chose is fairly stiff, I found the self-adhesive stuck pretty well. However, if you have more time and patience than me, you can also buy sew-on hook-and-loop tape, which you could stitch along all edges of the mesh. That would probably be stronger still.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Amy Lockwood)

Now, as night falls and the outdoor temperature gets cooler, I simply open my window and attach the hook-and-loop tape along the edges of the mesh fly screen to the hook-and-loop tape on my window frame.

This means that the mosquito screen is sealed all around each edge, so there’s no way anything can crawl or fly through.

Then, each morning, I simply peel the hook-and-loop tape apart, and my window is back to normal (minus the tape around the edge of the frame).

However, if you want to make your house impenetrable to flies during the daytime too, you could leave the screen in place all day.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Amy Lockwood)

The only downside I’ve found in the past few weeks of using this hack (other than the taped window frame) is that the mesh does restrict the breeze a little.

It’s now far cooler in my bedroom at night than it would be with the windows closed, but not as cool as when the mesh is completely removed. However, for me, that compromise is worth it to remain unbitten.

I've also found that you can counteract this problem by adding a mosquito screen to windows on both sides of your home, where possible. This creates a cross breeze that draws air through the building and keeps things cool whilst you sleep.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Amy Lockwood)

And, it isn't just mosquitoes that this DIY fly screen has helped with. Whilst I'm very grateful for the wildlife that makes use of my garden during the night, I do prefer moths to stay outside if possible, rather than flying around my room.

Plus, I think that both myself and the bats who live under my roof eaves are happier to greet each other from a distance. I imagine neither of us particularly wants to experience the chaos that might ensue if we found ourselves sharing the same room!

Considering what a difference this DIY hack has made to my sleep comfort, this is easily the best £10 I've spent this summer, and (once I'd sourced the right products) it really couldn't have been easier to install.

'Like magic in a heatwave' – this cooling duvet has transformed my sleep in hot weather

Zoë Phillimore — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

I put the Bedsure Cooling Duvet to the test in a heatwave, and I'm impressed. This cooling cover definitely gave the best duvets on the market a run for their money in the cooling stakes.

In a nutshell

It’s generally accepted that it’s very difficult to sleep in a heatwave. Duvets are probably the last thing you want to think about when you’re in the midst of another record-breaking run of hot days. But if, like me, you're eager for a cooler sleep, I was really pleasantly surprised by the Bedsure Cooling Duvet, which is currently fairly reasonably priced at under £50 for a double on Amazon.

I’m a sleep-product reviewer, and I’ve made a career out of finding the best duvets on the market to suit all preferences and budgets. This Bedsure Cooling Duvet is hard to beat. The cool-to-touch casing is complemented by rayon and bamboo filling. These weighty fillings actually help you stay cool by regulating your temperature and wicking away sweat.

I found sleeping under the Bedsure duvet a genuine pleasure. I found the combination of the cooling sleep surface, plus the comforting gentle weight and silky drape of its fabric and filling helped me sleep better and for longer than I usually do during a heatwave.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

Specifications

RRP: £40.99 / £51.99 / £61.99 / £65.99
Sizes: single / double / king / super king
Tog rating: n/a
Materials: outer: nylon, elastane, rayon, bamboo
Care: machine wash on cool, delicate cycle, tumble dry on low
Manufacturer sleep trial: none

(Image credit: Bedsure)

Feel

On unpacking, what I immediately noticed about this duvet was how cool to the touch it felt (more on that in a bit), and also how pleasantly weighty it felt in my hands.

When it’s hot, I often struggle to sleep without a duvet, because I find the weight of a duvet helps me to relax. However, as temperatures soar, I’m torn between wanting the heft of a duvet and the fact it overheats me. So I was delighted by this duvet, which offers a gentle weight and drapes really nicely over my body but also keeps me cool.

The outer casing of the duvet is silky and soft, meaning you can use it as a coverless duvet if you want. It feels quite similar to a sleeping bag, in that it’s slippery – but thankfully not as sweaty.

The stitching on the duvet is in curves. This looks nice, yes, but in practical terms, it will also keep the filling from slipping around.

The Bedsure Cooling Duvet comes in four solid colourways: grey, blue, green and white. There are also tabs on each corner in case you prefer to tie it to the inside of a duvet cover.

Overall, I was really impressed by the premium feel and smart design of this duvet.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

Temperature regulation

In the summer, I usually sleep under the 4.5 tog Scooms Hungarian Goose Feather and Down Duvet. However, I tested the Bedsure Cooling Duvet during a record-breaking heatwave in June, and it was definitely too hot for my usual 4.5 tog duvet. I’d been resorting to sleeping under a Piglet in Bed linen flat sheet – but I was finding even that was too hot.

All this is to say, I wasn’t sure I was up for testing a duvet in the current circumstances. It was only the lure of that 'cooling' promise that got me to consider slipping under any form of cover, and to be honest, I wasn't expecting to be that impressed by those cooling claims. However, I was wrong.

I unpacked the Bedsure Cooling Duvet as interior temperatures in my house were around 30ºC. Bedsure claims that this duvet will instantly cool your body by 4º – for fact fans, this means it’s Q-Max > 0.4. I was intrigued by this idea, and not just because I desperately needed to rescue my sleep quality in the heatwave.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

As a sleep-product reviewer, I know that a drop in core body temperature before bedtime sends a signal to the brain that it’s time for sleep. So this duvet could ultimately help me sleep better if its cooling claims worked.

The duvet itself is filled with rayon and bamboo, which are fabrics associated with good thermoregulation. They allow better airflow around your body, allowing cool air to circulate around you while also wicking away sweat. Although it sounds grim, having your sweat wicked away is essential to helping your body feel cool.

So in practice, did all of this stack up? I was surprisingly thrilled to report that yes – I found this duvet’s temperature regulation brilliant. I slipped under the duvet on a boiling-hot night in the hottest room in the house, and I felt actively cooled. It honestly felt like magic.

My husband initially mocked me for lying under a duvet during a heatwave, but I invited him to touch the duvet, and even he had to admit he was impressed by how cold it felt.

The one downside? Those cooling powers were less effective if I put a duvet cover on the duvet. It was the silky surface that really offered the most cooling against my hot skin. And that does mean you'd need to wash the entire duvet to freshen it up, rather than just a duvet cover.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

Ease of care

The care label instructs that the Bedsure Cooling duvet can be machine washed at 40 on a gentle cycle. You can also tumble dry the duvet on low.

The duvet filling is quite flat and dense, but that means it doesn't require any shaking out or 'refluffling' like my usual feather and down duvet. However, this does mean it looked slightly flat on my bed, which might be a minus point for people who care about aesthetics.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

Sleep trial

The one downside of this duvet is that there's no sleep trial available. That means that, unlike some duvets, you can't test it out on your bed and return it if it isn't suitable for your needs.

However, it is at least quite reasonable priced, which I think makes taking a punt on this cooling cover a lot less risky. More on its price point below.

Value for money

Although this is a mostly synthetic duvet (bamboo aside), I'm still impressed with its low price point. A single costs around £40 and a double £50.

According to my research, the Bedsure Cooling Duvet is also often reduced at Amazon, which makes its budget-friendly price tag even lower.

The quality of the Bedsure Cooling Duvet is outstanding - as good as duvets I’ve tested that are 10 times the price (this will be to do with the price of the fillings though). It feels durable and made to last.

I double-checked how it was rated by other owners online, and was pleased to note that they were also thrilled by how cooling this duvet was in a heatwave.

There were a few people who said it didn’t work for them long term through the night, but I do wonder if they used it with a duvet cover on, which I found did make the cooling experience a little less impactful.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

How I tested

I tested the Bedsure Cooling Duvet for 10 days during a record-breakingly hot June. Temperatures reached around 30ºC in my bedroom, and at night it didn’t cool much.

I had the bedroom windows open and a fan on me constantly – my usual set-up during very hot nights – so I was able to compare the duvet side by side with both a linen sheet and my usual 4.5 tog feather and down duvet.

I monitored my sleep quality using an Oura Ring 4, which gives me an almost overwhelming amount of stats. It had been chastising me for the lack of sleep I was achieving in the run-up to the testing period, but my sleep under the Bedsure Cooling Duvet seemed to satisfy my Oura Ring somewhat.

Other things I factored into my testing were the feel and quality of the duvet, how easy it is to care for, and, of course, value for money is always part of the duvet testing process at Ideal Home. I compared this duvet to similar options on the market, and considered how its performance compares to its price point. I was impressed on all fronts by the Bedsure Cooling Duvet.

Are playrooms becoming outdated? Interior designers reveal what modern families are choosing instead

Sara Hesikova — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Traditionally, children’s playrooms have been contained in dedicated rooms in the majority of family homes. But things are changing and modern families embrace alternative approaches – so should you have a playroom? Or is it no longer a necessity or even the go-to approach?

I asked three interior designers to see what their top recommendations when it comes to separate playroom ideas would be – and what most parents choose to go for these days. It turns out that separate playrooms are becoming increasingly rare as families choose to create play corners and areas within shared spaces like a family living room.

Like most things, even dedicated playrooms have their pros and cons – and the interior experts shed a light on both to help you decide whether a playroom is the right choice for you and your family. Or should you adopt an alternative approach?

(Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes)

Pros of a dedicated playroom

Children have a lot of toys and they can get pretty messy, especially without the right toy storage ideas. Having a separate playroom can contain all of their toys and mess within that one room without spilling into the other areas of your home.

‘A dedicated space for clutter and toys where the children can feel comfortable to relax and play without potentially damaging any other areas in the house is a huge plus,’ says Francesca Leat, owner, director and head designer at Francesca Leat Interiors.

Emma Deterding, founder and creative director at Kelling Designs, agrees, ‘The joy of having a playroom is that it gives children a safe, stimulating environment to explore and play independently and it helps contain toys, arts and crafts from the rest of your home.’

(Image credit: Future PLC/Caroline Mardon)

Cons of a dedicated playroom

On the flip side, the downsides of a playroom are that they can accumulate unnecessary mess and clutter and they can make it more difficult for parents to keep an eye on younger children.

In fact, many children prefer to play in closer proximity to their parents and other adults that are around so that alone can make the idea of a dedicated playroom somewhat redundant.

‘A separate room can be underused if the kids like to stay close to their parents. And as children grow, the room often needs repurposing. It can also encourage an accumulation of toys that often aren't cleared out, making organisation more of a challenge,’ Emma at Kelling Designs explains.

Francesca Leat adds, ‘One of the cons would be that it may result in seeing less of your children from time to time or if you have younger children it can be challenging to keep an eye on them. Playrooms as standalone spaces perhaps work better for older or teenage children as somewhere to watch TV or focus on arts and crafts.’

(Image credit: Future PLC/Bee Holmes)

What’s the best alternative to a playroom?

Of course, not every home has a spare room that can be dedicated to a playroom. But Jo Lane, founder of online interior design service See Your Place, finds that this isn’t necessarily the number one reason why most parents these days choose to forgo a traditional playroom in favour of a play area in a shared room like an open-plan living room or even the kitchen.

‘Most families tend to opt for a play area within a living room space rather than a separate playroom. This isn’t always driven by space limitations – often people do have two or three separate reception rooms, but make a conscious choice to incorporate play within their most used lounge room.'

(Image credit: Future PLC/Nathalie Priem)

'This is because children naturally tend to want to spend time with their adult carers in whichever space the adults are in and play alongside them. And more people seem to favour creating two separate spaces for the whole family to relax in together at different times of the day,’ she explains.

Emma at Kelling Designs also recommends incorporating a play area into shared space of the home, ‘There can be pressure to create a whole dedicated room, but I advise creating a play space instead if space allows.'

'Creating a play area in a family space or even using flexible furniture that can transition between play and everyday life can work really well. This is what we're seeing more often in modern family homes, especially as homes become more compact.'

'It's also a great way to keep children in sight while maintaining a balanced home that works for the entire family.’

(Image credit: Future PLC/Tim Young)

But in order to pull this off, you’ll need to incorporate great storage, especially hidden toy storage ideas, and multifunctional pieces of furniture that also look good in a shared family space, much like these.

My top picks for a play area

La Redoute

Ptilu Wood and Rattan Bookcase

When it comes to toy and children's book storage it doesn't get much more stylish than this La Redoute bookcase. And it's currently on sale!

M&S

Seagrass Large Round Tall Storage Basket

Baskets like this one are among the most stylish, effective and affordable storage solutions. And this applies to toy storage, too.

Dunelm

Wavie Tiny Stripe Storage Footstool

Hidden storage like ottomans and footstools like this stylish Dunelm number are a must in concealing children's toys in a shared space.

Habitat

Kids Scalloped Book Storage

This kind of book storage/display is popular as it makes accessing and putting books aways super easy for kids. And the scalloped edge makes it all the prettier.

Mustard Made

The Standard locker

Investing in storage pieces of furniture that are fun but not too childish is key. Mustard Made's colourful lockers tick all the boxes and come in a wide range of colours to choose from.

Oyoy Living

Kids Hand-Woven Washable Rug Chess

A play area/playroom rug is a great tool for visially dividing and anchoring your little one's play corner from the rest of the living space. And this washable, chequered design is fun, stylish and easy to take care of.

Are you team dedicated playrooms? Or are you also leaning towards creating a play area within a shared living space?

5 clever buys experts use to make a wardrobe smell amazing – banish musty smells and keep clothes smelling fresh between washes

Rebecca Lawton — Sun, 19 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

There's nothing quite like opening your wardrobe to the smell of freshly laundered clothes. Equally, there's nothing worse than being greeted with stale, musty odours. As enclosed spaces, wardrobes are prone to trapped moisture, allowing lingering fabric smells build up over time.The good news? There are plenty of clever buys that can help make a wardrobe smell good.

The trick is choosing the right product for the job. From wardrobe sprays to hanging wax tablets, some deliver an instant refresh, while others are designed to slowly release fragrance over time. And when it comes to choosing a fragrance, the notes you opt for can make more difference than you might think.

Just as there's no shortage of ways to make a home smell good. it's worth giving the same attention to your wardrobe, particularly during a summer heatwave when warm weather can make stale smells more noticeable. To find out which products are worth investing in, we asked experts to share their go-to buys, along with their top tips for keeping stale smells at bay.

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)

1. Clothes sprays

Clothes sprays are one of the quickest ways to make your wardrobe smell good.

'Sprays tend to be the easiest place to start,' says David Aspinall, co-founder of Chase and Wonder. 'A light mist on hanging clothes or drawer linings gives an instant lift without overpowering the fabric, and you can top it up as often as you like.'

David points out that clothes hold onto fragrance for a long time, and a little goes a long way. 'I'd always suggest starting light and building up, rather than the other way round,' he adds.

Before reaching for the spray, Klaudia Skarbek, professional cleaner at Wecasa, recommends lightly misting a clean cloth with a linen spray and wiping the inside surfaces of the wardrobe, rather than spraying clothes directly. 'This leaves a subtle, clean scent without risking any stains,' she says.

Amazon

Knitwear Mist Cedarwood and Vanilla

M&S

Bed Room & Linen Spray

Amazon

The Lab Co. Cashmere & Wool Mist Spray

2. Hanging wax tablets

If you want your wardrobe to have a subtle scent every time you open the doors, hanging wax tablets are a great option. Unlike sprays, which give an instant burst of fragrance, they release scent more gradually, making them a low-maintenance way to keep clothes smelling fresh for weeks.

'Hanging wax tablets provide gentle, long-lasting fragrances,' says Hetan Soni, scent expert from Perfume Essence.

And because they simply hang from a rail or hook, they're a clever wardrobe idea if you want to add a decorative touch, while keeping clothes smelling fresh between washes. They're particularly useful in wardrobes storing seasonal clothing, as they'll continue releasing fragrance even when you're not opening the doors every day.

Amazon

William Morris at Home Scented Wax Tablets

Liberty London

Tabacco Toscano Scented Wax Tablets Set of 2

Amazon

Wardrobe Wax Tablets

3. Scented drawer liners

Drawer liners don't just protect your clothes from scuffs and snags; they're also a great way to fragrance your belongings.

'Lining drawers with scented drawer liners or acid-free tissue infused with a light fragrance can make a noticeable difference,' says Klaudia.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Chris Snook)

They're an easy way to add fragrance without taking up any extra space, making them ideal for drawers storing underwear, pyjamas or knitwear.

It's worth considering how long you want the scent to last. 'There's a myriad of scents, and each releases fragrance differently, so the best choice often depends on your wardrobe’s size and how long you want the scent to linger,' adds Hetan.

The best wardrobe fragrance should be subtle, adds Hetan. 'Fresh linen, cotton and citrus scents create the impression of freshly washed clothes.'

The Master Herbalist

Willow William Morris Scented Drawer Liners in 5 Fragrances.

Amazon

Scentorini Linen Scented Drawer Liners

Dunelm

Tuberose and Cashmere Drawer Liners

4. Lavender sachets

One of the most traditional - and affordable - ways to scent a wardrobe is with lavender. Whether you chose sachets, cushions or hanging bags, it's a classic favourite that leaves clothes smelling fresh.

Lavender is also commonly used to get rid of moths in wardrobes, making it particularly useful if you store any knitwear, wool or cashmere items.

'Lavender is one of the inexpensive household items that works surprisingly well,' says Klaudia. 'Dried lavender in fabric sachets provides a gentle, natural scent while also helping deter moths.'

The White Company

Wool-Cotton Lavender Bag - Set of 2

Amazon

12 Sachets of Premium Dried Lavender

Natural Bed Company

Lavender Sachets

5. Cedar blocks and natural fresheners

Another natural option for keeping wardrobes smelling fresh, cedar blocks, are also a popular choice when it comes to deterring clothes moths.

'Cedarwood blocks remain popular, because alongside their fragrance, they also help to repel clothes moths,' says Hetan.

Of course, even the best home fragrances work most effectively when they're paired with good wardrobe habits. As Klaudia explains, keeping a wardrobe fresh starts with tackling the source of the odour. 'That involves regular cleaning, controlling humidity, ensuring clothes are completely dry before storage, and maintaining good ventilation,' she says. 'Once those basics are in place, natural fresheners like lavender or cedar enhance the freshness rather than hiding unpleasant smells.'

John Lewis

John Lewis Cedar Blocks, Pack of 24

Lakeland

28-Piece Cedar Wood Moth Repellent Set

Amazon

100% Natural Cedarwood Blocks

How can you keep your wardrobe smelling fresher for longer?

Even the best fragrance products won't work well if the wardrobe itself needs attention.

The best way to make a wardrobe smell good is to tackle the cause of odours rather than simply adding fragrance,' says Klaudia.

She recommends emptying the wardrobe every few months and wiping down shelves and surfaces with a mild cleaning solution. Leave the doors open for a few hours to air it out. It's also worth vacuuming corners and skirting inside the wardrobe when you do your spring or autumn clean, as dust can hold onto odours.

'My main tip though is to make sure your clothes are fully dry before putting them back in the wardrobe fully dry because it is one of the simplest ways to keep everything smelling fresh,' she adds.

If you want to make a wardrobe smell good it doesn't need to be complicated - a few clever buys can make all the difference. Let us know if you have a favourite way to fragrance your wardrobe!

This £7.99 Amazon buy protected the most expensive item in my children’s bedrooms – I'm not surprised it has so many 5-star reviews

Rachel Tompkins — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

As a mum of two boys, aged 13 and 10, I know just how quickly household items can get destroyed by young, boisterous children.

Items in their bedrooms are no exception, and that's why I'm so pleased I came across this £7.99 Amazon buy. It may not be the most glamorous purchase, but it's protected one of the most expensive purchases we made for the boys' rooms.

Plus, having tested it on the beds in our house, I'm not surprised it has over 11,000 mostly 5-star reviews.

What is it? A humble waterproof mattress protector. And if you haven't yet invested in one for your child's bedroom, let me explain why this purchase could be the best thing you've ever bought for under a tenner.

Amazon

Caroline Shatuik 100% Waterproof Mattress Protector

This budget buy can solve a lot of potentially expensive bedtime mishaps.

We all know that the best mattresses don't come cheap, so this isn't an item you want to buy twice, and let me tell you, children’s mattresses really do take a beating!

Although my children only had the occasional bedwetting accident when they were small, there have been occasions over the years when guests came to stay, and an accident occurred, and I struggled to shift the stain afterwards.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Kasia Fiszer)

More recently, the big problem is food and drink being spilled on the bed and seeping through onto the mattress. We’ve had a bowl of cereal tipped over, a bedtime drink of water sent flying onto the mattress, and even bright pink Calpol splodged everywhere.

Plus, I find one of the worst offenders for staining the mattress is when fake tan and sweat seeps through, leaving a horrible brown stain (and I confess I can’t blame that on the kids!).

Despite following all the top tips on how to clean a mattress, each time I do my best to scrub the liquid or stained patch off, but no amount of scrubbing and drying will completely remove the watermark and discoloured area.

It makes an expensive mattress look unsightly and means it needs replacing more often.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Katie Jane Watson)

The answer, of course, is adding a good mattress protector to the bed. However, as a child of the 80's, I had vivid memories of scratchy waterproof mattress protectors which crackled more than a packet of crisps if you dared to roll over at night! That was enough to put me off for life.

Fast forward forty years, however, and it turns out waterproof mattress protectors have come on a lot in terms of effectiveness and comfort.

I took a punt, and convinced by the number of positive online reviews, I gave this £7.99 Amazon mattress protector a go.

There are more expensive options available, of course, and I've rounded up some of the best we've tested below, but I wanted to see how this budget buy compared.

Shop alternatives

Soak & Sleep

Waterproof Coolmax Mattress Protector

As one of the thickest waterproof mattress protectors we've tested, this buy can really handle large spills. As a result, it can be one of the best buys for bedwetting.

Panda

Bamboo Mattress Protector

Or, if discretion is the name of the game, this super-thin waterproof mattress protector is very discreet and virtually silent.

Dunelm

Fogarty Terry Towelling Waterproof Mattress Protector

Alternatively, if you prefer the option to shop in-store as well as online, then this affordable terry towelling protector is another budget-friendly buy.

In contrast to more expensive options, my £7.99 buy may have arrived in very no-frills packaging, but on opening it I was struck by how soft it is – a world away from the scratchy waterproof mattress covers of yesteryear!

The terry towelling top layer felt soft and thick, and it didn’t make a loud crackly noise when I pushed and scrunched it.

Fitting it onto the mattress, I was also impressed by how deep it is; it fitted easily over my thick mattress and even on a mattress with a topper on it.

The elasticated edge also keeps the cover in place well, so it doesn’t wriggle out of place in the night, and both my sons and I can report that there's barely any noise when moving or rolling over.

Future PLC / Rachle Tompkins

I put it to the test by pouring some water onto it and was impressed by how it completely prevented the water from seeping through to the mattress below, making it ideal to guard mattresses against spilled drinks or accidents, as well as unsightly fake-tan stains!

Plus, it's washable at 40 degrees and suitable for being tumble-dried at a low temperature.

The only downside I found is that the ‘skirt’ around the sides is quite thin and not much thicker than a pair of tights. I do worry a little that it will get easily snagged or laddered, but with a fitted sheet over the top, we didn't have any issues.

And it seems I'm not alone in being a fan of this budget buy. As one 5-star Amazon review says, 'I have to say I'm so impressed with this product, I immediately purchased another.'

(Image credit: Siobhan Doran Studio)

'The toweling side is soft, and the waterproof side makes no annoying crinkling sound,' shares the happy owner. 'The main bonus is the fact you can tumble dry it! Something I've never been able to do with these types of sheets before.'

'I've bought several of these mattress protectors over the years,' says another reviewer. 'They work so well and really are waterproof. They definitely help to preserve your mattress. They wash really nicely and can be tumble dried, which is so convenient. Fantastic value for money.'

Clearly I’m not alone in thinking that this budget buy is a lifesaver when it comes to protecting the most expensive thing in my children’s bedrooms! For our needs, this budget buy does the job perfectly.

5 clever ways to get wrinkles out of bedding without an iron – get that fresh-made bed look with minimal effort

Rebecca Lawton — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:00:00 +0000

I'm sure I'm not alone when I say ironing my bedding isn't at the top of my to-do list, so much so that I'll avoid it at all costs. If, like me, you're looking for clever ways to get creases and wrinkles out of bedding without reaching for the best steam iron, the good news is that not only is it possible, but you probably don't need to iron it at all.

In fact, laundry experts say most wrinkles form long before sheets reach the bed. A few simple tweaks to how you wash, dry, and make the bed can make all the difference. Better yet, if you're investing in new sheets, it's worth knowing where to buy bedding that looks great and requires minimal upkeep.

While there's no shortage of opinions when it comes to whether you should iron your bedding, the truth is a perfectly pressed finish isn't the only way to make your bed look and feel fresh. These expert-approved tips will help you get smoother-looking sheets with minimal effort. And if you really can't be bothered, linen offers that intentionally relaxed, crumpled-on-purpose look.

1. Stop creases forming in the wash

'The biggest mistake people make is trying to tackle creases once the bedding is already dry,' says Martin Seeley, CEO at MattressNextDay. 'In reality, most wrinkles form much earlier, either in the washing machine or while the bedding is sitting in the dryer after the cycle has finished.'

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Chloe Baker from specialist laundry experts, Dr Beckmann, explains why you shouldn't just rely on ironing your bedding afterwards. 'Overloading the washing machine is one of the most common culprits,' she explains. 'Sheets need space to move freely during the cycle to avoid creasing.'

It's also worth choosing a lower spin speed, as very high spins tend to press creases deeper into the fabric.

2. Remove bedding from the dryer before it's completely dry

How you dry your bedding can make as much difference to how you wash it. Rather than leaving sheets in the tumble dryer, Kriti Mawij, head of procurement at bedding brand Belledorm, recommends taking them out while they're still slightly warm.

'The single biggest improvement is to take bedding out of the tumble dryer while it's still slightly warm and make the bed straight away,' she says. 'The residual warmth lets the fabric relax and settle smooth.'

Kriti also advises drying on a low-to-medium heat rather than a hot cycle, and giving everything a firm shake before it goes on the bed. 'If you line-dry, hang sheets promptly and fold them while barely damp, which does much the same job,' she adds.

(Image credit: Future PLC)

3. Use a steamer or mister for stubborn creases

If wrinkles are still visible once the bed's made, there's no need to get the ironing board out. This is where some of the best handheld steamers come in, quickly relaxing the fibres in your bedding to smooth away stubborn creases. If you'd prefer not to use another appliance, a light mist of water can work surprisingly well, too.

'If you notice a few wrinkles once the bed is made, lightly mist the duvet cover with clean water before smoothing it over with your hands,' says Martin. 'Some luxury hotels use this trick when dressing beds, as the moisture helps relax the fibres as it evaporates, leaving the bedding looking noticeably smoother within minutes.'

(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

And while a steam iron will always have a place for when you want a truly crisp finish, it doesn't need to be the first port of call every time you wash your bedding. A crease-release spray can work in much the same way, with the added bonus of leaving your bed smelling fresh.

However, as Chloe explains, 'Simple washing and drying habits have the biggest impact on preventing creases in the first place. Finishing products come into their own once the basics are covered.'

For most cotton and linen bedding, Dr. Beckmann Starch & Easy Iron Spray is a quick way to help bedding hold a smoother, sharper finish for longer.

4. Let your fitted sheet - and your bed - breathe

As much as your laundry routine does play a part in reducing creases in your bedding, sometimes it boils down to how you make your bed afterwards.

'I’d recommend spending an extra minute pulling your fitted sheet nice and taut,' says Martin. 'A lot of people don’t realise that a fitted sheet that’s too shallow for the mattress will constantly bunch up and crease throughout the day, no matter how well it’s been washed.'

Martin also says it's worth letting your bed air for around 30 to 60 minutes before making it each morning, as it allows moisture and heat that build up overnight to escape rather than becoming trapped in your bedding.

5. Choose linen bedding

(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)

Still determined to banish ironing from your routine altogether? Linen bedding could be the answer - just not for the reason you might think.

'Linen actually creases more than most fabrics, not less,' says Kriti. 'What makes it perfect for iron-avoiders is that it's never meant to look pressed. Its relaxed, gently crumpled texture is part of the appeal, so you can take it off the line, put it on the bed and enjoy it exactly as it is.'

If you prefer crisp, hotel-inspired finish, Kriti suggests choosing an easy-care polycotton blend, which naturally springs back into shape after washing.

Shop linen bedding

M&S

Pure Linen Bedding Set

You can't beat crisp, white sheets and this M&S has been crowned the most affordable 100% linen bedding in our guide.

Soak&Sleep

French Linen Duvet Cover

Made from breathable, temperature-regulating French linen, this Soak & Sleep bedding isn't the thickest linen but that makes it ideal for warmer summer nights.

Secret Linen Store

Vintage Rose 100% Linen Duvet Cover - Single

For a pop of colour, Secret Linen Store's collection of over 30 colour styles, plus it claims to feel softer with every wash.

I'm off to put these tips to decrease bedding into practice - starting by remembering not to leave my washing sitting in the machine for hours! Will you be giving any of these hacks a try?

A rug is an essential in any playroom – these are the 12 practical, stylish and comfortable rugs loved by parents and children alike

Sara Hesikova — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Given that children spend a lot of time playing on the floor, a playroom rug is simply a must-have. But not all children’s rugs are created equal – that’s why I’ve rounded up 12 playroom rugs that come highly recommended by parents, including the Ideal Home editors who have kids of their own.

Playroom rugs offer the perfect cushioning for any ground-based play. So when shopping for the perfect rug for your little one’s playroom, it’s important to factor that in and choose a design that’s soft enough for your kids to comfortably sit and lie on for an extended period of time.

Stains and spillages are very common with children so a rug design that’s easy to clean is going to make your life a lot easier. But while the practicalities are of the highest importance, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style and whimsy as there are many chic and adorable children’s rugs out there.

But if you’re not sure where to buy the best rug for your little one’s playroom, I’ve done the research so that you don’t have to and found 12 of the best rated rugs available, including the one that our Senior Digital Editor, Jenny McFarlane couldn’t recommend enough – the Totter and Tumble Morris & Co. The Strawberry Thief Playmat which many other parents swear by. ‘I wouldn't consider any other playmat. It lives in the playroom and we love it, we’ve had it for years,’ Jenny says.

Easy-to-clean playroom rugs

Totter + Tumble

Morris & Co. The Strawberry Thief Playmat

'It's so comfy and squishy underfoot. It's double-sided so you can change things up, easy to clean if there are accidents or spillages. And it's also a cute design that looks nice in big girl rooms,' Jenny says. What's not to like?!

Oyoy Living

Kids Hand-Woven Washable Rug Chess

Perfect for small playrooms or play areas, this rug is the perfect injection of colour while also looking chic and put together. Made from pure cotton, it's also machine washable for ease.

Ruggable

Iris Apfel Jingle Jungle Flatwoven Rug

Ruggable is the master of washable rugs. And while the brands has hundreds of styles to choose from - all of which are washable - this one just screams whimsical playroom!

Bubba Bear

Foldable Padded Waterproof Play Mat

If you prefer a playmat that you can wipe down rather than a classic washable rug then this Bubba Bear design would be my top recommendation as it's wipeable, foldable and it features a stylish print.

Best budget playroom rugs

Habitat

Kids Lion Face Round Yellow Short Pile Rug

If you're working with a small budget, it doesn't get much more affordable than this joyful lion head-motif rug from Habitat. And it's loved for its bright design and the fact it doesn't slide around.

So'Home

Kids Starry Night Scene Patterned Rug

If you're after a soft-feeling rug on a budget that also delivers a minimal but chic Scandi look then look no further - this rug from La Redoute delivers on every front.

George Home

Natural Bear Rug

Boasting over 50 five-star reviews, this budget-friendly children's rug from George Home is widely loved by customers. The charming bear head design is perfect for a woodland or a nature-inspired theme.

PractiRug

Adventure Play Washable Kids Rug

We all know those classic playroom rugs with roads and tracks, widely loved mostly by little boys. This is a nicer-looking take on the traditional design, which won't break the bank either.

The softest playroom rugs

Dunelm

Woodland Animals Washable Faux Fur Rug

It can't get much softer than a child-friendly rug design made with faux fur. And existing customers praise it for its extreme softness. On top of that, it's a washable design, too!

John Lewis

Life's a Carnival Wool Rug

Few rugs are as naturally soft as those made with natural wool. That's exactly what this round circus-themed rug is crafted from. The colourful design is just the cherry on top.

Great Little Trading Co.

Day at the Farm Rug

This isone of the most adorable yet stylish children's rugs I've seen, featuring the classic road design once more but with a farm theme and tufted motifs like animals and trees.

John Lewis

Dinosaur Wool Rug

Dinosaurs are a beloved motif for many children. And this pure wool rug really runs with the theme, covering the entire design with different kinds of tufted dinos.

Even though a playroom is your child's territory, you can certainly lend a helping hand when it comes to decorating the space – whether it's choosing the best rug or stylish playroom storage furniture to organise their toys.

Playroom storage can be both stylish and playful – I tracked down 12 pieces of toy storage furniture that will be loved by parents and kids alike

Sara Hesikova — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 08:30:00 +0000

I don’t know about you but I often come across furniture or decor designed for children’s rooms but it’s so pretty and stylish that I’d happily use it myself. When it comes to playroom storage, it’s not exactly known for being the most aesthetically pleasing – and yet, it can be. I tracked down 12 of the most stylish pieces of toy storage furniture that both you and your little ones will love.

Most of the common toy storage ideas favour brightly coloured plastic bins and cube storage units like the IKEA KALLAX. But there’s so much more than that available on the market – and it doesn’t have to be super expensive either. Google Trends reports a more than 5000% increase in searches for 'playroom storage' so I'm here to deliver.

Whether it’s swapping out a plastic toy storage crate for a natural rattan toy box like this one from H&M Home or opting for the chic La Redoute Ptilu bookcase with rattan inserts rather than the usual IKEA playroom ideas, there are plenty of creative, stylish yet whimsical playroom ideas on this list. And if you’re looking for a little easy DIY project, I recommend snapping up this pine Habitat Rico storage unit and giving it an artistic makeover with some paint.

La Redoute

Ptilu Wood and Rattan Bookcase

Habitat

Kids Scalloped Book Storage in Sage Green

The White Company

Rattan Cloud Bookshelf

Forehill

Kids Toy Storage Cabinet With Rolling Wheels

La Redoute

Minetta Vintage Rattan Shelf

Dunelm

Kids Amber Wall Mounted Book Shelf

Habitat

Kids Rico Double Storage Unit in Pine

H&M Home

Children's Storage Bench

H&M Home

Children's storage bench

La Redoute

Waldo Children's Bookcase/Storage Shelf

Habitat

Kids Flo Wavy Wall Mounted Storage in Lilac

LEGO

Brick Drawer 8 Knobs in Yellow

Whether it’s hidden storage ideas that you’re after or something more on display like that beautiful cloud-shaped shelf from The White Company, there’s something for everyone here.

'Barely-there-blue' is the bedroom colour of the summer – it's cooling, restful, and exactly what 2026 calls for

Amy Lockwood — Sun, 12 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Barely-there-blue is having a moment, and interior experts say it's *the* colour to decorate your bedroom in this year.

Why? Because in a summer that's seen temperatures soar (and so many of us struggle to sleep as a result), this subtle shade visually cools a bedroom down and creates a calm, soothing, and restful sleep space.

When it comes to bedroom design ideas that can help you to sleep better, that certainly sounds like exactly what this hot sleeper needs in her life right now.

As Natalie Prince, interiors expert at Sharps, explains, 'Featured at some of this year's most talked-about fashion events – including Dua Lipa's recent wedding – this subtle shade is set to dominate both fashion and interiors this summer.'

(Image credit: COAT )

'Google searches for barely-there-blue have surged by 2,637% over the past year,' says Natalie, 'while searches for pale blue bedroom are up 1,775% in the same period.'

‘Light blue bedroom searches climbed a further 42% in the past 3 months, and on Pinterest, blue bedroom decor searches have grown 20% in the last month alone,' continues Natalie.

And with the UK now in the midst of the third heatwave this year, it's little wonder. I'm currently debating bedroom paint colours, and as the temperature has climbed, the cool-toned blues on my shortlist have definitely become more and more appealing.

'Beyond aesthetics, there's a practical case for blue too,' agrees Natalie. 'Cool-toned shades are widely associated with lowering the perceived temperature of a room, making barely-there blues a particularly smart choice as UK summers get warmer.'

(Image credit: Piglet in Bed)

This shade also ties in with one of this year's biggest bedroom trends: the desire for sleep spaces that offer somewhere to retreat to, unwind and de-stress from the fast-paced world outside of our own four walls.

'We’ve seen a real appetite from customers wanting to create a bedroom that helps them switch off,' explains Natalie. 'Pale, barely there blues are extremely popular right now – they bring a sense of calm and airiness that no other colour quite achieves in a bedroom setting.'

'Barely-there blue’ is one of those shades that instantly makes a bedroom feel lighter and more restful,' agrees Marianne Shillingford, creative director and colour expert at paint brand Dulux.

So which shades in particular are best for bedrooms? 'The palette driving the trend sits at the softer, more restrained end of the blue spectrum,' says Natalie.

(Image credit: Paint & Paper Library)

'Think powdery pastels, hazy duck eggs, and the kind of barely-there sky tones that sit somewhere between blue and white,' says Natalie. 'These are shades that work with natural light rather than fighting it, making a bedroom feel larger and more restful at once.'

COAT

'Slept Through' Flat Matt 2.5L

Dunelm

'Pale Sky' Matt Emulsion Paint

Lick

'Blue 14' Matt 2.5L

'These subtle tones have a really understated elegance,' agrees Marianne. 'Plus, they work beautifully alongside warm neutrals, soft linens and natural wood to create a scheme that feels calm, timeless and easy to live with.'

In a bid to sleep more comfortably this summer, I've already invested in the best cooling mattress topper, a hot-weather duvet alternative, the best linen bedding for breathability, and a lightweight dohar for the very hottest nights.

Now, I'm definitely convinced that colour-of-the-moment barely-there-blue is the final piece of the puzzle in making my sleep setup as cool, calm, and restful as possible.

This modular playroom sofa is the buy that parents say ‘has been one of our best ever purchases’ – it can be built into a car, a fort, a house and so much more

Sara Hesikova — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0000

If you’re looking for a playroom sofa for your little ones, I think I may have just found the one. The Tutti Bambini Playrama kids play modular sofa, available at Amazon, is loved by children and parents alike – and it’s easy to see why.

Google Trends reports that searches for ‘kids sofa’ increased by 20% in the last month which shows that there’s a clear demand for a playroom sofa like this one. Suitable for children from 12 months and up, this is a modular sofa specially designed for kids’ play which is why it makes for such an excellent playroom idea. The individual pieces can be endlessly rearranged to form anything from a car to a house-like structure and anything else that your child can come up with.

Tutti Bambini

Playrama Montessori Kids Play Sofa in Mushroom

Tutti Bambini

Playrama Montessori Kids Play Sofa in Ocean Stone

Tutti Bambini

Playrama Montessori Kids Play Sofa in Sea Mist

One parent and existing customer wrote, ‘Cannot recommend this enough! We were a little sceptical that our children might be too old for this (age 7 and 9), but it has been one of our best ever purchases. This is used daily as a sofa in various configurations, but it has also been crash mats, a balloon keepy uppy net, a tank, horse stables, a rocket, a house, a car and many more that I can't remember.’

The imaginative, playful design of the sofa is based on the Montessori teaching and learning method which emphasises creativity, adaptability and confidence, even when it comes to play. As the product description states, ‘the sofa encourages imaginative play and hands-on exploration, supporting cognitive and motor skill growth as children design and build their own setups.’

(Image credit: Amazon)

When I showed the playroom sofa to my sister Laura Vlkova, a teacher at a Montessori preschool and a mother of two, she was thoroughly impressed and said that if you have enough space for it, she’d highly recommend a sofa like this for a kids’ room or a playroom for seating, building play and general jumping around.

On top of all of that, the sofa is equipped with removable covers with a jumbo corduroy finish, available in three different colours to choose from depending on your child’s room colour scheme, and they’re machine washable which makes cleaning up so much easier. That’s another feature that persuaded my sister to give this sofa design a thumbs up.

Another reviewer at Argos wrote, ‘I’m really happy with the sofa I bought for my daughter's bedroom, it’s a beautiful colour, the fabric is good quality and we love how modular it is.’

(Image credit: Tutti Bambini)

The only downside that customers have noted is that after delivery, it takes about a week for the foam modules to fully puff up - since they arrive flattened - rather than the 48 hours that the brand estimates.

A previous customer writes, ‘It took a little longer than 48 hours to fully unsquish, but 9 months on of constant use, I don't even remember that! It was maybe a week to fully puff up??’

Are you considering getting a playroom sofa like this one for your little one?

These are the scents that can help you sleep better in the heatwave – they have a 'cooling effect on the body and mind', according to experts

Amy Lockwood — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

I don't know about you, but where I live in the UK, we're currently enduring the third over 30°C heatwave of the year, and by this stage, I've tried pretty much every solution available to stay cool at home, especially at night.

Personally, I think there's nothing worse than tossing and turning at night, unable to sleep in the heat, and I'm a hot sleeper at the best of times, so this weather is definitely *way* out of my comfort zone.

However, although I've employed every practical trick in the book when it comes to how to keep a bedroom cool, I have to admit, there is one angle of a cooler sleep I hadn't considered.

What is it? Fragrance. And yes, I know, an essential oil isn't exactly going to offer the same chill factor as investing in one of the best portable air conditioners. However, hear me out.

According to fragrance experts, there is power in the psychological *feeling* of being cooler, as well as in the ability of particular plant-based essential oils to help calm our nervous system, ease heatwave-induced anxiety, and help us to drop off to sleep more easily.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Cristogatin)

'Essential oils and absolutes have long been used for wellbeing benefits,' explains Lee Howes, head of fragrance at bath and bodycare brand Lush, 'and in this increasingly warm weather that we’re experiencing, some respite could also be found in key materials.'

If you too are thoroughly fed up of the heat, these are the plant allies you need on your radar, as well as how to best use each active ingredient to keep your cool as the mercury soars.

The scent formula for a cooler sleep

Firstly, when you begin your night-time wind-down, if possible, start with a lukewarm shower. And that's lukewarm, *not* cold. 'While it might seem obvious to take a cold shower to cool down before bed, it’s surprisingly not the most effective option,' explains Dreams sleep expert, Sammy Margo.

'A lukewarm shower helps lower your core body temperature gradually when you step out of it,' says Sammy, 'triggering your body’s natural cooling process and promoting relaxation, which in turn may make it easier to fall asleep comfortably.'

(Image credit: Simple Bathrooms)

Whilst you're showering, layer in the first of our expert-approved cooling fragrances via a shower gel or body wash. Namely, peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree.

'The menthol in peppermint activates the skin's cold-sensing receptors,' explains Claire Robertson, product quality manager at bath, body and home fragrance makers ARRAN Sense of Scotland. 'This creates an instantly refreshing sensation. Meanwhile, eucalyptus adds a light, tingling freshness.'

'The menthol and eucalyptol content found respectively in peppermint and eucalyptus have long been associated with cooling effects on both the skin and the mind,' agrees Lee.

'It’s thought that they’re able to activate certain receptors in our skin that, while not actually making our body temperature drop, give our brains the feeling of being cooler.'

(Image credit: Arran Sense Scotland)

And the tea tree extract? 'Tea tree also contains a constituent that has a menthol-like effect,' say formulations manager Fran and herbal advisor Nicola at Neal's Yard. 'That means that, like peppermint, 'it gives a mild cooling sensation when applied to the skin.'

Arran

Awaken Mint & Eucalyptus Natural Body Wash

As one recent reviewer says of this mint and eucalyptus body wash, it offers a 'great fresh but subtle fragrance... gives a clean and fresh sensation. Great for the summer months.'

The Body Shop

Peppermint Invigorating Shower Gel

Made from freshly-picked English peppermint, the peppermint essential oil in this shower gel offers natural menthol which gives a welcome cooling sensation on the skin.

Holland & Barrett

Dr Organic Tea Tree Body Wash 250ml

I've been using Dr Organic Tea Tree Body Wash throughout the heatwave, and its refreshing tingle has definitely helped my skin to feel cooler than it really is.

No shower? No problem. 'A lukewarm bath can help too,' says Claire, 'water pulls heat away from the skin much faster than air does, so it does the real physical work of lowering your body temperature.'

However, similar to the shower, 'just avoid very cold water,' advises Claire. 'This can actually cause the body to trap heat rather than release it.'

Once your body is slightly cooler, it's then about keeping the mind calm too, and our experts say that there's no better destressor than lavender.

'Lavender is known to help calm the nervous system and lower stress hormones, easing you gently towards sleep,' says Claire.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Craig Wall)

'Lavender has long been utilised in aromatherapy to promote relaxation,' agrees Lee. 'The essential oil has a high linalool content, and there’s research to suggest inhaling the aroma of linalool has a positive impact on the receptors in our brains that facilitate a more peaceful and rested state. In turn, this creates the right framework to encourage an easier passage to sleep.'

Personally, I know that right now a lot of my discomfort in the heat comes from the anxiety of thinking 'when will it end?', so plant allies that can help me to maintain my equilibrium and stay grounded are very much welcome.

And you might also want to consider chamomile. Either via a fragrance in a candle or body lotion, or via a chamomile tea. 'Chamomile tea works as a mild sedative,' explain Fran and Nichola, 'soothing the nervous system and easing tension. It's considered a cooling herb due to its ability to soothe, promoting perspiration to release internal heat.'

Neal's Yard Remedies

Lavender Essential Oil 10ml

Naturally calming for body and mind, the relaxing properties of lavender oil make it a popular choice for use in the bedroom. Add a few drops to a diffuser before you go to bed and let the linalool soothe any hot weather anxiety.

Lush

Sleepy Body Lotion

'It calms me right down and puts me at ease,' says one reviewer of Lush's Sleepy Body Lotion, which includes nervous-system-relaxing lavender, as well as oat, tonka, and cocoa.

Arran

Calm Lavender & Chamomile 20cl Candle

This candle contains lavender and chamomile essential oils, both of which ease the mind and bring balance, serenity, and emotional calm; something we could all do with more of in the high tension of a heatwave.

Now obviously, this doesn't mean you shouldn't also take all the practical steps possible to aid a cooler night's sleep.

I've been getting up early to make sure the windows on both sides of my house are open from 5 am to 8 am to create a cross-breeze when it's coolest outside; my blackout blinds are drawn all day to keep out the sun; and I have one of the best fans on the market switched on to create a breeze at night.

(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

I also have one of the best cooling mattress toppers on my bed, and I'm sleeping under a super lightweight dohar instead of my usual duvet, as well as camping out downstairs in my living room during the worst of the heat.

However, I'll still take all the help I can get to make these hot nights a little more bearable.

As Claire says, 'with more warm nights forecast in the weeks ahead, small changes to an evening routine can make a real difference to how well we sleep in the heat.'

So, thank you, plants, I'll happily make the most of every cooling sensation and relaxation-aiding property you're willing to share right now.

If you’re struggling to sleep in the July heatwave, this £50 IKEA duvet is perfect for sweaty nights – it’s ultra lightweight and cool to the touch

Kezia Reynolds — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Considering we’re in the midst of a second heatwave, and it’s only the start of July, it’s about time you invested in a lightweight summer duvet (if you haven’t done so already). If you’re a hot sleeper who hates not having a cover, IKEA’s £50 BLÅNEPETA duvet has you covered - at just 2.5 tog, it’s ideal for sweaty nights.

If you’re too hot to sleep, there are plenty of duvet alternatives we recommend to ensure you get your beauty sleep on sticky, humid nights. When the best duvets feel too hot, opting for bedding such as a flat cotton sheet or using a Dohar is a far cooler option.

The IKEA BLÅNEPETA duvet is one of the lowest togs you can buy and promises to help keep you cool this summer. Here’s how it shapes up.

IKEA

BlÅNEPETRA Duvet, 2.5 Tog - Light Blue Double

IKEA states this duvet is perfect for ‘warm nights when you want to cosy up but remain cool.’ It uses blue lyocell material, which it states feels cool to the touch and wicks away moisture, keeping your sleep environment dry and dry.

‘IKEA's BLÅNEPETA duvet looks like a good choice for hot weather. Lyocell is smooth, silky, and cool to the touch, and the 2.5 tog rating is one of the lowest warmth levels you can get. Duvet tog does go down to just 1 tog, but many of us like something a little weightier to sleep under, even when the temperatures are hot,’ adds Amy Lockwood, Ideal Home’s sleep editor.

However, due to its synthetic material, some experts say it won’t offer the same cooling experience as a lightweight natural fibre or bamboo duvet.

‘2.5 tog is a sensible weight for summer and will suit most people who find an empty bed uncomfortable. The BLÅNEPETA uses a lyocell filling, which is a form of recycled polyester, and that is where I would flag a consideration,’ says Richard Lord, founder of bedding company Lost Loom.

‘Synthetic fillings, however lightweight, do not breathe in the same way natural fibres do. They tend to trap moisture against the body rather than wicking it away, which means you can feel warm and clammy even if the tog rating itself is low.’

(Image credit: IKEA)

Instead, Richard recommends an option for a lightweight duvet filled with natural fibres or bamboo. For example, John Lewis' 2.5 tog cotton duvet (£85 for a double). However, IKEA’s BLÅNEPETA is a great choice for smaller budgets, and the reviews do highlight its suitability for summer nights.

‘It's not magical, but it is very good. I love having a coverlet that's got more weight than a sheet but is still light. I've seen reviews that complain about the colour showing through duvet covers, but honestly, why use a duvet cover? I'd love it if it came in more colours, but the blue is really pretty. As a perimenopausal woman who wants to keep the bed as cool as possible, this is what I'm going to be sleeping with all summer,’ said one reviewer.

‘After going through several down comforters, I finally found my perfect weight and warmth level for S. Florida. And love the price,’ said another.

Alternatively, I’ve found a few more affordable options you can shop online.

John Lewis

John Lewis Natural 100% Lightweight Cotton Duvet, 2.5 Tog

Reviews say this cotton duvet is breathable and light. It's perfect for staying cool during hot nights.

Panda

Panda the Cloud Bamboo Summer Duvet - 4.5 Tog Single

At 4.5 tog this is weightier than the IKEA duvet but still a suitable tog for summer. It has over 500 five-star reviews, with shoppers stating it is comfy, cool and lightweight.

SilentNight

Silentnight Summer Breeze 2.5 Tog Single Duvet

This Amazon bestseller is both incredibly affordable and well-reviewed. Shoppers say it helps keeps them cool on summer nights, is comfy and lightweight.

Don’t let the heat necessarily disrupt your sleep. As summers are set to heat up in the coming years, it’s a good idea to invest in a lightweight summer duvet now.

Interior experts say this overused style trick from the '90s and early 2000s could be making your bedroom look dated – here’s how to bring it into 2026

Amy Lockwood — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 15:30:00 +0000

When it comes to making a small bedroom look bigger, interior experts have all kinds of tricks up their sleeves.

However, there's one widely used design choice that interior designers say is beginning to look dated. In fact, some say this small bedroom idea went out in the 90's, even though so many of us still have this design feature in our bedrooms.

What is it? Sliding mirrored wardrobe doors, at least in the wall-to-wall format that is so common in bedrooms across the UK. But luckily, design experts say there are plenty more on-trend (and space-maxxing) options to choose from in 2026.

When I cast my mind back through all of the properties I've lived in as an adult, three out of five have had built-in fitted wardrobes finished with sliding mirrored wardrobe doors, and, in theory at least, it's a design choice that makes a lot of sense, particularly in a small bedroom.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

'Mirrored wardrobe doors remain one of the most effective ways to make a small bedroom feel larger,' explains Emma Deterding, founder and creative director of interior design studio Kelling Designs. 'They double the visual depth of the room, bounce natural light into darker corners and create an immediate sense of openness without sacrificing storage.'

However, an entire wall of back-to-back mirrors can easily feel a little soulless, and in 2026, it's beginning to look increasingly dated.

Luckily, when it comes to making a small bedroom look bigger, our design experts say that other bedroom wardrobe ideas can offer similar effects, whilst looking a little more elevated.

(Image credit: Photoword Limited)

'Mirrored wardrobe doors have had a mixed reputation over the past decade,' says Emma. In particular, 'the wall-to-wall mirrored sliding wardrobes of the late '90s and early 2000s can feel uninspired.'

However, as Emma goes on to explain, 'what dates a room isn't the mirror itself, it's the context.' In Emma's eyes, a mirrored wardrobe is only a no-go if it's 'paired with equally generic finishes.'

'As an interior designer, I love anything that amplifies light, reflects pattern and creates visual richness,' says Emma, and the *right* sort of mirrored wardrobe can do just that.

'Introduce an antique-effect mirror, bronze or smoked glass, elegant panelling or beautifully framed mirrors within bespoke joinery, and suddenly they feel intentional, luxurious and wonderfully layered,' says Emma.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)

The key to incorporating mirrors into a bedroom in order to maximise space and reflect light is considering where the mirrors are placed, and elevating them a little beyond the usual generic wall-to-wall look.

'I would avoid a whole long run of mirrors in a bedroom space as day to day that could be quite overwhelming,' agrees Lara Clarke, founder of interior design studio Lara Clarke Interiors. However, 'mirrored doors can work especially well in a walk-through dressing room,' says Lara.

And if you're not blessed with space for a dedicated dressing room, Lara says that 'if you use an antique mirror, it softens the look.'

Plus, mirrors aren't the only way to make a small bedroom appear more spacious.

(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

'Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes painted exactly the same colour as the walls can almost dissolve into the architecture, particularly in cocooning shades,' says Emma.

Or, 'fluted glass doors offer a lighter, airier feel while softly obscuring what's behind, and glossy lacquered finishes subtly reflect light without the full impact of a mirror,' Emma explains.

'You could also consider building the wardrobes around the bed,' suggests Lara, 'it gives opportunity for more space in the room, especially if you add built-in cubby holes instead of bedside tables.'

And if our overall aim is to maximise the visual space in a small bedroom, Emma has some other clever tricks up her sleeve.

(Image credit: Lara Clarke Interiors)

'I'd also consider incorporating oversized decorative mirrors elsewhere in the room, using furniture with raised legs to reveal more floor area, and full-height curtains to draw the eye upwards,' says Emma.

Cox & Cox

Oak Deep Framed Mirror

An oversized decorative mirror does the same trick in reflecting light and making a small room feel more spacious.

Habitat

Chiltern Spindle Double Wooden Bed Frame

High-legged furniture is another great trick for making a room feel bigger, as it creates the illusion of more floor space.

M&S

Cotton Linen Blend Sheer Multiway Curtains

Full-height curtains give the illusion of taller walls and can make a small bedroom feel bigger.

Ultimately, as Emma sums up, 'making a small bedroom feel bigger is less about relying on one trick and more about creating a calm, uninterrupted visual flow while layering in personality and texture.'

This £30 cooling gel mattress pad is a game-changer if you're struggling to sleep in the heat – it's the only thing that helped me keep cool in the last heatwave

Amy Lockwood — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, and a self-certified very-hot-sleeper at the best of times, I've tested a *lot* of cooling bedding over the past five years.

And, as many parts of the UK prepare to navigate a sweltering heatwave for the third time this year, there's one product I recommend time and time again to anyone looking for a cooler sleep.

The Silentnight Restore Cooling Gel Mattress Pad costs £30, and (as long as you have space for it in the fridge), it offers almost glacial cooling compared to pretty much every other bedtime cooling hack I've tried.

Sleepy People

Silentnight Restore Cooling Gel Mattress Pad

You can pop this cooling pad in the fridge for an icy blast at bedtime.

When temperatures are this high, even the best mattresses need some extra help to stay cool, so it's little wonder the smaller version of this cooling pad, Silentnight's Cooling Gel Pillow Pad, sold out pretty much everywhere during the June heatwave.

The larger mattress pad is exactly the same design, just longer, measuring 60 x 90cm. It's only a few millimetres thick and constructed of three compartments, each of which holds cooling gel within a thick PVC cover.

(Image credit: Silentnight)

Now, it's worth pointing out that, depending on which retailer you look at, this cooling pad has mixed reviews.

The Cooling Gel Body Pad is marketed as being cooling straight out of the box. And it is; I was really surprised by how cool to the touch I found this product upon first handling.

However, I also agree with many reviewers who say that that coolness soon wears off after you've been lying on the pad for a while. Body heat causes the gel to slowly warm, and in a heatwave, that happens pretty quickly.

But where I think the cooling pad really comes into its own is if you pop it in the fridge before bed.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Philip Lauterbach)

Admittedly, you will need enough space in your fridge to fold the pad up and chill it for an hour or so before bed. But, if you can, the pad then becomes *really* cold.

After doing this, I actually find it *too* cold to use next to my skin, so I pop it under a fitted sheet to lie on, or simply slide it into bed to cool down the sheets and then remove it before I get in.

If you choose to keep it in bed with you, then it will still warm up gradually over time, but that cool blast as you get into bed can really help you to drop off to sleep during a heatwave, as our temperature dropping a few degrees is what triggers the sleep cycle to begin.

'I needed this so that I could get to sleep in this heat,' says one reviewer of the Silentnight Restore Cooling Gel Mattress Pad at M&S. 'It helped enormously, even though it was warm to the touch by morning.'

(Image credit: Future PLC / Cristogatin)

Pair the cooling mattress pad with the cool-against-the-skin M&S Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Fitted Sheet I just tested, and a lightweight dohar over you for the ultimate breathability in bed, or some of the best linen bedding for hot weather, and you'll have a sleep setup that's as hot-weather ready as it will ever be.

Although be warned: as the mercury continues to climb, I think this Cooling Pad might go the way of Silentnight's smaller version, and start selling out fast. So, I've popped three stockists below to ensure you have more chance of snapping up stock.

M&S

Silentnight Restore Cooling Gel Mattress Pad

Sleepy People

Silentnight Restore Cooling Gel Mattress Pad

Amazon

Silentnight Restore Cooling Gel Mattress Pad

And, of course, if all else fails, you could also use the classic (and free) cooling hack of popping your fitted sheet into the fridge before bed.

In my experience, the cooling effect doesn't last as long as when using a cool pack or cooling pad, but in these temperatures, every degree cooler counts!

This new three-in-one IKEA playmat turns into a ball pit and a toy storage box within seconds – it’s genius and under £30!

Sara Hesikova — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Aside from budget-friendly flatpack furniture, IKEA is also becoming well-known for its clever problem-solving designs. The just-dropped IKEA GREJSIMOJS playmat is the latest addition to the lineup as the foldable mat turns into a toy storage box or even a ball pit within seconds – and what parent can resist a genius product like that?!

The £29 mat is part of IKEA’s wider children’s GREJSIMOJS collection released earlier this year and filled with playful designs like a giraffe-shaped floor lamp or a clothes stand taking on the look of a potted cactus. But while the previous GREJSIMOJS drop was more fun and playful, this genius toy storage idea is a more functional addition.

IKEA

GREJSIMOJS foldable mat/storage box

Not only is this mat design versatile, flexible and foldable, but it's also made from a material that's easy to wipe down.

The three-in-one design makes toy clean-up super quick and easy. After your little one is done playing on the mat, you can simply fold it up - still with the toys on top of it - using the eyelet fastenings the design comes equipped with and turn it either into a cube-shaped storage box or a wider, lower shape which can fit under a sofa or a bed as a hidden toy storage idea. The latter configuration can also be used for play, turning it into a small ball pit.

(Image credit: IKEA)

Existing customers are already loving it. One reviewer wrote, ‘I love such well thought-out products – that's why I had to grab it immediately when I discovered it under new products at IKEA. Great workmanship, absolutely practical, does exactly what it should! Fits under our IKEA sofa when low.’

(Image credit: IKEA)

The only downside that customers are disappointed with is that when folded into a storage box, the GREJSIMOJS doesn’t fit into a KALLAX unit. ‘I got so excited about this for our Lego collection. Then I saw the dimensions didn't fit in the kallax unit and now I'm trying to work out where we can store it,’ a reviewer wrote.

Similar alternatives

Creative QT

SlideAway Toy Storage Organiser and Play Mat

This soft toy storage box doubles as a playmat, which it's attached to. Once playtime is over, the toys, along with the mat, go back inside the box.

Big Nose Deer

Toy Storage Bag and Children's Play Mat

This children's playmat also doubles as a toy storage bag which makes scooping up your little one's toys super easy. It's also great if you want to bring toys with you when travelling.

LPQKCcY

Toy Car Storage Box Play Mat with 20 Cars

This toy storage box also folds out into a playmat with a design perfect for playing with toy cars. Incidentally, 20 of those also come included with the box.

On top of all of that, given the GREJSIMOJS mat’s multifunctional design, it’s also a great buy for any compact spaces, whether it’s a small playroom idea you’re after or if you want to squeeze a play area into a small living room.

This IKEA mat is set to become every parent’s favourite toy storage solution and a secret weapon for quick toy tidy up.

I asked 3 interior experts how to lay out a spare room so that it feels both useful and welcoming – this is what they told me to do

Amy Reeves — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:10:00 +0000

Over the last year, I've been renovating my home, and having recently completed the bones of a total renovation of our old kitchen into a spare bedroom/home office, it’s time to start looking at how we furnish and layout the room. However, I honestly didn't know where to start.

Guest bedrooms can be notoriously difficult spaces to navigate, as they either end up a waste of space 80% of the time, or so overcrowded with furniture or storage that it is difficult to use them for anything else, and no amount of paint will make them feel like a pleasant space to visit.

So, I asked three interior designers for their expert opinions and advice on how best to organise a spare room, especially when it's doing double duty as an office, hobby room or dressing area.

Meet the experts

1. Carefully consider the furniture

(Image credit: Darling of Chelsea)

Form should always follow function in design, so ensuring your furniture fits the needs and size of the room can offer a good sense of flow and can fulfil a strict purpose. If any of these things is forgotten, the space can quickly turn into chaos instead of a relaxing or productive area. The first decision should be choosing between the best sofa bed and a standard bed, with the former helping to create a more flexible space.

'Foldaway furniture is a great option, and increasingly in our projects, we have installed Murphy beds or sofa beds,' says Augustine Atobatele, founder of London-based interior design practice Studio Auguestine. 'The space can be a hobby room by day and transformed into a bedroom by night.'

'If the room is primarily an office or dressing area, a fold-away bed is often the best solution,' agrees Paula Morrison founder of Paula Morrison Interior Designs. 'Modern iterations are brilliant; they fold up completely flat against the wall and can be disguised as sleek cabinetry. This gives you maximum floor space day-to-day. When guests arrive, the desk chair is tucked away, the bed comes down, and the room instantly feels like a dedicated bedroom.'

'A desk does not need to be obtrusive, it can be within a wardrobe or built into a bookcase - or it can be a freestanding piece of furniture that can also be used as a dressing table,' explains Debbie Clifford.

2. Zone the space for real-use optimisation

'The exciting element of a guest room is how much flexibility there is in creating a wonderful multi-purpose room,' explains Augustine Atobatele. 'When designing a room, we consider the functions of the room and create zoning and the flow, which helps to organise the layout of the room. The bed and storage can be pushed to one shorter wall to leave the central area clear. A desk by the side of the bed that can also double as a bedside table.'

'In a spare room, the optimal layout completely depends on a 'percentage of use' rule. You must identify what the room is used for most of the time, and give that function spatial priority,' advises Paula Morrison.

(Image credit: Future PLC)

'If it is a home office 90% of the time and a guest room 10% of the time, do not let a static double bed dominate the centre of the floorplan. Instead, position your desk in the prime spot—ideally facing the window or looking into the room to command the space. Keep the centre of the room as clear as possible to create a sense of flow,' adds Paula.

'A fantastic layout for a room is creating an 'L-shape' zone: place a desk and storage along one wall, leaving the perpendicular wall free for a flexible sleeping arrangement. Only once this functional zoning is established do we look at using rugs, lighting, and paint colour to visually separate the 'work' area from the 'rest' area.'

'The layout will depend on the room configuration and its primary function but there should be enough space for a bed, a wardrobe and a desk,' says Debbie Clifford. 'Ideally, the bed would be positioned on the wall facing you as you enter the room and the desk area facing the window to give natural light, but the aim is to keep the room adaptable, with a layout that can evolve over time.'

'It is not a problem to have a spare bed against a wall, it saves space and is ideal for a single guest,' she continues. 'However, it is not ideal for a couple to use and can also make changing the bedding more difficult - but it all depends on how often the bed will be used.'

(Image credit: Future PLC)

'Practically, it depends on who is staying. For children or single guests, it is absolutely fine. However, for a couple sharing a double bed, pushing it against the wall creates "the clamber"—where one person has to climb over the other to get out,' adds Paula Morrison. 'That being said, in a small room, you often don't have the luxury of leaving 60cm of walkway on either side of the mattress. If you must push a bed into a corner to make the layout work, the trick is to make it look intentional.

'Instead of dressing it like a standard bed, style it as a luxurious daybed. Run an upholstered headboard all the way along the long edge of the bed against the wall. Add an array of large, comfortable cushions and bolsters. This completely shifts the visual narrative; it no longer looks like a bed crammed into a corner, but rather a bespoke, cosy lounging nook that happens to be perfect for sleeping.'

3. Don’t leave storage to the last minute

(Image credit: Future PLC / Douglas Gibb)

Storage should be considered alongside the layout, to ensure you have space to hide everything you need in the spare room. But also to give guests space to breathe and put their things.

'Freestanding wardrobes can feel incredibly bulky in a 9m² [average size UK spare room) room, eating into valuable floor real estate and blocking light' says Paula Morrison. 'Unless you have the budget for bespoke floor-to-ceiling built-ins (which blend seamlessly into the architecture), I highly recommend looking at the bed itself for storage.

'Divan beds, and particularly ottoman bed frames, are an interior designer’s secret weapon. An ottoman bed lifts up to reveal the entire footprint of the bed as storage space—perfect for hiding away winter coats, suitcases, and the guest bedding itself. It offers the storage capacity of a large chest of drawers without demanding an extra inch of floor space.'

If you have chosen to go for a sofa bed, you could consider a storage sofa bed like this one at Next. Alternatively, you can hide extra storage in a storage stool.

Augustine Atobatele adds: 'Bespoke joinery can come in very handy, going full height to allow for maximum storage space. Finishing the doors in a gorgeous colour that can have a dramatic effect on the feeling of the space. Having a mix of solid doors, mirrors, finished insert doors, and some open spaces so that crafted items can be easily accessed. This is great for a room that functions as a guest bedroom and a hobby room.'

'In a room that needs to perform multiple functions, built-in wardrobes or shelving gives you the opportunity to design furniture to your specification to make the most of the space available,' concludes Debbie Clifford. 'To maximise the potential of the room the desk can be used as a dressing table, the bed could be a sofa bed or have hidden storage, and the wardrobe can accommodate shelving and hanging for clothes.'

Spare room essentials

Casual Boucle Light Natural Palma Storage Double Sofa Bed

If the main purpose of a spare room is as an office, a sofa bed is all you need for overnight guests and this one has a hidden storage drawer in the base.

Dunelm

Clothes Rail With Mirror

If you don't have space for a full wardrobe, but want to give guests a space to hang clothes when they come to visit, this clothes butler is a great option.

Habitat

Polly Fabric Storage Footstool - Green

If you don't have an ottoman bed, or a bed in your spare room at all, a storage ottoman is the next best thing for squeezing in extra storage without impeding on the floorspace.

7 things that are making your bedroom look dated – here's how to fix them for 2026 and beyond

Amy Lockwood — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

If you've recently been pondering your bedroom decor design, feeling that something looks a little 'off', then it's possible your boudoir is in need of a refresh.

When it comes to decorating, I find that time moves fast, and a room that feels like it was only painted yesterday can in truth not have been touched for five years or more.

Luckily, most bedroom trends tend to be fairly timeless, but design experts say that there are still a few things that could be making your bedroom look dated.

I've rounded up the key culprits below, and our experts are on hand to explain how to give them a style upgrade that will bring your bedroom firmly into 2026 and beyond.

Boxy shapes

If you want a more relaxed and inviting space, ditch straight lines and opt for organic curves instead. (Image credit: Feather & Black)

First up in our to-go list is boxy bedroom furniture. Straight lines, hard edges, and sharp corners are over, according to our design experts.

'Furniture with harsh lines and rigid shapes can make a bedroom feel heavy and outdated,' explains Josh Branigan, home interiors expert at furniture retailer BedKingdom.

Instead, curved furniture is becoming a much bigger trend, says Josh. 'Rounded headboards, softer edges and more organic shapes create a calmer, more relaxed atmosphere in the bedroom, and add softness and flow.'

'Boxy bedroom furniture has fallen out of fashion in favour of rounded edges, curved designs and organic shapes,' agrees Shelley Cochrane, accessories buyer at Furniture Village.

'Curves are gentler and less rigid than straight lines,' says Shelley, 'so they're particularly well suited to the bedroom, where it's especially important to create a soft and inviting atmosphere.'

Feather & Black

Cambourne Bed

John Lewis

Rattan Double Wardrobe

Dunelm

Frankie Compact Dressing Table Set With Mirror and Stool

Matchy matchy furniture sets

Rather than going for bedroom furniture sets that match perfectly, mix things up with some vintage finds. (Image credit: Future PLC / Mary Wadsworth)

Overly matching furniture sets are next on the 'avoid' list for 2026 and 2027. Why? Because 'matching all of your bedroom furniture has a show home vibe which can look dated,' says Magdalena Gierasinska, head of product and displays at furniture retailer Barker and Stonehouse.

'The current trend for "soft interiors" or lived-in interiors champions layered and eclectic designs, rather than matching pieces,' explains Magdalena. 'Everything should look cohesive and consistent, but it doesn’t need to match. It’s much more interesting and contemporary to layer different colours, materials and finishes together.'

'A complete matching bedroom set can often make a room feel too uniform and showroom-like,' agrees Josh. 'When every piece is identical, the space loses character and can end up looking dated quite quickly.'

'Instead, try mixing furniture finishes, textures and styles to create a more curated and lived-in look,' suggests Josh. 'Pairing an upholstered bed with wooden bedside tables or combining vintage-inspired pieces with modern designs helps add depth and personality to the room.'

Matchy matchy bedding

Instead of uniform bedding in one block colour, mix-and-match stripes, plains, checks, and different tones. (Image credit: Piglet in Bed)

And the same goes for bedding. According to design experts, you can get too much of a good thing. In 2026, bedding trends are all about mix-and-matching colour and pattern, so overly matching bedding can look a little dated.

'People are rethinking matching bedding sets,' says Jessica Hanley, founder and CEO of bedding brand Piglet in Bed. 'When everything is too similar, the bed can end up looking flat and one-dimensional. Overall, the shift is toward bedding that feels layered, textured, and personal, rather than overly uniform or too "safe"'.

Piglet In Bed

Webbs Blue Double Bough Linen Blend Duvet Cover

M&S

Pure Cotton Striped Bedding Set

Habitat x Morris & Co.

Sunflower Woodblock Bedding

Glossy finishes

Our experts advise steering clear of high gloss finishes in 2026 and choosing natural woods or upholstered bed frames instead. (Image credit: Future PLC/Mary Wadsworth)

In 2026, bedroom trends are all about organic textures, so it's little surprise that glossy furniture finishes are also waning in popularity.

'Highly glossy furniture can make bedrooms feel overly artificial and often doesn’t age particularly well over time,' agrees Josh. 'While high gloss finishes were once one of the biggest interior trends, they’re quickly falling out of favour.'

Instead of going for high gloss, 'consider more natural-looking materials,' suggests Josh. 'Furniture with wood textures, soft-touch finishes or subtle grain details helps create a warmer and more sophisticated feel in the bedroom.'

Mirrored bedroom furniture

Opt for furniture with a range of different finishes, rather than choosing an all-mirrored look. (Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

There was a time when mirrored bedroom furniture was all over the high street, and although reflective surfaces can be a useful design trick to make a small bedroom look bigger, in 2026 our experts say the look has evolved.

'Mirrored furniture was once seen as a glamorous bedroom trend, but too many reflective surfaces can now make a space feel overly artificial and dated,' says Josh. 'Plus, it can often leave bedrooms feeling cold and overly styled.'

“Instead, embrace softer finishes and more natural materials,' says Josh. 'Wood textures and subtle detailing help create a bedroom that feels warmer, calmer and far more timeless.'

And Shelley says you don't necessarily need to ditch all of your mirrored furniture. Instead, take a leaf from the mismatched playbook and combine some mirrored pieces with other textures and finishes.

'The modern way to style is to avoid matching all your furniture in mirrored finishes,' explains Shelley, 'instead, add in some rustic elements, like natural wood, hand-crafted ceramics or frayed linen cushions. This strikes a balance between contemporary polish and modern rustic.'

Cool toned colours

Ditch the cool tones and choose warm, earthy bedroom colours for a more 'lived-in' look, instead. (Image credit: Future PLC/Mary Wadsworth)

When it comes to bedroom colours that are on the way out in 2026, design experts all agree that this year is about soft, warm, and earthy colours, and that means that cool-toned shades can make your bedroom look a little dated.

'In 2026, bedroom colour is becoming far more emotional and instinctive,' explains Marianne Shillingford, creative director and colour expert at paint brand Dulux. 'We’re moving away from shades that feel cold or overly functional and embracing colours that nurture and restore.'

So think warm tones and saturated colours, such as warm whites, warm beige, plaster pink, and clay and terracotta tones. Or opt for earthier alternatives to popular bedroom colours, such as sage green, by considering olive greens, smoky blues or deep aubergine shades in the bedroom.

Little Greene

Masquerade Intelligent Matt Emulsion 1L

Mylands

'Long Acre™ No.102' Marble Matt Emulsion 2.5L

Fenwick & Tilbrook

110. Trooper Pure Matt Paint 1L

Overly decorated beds

There's a fine balance between well-styled and overly decorated; aim for laidback and comfortable bedscaping. (Image credit: Piglet in Bed)

And lastly, consider your bedscaping. Whilst some artfully styled bedding can make a bed look inviting and comfortable, adding too many pillows and throws can be OTT and make a bedroom look dated.

'Beds overloaded with cushions, throws and decorative pillows can make a room feel overly staged and difficult to maintain,' says Josh. 'While layering can add comfort, too much styling often creates unnecessary clutter.'

'Simple layered bedding with a few cushions and soft textures creates a cleaner and more effortless look,' says Josh.

Our guide to where to buy bedding rounds up all the best places to shop for understated bedroom accessories.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Anna Stathaki)

Lastly, are there any final things that our bedroom design experts recommend avoiding in 2026? 'Rose gold hardware's time is done,' states Shelley.

However, as you peruse this list of do's and don'ts, Shelley does have one last tip that's well worth bearing in mind. 'I always say, if you love something, then embrace it, regardless of whether it’s on trend,' she says. And with hyperpersonalised bedrooms and hyperpersonalised bedding some of 2026's main themes, I totally agree.

Whilst you might not want to purposely invest in an outdated look, if you're still in love with your matching mirrored bedroom furniture, then don't let the latest trends ruin your fun. Our homes are all about what sparks joy for *us*, and if you love the way your bedroom feels, that's all that matters.

FatFace just quietly launched a very stylish summer bedding collection – shoppers are already raving about the affordable £35 buys

Amy Lockwood — Sat, 04 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

FatFace has just quietly dropped its first-ever bedding collection, and with prices beginning at £15, I'm not surprised shoppers are already snapping up these stylish and affordable designs.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I thought I knew everything there was to know about where to buy bedding, but the fashion retailer certainly wasn't on my radar.

That is, until this month. Because the new FatFace bedding collection just launched with a bang, and I think these super summery designs should definitely be on your radar.

FatFace

Pink & Ochre Stripe Bows Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set

FatFace's on-trend duvet sets start from £35, and are complemented by a £25 striped fitted sheet and £15 pillowcases.

The new range includes four duvet sets, starting at £35 for a single, £45 for a double, £55 for a king, and £65 for a super king.

My favourite has to be the bold striped pink and ochre set, which couldn't be more summery if it tried. However, there are also pretty floral designs, on-trend gingham checks, and travel-inspired prints.

I think all the sets are great value for money, more so because each design is reversible, featuring stripes, florals, or checks on the reverse for two looks in one.

(Image credit: FatFace)

And I'm not the only one who's impressed. The bedding collection has only been in store and online for a few weeks, but it's already amassing a growing number of positive five-star reviews from shoppers.

In particular, many happy owners mention how impressed they are with the attention to detail and quality of FatFace's new range.

'A really beautiful duvet cover,' says one reviewer. 'Bright colour and a very summery design. The quality is amazing and so soft and cool. Washed well and keeps its shape. Definitely worth the money and great value compared to other big-name brands.'

'Love, love, love this!', writes another reviewer, 'the quality of the material makes it really comfortable to sleep in. I especially like the ties on the pillowcases... cute feature.'

(Image credit: FatFace)

If you're thinking of refreshing your bedroom for summer, I think this new FatFace range should definitely be a contender.

Plus, the coordinating sunshine yellow-striped £25 fitted sheet and matching £15 pillowcase certainly seal the deal for me.

FatFace

Pink & Ochre Stripe Bows Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set

I love these bold summery stripes.

FatFace

Ochre Stripe Fitted Sheet

A striped fitted sheet is a great way to elevate your bedscaping.

FatFace

Multi Tile Print Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set

This multi-coloured design brings the holiday vibes.

FatFace

Blue Wildflower Gingham Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set

And I love this combination of wildflowers and gingham checks.

FatFace

Set of 2 Ochre Stripe Pillowcases

Starting from just £15, the new FatFace collection is very affordable.

FatFace

Blue Ditsy Floral Bows Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set

And it wouldn't be a summer bedding range without a ditsy floral.

This £20 M&S cooling sheet is selling out fast – and having tested it ahead of the July heatwave, I can see why

Amy Lockwood — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

M&S shoppers are raving about this £20 cooling sheet, and with another July heatwave predicted to begin soon, I can see why it's selling out fast.

I slept on the M&S Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Fitted Sheet last night, and I can confirm it definitely feels cooler than any other sheet I've trialed during these past few *very* hot weeks.

When it comes to where to buy bedding to cool down in the heatwave, it seems M&S is the place to shop right now.

M&S

Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Fitted Sheet

This cooling sheet already has over 400 5-star reviews on M&S, and is available in eleven colours.

Even when the UK *isn't* experiencing extreme temperatures, overheating in bed is a problem many of us struggle with.

That's in no small part due to the petroleum-based polyesters that so much bedding is made from – experts often dub these fibres a hidden sleep thief because they lack breathability and reflect body heat back towards the sleeper rather than letting it dissipate. This causes our body temperature to rise and often wakes us from our slumber.

Manufacturers know how to market to these struggles, so it's little wonder the bedding world is filled with products containing 'cool' and 'ice' in their product names.

(Image credit: James French)

However, as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've tested a *lot* of cooling bedding in the past five years, and, unfortunately, I've often been underwhelmed by the claims.

During my team's and my testing of mattresses, duvets, and pillows, we've repeatedly found that, at best, cooling claims can be short-lived cool-to-the-touch surfaces that soon heat up after a few minutes, and, at worst, those claims can be downright misleading.

So when I saw that M&S is selling 'Stay Cool' bedding, I had to admit that despite my faith in the retailer, I was a little cynical at first. But then, I saw the product reviews. Over 600 of them already, and over 400 of those have given this sheet 5 out of 5 stars.

I know that M&S shoppers don't mince their words with their likes and dislikes, so when they say something works, I believe them.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Cristogatin)

Plus, when reviews sound like: 'It's like slipping into a cool bath without the water,' and, 'These sheets are so cool and comfortable. Highly recommend them, especially for menopausal women, they are a delight,' plus, 'Highly recommend these sheets. Lovely and cool. I have tried Dunelm and John Lewis, but nothing compares. I suffer from hot flushes all year round. These make such a difference,' then my ears definitely perk up.

As a hot sleeper, I had to try the M&S Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Fitted Sheet for myself, and when I popped this sheet onto my bed last night, I soon realised those M&S reviews were right. That's because, reader, it's actually cool.

Like really cool. Not just cool for the two minutes you put your hand on it in the store and then hotter than the sun once you're lying on it at home. (Can you tell this hot sleeper is still holding onto some bedding-related 'cooling promise' trauma?).

As I write this, I'm lying on my bed, on the sheet (in the name of research, promise). I've been lying here for 30 minutes, and the sheet still feels cool.

(Image credit: Future / Amy Lockwood)

Now don't get me wrong. This sheet isn't fridge-like. If you're someone who's currently trying to find an in-stock portable air conditioner, then, unfortunately, this sheet isn't going to deliver quite the same icy chill. But it is far cooler than any other sheet I have in my (by now extremely crammed) bedding closet.

As you'll see from the picture below, I laid my coolest fitted sheets side by side and, in a very non-scientific way, rolled from one side of the bed to the other to see which side felt the coolest.

(Don't judge me for the wrinkled bedding, it's still too hot here to iron right now, although it may be worth noting that some of those M&S reviews do mention these sheets creasing badly – personally, I'm not too fussed by that, but you may be).

The blue sheet below is the M&S Stay Cool fitted sheet; the other is a 100% bamboo sheet. The M&S Stay Cool won in my at-home cooling competition. By some margin. In fact, as I lie here, it feels like the sheet is very gently sucking the heat from my body. Which is quite an odd sensation, but as someone who's pretty much always warm in summer, it's also very welcome.

(Image credit: Future / Amy Lockwood)

I tested the M&S Stay Cool against bamboo sheets, which are silky soft and cool to the touch, and 100% lyocell sheets, which are a little less silky but similarly cool to the touch compared to regular cotton or linen.

The M&S Stay Cool sheet is 78% lyocell (which, according to my research, is a semi-synthetic, plant-based fabric that's commonly made from the dissolved wood pulp of eucalyptus or birch trees) and 22% cotton.

According to the care label, the packaging, and the M&S website description, nothing else is added. Which is why I'm a little confused as to how it can actually be this cool. But it certainly outperforms everything else I've tested when it comes to cooling.

M&S

Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Fitted Sheet

This fitted sheet is also easy to care for. It can be washed at 40°C and tumble-dried on medium heat. Plus, there's also the M&S Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Flat Sheet if you're looking for a cooling sheet to use as a duvet alternative in the hot weather.

Luff

100% Organic Bamboo Silk Deep Fitted Sheet

This bamboo fitted sheet feels a lot more silky and smooth compared to the M&S Stay Cool, and is similarly cool-to-the-touch. It's much cooler to sleep next to than a regular cotton sheet. However, I found it felt warmer than the M&S Stay Cool sheet over the course of the night.

West Elm

100% TENCEL™ Lyocell Fitted Sheet

I also tested a 100% lyocell fitted sheet, which again feels a lot more luxuriously silky compared to the M&S Stay Cool sheet. Both feel lovely and cool next to the skin, although the M&S option is a lot crisper with less drape. However, the M&S Stay Cool seemed to retain its coolness longer.

Did the M&S Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Fitted Sheet keep me cool all night long? No, the area of the sheet that my body was laid on did eventually warm up during the night – but it didn't get warmer than any other sheet I tested.

The difference with this M&S sheet was that I never had to move a limb too far to find an instant hit of chill again, so this sheet definitely helped me stay cooler in bed than any other.

There's some voodoo at work here, to be sure. But with another heatwave predicted for early July and still a lot of summer to go, it's voodoo I'll happily accept for a cooler sleep.

I know exactly which sheets I'll be putting on my bed when the temperatures soar next week. Thank you, M&S.

I slept under bedding traditionally used by Indian Maharajas during June's hot and humid nights – it’s going to be my go-to for the July heatwave

Amy Lockwood — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 09:00:00 +0000

I'm a hot sleeper at the best of times, and, like many of us, I really struggle to get a good night's rest during heatwaves, especially living in the UK.

In Britain, high temperatures don't just mean heat; they also mean humidity, and high evening humidity makes it hard for the body to cool down enough for sleep.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've tracked down all the best duvets for summer, but when the mercury soars to above 30°C, even they can be Far. Too. Hot.

However, I do have one secret weapon up my sleeve when temperatures skyrocket, and that's Shades of Cool London's Dohar.

Shades of Cool London

The Original Unprinted Dohar

This lightweight layer is now my go-to during hot weather.

What is a dohar? It's a piece of bedding that's very uncommon in the UK. Probably because, up until recently, British bedding concerns have been far more focused on staying warm in bed, not dealing with extreme heat.

But things are changing, and if last week was anything to go by, we may all soon be looking for duvet alternatives and cool bedding materials to see us through the summer nights.

(Image credit: James French)

Temperatures of 30°C plus have been rare in the UK, but other parts of the world have been navigating daily life in hot temperatures for millennia, and there's a lot we can learn.

The dohar is a much-prized cooling solution in South Asia, most notably in India and Bangladesh, where it's credited as first being woven.

This was the bedding that Indian royalty – the Maharaji – used in their palaces, and according to Shades of Cool London's founder, Angel Skillman, it's a fabric dubbed 'woven wind' in its country of origin.

It's a poetic title, and having now tested this fabric through two years of British heatwaves, I can testify that it's also a very accurate description.

(Image credit: Shades of Cool London)

Essentially, the dohar is a lightweight summer blanket. But it's not anything like your average British blanket. Instead, it's made from super-fine mulmul cotton, which is a little like muslin, but *far* softer, smoother, and airier than any muslin I've encountered in the UK.

Mulmul fabric is then triple-layered to create the dohar, and this layering is the key to how well it handles hot, humid British heatwaves. Not surprisingly, because it was originally the Indian go-to for sleeping well in monsoon season – a time when the moisture content in the air is extremely high.

I've found that the mulmul layer next to the skin is perfect for wicking away moisture and stickiness, whilst the other two layers create air pockets that are brilliant at regulating temperature. That means there's no going to sleep boiling, but then waking up at 3 am feeling a chill.

And as someone who always sleeps with the powerful Meaco Sefte Fan circulating air during a heatwave, I've found a dohar also handles a fan's breeze well. The airflow can still penetrate the open weave fabric, but without the breeze feeling *too* cold against the skin.

(Image credit: Shades of Cool London)

I've tested numerous options for sleeping cooler on hot nights, from sleeping without covers to bedding down under just a flat linen sheet, such as this Piglet in Bed option, and testing cooling blankets, such as this Bedsure design. And although all have their time and place, the dohar remains the one sleep solution I find myself reaching for again and again.

It's definitely the option I sleep coolest under, as well as the option that keeps my temperature the most stable throughout the night, and that temperature regulation results in a deeper sleep, with less waking up because I'm too hot or too cold.

Shades of Cool London

Japanese Wave Indigo Dohar

Shades of Cool London's plain dohars start from £65, but there are also printed versions, such as this hand-block-printed Japanese Wave design.

Piglet in Bed

Ivory Kemptown Stripe 100% Linen Flat Sheet

Thanks to its breathability, a flat linen sheet is another great way to add a light layer to the bed in hot weather, but I've found a dohar to be softer, airier, and to offer better temperature.

Bedsure

Cooling Blanket

If you prefer a little more weight over you, then a cooling blanket like this one feels cool to the touch. However, it doesn't offer the same night-long breathability and temperature regulation as a dohar.

As of writing, the dohar is still difficult to source in the UK. Shades of Cool London and a few Etsy sellers that have in-stock dohars are the only places I've found to shop. However, as British summers look set to get hotter, I think this is a heatwave must-have that's going to catapult in popularity.

The irony is that, as Angel points out, 'production of mulmul cotton and the dohar suffered under British colonial rule, with efforts to suppress local weaving due to competition with industrially manufactured fabrics.' However, thankfully, skilled makers have kept this ancient fabric alive, and I, for one, am very grateful for that.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)

And not just for heatwave navigation. If you're a menopausal woman experiencing hot flushes, this is a fabric you *need* in your life. Shades of Cool London also stocks kids dohars, which are perfect for keeping little ones cool in the heat.

Ultimately, I think the dohar is the perfect example of how sustainable, indigenous knowledge is going to be central in helping us all navigate the climate changes we have ahead. We have a lot to learn about cooling things down, but that knowledge is out there and waiting to be applied.

I tested Silentnight's Cooling Copper mattress topper in a heatwave, and it definitely helped me to fall asleep faster

Rachel Tompkins — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0000

As a 46-year-old perimenopausal woman who's already prone to overheating in bed, I put the Silentnight Restore Cooling Copper Mattress Topper to the test during a heatwave to see how it compares to the best mattress toppers and best cooling mattress toppers on the market.

In a nutshell

As I mentioned, as a woman in her mid-forties, I'm increasingly prone to overheating in bed, so according to Silentnight's product description, I'm the exact audience the Silentnight Restore Cooling Copper Topper is aimed at.

The main USP of this product is its cooling powers. Silentnight says it's 'ideal for overheaters', and that its 'cool sensation fabric helps to banish night sweats and hot flushes'. That's paired with its eye-catching copper-infused yarn, which the brand says is 'naturally anti-bacterial, kind to sensitive skin, and keeps sheets fresh and hygenic'.

It promises a lot, and I found it *almost* delivers on those promises. I certainly agree with the 'cool sensation fabric' part. This topper felt instantly cool to the touch when I lay down on it – even through a fitted sheet – and it certainly made getting into bed a lot more appealing when my family and I tested it during a heatwave when temperatures in my part of the UK reached 35C plus.

Did it stay cool all night? I still felt hot and clammy when I woke up in the morning, so I'd say not. However, I was still impressed by how cool it felt as I drifted off to sleep, as were my hot-blooded husband and two sons when they were given a go.

It's also fairly reasonably priced, at approximately £49.99 for a double, depending on where you shop, and it can be machine-washed (as long as you have a drum big enough for the size you purchase).

At 2.5cm deep, it's thin, so it doesn't offer much cushioning or support, but if you have the space to store it ready for the next summer heatwave, its instant blast of coolness did bring some welcome relief to this hot sleeper.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Specifications

RRP: Single £44.99 / Double £49.99 /Kingsize £54.99 / Super-king £59.99
Sizes: single / double / king / super-king
Depth: 2.5cm
Construction: cover 38% Polyethylene, 62% Polyester. The percentage of copper in the topper is 17% copper-infused yarn. Filling 100% polyester
Care instructions: machine washable at 40 degrees and can be tumble dried on a cool heat
Manufacturer sleep trial: no

(Image credit: Silentnight)

Attaching the topper to the bed

I tested the Silentnight Restore Cooling Copper Topper in a super king-size, and unlike some of the heavier memory foam toppers I've tested recently, this mostly polyester topper was light enough to carry upstairs easily.

Fortunately, there wasn’t an off-gassing smell as many foam toppers have, and because it's simply folded into its packaging rather than vacuum-packed, it was ready to get onto the bed straight away.

To attach it to the mattress, I found that there were four fairly thick elastic corner straps in each corner.

Although it was a bit awkward to lift the corner of my mattress to hook them under, I found these really useful because they meant the topper didn’t move around when I was making the bed or when my husband and I were getting in and out of bed.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Comfort

The first thing that struck me about this topper was how stylish it looked. The orange and white patterned cover with orange piped edge made it look more like a well-designed quilted throw than a mattress toppers. It was almost a shame to cover it up under a sheet!

The surface of the fabric feels smooth and shiny to the touch, and once my fitted sheet was in place, I did discover that this was a bit of a downside. I found the fitted sheet kept sliding around on top of the topper and on some occasions slipping off. It may be more a reflection of my sheet than the topper, but it hasn’t happened before with any of the previous toppers I've tested.

Measuring just 2.5cm deep and filled with soft polyester rather than a denser foam or memory foam, this topper is considerably less deep than most mattress toppers I’ve tested, which tend to start at around 5cm in depth.

It also didn't offer that much support or cushioning. Instead it felt a little like adding a thin duvet to the top of our bed. However, it did deliver some gentle cushioning for my joints, something which I felt the benefits of on my shoulder and hip as I predominately sleep on my side.

Temperature regulation

However, what this topper doesn't deliver in cushioning, it aims to make up for in temperature regulation.

Silentnight says that the Restore Cooling Copper Mattress Topper is 'perfect for over-heaters and restless sleepers,' offering 'cooling relief and all the natural health benefits of copper'. 'Made with innovative cool fabrics,' the brand says it's 'the perfect solution for menopausal night sweats'.

As a 46-year-old woman, I'm no stranger to overheating in bed, and as I've mentioned, I also tested this topper during a heatwave, so I was eager to see if it could help me to stay cool in bed.

Silentnight says that the topper is constructed with 17% copper-infused yarn, which, according to my research, should keep me cool by utilising the metal’s natural properties to wick away excess body heat.

The impact of this was immediately clear when I touched the topper, as it felt cool to the touch when I placed my hands on it and when I lay on it.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

My hot-blooded husband and sons all loved how cool it felt to lay on too, especially during the heatwave when it provided an instant feeling of coolness. So much so that I struggled to drag them off of it! I was surprised that even with a cotton bedsheet on the coolness of the topper could still be felt.

This feeling of coolness when I first got into bed was extremely beneficial when getting to sleep. When my youngest son slept on it during a heatwave, he also fell asleep quickly.

However, I still woke up in the morning feeling hot and clammy, which does make me question how long-term the cooling impact is.

I tended to find that instant coolness wore off during the night and the topper gradually warmed up to match my body temperature. But, the cooling effects when I first got into bed were still welcome, and definitely helped me to drift off quicker on hot nights.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Care instructions

You can machine wash this topper at 40 degrees, and it’s also compatible with being tumble dried on cool.

However, the ease with which you'll be able to do this depends on the size of the topper you own, because it is quite bulky. As the care label mentions: ‘for best results we recommend the use of a large capacity washing machine’.

This advice is spot on because when I tried to fit the super king-size topper into my standard washing machine, I couldn’t. A single or double would have fitted, but it's worth bearing in mind if, like me, you opt for a larger size.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Sleep trial

Unlike a lot of other mattress toppers we've tested, Silentnight doesn't offer a sleep trial on its bedding products.

That's a shame, because it can be tricky to know how bedding performs without the opportunity to test it out at home.

In contrast, Simba offers a generous 200-night sleep trial on all of its toppers, and brands such as Woolroom and Panda offer 30 nights.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Value for money

Whilst there's no sleep trial to test out this topper before you commit to keeping it, the one plus point is that it is very competitively priced.

As of writing, the Silentnight Restore Cooling Copper Topper costs £44.99 for a single and £49.99 for a double, which, in the world of mattress toppers, is very reasonably priced.

For comparison, the best memory foam topper we've tested (which is also one of the most affordable) – Panda's Bamboo Mattress Topper – costs £99.95 for a single.

It also did the job in cooling my family and me down when we first got into bed, and although I didn't find that cooling lasted throughout the night, I still appreciated the help in drifting off to sleep in the first place.

Would I buy it again? If I had the space to store it when the weather was colder (I probably won't appreciate that chill-factor when I get into bed in the winter!), then yes, I do think it's worth the money for helping me to fall asleep quicker.

But if I were looking for cushioning as well as cooling properties, I'd probably up my budget and consider the highly breathable (yet equally cosy in winter) Woolroom Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper or the more supportive Simba Hybrid Topper instead.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

How I tested

My sleep stats:

Sleep position: back or side
Tension preference: firm
Sleep problems: lower back pain and/or neck pain and occasional overheating
Height & weight: 5"5 and 9.5 stones

In order to test out this mattress topper, my husband and I slept on it for two weeks in our own home on top of our usual mattress. I assessed how easy the Silentnight Restore Cooling Copper Topper was to attach to the bed, how comfortable it was when sleeping on my back and side, and whether it offered good temperature regulation. I also took into account how easy it was to care for and any sleep trials on offer, as well as its value for money.

I own a £500 air con unit, but I'm choosing this under £10 Amazon buy to sleep cooler instead

Amy Lockwood — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:30:00 +0000

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've been fortunate enough to test all sorts of products aimed at improving sleep, and, with temperature such a key component of a good night's rest, that means I've tested a *lot* of cooling solutions.

From the best fans to the best portable air conditioners, I've tried out several expensive cooling products that I wouldn't have been able to afford were they not test samples.

However, despite currently having a brand new £500 portable air con unit on test, and even though my south-facing dormer bedroom reached a sweltering 35°C last night, I'm still choosing to ditch the air con and use an under £10 solution to stay cool in bed instead. Here's why.

(Image credit: Dan Duchars Ltd)

First up, it's worth pointing out that choosing to leave the air con unit unplugged is a personal decision. When it comes to whether a portable air conditioning unit is worth it, we all have different circumstances, and for many people, an air con unit might be the best solution to prevent dangerous overheating.

The UK is currently facing extreme temperatures, and if the climate crisis is allowed to worsen, heatwaves are going to become more common, so it's little wonder air con units have virtually sold out this June. (Ideal Home's live blog has the latest updates on in-stock air con and cooling fans, by the way).

But in my case, I've tried battling heatwaves with the air con unit, and I've tried staying cool in bed without, and I've decided some good old-school low-technology solutions are the way forward. With the bonus being that they're also a *lot* more affordable and energy-efficient.

(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

So why am I not an air con convert, even when a portable unit has become *the* must-have product of the moment? A few reasons.

First, even the best portable air conditioners are difficult to vent properly. They're not like the air conditioning unit you'll likely have experienced in a hotel room or on holiday.

In order to vent the heat from a portable air conditioner, you have to put the venting hose out of an external window, and it's then very tricky to seal the window so that hot air can't simply flow back inside at the same rate you're expelling it.

Amazon has all sorts of air con venting kits available, as do many specialist air con manufacturers, but having tested pretty much every solution out there (other than cutting a vent-hose-shaped hole in my double-glazed window), none of them has actually sealed the gaps around the window 100% succesfully.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Lindsey Davis)

And I have fairly standard windows; those with more unusual designs, such as a hinged loft window, will have an even trickier time venting successfully.

Second, every portable air conditioning unit I've tested has been *very* noisy. Yes, some are quieter than others, but whilst you can avoid cheaper units that sound like a truck's engine running in your bedroom, even the most expensive (and therefore quietest) options I've tested are still way too loud for me to comfortably sleep next to.

The common solution is to run the air conditioner for a few hours before bed and then turn it off when you want to sleep. However, part of the reason so many of us are struggling with overheated homes in the first place is that a lot of British homes are badly insulated, and I've always found that after an hour or so of the air con being switched off, my room will quickly reheat, and I'll wake up boiling again.

Third, for at least 50 weeks of the year, I don't actually need air conditioning. Yes, it's hot and uncomfortable for a few days in the summer (in this case, an extremely uncomfortable week), and certain people definitely need extra help to cool down and regulate their body temperature. But, an air con unit is big, *heavy* and bulky to move, and my small home really doesn't have anywhere to store it for the eleven months of the year it wouldn't be in use.

(Image credit: DOUGLAS GIBB PHOTOGRAPHY)

And lastly, a portable air conditioning unit uses a staggering amount of energy. Ideal Home's cooling expert, Sarah Handley, tells me that 'portable air conditioners can use anywhere between 780-2600W, which, based on the July 2026 energy price cap, means they can cost between 20p and 68p per hour to run'.

And that's only the personal cost of running an air conditioning unit. That high energy usage is also worsening the global environmental problems that are causing the extreme heat in the first place. So, where I can avoid adding to those problems, I'll do my best to find less energy-intensive solutions.

All in all, I now have three go-to solutions for surviving hot and humid heatwave nights, and the first, and arguably the most effective solution of the hundreds of cooling products I've tested, is also the most low-budget.

What is it? An under £10 ice pack. And yes, I know, it's a disappointingly dull answer. Unlike an air con unit, it doesn't come with a clever app to download whilst you sweat, or an LED display to tell you just how hot you are, but... it works.

Neo-G

Hot and Cold Therapy Ice Pack

NatraCure

Flexikold Reusable Gel Cold Pack

Schone

Mega Ice Blocks

I pop a couple of these ice packs in a freezer bag and then a pillowcase and add them to my bed in extreme hot weather. You can use a bag of frozen peas, of course, but I find they tend to defrost a *lot* quicker and leave you with puddles of water. These gel packs freeze much quicker and stay frozen for much longer. Mine stays icy cold all through the night, even in hot temperatures.

Second, I've accepted that I may have to camp out downstairs at night during a heatwave. Heat rises, and my first floor becomes stifling hot in the evening. My ground floor stays cooler, so I camp out on a good air bed in my living room for a few nights when it's most sweltering.

I might even invest in one of the best sofa beds or best chair beds to make a downstairs campout more comfortable. This won't work for everyone, I realise, but for me, a few nights on my ground floor is a lot simpler than the air con battle I'd need to embark on to cool things enough to sleep upstairs.

Third, and this is definitely the most expensive solution, I've invested in a very good fan, and it makes a *huge* difference.

(Image credit: Meaco)

In the UK, our biggest issue with cooling down is humidity. When it's hot *and* humid, sweat stays on the skin, making it difficult for the body to cool itself down. A breeze, whether through an open window during the cooler parts of the day or night, or from a fan, dries this sweat, making the body feel instantly cooler.

I recommend investing in a fan with a DC motor. These are generally super quiet (none of that horrendous whirring you have to endure with a cheaper AC fan), extremely powerful, and very energy efficient. Unlike an air conditioning unit's average 780-2600 watts per hour, many energy-efficient DC fans use well under 10 watts per hour.

I've rounded up some of my top-rated recommendations below, and, if you're considering air con but on the fence, or you know that air con is way out of your budget, I thoroughly recommend these as an alternative.

Meaco

Meacofan Sefte 10" Table Air Circulator

This desk or bedside table fan has a powerful yet quiet DC motor, it's easy to use, and energy-efficient, using between 8 and 26 watts depending on which of the 12 speed settings you use.

EcoAir

Equinox Standing Fan

A more affordable DC fan, the EcoAir Equinox is even more energy-efficient using as little as 3.5 watts to run. A pedestal fan can also be a great option for the bedroom if you don't have space on a bedside table or chest of drawers.

John Lewis

Meaco Sefte 10" Pro 3-In-1 Pedestal Fan

This pedestal model offers three adjustable height settings, and benefits from a rechargeable and replaceable battery. That means you can use it anywhere without relying on a nearby plug socket.

A fan doesn't actively cool the air, but the breeze it creates cools your body, and personally, I've been amazed at the difference they've made to my comfort levels.

Plus, you can always do the double whammy and sit a bowl of ice, or an ice pack in front of your fan to cool down the air as it blows at you as well. Compared to faffing around with an air con venting hose, getting more hot and bothered by the minute, I find it's the best solution for me right now.

I'm a Sleep Editor who has tested every cooling bedding product under the sun – this £15 buy is the only thing helping me sleep in the heatwave

Amy Lockwood — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor I've spent the past five years testing the best bedding, mattresses, and bed linen on the market.

And during the past five summers I've tested more cooling bedding products and ways to stay cool in bed than I can count.

Some have worked, most haven't, but faced with this week's 35°C heatwave and a south-facing dormer bedroom, there's only one thing that's actually helped me cool down enough to sleep.

Don't get me wrong. Opting for cooling bedding materials definitely helps me to sleep a *lot* cooler.

Before I understood the impact of different fibres, I used to sleep on a memory foam mattress and under a microfibre duvet filled with polyester. As a hot sleeper anyway, and as a woman whose temperature fluctuates every month, I hadn't realised just how much those synthetic fibres were making me overheat and subsequently, disturbing my sleep.

(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

Switching to a pocket spring mattress filled with natural materials and swapping to a breathable wool duvet has been a game-changer.

(I now sleep on the Hypnos Pillow Top Select mattress, and I always recommend the Woolroom Deluxe Wool Duvet to anyone looking to swap to a wool duvet, but there are cheaper options available – my guide to the best duvets has more info.)

Those natural fibres offer such great breathability compared to polyester, which many experts dub a hidden sleep thief. Pair a wool-filled mattress with a wool-filled duvet and top it with breathable cotton or linen bedding, and I now sleep at the perfect temperature at least eleven months of the year.

However, the recent heatwaves that the UK has encountered are a different story. This is extreme heat, and it's not a temperature that my south-facing dormer bedroom is equipped to deal with.

(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

I've tried cooling pillows, cooling sheets, cooling pads, and, having been lucky enough to test out many of the best fans on the market, I also have a top-of-the-range £150+ Duux Whisper Flex fan that genuinely works miracles most summers by keeping me cool at night.

After testing numerous options for Ideal Home's buying guide, I even own one of the best portable air conditioning units.

And yet, despite air con flying out of stock this year – our live blog is keeping you updated on where to find an in-stock air con unit or a fan if you're considering shopping – before I reach for this £500 air con unit, I find again and again that every time we have to endure a heatwave, I choose a £15 solution to beat the heat and get a cooler sleep instead.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Chris Snook)

What is it? The humble air bed, one of which you can buy at Amazon, Argos, or any of the camping stores for well under £20.

The reason for this choice is that heat rises, so the top floor of my home – and the level that most of us in two-storey houses have our bedrooms on – is always *much* hotter than the ground floor.

I still take all the steps to cool down a bedroom – from keeping the blackout blinds closed all day to creating a cross-breeze when the outside temperatures are cooler than inside – and they do help, but nothing makes it cool enough to sleep well up there when outside temperatures top 35°C.

Instead, rather than battle endlessly to cool down the top floor of my home with an air conditioning unit that's noisy, expensive to run, heavy to move, and whose energy use is making the climate crisis (and resultant heatwaves) worse, I've accepted that in heatwave weather I move downstairs to sleep, and camp out on an air bed in my significantly cooler living room.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Anna Stathaki)

Of course, this solution doesn't work for everyone. I live in a two-storey house, so I have a downstairs. Many of us don't. I don't have a large family, so there aren't five of us all camped out in my small living room. And I'm still limber enough to get on and off an air bed, which isn't the case for everyone.

However, if you too are struggling with the heat on your top floor this week, I definitely recommend this option if you can. Plus, whilst fans and air con are almost sold out, the best air beds are (currently) still in plentiful stock.

To make things more comfortable, you can now get double-height air beds that make getting in and out of bed easier, plus camping bed bases, and even folding mattresses you could stash under the stairs if you have more space than I do.

I've rounded up some of the best options I've found below, and many – especially if you shop for an air bed on Amazon and you're an Amazon Prime member – can be delivered with super-fast delivery. (Although we should be mindful that any orders currently mean delivery drivers have to face the heat of the day to deliver.)

Amazon

Bestway Single Air Bed

Already super affordable, this budget-friendly under £15 air bed is now reduced to just £10 if you shop on Amazon. However, it doesn't come with a foot pump to inflate it.

Silentnight

Single Airbed With Foot Pump and Pillow

If you want an affordable air bed *and* the foot pump, this Silentnight model offers both.

Silentnight

Silentnight Extra High Flocked Air Bed

This double-height air bed lifts you further from the ground. Plus, it's super easy to inflate and deflate thanks to a mains electric pump.

Decathlon

Camp Bed

If you want to lift a normal air bed higher from the floor, you could add a camping mattress onto a raised camp bed. This one folds up into a compact carry bag when not in use.

Decathlon

Inflatable Camping Bed Base

Or, if you don't fancy assembling a camp bed when you're hot and bothered, this inflatable option will also raise you up from the floor.

Argos

Jay-Be Rollaway Folding Bed with e-Fibre Mattress

If you have more space to store a bed when it's not in use, this folding bed with mattress also makes a useful temporary sleeping area.

Plus, if all else fails, you could always sleep on the sofa for a few nights.

In fact, now that heatwaves are becoming more frequent, I'm even considering swapping my sofa for one of the best sofa beds or best chair beds so that hot-weather living room camp-outs can be even more comfortable.

'Brilliant at keeping the bedroom cool and dark' – this £6.50 Dunelm buy has shoppers raving about the difference it's made to their sleep during the heatwave

Amy Lockwood — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 13:00:00 +0000

The UK has just celebrated the summer solstice, the day with the most daylight hours of the year, and on top of that, many parts of the country are currently experiencing a heatwave with temperatures predicted to soar to 36°C to 40°C.

That's a *lot* of heat and light, and whilst we don't want to wish away the summer weather, there's no denying that when it comes to how to sleep better, a bedroom that's too hot and too bright can play havoc with a good night's rest.

Little wonder then that savvy Dunelm shoppers have been quietly snapping up a £6.50 solution that transforms a hot, bright bedroom into a blissfully cool, dark oasis.

Dunelm

Blackout Temporary Pleated Blind

This budget-friendly heatwave solution is under a tenner.

In many parts of the UK, the sun will rise before 5am during the remainder of June, and when the weather is as hot as it is right now, that means four whole hours of blazing hot sun shining into your bedroom pre-9am.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Davide Lovatti)

Curtains and blinds help, of course, but they can still let plenty of heat and light into the room, and with experts keen to point out that blocking light from a room is one of *the* best ways to keep a bedroom cool during a heatwave, it's no surprise that many of us are looking for additional solutions.

The Dunelm Blackout Temporary Pleated Blind is just that. This pleated paper blind is no-drill and can be trimmed to size and stuck to a bedroom window in a jiffy. And, if you have a tiny bit more to spend, but want one delivered faster, Amazon has a similar no-drill pleated blackout blind for £11.99.

Super quick and easy to install, they're the perfect solution if you're looking for a temporary fix to the excess heat, and equally useful if you rent and want to avoid a permanent blind, or aren't yet confident in your DIY skills.

No wonder Dunelm shoppers can't stop raving about them. 'Worth every penny,' says one 5-star reviewer on the Dunelm website, 'they block the light and heat out really well and are easy to trim to size. I am genuinely really impressed by them. They are a bargain too.'

(Image credit: Siobhan Doran Studio )

'Absolutely perfect to block out the morning sun and such an amazing price,' says another happy owner. 'These honestly work so well,' shares another reviewer, 'brilliant at keeping the bedroom dark and cooler.'

And as Dreams sleep expert and author of the Good Sleep Guide, Sammy Margo explains, a dark bedroom is exactly what's needed to combat the high temperatures of this week.

In a heatwave, 'the best way to prevent your bedroom from turning into a greenhouse is by blocking out direct sunlight during the day,' advises Sammy. 'You can use blackout curtains or blinds to help keep the heat at bay and reduce overall room temperature.'

'Keeping windows closed during the hottest parts of the day and only opening them once the air cools in the evening can also make a noticeable difference,' adds Sammy.

(Image credit: Future PLC / James French)

And whilst Dunelm shoppers might be applauding the performance of the Dunelm Blackout Temporary Pleated Blind, it isn't the only option on the market. I've rounded up a few quick delivery options below that will help you to darken your bedroom and beat the heat this week.

Alternatives

Maritown

No Drill Blinds Blackout Thermal

If you want the benefits of Dunelm's temporary blackout blind, but with the added bonus of super speedy delivery, this Amazon option offers it all for just a little more money. Plus, it comes in a range of colour options.

Tommee Tippee

Sleeptight Portable Blackout Blind

Again, it's more expensive than Dunelm's paper blind, but it's also a lot more durable, and I've found this stick-on PVC blackout blind with suction cups a game-changer for blocking out the light in a bedroom.

Rabbitgoo

Blackout Window Film

This window blackout film has over 8,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, with owners praising how easy it is to apply. However, unlike a blind, you can't roll it up and down to let the light in when you want.

I'm a hot sleeper and there's a heatwave – this Silentnight cooling blanket is the only thing that's helped me sleep better

Rachel Tompkins — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 09:00:00 +0000

As a perimenopausal 46-year-old mum, I struggle with overheating in bed at the best of times, let alone during a heatwave that's seen temperatures in my area reach 30C plus.

Our home doesn’t have air-con, so my kids are often too hot to sleep during the summer, too. As such, staying cool in bed becomes a real battle during hot weather.

As a result, when I came across the Silentnight Restore Cooling Lightweight Blanket for under £40 on Amazon, I hoped it would be the solution I needed to keep us all cool.

Silentnight

Restore Cooling Lightweight Blanket

Usually costing £45, this cooling blanket is currently reduced on Amazon.

Described by Silentnight as ‘cool to the touch for instant heat relief' and helping 'to regulate body temperature’, it sounded like *exactly* what I needed to beat overheating once and for all.

And, unlike many cooling bedding products I've tested in the past few years, I wasn't disappointed when I unpacked it.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

The first thing I noticed when I picked up this blanket was how cold it felt to the touch. One side in particular felt noticeably colder than any other bedding in our house, and its coolness was something that both of my sons immediately commented on.

Sleeping under it the first night of warm weather, I felt instantly cooler. Initially, I missed the weight of my regular duvet, but if, like me and my children, you don’t like the idea of sleeping with no covers at all, this hot-weather duvet alternative offers a perfect in-between solution.

I fell asleep quickly, and I didn’t wake up in the night due to overheating. Plus, in the morning, I didn’t feel sweaty or clammy at all like I sometimes do.

Whether that’s down to the innovative composition of the blanket or the fact that it’s thinner than my usual duvet, I can’t be sure, but my children both noticed that when they slept under this blanket, they felt cooler than when they slept under an empty duvet cover like they usually do when it’s hot.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Possibly the biggest test came from my youngest son, who is the clammiest sleeper I know and always wakes up sweaty! He loved falling asleep under this and slept soundly. When he woke up in the morning, he felt a lot cooler and less clammy than usual.

In fact, the one night I tested this blanket pre-heatwave I had to swap it for my usual quilt because I felt too cold!

And it seems I'm not alone in being impressed by the blanket's cooling powers. One reviewer of the Silentnight Restore Cooling Blanket on the Argos website says, 'what is this wizardry? I bought this for the summer, and I literally can't believe the difference it made to my sleep. How it works, I have no idea, but it remains cool constantly – it's literally like magic. I can definitely recommend this cooling blanket.'

'Surprised how effective this lightweight cooling blanket was,' says another owner. 'I’m at “that age” where I get so hot in the night... my duvet is too hot, but I still need something on me to sleep; this blanket really helped and really worked! It’s lightweight but feels enough weight on you; it’s definitely cooling and quite cool to the touch. I slept so much better.'

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Another big bonus is that the Restore blanket is machine washable at 40C, and I've found it fits in the washing machine easily and dries quickly on the line (the care label says it can be tumble dried on low, but I haven't needed to test that in this heat!). It looks as good as new after being washed and didn’t lose its shape at all.

The only downside is that it only comes in one size. On a double bed, it was just big enough to cover two people, although there wasn’t much extra space at the edges if either of us moved around.

Personally, I'd definitely recommend The Silentnight Restore Cooling Blanket for keeping cool on warm nights, as well as for anyone who struggles with hormonal temperature changes during the night.

That said, it's not the only option out there. I've rounded up a few alternatives below, all of which can help you beat the heat on hot, hot summer nights.

Dunelm

Soft & Cooling Blanket

Dunelm's Soft & Cooling Blanket is another good option if you're on the hunt for cooling bedding materials. It comes in two sizes, and as of writing, it costs a little less than Silentnight's Restore blanket. However, there are fewer colour options to choose from.

Bedsure

Cooling Blanket

This cooling blanket has a silky texture that's instantly cool to the touch. It feels a lot more luxurious than the Silentnight option, and it comes in more size options. However, comparable sizes are more expensive.

Bedsure

Cotton Muslin Throw Blanket

Another hot-weather duvet alternative is opting to sleep under a muslin throw. This cotton fabric has a loose weave that allows for plenty of airflow. Although if your pets share your bed, those threads are easy to pull.

Too hot to sleep? These are the duvet alternatives you'll want on your radar during the heatwave

Amy Lockwood — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0000

It's hot outside and predicted to get hotter, and whilst many of us might enjoy the sunshine during the day, most of us are less keen on the sticky, humid nights that go hand-in-hand with a UK heatwave.

I sleep warm anyway, and, whilst I've already invested in one of the best duvets for hot sleepers, on nights like these, even the most breathable duvet can still be far too warm.

Personally, I think there's nothing worse than tossing and turning in a sweaty bed when the mercury soars, which is why I've made it my mission to track down the best duvet alternatives for hot weather.

As I've learned during the past five years as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, when it comes to how to stay cool in bed, it's all about choosing cooling bedding materials, and the experts agree that these are your best bets if you're looking to swap out your duvet for a cooler sleep this summer.

1. Cotton throw

(Image credit: Secret Linen Store)

First up, cotton. Whether you opt to sleep under a simple flat cotton sheet during the sky-high temperatures, or a slightly thicker cotton throw, this natural fabric is the ideal duvet alternative for hot summer nights.

'A cotton throw is such a good swap for a duvet when the nights get warm,' agrees Molly Freshwater, co-founder of bedding brand Secret Linen Store. 'Cotton is breathable, soft, and naturally good at soaking up any overnight warmth or moisture.' And that's exactly what we need in the UK, when high temperatures tend to mean sticky, humid, moisture-filled nights.

'Because most cotton throws have a looser weave than a duvet cover, they let air move around you rather than trapping it,' explains Molly. 'You still get that comforting “I’m covered” feeling, just without the heat. Bliss when the temperature doesn’t drop outside and the open window doesn’t help one bit.'

Dunelm

Yard Hebden Stripe 100% Cotton Bedspread

Ideal Home Approved

The White Company

Florian Bedspread

Secret Linen Store

Spice Vivienne 100% Cotton Quilted Throw

'A cotton throw or even a flat cotton sheet is an excellent alternative to a duvet in hot weather,' agrees Charlotte Hill, technical manager for homeware at Marks & Spencer.

'Cotton is naturally breathable and lightweight, helping air to circulate and preventing heat from becoming trapped overnight. For many customers, it offers just enough coverage without the weight or warmth of a traditional duvet.'

2. Flat linen sheet

(Image credit: La Redoute)

Next up, and probably one of the most breathable options I've tried, is linen. Again, either in the form of a flat linen sheet or a more weighty linen throw.

'A linen throw or flat linen sheet is my personal favourite for hot weather,' agrees Molly. 'it's the fabric I always come back to, and for good reason. The fibres are super clever, so they wick moisture away quickly and let air flow beautifully.'

'Linen feels cool the moment you get into bed and stays that way,' explains Molly. 'A flat sheet is the lightest option; a linen throw gives a little more weight without adding warmth. Linen also has the bonus of looking amazing. If someone asks me what I use at home in summer, it’s always always 100% linen.'

Piglet in Bed

Ivory Kemptown Stripe 100% Linen Flat Sheet

Bedfolk

The Linen & Cotton Throw

Secret Linen Store

Natural Elijah 100% Linen Throw

'Linen is a particularly strong choice for warmer nights,' agrees Charlotte at M&S. 'Its fibres are highly breathable and naturally temperature-regulating, meaning it feels cool against the skin while helping to dissipate heat. Linen is also very effective at wicking away moisture, making it ideal for those who tend to overheat. A linen throw or flat sheet can provide a relaxed, airy layer that still feels premium and comfortable.'

After testing every bedding material under the sun during the past five years, it's certainly now become the only fabric I choose for hot nights. And it's genius fibres somehow also work brilliantly to keep me cosy without overheating in winter, so although the best linen bedding is expensive to buy, I do think it's a great long-term investment, as it isn't a material that's just for hot weather.

3. Muslin throw

(Image credit: Yard)

Muslin is another useful warm-weather option. 'A muslin throw is a great option for hot weather, especially for those looking for something ultra-lightweight,' agrees Charlotte at M&S.

'Typically made from loosely woven cotton, muslin allows for maximum airflow and creates a soft, lightweight feel,' explains Charlotte. 'It’s ideal for the warmest nights where a customer still wants a light layer for comfort, without adding any noticeable warmth.'

'Muslin's open-weave structure promotes continuous ventilation and heat dissipation during sleep, making it a great alternative to duvets during hot weather,' agrees Dony Wang, senior director of product development at bedding brand Bedsure.

Bedsure

Cotton Muslin Throw Blanket

Dunelm

Reversible Muslin Cotton Throw

Bed Threads

Lagoon & Crème 100% French Flax Linen Muslin Throw

'A muslin throw can be a lovely, very lightweight option because muslin is loosely woven and airy, agrees Molly, 'soft, breathable, and great if you want the lightest possible layer.'

In fact, muslin is increasingly growing in popularity as a summer bedding fabric, with brands such as Simba launching muslin bedding sets, and even a muslin dressing gown that's perfect for hot weather.

4. Cooling blanket

(Image credit: Dunelm)

Whilst all of our experts suggestions so far have been for natural fibres, such as cotton or linen, there are also synthetic options which have been designed to offer a cooler sleep, such as cooling blankets.

'Unlike a traditional duvet, which is designed to trap warmth, a cooling blanket helps draw excess heat away from the body, creating a cooler and more comfortable sleep environment,' explains Dony. They're designed with 'fibres that feel cool to the touch, and help transfer body heat away from the skin more efficiently than many conventional bedding materials.'

These can be a good option if you're someone who struggles to sleep without a certain amount of weight on top of them, as all the options we've tested at Ideal Home tend to be more weighty than a cotton, linen, or muslin throw.

Bedsure

Cooling Blanket

Dunelm

Soft & Cooling Blanket

Silentnight

Restore Cooling Blanket

'Delivering a noticeably cooler sensation on contact, a cooling blanket also helps wick moisture away from the skin,' says Dony, 'promoting a drier, fresher sleep environment throughout the night.'

Whichever duvet alternative you opt for, all of these options will deliver a cool and breathable sleep compared to your standard duvet, which is exactly what's needed in this hot weather.

I tested Simba's new £399 Amazon-exclusive 'Simbatex Cool' mattress during one of the hottest months of the year – here are my honest thoughts

Annie Collyer — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0000

My Simba Simbatex Cool Mattress review puts the much-loved sleep brand's new Amazon-exclusive mattress to the test to see how it performs compared to the best mattresses on the market.

In a nutshell

First things first, this is a very affordable mattress. It's sold exclusively on Amazon, rather than on Simba's own website, which, to my mind, suggests the brand is aiming to deliver a budget-friendly option that suits shoppers with an under-£500 budget.

A double of the Simba Simbatex Cool Mattress costs £399 and a king-size £429 as of writing, which is about as affordable as you can go and still get a decent mattress.

And all in all, I do think this new launch is one of the best budget mattresses out there, other than a few niggles. Especially because, even though this mattress is sold through Amazon, Simba is still honouring its usual 200-night sleep trial, which means you can test this mattress out at home to see if it suits your sleeping style before you have to commit to keeping it.

As a back and side sleeper, I found its medium-firm foam sleep surface very comfortable, and enjoyed its light cushioning around my shoulder and hip. My husband and I share a bed with our toddler most nights, and we also really appreciated its motion isolation, which meant we didn't notice when one of us in the bed tossed or turned. And, it has a nice amount of bounce to say it lacks springs.

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

On the downside, I didn't feel it really lived up to its name in the cool stakes. It didn't cause us to overheat, but it definitely wasn't as cooling and breathable as I would have liked either. And its edge support was lacking, which meant my leg could slip out of bed when I was pushed to the edge by our star-fishing toddler!

However, if you're not a hot sleeper and there aren't three of you crammed into one bed, I'd definitely recommend this mattress for most sleepers. If you're on a budget and are searching for a king-size mattress for less than £500, I think this is a great choice that you won't be left unimpressed with.

Simba Simbatex Cool Mattress Review

Specifications

Type: Foam
Construction materials: Breathable cover, graphite-infused Simbatex cooling foam, foam support layer, zoned CertiPUR foam base
Sizes: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King
Tensions available: Medium-firm
Height: 23cm
Side handles: Yes
Flip or rotate: Rotate
Manufacturers sleep trial: 200 nights

(Image credit: Simba)

1. Comfort

Having finally managed to nail my sleep setup – the perfect combination of a medium-firm mattress, a thick mattress topper, and some sumptuous pillows – I've been snoozing well for a few years. Despite my toddler getting in with us every night and my husband turning into a breathing radiator past the hour of 10 o'clock!

As such, I have to admit I was slightly apprehensive about changing my sleep setup to test the Simbatex Cool mattress. However, I worried for no reason – luckily, I instantly clicked with this mattress from the first night I slept on it.

It's crafted from three main layers in total. There's a Simbatex foam layer, and below this, you'll find a wedge of foam support, above the final layer, which is zoned CentiPUR foam.

I'm mostly a back and side sleeper, and I found this mattress to be instantly comfortable. It's a true medium-firm feel, and I found it lightly cushioned me at the pressure points of my shoulders and hip, where I need it most. It also kept my spine well-aligned in both positions.

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

I never suffered from any aches while sleeping on this mattress, not even once. The same goes for my husband, who was initially annoyed that I was changing our much-loved mattress, but now knows he overreacted a little and had nothing to worry about.

As this mattress is foam only, that means there are no springs inside, and we were initially concerned that might mean a lack of support, especially for my husband, who is heavier than I am. However, he sleeps on his back and side, but mostly his side, and he also found this mattress ultra-comfortable from day dot.

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

2. Motion isolation

As an all-foam mattress with no springs in sight, the motion isolation of this mattress is impressive.

I share a bed with my husband, and very often our toddler, and when my husband moved off the bed, I barely felt it. And the same goes for him, as he rarely felt me tossing and turning at night.

Even with our toddler in tow, the motion isolation proved to be very impressive, especially for the affordable price tag.

Motion isolation
Poor	Okay	Good	Great	Excellent
			X

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

3. Responsiveness

I was also super impressed by the responsiveness of this mattress. I found its cushioning cradled my pressure points perfectly, but unlike some memory foam mattresses I've tested, it doesn't feel so foamy that you can't roll around or get out of bed with ease.

It was easy to move around on, and even more fun for my toddler to bounce on top of! I never struggled to switch positions on this mattress, although when I pressed my hand on it, it did leave a visible print for a few minutes.

Responsiveness
Poor	Okay	Good	Great	Excellent
				X

4. Temperature regulation

Since this mattress is specifically called 'cool', I had high hopes that it would give us some sort of relief in the heatwave we were baking in during testing. I put it to the test during one of the hottest Mays on record, with the temperatures where I live reaching 32C.

Our bedroom is very warm, so most nights from around April, we need to sleep with a fan on, regardless of whether it's 15C or 30C outside. And perhaps we were expecting too much, but on nights when we didn't sleep with a fan on, we were both still very warm and sweaty.

That said, it didn't actively cause me to overheat like some budget memory foam mattresses I've tested. It just didn't keep us that cool either.

Simba uses its trademark graphite-infused foam in the top layer, and according to the brand, that Simbatex foam also offers five times more airflow than standard memory foam, so I don't doubt this mattress is more breathable than many cheap foam options.

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

From its name, I guess I just expected it to be a little cooler to the touch. My husband, as a hot sleeper, has a cooling pillow which is impressively cold when you lay your head on it.

Overall, if you're a hot sleeper, this mattress may not be as cooling as you'd hope. A natural fill mattress such as the Hypnos Pillow Top Select is definitely your best bet there, but if you're looking for an under £500 mattress that won't actively overheat you, the Simbatex Cool did 'okay' for temperature regulation. Not brilliant, but definitely not awful either.

Temperature regulation
Poor	Okay	Good	Great	Excellent
	X			X

5. Edge support

When I unboxed this mattress, I didn't have high hopes for its edge support, mostly because the mattress is slightly rounded at the edges and doesn't feature an edge trim, as more expensive mattresses generally do.

One of the main USPs of this mattress is also its affordability, and having put numerous budget mattresses through their paces, the one area they do all tend to scrimp on is edge support.

As you can see, the mattress sinks quite a lot at the edge when I'm sat on it, and – as a parent who is regularly joined in bed by our toddler – I found this a bit of an issue when sleeping too.

During the night, if my toddler fancied sleeping in the starfish position and I found myself at the very edge of the mattress, I found that my leg would slip off the mattress and onto the floor. This was only when I was pushed to the very, very edge, though.

Edge support
Poor	Okay	Good	Great	Excellent
	X			X

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

6. Sleep trial

As this mattress is sold via Amazon rather than direct from Simba, I was really pleasantly surprised to find out it still comes with Simba's usual 200-night sleep trial.

That's important because it can be tricky to tell if a mattress is really going to suit you when you're buying online, so it really helps to take some of the risk out of the purchase.

7. Ease of care

Similarly, considering this is a purse-friendly mattress, I was pleasantly surprised to discover it still comes with a removable cover that unzips for easy cleaning.

You can add a mattress protector to any mattress, of course, but, personally, I think that the removable cover is a total game-changer, as I like to wash all of my bedding, pillow protectors, and everything else I sleep on, a good few times a year. Especially since my dog sometimes comes up on our bed while we watch TV in the evenings.

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

Once unzipped and removed from the mattress, the washing instructions say to wash the cover at 40C; you just can't tumble dry. This makes the job of cleaning your mattress a breeze, plus it is easy to unzip and fit back onto the mattress.

It also comes with sturdy side handles – again, something many under-£500 mattresses lack – and they make rotating the mattress every few months a dream. It's not that heavy either, plus there's no need to flip this mattress, so it's very easy to care for.

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

8. Delivery

When it comes to the Simbatex Cool mattress delivery process, you get free shipping, and this can be as fast as three days. You have the option to also buy service add-ons, which include unpacking (£5) or unpack and recycle (£20), in which they will take your old mattress and recycle it.

You will be contacted by a carrier to choose a delivery date that suits you. I chose a day I knew I would be working from home. Unfortunately, I also received a text the day before this, alerting me that my delivery was en route, but this turned out to be a glitch in the system.

I was assured by my contact that this was wrong and it would still arrive the next day. However, unlike a normal order from Simba's own website, I couldn't use any online tracking capabilities, which did make things a little more stressful.

On the delivery day, I did receive a tracking text with a link that gave me a more specific timeframe for delivery, and it informed me I needed to be home to sign for the mattress.

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

The mattress arrived rolled, although not boxed. And unlike a normal Simba delivery, which is delivered to your room of choice, I needed to get it into our bedroom myself.

I received a king-size mattress, which is heavy, so I wouldn't have been able to lift it on my own, but luckily I had help on hand.

This mattress did initially have a strong chemical smell after being unwrapped. This lingered for around a day. It wasn't unbearable, and rest assured, my bedroom air purifier didn't flag it, but I did leave the windows open whilst it was offgassing.

The plastic that this mattress was protected in was labelled as '4 LDPE', which is recyclable. This does depend on your local authority, though, as in some places you can leave it kerbside with the rest of your recycling, while in other areas, it may need to go to your local supermarket.

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

9. Third-party reviews

The only way to buy one of these mattresses is via Amazon. Since it's a pretty new product, there aren't a huge number of reviews yet – 24, as of writing, to be exact.

Overall, it's given a 4.5 out of 5 star rating, and shoppers rave about how supportive it is, plus mention it being budget-friendly and noticeably cooling. I agree with the support and purse-friendly pricing, but I can't relate to the cooling comments, unfortunately, and my husband agrees.

Some shoppers complained about the chemical smell after unwrapping their mattress, which I can definitely relate to, as this does linger for a day or so.

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

10. Value for money

Starting at only £349 for a single size, I think this mattress is a true steal. The most you'll pay for one of these mattresses is £479, and that's for a super king size.

In comparison with our best-rated mattress, which is the Simba Hybrid, you'll be saving 50%. This mattress comes in at £999 for a king-size (when it's not on sale).

I do think the Simbatex Cool feels like a cheaper mattress when compared directly to the Simba Hybrid, but then, it is. And you still get a lot of the bonuses of a 'normal' Simba mattress, such as the cooler graphite-infused foam and 200-night sleep trial.

Even our best-rated affordable mattress, which is the DreamCloud Hybrid, is still £599 for a king-size. So, overall, if you're looking for an under £500 mattress, I think the Simbatex Cool is a very good option.

11. Environmental impact

This mattress perhaps doesn't scream green in the same way as Simba's more expensive range, but it is made in the UK, meaning it won't travel far to get from production to your doorstep. It also has CertiPur-approved foams inside – these are certified for safe sleep, meaning these foams have been tested for environmental, health and safety properties.

How I tested

My sleep stats:

Sleep position: Back/side
Tension preference: Medium-firm
Sleep problems: None

In putting the Simbatex Cool Mattress through Ideal Home's mattress testing process, I considered the eleven factors that we deem vital to any mattress purchase.

I tested the mattress for comfort, motion isolation, responsiveness, temperature regulation, and edge support. This means that my husband and I, (plus quite frequently my 2.5-year-old and dog!) slept on the mattress for a month before I wrote my review.

I also took into consideration ease of care, any sleep trials available, the delivery process, its value for money, and, where possible, researched the mattress's environmental impact and any third-party customer reviews – to see if they aligned or were at odds with my own experience – before writing my own review and giving this mattress a star rating.

Millie Mackintosh has used this ‘safe’ shade to turn her bedroom into a calming sleep sanctuary full of character – how you can get the look too

Kezia Reynolds — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Sage green is one of the most popular paint shades for a bedroom, and with its soft, calming tones, it’s easy to see why. This classic colourway has earned a reputation for being a ‘safe’ choice, but it's a classic for a reason. Millie Mackintosh’s sage green bedroom is proof that this timeless paint shade can be both calm and characterful.

Sage green is one of the best shades of green for a bedroom. It’s calming and grounding - exactly what you’d hope to achieve when creating a sleep environment. But due to the popularity of this green bedroom idea, many now avoid the safe choice, for fear that it comes across as boring.

If Millie Mackintosh’s bedroom proves anything, it’s that safe doesn’t equal boring. Opting for a soft sage shade and matching Chinoiserie wallpaper, Millie’s bedroom is the perfect balance of comfort and character.

Millie Mackintosh's sage green bedroom

I love the opportunity to have a snoop into celebrity homes, and Millie Mackintosh’s was definitely a treat for the eyes, as the Made in Chelsea star is not scared to embrace colour. Millie frequently shares glimpses of her homelife and motherhood via TikTok and Instagram, and it was here that I spotted her stunning green bedroom.

A post shared by Millie Mackintosh (@milliemackintosh)
A photo posted by on

‘Green has been an incredibly popular choice in interiors for a few years now, and it’s definitely not going anywhere. What we’re seeing is a shift towards more nuanced, sophisticated tones, like earthy, muted greens and warmer, nature-inspired shades, so the colour still feels fresh but also timeless. Millie’s bedroom is a great example of how green can feel both calming and elevated,’ explains Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert at Hillarys.

‘What I particularly like about her space is how layered it feels. The combination of painted walls with wallpaper adds depth and interest, which is key when working with a single colour family. It stops the room from feeling flat and instead creates a really cocooning, considered look which is perfect for a bedroom.’

A post shared by Millie Mackintosh (@milliemackintosh)
A photo posted by on

Millie’s bedroom has been colour-drenched in the soft sage, which gives a cocooning feel that’s perfect for relaxing. I’m also a fan of the freshness of the tone, which maintains an airy look. Green remains one of the biggest colour trends of 2026, but Millie’s bedroom looks more timeless than trendy.

‘The soft chalky sage green used in Millie’s bedroom is a particularly timeless choice. Botanical greens such as Dulux Heritage’s Sage Green and Waxed Khaki have a wonderfully grounding quality, helping spaces feel relaxed, restorative and supportive of our wellbeing. They also sit right in the middle of the visual spectrum, which is part of what makes them so balanced, versatile and easy to live with in our homes,’ says Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director and Colour Expert at Dulux.

‘What I love most about this room is how naturally it brings the outdoors in. The soft sage green decorated with delicate Chinoiserie patterns creates a calm, restful space that's full of character while still feeling light and relaxed. The Chinoiserie effect and colour work beautifully together because they complement each other so stylishly. The pale sage green and delicate floral pattern create a look that feels tranquil, elegant and full of character.’

How to get the look

Here, sage green’s reputation as a ‘safe’ shade works in your favour. It is considered safe because it is so easy to use, and the end result is always so beautiful.

‘This bedroom is a wonderful reminder that a calming, neutral backdrop doesn't have to mean white, grey or beige. Green can work in much the same way, bringing a sense of peace and relaxation while adding more depth and personality to a space,’ says Marianne.

‘Green is one of the easiest colours to live with because it feels so familiar and reassuring. This room shows how this colour and pattern can be layered together in a way that feels uncluttered, inviting, characterful and restful, proving that embracing a little more colour doesn't have to come at the expense of calm.’

The key to achieving a bedroom such as Millie’s is to ensure that your paint shades, wallpapers or furnishing match and at the very least complement each other.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Wreford)

‘The wallpaper and paint work well together here because they sit within the same tonal palette. That said, achieving this balance can be tricky. If the undertones don’t quite match, it can clash rather than complement. The easiest way to get it right is to choose shades that have a similar base, for example, pairing warm greens with other warm greens, and always test samples in the space before committing,’ explains Victoria.

‘If I had one note, it would be to ensure there’s enough contrast to keep the scheme feeling dynamic. When everything sits very closely in tone, you risk losing definition, so bringing in different textures or slightly lighter and darker accents can really help.’

Shop sage green

Millie Mackintosh’s bedroom is proof that sage green is more than a safe option. When used well, it can create a calming sleep space that is packed with character and style.

Laura Ashley

Laura Ashley Lloyd Wallpaper, Sage Green

If you've been inspired by Millie's wallpaper, this stunning Laura Ashley design is currently on sale at John Lewis.

Sage Green Supersoft 100% Brushed Cotton Duvet Cover Plain and Pillowcase Set

If you're not looking to redecorate, a sage duvet set can also create a calming effect. This one is brushed cotton for added comfort.

Lick

Lick Green 09 Matt Emulsion Paint, 2.5l

Reviews say this stunning sage paint is high-quality, offering an excellent finish. They also say it is easy to apply, with great pigmentation.

Sophie and Jamie Laing's anti-trend nursery proves this 'playful yet timeless' look is one of 2026's hottest styles

Amy Lockwood — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 15:45:00 +0000

Gingham is having a moment. This interior trend started in the fashion world, but in the past few years, the playful checked fabric has become big news for bedrooms, too.

Gingham bedding is now all over the high street, and it's a bedding trend that shows no signs of waning anytime soon.

In fact, this is a bedroom trend that's rapidly growing, with interior stylists and decor experts saying that gingham is fast becoming one of this year's most popular children's bedroom ideas.

Yep, gingham is no longer just for the bed. In playrooms and bedrooms alike, the checks are now taking to the walls, and I personally think it's a great look if you're considering decorating or redecorating your kids' bedroom.

Whether you're pondering girls' bedroom ideas, boys' bedroom ideas, or looking to create a gender neutral nursery, as Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing recently demonstrated in an Instagram post that shared their newly decorated nursery, gingham – and, in particular, gingham wallpaper – is a look that just *works*.

Sophie Habboo and Jamie Laing's gingham wallpapered childrens nursery
A photo posted by on

The gingham kids' bedroom trend is also a look that can work for all ages, and, as our style experts are about to explain, this anti-trend style has timeless longevity.

Is gingham one of this year's fastest growing kids' bedroom trends?

'As seen in Sophie Habboo’s baby nursery, gingham wallpaper is becoming an increasingly popular nursery choice,' says Mike Allison, nursery furniture expert at Silver Cross.

'This year, we've seen a significant rise in the popularity of gingham wallpaper alongside a growing demand for gingham textiles and soft furnishings,' agrees Lauren Kavanagh, art director at wallpaper brand Hovia

'We’re definitely seeing gingham used more and more in nurseries and children’s rooms,' confirms Jessica Hanley, founder and CEO of bedding and interiors brand Piglet in Bed.

'It feels like part of a wider shift away from overly themed, childlike spaces, towards rooms that are calmer and more versatile in the long run,' says Jessica. 'Spaces that grown-ups love just as much as kids do.'

(Image credit: Hovia)

Why is gingham such a good look for a kid's bedroom?

Clearly, newlyweds Sophie and Jamie are sold on the playful checks, but why is it that gingham works *so* well in kids' bedrooms?

'Gingham strikes a balance between playful and timeless,' explains Jessica. 'It feels familiar, nostalgic and comforting, yet structured and grown-up enough to work well beyond the early years.'

'It's a timeless pattern that feels both nostalgic and fresh, making it a versatile choice for modern nurseries and children's bedrooms,' agrees Laura.

'This style is simple, calming and incredibly nostalgic, often evoking memories of the past,' agrees Mike. 'Plus, it's particularly suited to nature-inspired or gender-neutral nursery themes.'

Wallism

Gingham Linden Green Wallpaper

Piglet in Bed

Titan Blue Gingham Wallpaper

Hovia

Picnic Yellow Wallpaper

'There’s something inherently joyful and slightly whimsical about gingham,' adds Jessica, 'it's a pattern that’s been loved for generations. It also brings colour and character to a room without ever feeling over the top.'

How to style the look

And, of course, that leads us on to how to style the look. This is a trend that you can make as bold or muted as you like by playing with colour, scale, and the pieces you pair with your gingham walls.

If you're looking to create a more muted look, then 'Sophie’s nursery is a great success,' say interior stylists Laurie Davidson and Aurélien Farjon of the @stylemakerspresent. 'She has definitely achieved the serene and timeless feel she was after through a lovely Scandi scheme with muted tones, light wood furniture accents.'

'I particularly like the playful mix of patterns Sophie has used,' says Laurie, 'from the gingham on the wallpaper, chequerboard on the rug, zigzag on the curtains, and stripes on the rocking horse.'

(Image credit: Hovia)

'Muted shades, such as sage green or pale blue, paired with bold patterns, checkered rugs and striped storage units, create a cosy, nostalgic feel without disrupting the calming ambience of the room,' agrees Mike.

'Soft, muted colours such as beige, sage green, dusty blue and blush pink create a calming scheme that can grow with your child,' agrees Laura, but if you're happy to go bolder, 'butter yellow offers a cheerful, on-trend alternative.'

'I used our Piglet in Bed Dusty Blue Gingham wallpaper in my little boy’s bedroom,' says Jessica, 'paired with our playful illustrated Mushrooms wallpaper. It’s transformed the room into a beautiful space we both love spending time in.'

Dunelm

Woven Gingham Wallpaper

Piglet in Bed

Dusty Blue Gingham Wallpaper

Peel & Paper

Fallon Buffalo Check Wallpaper

And don't forget that the scale of check you opt for can also affect the room's mood.

'There are lots of options around with different scales of pattern,' says Aurélien, 'you could go for a very small scale like Sophie, giving a subtle and discreet pattern, or you could opt for the larger scale option for a bolder and more impactful look.'

If you're using a brighter colour, then Laura says that 'a medium-scale gingham check is often the easiest to work with, as smaller checks can feel busy on large wall surfaces. For a more contemporary feel, opt for a larger-scale pattern.'

(Image credit: Hovia)

Then, 'pair gingham wallpaper with complementary blocks of colour through bedding and soft furnishings,' says Laura. 'Stripes and delicate floral prints also work beautifully alongside gingham, helping to create a layered, cottage-inspired look.'

'For bedding, either echo the wallpaper colour for a soft, tonal look, or contrast with complementary shades,' advises Jessica, 'for example, soft green with blush pink, or dusty blue with buttery yellow. Keep everything else quite simple and natural: linen, rattan, light or dark wood, and subtle detailing in the furniture keep the space feeling balanced.'

M&S

Pure Cotton Gingham Bedding Set

Soak & Sleep

Pinstripe Linen Cotton Blend Bedding

Piglet in Bed

Honey Gingham Linen Blend Duvet Cover

H&M

Muslin Duvet Cover Set

Ideal Home Approved

The White Company

Organic Cotton Reversible Gingham Duvet Cover & Pillowcase Set

La Redoute

Soizic Blue Cotton Duvet Cover

Or, 'to complete the scheme, consider incorporating vintage or vintage-inspired furniture,' suggests Laura. 'Pieces such as wardrobes and chests of drawers add character, especially when updated with soft paint colours or new hardware for a fresh, modern finish.'

However you style it, I think gingham is *the* choice for a stylish kids' bedroom in 2026. Are you tempted to give checks a try?

I just tested Simba's new £199 'Cool Foam' mattress topper – it's ideal if you have a fidgety sleep partner

Zoë Phillimore — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0000

My Simba Cool Foam Mattress Topper review puts the brand's latest launch, and its most affordable topper yet, to the test.

The Cool Foam claims to allow five times more airflow than standard memory foam mattress toppers, and as someone who has spent four years testing the best mattress toppers and best cooling mattress toppers on the market, I wanted to put that claim to the test.

In a nutshell

After sleeping on top of the Simba Cool Foam Mattress Topper for the past three weeks, I think this topper is a brilliant option if you want to add some extra cushioning to your bed.

My husband and I also appreciated the improved motion isolation it added to our bed. We couldn't feel each other toss or turn at night, and when our kids jumped into bed, I wasn't bounced awake as I usually am.

However, I did find it fairly soft – if you crave a more solid sleep surface, this might not be the mattress topper for you. In terms of the name “Cool Foam”, I’m also not totally sold that this is more cooling than most other mattress toppers I’ve tried.

However, it didn’t cook me while I slept as some memory foam toppers have in the past, so although it wasn't as cool as the natural materials in the Woolroom Deluxe Mattress Topper I usually sleep on, if you're not a hot sleeper this likely won't be an issue, and even if you are, this topper still didn't actively cause me to overheat.

Overall, I think the generous 200-night sleep trial, Simba's excellent customer service, and this topper's cushioning comfort and excellent motion isolation will make it a good buy for many.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

Simba Hybrid Essential Topper review

Specifications

(Image credit: Simba)

RRP: £149 / £199 / £199 / £249 / £299
Sizes: single / small double / double / king / super-king
Depth: 6.5cm
Construction: foam
Care instructions: removable cover is machine-washable at 40ºC, do not tumble dry
Manufacturer sleep trial: 200 nights

Attaching the topper to the bed

When the Simba Cool Foam mattress topper arrived on my doorstep, it was in a tiny box. As a seasoned mattress-topper reviewer, I was genuinely mystified as to how a king-size topper could fit in such a small box. But it did – probably because this mattress is pure foam, rather than hybrid, so it can squash down a lot smaller.

Inside the box, the topper was vacuum-packed in plastic, which was easy to remove. Just be careful not to cut into your topper while executing this move. The mattress topper then unfurled. I would suggest unboxing your topper as far in advance of sleeping on it as you can – a day or so. This is because the topper slowly reshaped and expanded over time.

It also allows time for off-gassing – the release of VOCs from the manufacturing process. The off-gassing smell from this topper was quite strong – I left the room well ventilated, but it still took a while to dissipate.

There are thick elasticated straps on the corners of the topper to attach it around the mattress. Plus, there is an anti-slip underside of this topper, but I found this to be almost imperceptible. However, the elasticated straps were generous enough to fit around my extra-thick Brook + Wilde mattress underneath with ease, so it should fit most mattresses.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

Comfort

The main difference between the Simba Cool Foam mattress topper and Simba's other toppers is that it's made from three core layers rather than four, and that 'missing' layer is the microsprings the other toppers use. Instead, the Cool Foam is a foam-only topper.

The uppermost layer is Simbatex – this is Simba’s own comfort-engineered memory foam. This foam is infused with graphite particles. The idea is that the graphite will draw heat away from the body, while the open-cell structure will allow fresh air to flow into the topper to keep you cool.

We’ll dive into temperature regulation in the next section, but in terms of comfort, Simbatex is meant to be bouncier and more elastic than regular memory foam. This layer is the cushioning element of the mattress, offering pressure relief on hips and joints so you feel gently supported without that sinking feeling you get from a lot of old-style memory foams.

Underneath this layer is a foam base. This section is doing the heavy lifting in the topper – it should distribute your weight evenly over the mattress topper so no spots get overloaded. This means you feel supported and your spine stays in good alignment (the holy grail in terms of minimising discomfort while sleeping).

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

This topper is 6.5cm deep, and Simba says that it's medium-firm, although I found it fairly soft.

However, despite usually preferring a firmer mattress, I really enjoyed sleeping on the Simba Cool Foam topper. I found it responded well to my body, cocooning me and contouring around my body. I woke without an ache or pain – many soft mattresses leave me with lower-back pain.

During testing, I also really appreciated the motion isolation it added to our bed. Even when my children bounced into bed in the morning, I found that I remained asleep – we call that in the parenting trade “an absolute win”. But it shows that the topper does a good job at limiting the transfer of movement across the bed. This is also essential if you’re disturbed by your partner fidgeting next to you.

I have tested many other mattress toppers – including the Simba Hybrid Essential Topper, which costs £299 for a double, and the premium £349 Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper, both of which incorporate supportive springs. In comparison, I would say this £199 all-foam topper does feel a little less robust and a little less supportive.

However, if you're simply looking to add an extra layer of comfort and cushioning to a mattress, or to mask the movements of a fidgety partner, the Cool Foam topper did a great job.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

Temperature regulation

I err on the side of being a hot sleeper and often find myself overheating in bed, which then disturbs my sleep. I usually find memory foam is a particular problem for this.

As previously explained, the Simba Cool Foam mattress topper has a layer of Simbatex foam on the upper part of the topper. This foam is designed to draw heat away from your body via the graphite particles and then allow fresh air to circulate underneath you.

I slept on this topper under my usual Woolroom wool duvet during some fairly temperate nights. I did find that I felt warmer sleeping on this topper than I do on my usual Woolroom deluxe mattress topper. I think it would be hard for a synthetic foam to outdo natural materials, especially temperature-regulating wool, when it comes to breathability.

However, by no means was it intolerable heatwise, and there was no overheating that kept me awake. I was aware I was slightly warmer than I was used to, but I do think this topper slept cooler than other non-graphite-infused memory foam toppers I've slept on.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

Care instructions

Looking after this mattress topper is fairly easy. There’s a zip-off cover that is machine washable cover at 40ºC on a reduced spin cycle. You shouldn’t tumble dry it though, so pick a sunny day when you can dry it on the washing line.

If you want a deeper clean, you can spot clean the foam using a soft damp cloth. You should make sure the foam is absolutely dry before sleeping on it though.

However, it is worth noting that 40ºC isn’t always hot enough to kill those pesky dust mites that cause a lot of allergies to flare up. Personally, I'd always recommend using one of the best mattress protectors over the top.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

Sleep trial

Simba offer a 200-night sleep trial on this topper. This is more than enough time to figure out if the topper is right for you.

It’s worth noting that this sleep trial kick starts as soon as your topper is delivered. So if you don’t try it for 199 nights and find out that it’s not for you on night 201, you’re out of luck. And, of course, you will need to actively notify Simba of your plans to return the topper if you’re not keen on it.

If you’re buying through a third party, double check that this offer extends to you. Not all retailers will have the same offers in place.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

Value for money

The Cool Foam is now Simba’s most affordable topper. A double of this topper costs £199, while Simba's Hybrid Essential Mattress Topper costs £299 and the premium Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper is £349 for a double.

In order to achieve that lower price point, this mattress topper has been “streamlined” by Simba, so it’s foam only. The brand's other toppers are hybrid and include springs.

I found that meant this topper is a little softer than the brand's two sprung options, but I still found it very comfortable, and it added some welcome cushioning and motion isolation to our bed.

That said, I do think its £199 price point is still quite expensive. This is a pretty thick topper, at 6.5cm, but the 5cm deep Panda Topper is only a tad thinner, and the Panda Topper costs £134.95 for a double. Similarly, the Dunelm Gel Fusion Mattress Topper costs £135 for the 6cm deep option and £175 for the 10cm deep option.

We've reviewed both the Panda Topper and the Dunelm Gel Fusion Mattress Topper and found both similar in terms of temperature regulation and comfort. The main difference is that the Dunelm option doesn't come with a sleep trial, whereas the Simba and Panda options both offer 200 nights to test out on your own bed.

Overall, do I think the Simba Cool Foam mattress topper is good value for money? I think it's still a little on the expensive side. Personally, I'd wait for some Simba deals to drop and hope there's a discount before I shopped.

(Image credit: Future / Zoe Phillimore)

How I tested

Usual sleep position: side
Tension preference: medium-firm
Sleep problems: hip pain

In order to test out this mattress topper, I slept on it for three weeks in my own home on top of a hybrid mattress. I assessed how easy it was to attach to the bed, how comfortable it was when sleeping on my back and side, and whether it offered good temperature regulation. I also took into account how easy it was to care for and any sleep trials on offer.

Experts reveal five ways to block the sound of noisy neighbours out of your bedroom for a better night's sleep

Rebecca Lawton — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Warm summer evenings are made for open windows, but they're also when outside noise tends to be at its loudest. Late-night garden gatherings, children playing outside, or bass from a nearby speaker can quickly leave you wanting to block the sound of noisy neighbours from your bedroom.

The good news is that you don't need to invest in a huge renovation to soundproof your bedroom and help you sleep better. 'Even quiet sound from next door stops your brain switching off properly,' explains Ben Hancock, managing director of Oscar Acoustics. 'Bedrooms feel worse because we expect peace there. The daytime hum is gone, so every creak or thud upstairs lands harder.'

From strategic furniture placement to simple upgrades that absorb sound, these expert-approved fixes can help block out neighbour noise and create a more restful sleep space.

1. Seal gaps around doors and windows

(Image credit: Future PLC/Nathalie Priem)

One thing you shouldn't do, says Ben, is treat only one surface when trying to block out unwanted noise.

'Sound behaves like water, it pours through any opening,' he says. A gap under the bedroom door, poorly fitted window frames or spaces around skirting boards can let in a surprising amount of airborne noise - the sound of the TV, the radio and neighbours' voices - even when everything appears shut.

Ben is clear on where to start. 'Seal every gap. Acoustic sealant or draught excluders around doors and skirting will cut airborne noise.'

In practice, this means working around the room methodically. As well as using draught excluders around doors, draught-proofing your windows can help reduce gaps that let sound travel indoors. A brush-style or rubber door sweep tackles gaps at the bottom of the door.

For small cracks around skirting boards or window frames, acoustic sealant is worth choosing over standard filler because it stays flexible and won't crack over time.

2. Layer your windows with heavy curtains

(Image credit: Future PLC/Siobhan Doran)

If outside noise is disturbing your sleep, your windows are often the first place to look. While shutting them can help reduce the sound of neighbours chatting in the garden or hosting a late-night gathering, your bedroom curtain ideas can make a surprising difference.

'One of the most effective budget-friendly updates is adding heavier curtains, particularly if you currently have blinds or lightweight window dressings,' advises Martha Ferreira, interior designer at built-to-rent neighbourhood, Present Made.

Look for dense, lined fabrics, such as velvet, thermal-lined curtains or heavyweight woven material. 'Soft, dense materials are your best allies when it comes to sound absorption,' says Martha. 'They help to create a bedroom that feels noticeably calmer and quieter.'

If replacing your curtains isn't an option, adding a thermal or blackout blind can also help.

3. Use upholstered furniture and textiles to soften shared walls

(Image credit: Future PLC / James French)

Hard, bare surfaces such as painted walls, wood floors and large mirrors reflect sound rather than absorb it, which can make any noise from next door seem louder and more noticeable.

When designing a quieter bedroom, Martha says she focuses on creating layers between the sleeper and the source of the noise.

'Upholstered headboards, full-height curtains, large rugs, and well-filled bookshelves can all help soften sound within the room,' she says.

Ben echoes this. 'Heavy soft furnishings, like thick rugs, a padded headboard or a bookcase packed with books along a shared wall, can cut airborne noise.'

4. Rearrange your layout to create distance between you and the noise

4. Rearrange your layout (Image credit: Future PLC / Dominic Blackmore)

This is the fix that often costs nothing but can be easily overlooked. If your bed is pushed against a wall shared with your neighbour, you're sleeping as close as possible to the source of the problem.

'Positioning the bed away from a shared wall where possible can make a noticeable difference,' Martha points out. 'The goal isn't necessarily to eliminate every sound, but to create an environment that feels calmer.'

Placing a large wardrobe, chest of drawers or bookcase against a shared wall before repositioning the bed can also help. Large, solid furniture pieces create an extra layer between you and the source of the noise.

5. Mask disruptive sounds while you sleep

(Image credit: Future PLC/Kristy Noble)

Even with all the above in place, some noise will inevitably find its way through the walls and into your bedroom. While a white noise machine won't stop sound travelling through walls or floors, it can be surprisingly effective at disguising low-level disturbances such as distant TVs and muffled conversations.

'A fan or white noise machine masks low-level hum,' says Ben. A dedicated sound machine, like the Dreamegg available on Amazon, offers more consistent, non-looping audio than a phone app - with many including multiple sound options, from fan noise to rain. Alternatively, the best bedside fan serves a dual purpose in the summer; it keeps the room cooler while producing a gentle, consistent background noise.

What to buy

Dunelm

Luna Brushed Eyelet Curtains

Dense, lined curtains that hang from ceiling height and extend beyond the window frame on both sides will make a noticeable difference to how much airborne noise gets through.

Amazon

Vellure® Premium Draft Excluder Strip

A door draught excluder is one of the easiest and most affordable fixes for cutting airborne noise.

Dunelm

Asim Abstract Wool Rug

A large (the bigger, the better) thick wool rug paired with a felt underlay absorbs sound and reduces echo in hard floored bedrooms.

Habitat

Hopkins Tall Bookcase - Walnut

Packed with books along a shared wall, a bookcase is one of the most underrated acoustic buffers around. This Habitat find creates a huge statement and is a clever way to absorb sound surprisingly effectively.

Dreamegg

D1 white noise machine

A dedicated sound machine with multiple non-looping options - from fan noise to rain - can be an effective way to mask outside noise.

Dunelm

Plush Velvet Upholstered Wall Panels

Mounting a few of these wall panels, from Dunelm, against a shared wall will give you a traditional headboard, while also helping to soften sound travelling into the room.

Even just tackling one or two of these fixes can help block the sound of noisy neighbours from your bedroom, and make a noticeable difference to how peaceful your bedroom feels.

Sorry pink bedrooms, interior designers say these 3 alternative 'grown-up' shades are the key to a stylish bedroom in 2026

Amy Lockwood — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Nothing in life stays the same forever. Spring changes into summer, and then transitions into autumn and winter, before the whole cycle begins again.

The same is true for bedroom colour ideas. Yes, there are definitely bedroom trends that have a lot more longevity than others – and pink bedroom ideas are certainly one of them – but even the most timeless hues still shift over time, and that's exactly what interior experts say is happening to pink this year.

Are pink bedrooms still on trend? Yes, but there's a new grown-up spin on the shade. These are the three alternative colours that design experts say all the best-dressed bedrooms will be wearing as we head into the last half of the year and onwards into 2027.

Are pink bedrooms still on trend?

'Are pink bedrooms still on trend in 2026? Yes,' says founder of interior design studio K’Arte Design, Katerina Tchevytchalova, 'but the trend has evolved.'

'In 2026, pink bedrooms feel softer, earthier and more sophisticated than the sugary blush tones we saw a few years ago,' shares Katerina. 'We’re moving towards nuanced pinks with warmth and depth, which create a calming, cocooning atmosphere while still bringing personality into the space.'

(Image credit: Future PLC/James Merrell)

'Pink bedrooms are still very much on trend,' agrees Anna Hill, brand director and colour consultant at paint brand Fenwick & Tilbrook,' but they have definitely evolved.'

'Instead of the cool-toned pastel pinks that dominated for years, we’re now seeing a shift towards warmer, earthier hues such as plaster pinks, clay tones and soft terracottas that feel far more grounded and sophisticated,' says Anna.

So, without further ado, let's dig into the 'new' pinks of 2026 and beyond.

Sun-baked plaster pinks

(Image credit: Future PLC/Mary Wadsworth)

First up, the lightest shade of the bunch, a colour our design experts are dubbing plaster pink or sun-baked pink. These shades are a brilliant option if you're after a 'barely there' injection of colour in your bedroom.

'In 2026, pink has become much more of a “neutral” in interiors,' says Katerina, 'especially in bedrooms where people want warmth and comfort without relying on beige or grey. Sun-baked pinks create warmth without feeling too feminine or girly, and they work beautifully with natural textures like linen, wood, and plaster finishes.'

'Plaster pinks offer a more grown-up spin on pink because they balance softness with subtle depth,' agrees Anna, 'they create spaces that feel nurturing and calming without veering into anything overly sugary or feminine.'

Farrow and Ball

Setting Plaster Estate Emulsion 2.5L

Fenwick & Tilbrook

'Vintage Peony' Pure Matt 2.5L

Limewash.com

'Marrakesh' Limewash Paint 2.5L

Warm clays

(Image credit: Future PLC/Mary Wadsworth)

Next up, our design experts say warm clay shades should be firmly on our radar as a pink alternative in 2026 and beyond. These earthier colours have more brown tones than your average pastel-toned pink.

'The more earthy tones of clays turn a bedroom into a space that feels cocooning and organic rather than "pretty",' says Lara Clarke, founder of interior design studio Lara Clarke Interiors. 'We’ve recently painted a bedroom in 'Masquerade' by Little Greene, which is a really restful shade of pink and not too "shouty" at all. It’s a grown-up pink that behaves more like a neutral.'

'Clay tones are a lovely choice for bedrooms as they bring an earthy, natural, and organic feel to a space,' agrees Sarah Ferreira, founder of design studio Sarah Ferreira Interiors.

'Bedrooms that reflect nature, even subtly, tend to feel much more calming, and these tones do that effortlessly,' explains Sarah. 'Clay-toned walls paired with natural materials like oak and linen create a really balanced look that feels warm.'

'They add warmth and a grounded, comforting quality, while still being easy to live with,' says Sarah. 'When you layer in materials like wood, linen, and stone, it creates a soft, relaxed, and cocooning atmosphere that just feels easy and considered.'

Dunelm

'Blush' Matt Emulsion Paint 2.5L

COAT

'Sybil' Flat Matt 2.5L

Little Greene

'Masquerade' Absolute Matt Emulsion 2.5L

Terracotta

(Image credit: Dulux )

And if you're looking for a bolder pink alternative, our colour experts say terracotta is the colour to choose.

'Terracotta tones, such as 'Red Earth' by Farrow & Ball, are ideal if you want that clay-inspired pink with depth,' says Katerina. 'These tones also have a very Mediterranean quality, and they instantly make a room feel sunlit, relaxed, and comforting, which is exactly the mood many people want from a bedroom in 2026.'

'Terracotta shades instantly bring warmth and a sense of ease,' agrees interior designer and Pringle & Pringle founder, Sophie Pringle. 'They feel sun-baked and natural, which helps a space feel relaxed rather than overly styled. I tend to use them with softer neutrals or chalkier tones to keep the look balanced and not too intense.'

'Terracotta hues, like Dulux Heritage’s Red Sand, bring a natural warmth that feels grounding and nurturing,' concurs Marianne Shillingford, creative director and colour expert at Dulux.

'These shades are rooted in the earth, so they make a space feel settled and safe,' says Marianne. 'They’re especially lovely if you want to create a bedroom that feels like a retreat – somewhere that gently restores you. The warmth they carry means they’re comforting without being overpowering, which is exactly what you want in a space designed for rest.'

Dunelm

'Terracotta' Matt Emulsion Paint 2.5L

Farrow & Ball

'Red Earth' Estate Emulstion 2.5L

Dulux Heritage

'Red Sand' Velvet Matt Emulsion 2.5L

So the good news is, pink is definitely still on trend, and this certainly isn't a bedroom colour that will be going out of fashion in 2026, or beyond.

Instead, we're simply leaving cool-toned pastel pinks behind, and embracing some subtle shifts towards warmer, nature-inspired pink hues that bring an earthier and more grounded feel to the bedroom.

This £25 pillow is one of the best I've tested if you're a side sleeper – I found it the perfect mix of comfort and support

Rachel Tompkins — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0000

My Sealy Side Sleeper pillow review puts this affordable option through its paces to see how it measures up to the best pillows on the market.

In a nutshell

As a side sleeper, I found this the perfect pillow. And I've tested a fair few, so that's really saying something.

I found the supportive foam centre cushioned my head and neck at just the right height, enabling my spine to remain in a straight and neutral position when I lay on my side.

And because that foam core is wrapped in hollow fibre polyester strands, it also has a nice degree of softness. Not a firm block like many side sleeping pillows I've tested.

What's more, this pillow is very reasonably priced. Sealy advertises it as £59.99 on its own website, but I've found the Sealy Side Sleeper Pillow sold at Argos for just £25.

The downsides are that there's no sleep trial to test it out before you commit to keeping it, plus, it's only available in one height, and the filling isn't adjustable. That means that, although it suited me perfectly, smaller or larger body frames may find it doesn't fit the gap between their ear and the mattress quite as perfectly as it did me.

Still, if you can snap it up at its £25 price point, I think this pillow certainly gives the best pillows for side sleepers a run for their money, and it's definitely the best value side sleeping pillow we've tested at Ideal Home.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Sealy Side Sleeper Pillow review

Specifications

RRP: £59.99
Best for: side sleepers
Materials: inner: hollowfibre polyester with polyurethane foam core, cover: cotton
Dimensions: H19 x W50 x L78cm
Care instructions: cover is removable and machine washable at 40°C (on a delicate cycle) and can be cool tumble dried
Manufacturer sleep trial: none

(Image credit: Sealy)

Comfort

The Sealy Side Sleeper Pillow has a foam centre, which the brand says is designed to cushion and support the neck and spine in an optimal position for side-sleeping.

That foam core is then surrounded by hollow fibre polyester fibres and a quilted cotton cover. When I unzipped the pillow outer and looked inside, these fibres looked like candy floss and felt as soft, but were bouncier to the touch.

The effect is that I found this pillow had a softer, bouncier feel than most memory foam pillows I've tested, which can tend to feel a bit block-like under the head.

I’m a very fussy pillow person, fuelled by years of testing them! And, personally, I don’t like a pillow to feel too hard, so a lot of the dense memory foam pillows are too rigid for me. However, as a side (and occasionally a back) sleeper, I also like a pillow that isn’t too soft, otherwise, my head and neck dip too low, and the neck and spine lose their alignment.

According to Sealy, this pillow offers a medium level of firmness – ideal for people who side-sleep. And overall, I'd agree.

When I lay on this pillow for the first time, my overriding impression was how soft and comfortable it felt, whilst also being supportive enough to keep my neck and spine aligned (thanks to the foam centre).

One of my sons described it as like a piece of giant sponge wrapped in cotton wool, because the outside was so springy and light, but the inside was firmer and more supportive!

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

My head sank into the pillow a bit and didn’t sit on top of it as it has with other side-sleeping pillows I’ve tested. Overall, I found it offered the perfect combination of comfort and support for side sleeping, and it didn’t let my head sink too far down towards the mattress - just enough to feel comfortable whilst also keeping my neck and spine in alignment.

I often wake up in the morning with neck and shoulder aches, but when I slept on this pillow, I didn’t notice any pain in the morning.

The only downside is that, unlike pillows such as the firmer Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow, or softer Simba Hybrid Pillow or Cloudpillo Original Pillow, this pillow isn't adjustable. So, although its height suited me perfectly when side sleeping, sleepers with different body frames may find it a little too low or too high, and there's no option to tweak its height to suit individual users.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Temperature regulation

The Sealy Side Sleeper Pillow does have a cotton cover, but the rest of the pillow is synthetic, so I wasn't sure how warm it would get under my head.

However, the foam comfort layer inside the pillow is ventilated to encourage air to move around the pillow to keep you fresh and comfortable, and the hollow fibre outer has air pockets to add some breathability too.

I often wake up in the night feeling hot and clammy around my neck and head but when I slept on this pillow I noticed that I didn’t wake up during the night, and my head and neck area didn’t feel as hot and clammy as usual.

Whether that breathability will change over time as the fibres become a little more compressed, I'll have to keep you updated on, but during my testing period this pillow offered decent temperature regulation. It's not as cool as a feather and down or wool-filled pillow, but I didn't overheat, either.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Ease of care

The foam core of the Sealy Side Sleeper Pillow can't be washed, but it does have a removable cover that is machine washable at 40 degrees. The cover can also be tumble dried on cool.

The zip is so well concealed and discreetly tucked under the edge of the piping on one side that I initially struggled to find it but once I did it was easy to remove.

The fact that the cover can go in the washing machine makes it very easy to care for, and will definitely help to extend its life in terms of keeping it fresh and clean. It came up well after washing and looked as good as it did before. It was easy to put the cover back on too.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Sleep trial

The one downside of this pillow is that unlike a lot of its competition, there is no sleep trial offered.

It can be hard to gauge whether a pillow is right for you before you actually sleep on it, so it is a shame there isn't the option to test it out before you commit to keeping it, especially because its £59.99 retail price – although not the most expensive pillow I've tested – is still a significant outlay.

This said, as we'll come onto below, I have found it on sale for significantly less at a few retailers, in which case you may be more willing to take a punt and see how it works for you.

(Image credit: Future / Rachel Tompkins)

Value for money

As I mentioned, the Sealy website lists the retail price of this pillow as £59.99. However, I've found the Sealy Side Sleeper Pillow sold at Argos for just £25, and the Sealy Side Sleeper Pillow is currently available at Dreams for £35.

Compared to most side sleeping pillows I've tested, this is very reasonable. For comparison, Panda's Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow costs £44.95, the Woolroom Natural Latex Washable Wool Pillow costs £113.99, and the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow retails at £80.

Overall, I think it's a very good buy. It's certainly one of the best pillows I've found for comfortable side sleeping, and although it isn't adjustable (so may not suit everyone height-wise), if you can snap it up at £25 then I think it's a good all-rounder that's well worth a try.

How I tested

In order to test out this pillow, I slept on it for two weeks on my own bed to assess its comfort and temperature regulation. I also assessed its ease of care, any sleep trials available, and how it compares to similar products on the market to see if it offers good value for money.

How to get the Scandi look in a kids' bedroom – I've tracked down the timeless high street buys for a bedroom that grows with your child

Amy Lockwood — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

When it comes to decorating your little one's bedroom, there are plenty of great children's bedroom ideas out there. However, in my opinion, there's one kids' bedroom trend that never seems to date, and that's the Scandinavian look.

Think warm wood, muted colours, clean lines, and simple yet well-considered design details.

Because of its simplicity, this design style is also perfect for a room where we want to encourage calm and rest and reduce overstimulation.

And luckily, right now the high street is full of some great Scandi-cool kids' bedroom furniture and decor. I've rounded up some of my top picks below.

LA REDOUTE INTERIEURS

Adil Vintage Retro Style Single Bed With Bed Base

LA REDOUTE INTERIEURS

Tempa Rattan Cane Child's Wardrobe

John Lewis x Sanderson

Pinetum Easy-To-Fit Ceiling Shade

H&M

Toy Storage Box

LA REDOUTE INTERIEURS

Arreglo Metal Locker

Dunelm

Portloe Woven Gingham 100% Cotton Duvet Cover & Pillowcase Set

Pottery Barn Kids

Parker Market Bin Cubby

H&M

Children's Storage Bench

LA REDOUTE INTERIEURS

Wave Bookcase / Storage Unit

John Lewis

Life's a Carnival Wool Rug

LA REDOUTE INTERIEURS

Cléa Oak Child's Bed

Dunelm

Suzie Striped Easy Fit Tapered Lamp Shade

LA REDOUTE INTERIEURS

Miji 1-Drawer Desk

H&M

Wood and Metal Hook

H&M

Orange-Shaped Storage Basket

H&M

Rattan Floor Shelf

John Lewis

Rainbow Cotton Rug

H&M

Children's Storage Bench

H&M

Height chart

LA REDOUTE INTERIEURS

Kaya 2-Door Wardrobe

Nordic Nest

Ferm Living Patch Bed Canopy

H&M

Children's rattan side table

Piglet In Bed

Rhubarb Kemptown Stripe Linen Blend Fitted Sheet

Habitat

Kids Rory Single Metal Bunk Bed

To my mind, Scandinavian style is also a kids' decor scheme that will grow with your child. Whilst investing in a dinosaur or princess-themed bedroom is great fun whilst they're little, a few years down the line, you're likely to be redecorating. And that isn't cheap.

Instead, the Scandi look can be tweaked and restyled to suit your child's growing needs and maturing tastes as they get older. That means this kid's bedroom decor idea has longevity.

Not only is this look contemporary and fun, but it also has timeless appeal. And I think that's exactly what you want for a children's bedroom.

The easy bedroom fix to keep the sun from waking you up at 5 am this month – this is the trick experts use to protect their sleep in summer

Amy Lockwood — Sun, 31 May 2026 07:00:00 +0000

If you're feeling tired this month, you're not alone. Not only has Britain been bathed in a heatwave – which tends to mean hot and humid nights and a restless sleep – but mornings are getting lighter too.

As May ends and we head towards the summer solstice on June 21st – the day with the most hours of daylight and the shortest night of the whole year – the sun rises before 5 am in most parts of Britain.

And whilst the lighter evenings and brighter mornings are something to celebrate, that extra daylight can have an impact on our sleep. In fact, as sleep scientists point out, we could lose over 22 hours of sleep across the next month alone.

Luckily, when it comes to how to sleep better during the summer months, there is help on hand, and there's one easy bedroom update in particular that can turn around that summer tiredness before it has an impact on our mood and wellbeing.

(Image credit: Future PLC / James French)

The problem

As Tom Coleman, sleep scientist at Hillarys, points out, 'when May draws to a close, the sun is rising before 5 am and not setting until past 9 pm across much of the UK.'

'Research by Hillarys measured exactly how many hours of darkness 20 major UK cities receive on 31 May 2026, and not one of the cities achieves the eight hours of darkness sleep experts consider the minimum for an uninterrupted night,' says Tom.

'In Aberdeen, the sky begins to lighten as early as 3:50 am, before sunrise at 4:22 am. Edinburgh and Newcastle see the sun before 4:35 am – more than an hour before most people's alarms. Even in London, at the bottom of the disruption table, the sun is fully up before 4:50 am by the final week of May.'

(Image credit: Future PLC/James French)

For many sleepers, 'this early light intrusion means lost sleep,' explains Tom. 'Waking just 45 minutes earlier than intended every night across May amounts to over 22 hours of sleep lost across the month alone.'

'We’re wired to sleep in darkness, so when that window shortens, it can disrupt your rhythm quite quickly. Losing 30 or 45 minutes a night might not feel dramatic at first, but over a few weeks, it really adds up.'

'It can be particularly challenging for light sleepers, shift workers, or parents of young children, where even small changes in light can trigger earlier wake-ups and more broken sleep,' says Tom.

But thankfully, there are measures we can take to protect our sleep during the next few months, and, even better, they're simple to adopt.

(Image credit: Dominic Blackmore)

The solution

'The most important thing is taking control of your sleep environment,' shares Tom. 'I always come back to blackout curtains or blinds, and it’s something I use at home myself. A well-fitted blackout blind can make a genuine difference, keeping the room properly dark and helping you hold onto those deeper, more restorative hours of sleep.'

And a blackout blind isn't just a top tip for how to make a bedroom darker, 'it also helps with something people often overlook,' says Tom, 'it stops the early morning sun from heating the room, which can make it much harder to stay asleep on warmer summer mornings.'

'For most of us, sleeping in a bright room can be a challenge,' agrees Ian Rowell, head of product and development at Blinds2Go, 'light filtering through eyelids can not only make it tricky to get to sleep, but to stay asleep too. This can result in fragmented rest and less of the deep sleep that your body needs.'

(Image credit: Blinds2Go)

'Naturally, blocking light at the source is the most effective way to keep your bedroom dark, which is why blackout blinds become so popular as the mornings get lighter in the spring,' says Ian.

'Blackout blinds are made from a specific fabric that keeps external light out of a room and offers thermal efficiency. For maximum darkness, I’d recommend a blackout blind with side tracks that clip to your window frame or fit neatly into the recess, preventing any light from creeping in.'

'If you’re looking to improve your sleep, I’d recommend starting with a quality set of blackout blinds,' agrees Helen O’Connor, product and trends manager at 247 Blinds.

'Blackouts completely manage the natural light for a whole night's sleep, no matter the time of year. By removing the possibility of unwanted light, you create the ideal conditions for consistently getting that deeper and more restorative rest.'

247Blinds

Trinity Blackout Roller Blind

Blinds2Go

Maxshade Complete Blackout Denim Thermal Blind

Dunelm

Blackout Roller Blind

'Layering window treatments is another foolproof way to keep your bedroom dark,' adds Ian. 'Pairing a blind with heavy, complete blackout curtains ensures your room stays dark, even after sunrise. They’re particularly popular with our customers who are parents or work nightshifts – and they work brilliantly every single time.'

'And, for an immediate fix, while you wait for your blackout blinds or curtains to arrive, you could try a blackout window film, or temporary, portable blinds that stick to the window,' suggests Ian.

Blinds2Go

Complete Blackout Bijou Linen Alabaster Curtain

Rabbitgoo

Blackout Window Film

Dunelm

Blackout Temporary Pleated Blind

(Image credit: Future PLC / Davide Lovatti)

Ultimately, the key is to choose a solution that blocks out as much morning light as possible, until *you* decide to let the sun shine in. That way, you can enjoy the good weather and sunshine, without tiredness ruining the fun.

And as Helen points out, 'quality sleep isn’t just great for your physical health; it’s also essential in supporting your wellness, mental wellbeing, and in making you better equipped to take care of yourself and show up for the people around you. Protecting your sleep routine is one of the most important investments in your wellness.'

Aldi has quietly brought back its cooling bedding to help you sleep during the heatwave – you'll thank yourself later for getting your hands on some

Amy Lockwood — Sat, 30 May 2026 07:00:00 +0000

This week, Aldi relaunches its cooling bedding range in-store, and after a week where Britain saw temperatures soar to over 30C, I don't think there could be any better timing.

Whilst many of us are probably only too happy to enjoy the sunshine during the daytime, the hot and humid nights can be a very different story.

Most people are eager to find ways to stay cool in bed during hot weather, and with prices starting from just £3.99, Aldi's cooling bedding collection aims to be an affordable way to do so.

The Aldi collection features numerous cooling solutions. There are breathable and lightweight muslin duvet covers priced at £24.99 and available in three colourways of white, sage and beige.

(Image credit: DOUGLAS GIBB PHOTOGRAPHY)

And then there's the £7.99 Cooling Fitted & Flat Sheet and £3.99 Cooling Pillowcase 2 Pack that Aldi says are 'designed to draw moisture away from the body for a fresh and restful night'.

The budget-friendly retailer is also stocking a £12.99 Silentnight Thermal Regulating Pillow. This features 'heat sensor technology that helps to regulate temperature, by absorbing extra body heat, wicking away any moisture, and keeping bodies at the optimal temperature so shoppers can sleep soundly'.

That certainly sounds like exactly what I've needed these past few nights when I've been using every trick in the book for how to keep a bedroom cool.

(Image credit: Dan Duchars Ltd)

I already have the space-saving Silentnight Cooling Gel Pillow Pad and the larger Silentnight Cooling Gel Body Pad, which I pop in the fridge before bed on the unbearably hot nights so it can cool down my sheets before I get in.

But when it comes to how to sleep better in hot weather, it's your whole sleep setup that needs thinking about.

Thankfully, there are lots of bedding materials that can help you sleep cooler, from breathable linen duvet covers, to temperature-regulating wool-filled duvets and cooling mattress toppers that can save the day if you have a synthetic or memory foam mattress that's causing you to overheat.

M&S Collection

Pure Linen Bedding Set

Linen fabric is highly breathable, and these natural plant fibres can absorb far more moisture than cotton or polyester, which means you’re less likely to wake up feeling sticky or uncomfortable during a heatwave.

Woolroom

Deluxe Washable Wool Duvet

A wool duvet naturally regulates temperature, drawing heat and humidity away from the body to create a comfortable microclimate during hot weather.

Woolroom

Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper

A wool mattress topper can increase airflow under your body, adding breathability to a mattress that causes overheating and delivering a cooler sleep.

That said, whilst opting for bedding made from natural fibres has been game-changing for me as a hot sleeper, they are an investment. Although, to my mind, it's an investment worth making, as temperature plays *such* a big part in how well we sleep.

And, like most women, my temperature fluctuates throughout the month much more than most men's, so having bedding that supports the way my body operates has resulted in far deeper and less disrupted sleep.

That's also been the case for every woman I know who's switched to wool bedding and natural-fibre bedlinen, such as cotton or linen sheets.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Anna Stathaki)

By the looks of it, Aldi's cooling bedding range fixes a mix of natural fibres and synthetic fibres.

Many sleep experts do warn that synthetic fibres, such as polyester, can become 'sleep thieves' due to their less breathable make-up, but the bonus is they are very easy to care for (you can usually wash and dry polyester bedding in the same day) and they are *much* more affordable.

So if you're headed to Aldi to stock up on cooler bedding, simply check the care label to see which fibres it contains and if it delivers what you're looking for from your sleep setup.

And if you can't get into an Aldi store any time soon, I've rounded up some alternatives below that can help create a sweat-free sleep space that's ideal for hot and sticky heatwave nights.

Shop alternatives

Dunelm

Pure Cotton Fitted Sheet

Dunelm's pure cotton fitted sheets are a good hot weather alternative to Aldi's cooling sheets.

Dunelm

Cotton Muslin Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set

Dunelm also has a cotton muslin duvet cover set that's similar to Aldi's muslin option.

Soak & Sleep

Duck Feather & Down Pillow

And if you can't get into a store to snap up the Silentnight cooling pillow, or want a natural-fibre alternative, I've always found duck feather and down pillows to offer a cool and breathable sleep.

This easy, free furniture trick will improve airflow and cool a room – say goodbye to stuffy bedrooms

Kezia Reynolds — Sat, 30 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

When a home is hot and stuffy, it can feel unbearable, and I don’t know about you, but I’m literally willing to try anything to cool it down. Luckily, experts have revealed an easy and free method that can help cool a room, and all it requires is you moving your furniture.

Cooling a bedroom can feel like an impossible task in a heatwave. While it’s a no-brainer that the best portable air conditioners and best fans can be amazing at cooling us down, we should also be considering how the layout of our spaces can impact our cooling capabilities.

Experts recommend moving your furniture away from the walls when the weather is hot to help improve air flow, which in turn can cool your room. Here’s how it works.

Why should you move your furniture in hot weather?

This week, my bedroom has felt unbearably stuffy. While my Status Tower Fan has been doing a lot of heavy lifting, the heat has prevented me from having a decent night's sleep for days. So, I’ve been looking for ways to help keep it cool.

I already know why I should leave my blinds down all day, and why I should close the windows during the hottest part of the day. Now, I’m learning I need to move my furniture - my drawers, clothes rail and bed away from the walls, too.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Maxwell Attenborough)

‘Furniture pushed flush against walls, particularly large pieces like wardrobes and beds with headboards, blocks the natural circulation of air around the room. Even a small gap of a few inches allows air to move more freely and prevents pockets of warm air from becoming trapped behind surfaces,’ explains Richard Lord, founder of bamboo bedding company, Lost Loom.

‘Air needs to circulate to cool effectively. When furniture blocks walls entirely, warm air has nowhere to go and simply sits there, gradually raising the overall temperature of the room. Pulling pieces forward even slightly breaks that pattern and allows cooler air from lower in the room to circulate upward and around the space more naturally.’

(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)

Now, don’t expect this hack to instantly make your room feel cooler. But by improving air flow, you can help lower the temperature and make the space feel less stuffy.

‘Even a small gap of around 5 to 10 centimetres can help, but if you have the space to spare, around 30 centimetres is ideal for really encouraging good airflow throughout the room,’ adds Kate Palmer, creative director of The Painted Furniture Company.

‘It is a simple, free and surprisingly effective trick, especially when used alongside other cooling methods like opening windows in the evening. It is also a great opportunity to give those forgotten corners a quick dust while you are at it!’

Alternatively, here are a few more cooling options we recommend for stuffy bedrooms.

Silentnight

Silentnight Airmax Pro360 Pedestal Fan with Remote Control

One of our best-rated fans, this fan is whisper-quiet, making it perfect for use in bedrooms. It has 12 speeds, 360 oscillation and has two height settings so you can use it as a desk fan, too.

Marks and Spencer

Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Bedding Set

Woven from a lyocell-rich fabric, this soft-to-the-touch bedding set is also incredibly breathable to help keep you cool on hot nights.

Silentnight

Silentnight Restore Cooling Gel Pillow Pad

Place in your pillowcase or directly on top and this pad will absorb your body's heat and keep you cool - no more flipping the cushion to find the cool spot!

If the May heatwave has remained as a nightmare in your mind, save this clever, free trick for the next one.

Ideal Home Awards 2026 bedroom winners – as chosen by our expert panel of judges

Amy Lockwood — Thu, 28 May 2026 17:02:00 +0000

The Ideal Home Bedroom Awards celebrate all things sleep, from the most stylish bed linen to practical bedroom storage furniture and everything in between.

This year, the Bedroom Awards were judged by our panel of four in-house experts: Ideal Home's Editor-in-Chief, Heather Young, Deputy Editor Ginevra Benedetti, Sleep Editor Amy Lockwood, and our resident Air Quality Expert, Lauren Bradbury.

There were plenty of brand new product launches alongside tried-and-trusted favourites that caught our judges' attention, but these are the winners of this year's Ideal Home Bedroom Awards.

Bedroom Retailer of the Year: DUSK

(Image credit: DUSK)

First and foremost, the winner of our prestigious Best Bedroom Retailer of the Year award is online-only homeware retailer, DUSK.

'We know how much our readers love DUSK, with its huge product range covering everything from beds and bedding to cushions, lighting, and accessories,' says Ideal Home's Editor-in-Chief, Heather Young.

'The brand’s mission to make affordable homeware accessible to everyone is backed up with a strong focus on customer service to make finding the perfect piece for your bedroom a positive experience.’

Highly commended: Dreams

Best Bedroom Storage: Sharps Shaker Bedroom in Soft Linen

(Image credit: Sharps)

Storage furniture is a must in any well-organised bedroom, and our judges voted the Sharps Shaker Bedroom in Soft Linen as the winner of this category.

'The Shaker design and soft cream finish make this fitted furniture look elegant and timeless, says Heather. 'With a huge range of storage options, you can build the perfect solution for your space, including a menu of features such as slatted detailing, tongue-and-groove finishes, and layered lighting.'

Highly commended: Howdens Natural Oak Walk-in Wardrobe, Symphony Aurora Bedroom Collection, and B&Q Holton Fitted Wardrobes

Best Bed Linen: Secret Linen Store Matilda Jacquard 100% Cotton Bed Linen

(Image credit: Secret Linen Store)

No bed is complete without the finishing touches, and this year, the Secret Linen Store Matilda Jacquard 100% Cotton Bed Linen won our Bed Linen category.

‘Secret Linen Store has truly mastered the art of creating timeless bedlinen that feels as good as it looks. The timeless designs and quality materials used ensure you’ll continue to use them for years to come,' shares Ideal Home's Deputy Editor, Ginevra Benedetti.

‘I love the subtle jacquard detailing in this bedding, it’s great for adding some texture and pattern to the bedroom without going too OTT. I’m also a big fan of the fact that Secret Linen Store’s bedding is made in Portugal and OEKO-TEX® Certified, which means it’s free from any harmful substances,' agrees Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, Amy Lockwood.

Highly commended: Lost Loom Bamboo Bedding Set and Luff Sleep SilverLining Organic Bamboo Duvet Set

Best Hybrid Mattress: Furniture Village Sleepeezee Hybrid Pro 2300

(Image credit: Furniture Village)

The winner of our hybrid mattress category is the Furniture Village Sleepeezee Hybrid Pro 2300.

‘I’m always impressed by Sleepeezee’s mattresses, and the Hybrid Pro 2300 is no exception,' says Amy.

'Handcrafted in England, it features a mix of pocket springs and memory foam, with an additional built-in pillow top to provide extra cushioning. That’s some seriously comfortable layers.’

Highly commended: Origin LumbarCloud Mattress and Emma Original Pro Mattress

Best Pillow: scooms Hungarian Goose Down Pillow

(Image credit: scooms)

Finding the best pillow for your preferred sleeping position can transform your sleep, and when it comes to a truly luxurious sleeping experience, the scooms Hungarian Goose Down Pillow was the hands-down winner.

‘If you like a plump and squishy pillow, this is it,' says Amy. 'Made with a firmer feather core and a squishier goose down outer, it’s truly luxurious. And thanks to its dust mite-proof cover, there are no loose feathers when you come to rearrange your pillows in the morning.’

'Plus, it's made in line with the Responsible Down Standard, and has Downafresh, Nomite, and OEKO-TEX certifications.'

Best Pocket Sprung Mattress: Dreams Dream Team Evesham 3000 Pocket Sprung Mattress

(Image credit: Dreams)

After much debate, we chose the Dreams Dream Team Evesham 3000 Pocket Sprung Mattress as the winner in our pocket-sprung mattress category.

‘Dream’s Evesham mattress is a bit like buying a mattress and topper in one,' says Amy.

'It’s a pocket spring mattress with a plush pillow top filled with thermoregulating DreamTex™ foam that’s designed to absorb heat to keep you cool and release heat when you need warming up.’

Highly commended: Furniture Village Hypnos Bespoke Emerald Mattress with Detachable Topper

Best Bedroom Air Quality: Dyson HushJet

(Image credit: Dyson)

If you have allergies, then an air purifier can be a useful tool for improving your bedroom's air quality, and this year, the judges voted the Dyson HushJet as our Best Bedroom Air Quality winner.

‘Stylish, compact, but still suitable for larger rooms, the Dyson HushJet offers a sleek way to improve your air quality at home,' explains Ideal Home's Air Quality expert Lauren Bradbury.

'The unique star-shaped nozzle proved itself worthy during testing, offering impressive air filtration and projection, while the onboard sensors were responsive to air quality changes. As expected from Dyson, it’s a premium brand offering premium technology to be proud of.’

Highly commended: Sans Air Purifier Mini

Best Bed: DUSK Wiltshire Ottoman Bed

(Image credit: DUSK)

No bedroom is complete without a bed, and the best bed category saw another win for DUSK, with the judges crowning the DUSK Wiltshire Ottoman Bed the winner, thanks to its stylish good looks and great value for money.

‘Featuring an elegantly-shaped headboard, oodles of hidden storage, and available in a choice of three colourways and sizes, you’d expect this beauty to cost a lot more than it does,' says Ideal Home's Deputy Editor, Ginevra Benedetti. 'If you’re looking for luxe for less, this is the bed to buy.’

'High-end looks with an affordable price tag – I love the shape of the headboard, and all that storage is a real dream,’ agrees Heather.

Highly commended: Laura Ashley Lingmell Trail Tarbert Bed, Arlo & Jacob Leni Bed, and Pottery Barn Estelle Four Poster Bed

Best Bedroom Flooring: Cormar Carpets Silken Serenity Bedroom Flooring

(Image credit: Cormar Carpets)

This year, our judges chose the Cormar Carpets Silken Serenity Bedroom Flooring to win our bedroom flooring award.

'Stepping out of bed onto lush, deep-pile carpet is such a treat, and this collection has been created to marry high-end comfort with everyday practicality,' explains Heather.

'The carpet comes in 16 plain shades and is stain-resistant and bleach-cleanable – perfect for busy homes that don’t want to compromise on style.'

Best Sleep Tech: Philips Hue Twilight Sleep and Wake-Up Light

(Image credit: Philips)

The winner of our sleep tech award is the Philips Hue Twilight Sleep and Wake-Up Light.

‘This ingenious lamp combines top tech with super stylish looks,' says Ginevra. 'It’ll slowly dim when you’re going to bed each evening and gradually build in brightness the following morning to wake you up gently. A must if you have blackout window dressings.’

Best Bedroom Furniture: Furniture Village Tiber Dressing Table with Mirror

(Image credit: Furniture Village)

Bedroom furniture needs to combine practicality *and* style, and in our judges' opinion, the Furniture Village Tiber Dressing Table with Mirror does that perfectly.

'How chic is this dressing table?' says Heather, 'with a sleek travertine ceramic surface, two handy drawers, and an elegant circular tilting mirror, this is the perfect statement piece for a bedroom.'

Highly commended: Oak Furnitureland Henley Wardrobe and The Cotswold Company Camille Limewash Oak Quad Wardrobe

Best Kids Bed: ROOMIX Transition Toddler Bed

(Image credit: ROOMIX )

The winner of our Kids Bed award is the ROOMIX Transition Toddler Bed.

‘Kids can grow out of clothes so quickly, so you certainly don’t want the same thing happening to an expensive piece of furniture, too,' says Ginevra. 'That’s why clever pieces that grow with them are such a good investment. This brilliant bed starts as a floor-level bed, but you can buy add-ons to extend its life, from additional legs to under-bed drawers. Plus, it comes in a choice of two neutral (and paintable) shades to suit all schemes.’

'This bed is designed to grow with your child instead of needing to be replaced,' agrees Heather, 'with lots of adaptable features including different barrier options, legs so that the bed can grow with your child, and drawers for practical storage.'

Highly commended: Dreams Frankie Dino Bed Frame

Best Duvet: scooms Hungarian Goose Down Duvet

(Image credit: Scooms)

And when it came to crowning the best duvet, it was another win for scooms and the scooms Hungarian Goose Down Duvet.

‘scooms Hungarian Goose Down Duvet is one of the best quality feather and down duvets we’ve tested,' says Amy. 'Light, airy, and super squishy, it’s truly like snuggly up in a cloud. The brand’s feather and down is also ethically sourced - very important in this type of bedding - and its duvets are made in small batches using renewable energy.’

Highly commended: Slumberdown Wonderful Wool Duvet and Panda Cloud Bamboo Duvet

Best Mattress Topper: Slumberdown Memory Foam Gel Mattress Topper

(Image credit: Slumberdown)

The winner of our Mattress Topper award is the Slumberdown Memory Foam Gel Mattress Topper.

‘If you’re looking for an extra layer of cushioning to soften up a firm mattress, then Slumberdown’s memory foam topper does the trick,' says Amy, 'and at under £100 for a double, it also won’t break the bank.'

Best in Sustainability: Panda London collection

(Image credit: Panda London)

When it comes to efforts made towards more sustainable manufacture, it was Panda London that impressed our judging team.

‘From bedding and pillows to mattresses and toppers, Panda London makes its entire range from bamboo, which is a brilliantly sustainable material. It’s also naturally hypoallergenic and is grown without the use of chemicals, too,' says Ginevra.

Best Bedroom Lighting: Furniture Village Delaney Urn Table Lamp

(Image credit: Furniture Village)

Our judges chose the Furniture Village Delaney Urn Table Lamp as the winner of our Bedroom Lighting award.

'I’m constantly impressed by the lighting range at Furniture Village,' says Heather, 'and this statement lamp is a perfect example of its style credentials with luxe-look woodgrain finish and neutral linen lampshade.'

Best Memory Foam Mattress: Nectar Sleep Premier Mattress

(Image credit: Nectar )

If you prefer your mattress without springs, the Nectar Sleep Premier Mattress is the winner of our memory foam mattress award two years running.

'Nectar’s memory foam mattresses are some of the most affordable out there, and the Nectar Premier mattress is no exception,' says Amy.

'Plus, at 365 nights, the brand has one of the longest sleep trials in the mattress industry, and that can be invaluable when it comes to making sure a mattress is the right fit for your body and sleep style.'

'If you like a mattress that’s soft and cushioning, this memory foam option could be the one for you.'

Best Bedroom Paint: Earthborn 'Splashing' Claypaint

(Image credit: Earthborn)

Bedroom colour can make or break your bedroom design, and our judges awarded Earthborn's 'Splashing' Claypaint the award for best bedroom paint overall.

'Earthborn’s Claypaint is a win for bedrooms – this clay-based, breathable formulation has lower VOC levels, regulates humidity, and has an ultra-matt finish that softens the light,' says Heather. The soothing ‘Splashing’ shade is perfect for a calm space.

Our Judges

Too hot to sleep? These 5 cooling bedding materials are 'sleep medicine in fabric form', according to the experts

Amy Lockwood — Thu, 28 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This week, temperatures in Britain hit 30°C, as we basked in the first heatwave of the summer. And, whilst we might enjoy soaking up the sunshine during the day, most of us are probably less enthusiastic about facing restless nights as hot, humid weather makes sleep increasingly difficult.

I'm a hot sleeper at the best of times, and with a south-facing bedroom, I certainly don't enjoy tossing and turning on sticky summer nights.

Luckily, as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the last five years testing every type of bedding under the sun – from the best duvets for hot sleepers to the best cooling mattress toppers – and one thing I've learned is that the bedding materials we sleep in and on can make a *huge* difference to our overnight temperature.

Alongside various sleep experts, I'm here to share everything you need to know to set yourself up for a cooler sleep this summer.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Anna Stathaki)

But firstly, why is cooler sleep so important? Well, according to a recent survey by bedding brand Secret Linen Store, the average British sleeper is already getting just six hours and 56 minutes of sleep per night. This already falls short of the recommended eight to nine hours, and things only get worse in warmer weather.

63% of Brits say their sleep is affected by hot weather, and, according to Secret Linen Store's data, during the summer months, Brits lose more than 30 minutes of sleep per night. That adds up to at least 46 hours of lost sleep across the season, as rising temperatures make it harder to fall and stay asleep.

And science backs up what sleepers are experiencing firsthand. As Natalie Pennicotte-Collier, clinical sleep therapist and resident sleep expert at MattressNextDay, explains, 'Good sleep starts before your head hits the pillow, and one of the key triggers is your body cooling down by around one to two degrees in the evening. That drop in temperature is what allows you to fall asleep and move into deeper, more restorative sleep.'

(Image credit: Future PLC / Cristogatin)

'If that cooling doesn’t happen, or heat gets trapped, sleep becomes lighter, more restless, and people tend to wake more during the night,' says Natalie, 'that’s why your bedding choices aren’t just about comfort. They either support that cooling process or work against it. I often describe bedding as ‘sleep medicine in fabric form’, because it directly supports your body’s temperature regulation.'

'A lot of this comes down to heat and moisture around the body while you sleep. If that builds up, you’re much more likely to overheat and wake,' shares Natalie, and that's why choosing breathable bedding materials, like the ones listed below is *so* important for a cooler sleep.

1. Wool

Sleep experts unanimously agree that wool is a game-changing fibre when it comes to a cooler sleep, and, as a hot sleeper, it's definitely a material that has revolutionised my sleep setup and delivered a better night's rest.

'Wool is one of the most underrated sleep materials we have,' says sleep therapist Natalie. 'It’s one of the most responsive options for keeping temperature balanced through the night, particularly if your sleep tends to run hot or fluctuate.'

(Image credit: Woolroom)

'What makes it different is how wool handles moisture,' says Natalie. 'Wool fibres can absorb and release moisture vapour as your body heats up and cools down, so instead of dampness sitting against your skin, it’s drawn away. That helps keep your sleep environment more stable.'

'It’s also to do with the structure of the fibre. Wool naturally creates small air pockets, which help retain warmth when needed, but also allow heat to escape when your body temperature rises. So you don’t get that build-up of heat that can wake you.'

'It may seem counterintuitive, but for hot sleepers, wool is one of the most effective bedding fibres you can choose,' agrees Chris Tattersall, sleep expert and managing director of Woolroom.

'It naturally regulates temperature while managing moisture, drawing heat and humidity away from the body to create a drier, more comfortable microclimate in your sleep environment.'

There are many ways to incorporate wool into your sleep setup, and I certainly swear by a wool duvet, which I sleep under all year round, plus a wool topper or mattress protector if you don't have a natural-fill mattress.

Woolroom

Deluxe Washable Wool Duvet - Light

'Research conducted by British Wool, the International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) and Bangor University found that wool duvets regulate temperature and manage moisture more effectively than comparable feather, down and synthetic options tested,' shares Chris.

Woolroom

Deluxe Washable Wool Mattress Protector

'I would also argue that a wool mattress protector is the most important bedding item when it comes to battling heat,' says Chris, 'as it is the first layer your body comes into contact with. It acts as a breathable buffer between you and the mattress, helping prevent heat build-up overnight.'

Woolroom

Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper

If you want to add breathability *and* some extra cushioning to your bed, a wool mattress topper is another great option. Woolroom makes the most cushioned we've tested, but thinner (and more affordable) options include the Silentnight Natural Wool Collection Mattress Topper or the Slumberdown Wool Mattress Topper.

2. Linen

Next up, in our round up of cooling bedding materials, is linen. 'Linen is often the first material I recommend for hot sleepers,' says Natalie.

'It’s very effective at pulling heat away from the body, so when your temperature rises during the night, it helps you cool down more quickly rather than holding onto that heat.'

'It also handles moisture really well, says Natalie. 'Linen can absorb significantly more moisture than cotton before it feels damp, which means you’re less likely to wake up feeling clammy or uncomfortable.'

(Image credit: Secret Linen Store)

'It has a slightly textured feel at first,' says Natalie, 'and it will crease, but it softens beautifully over time and is incredibly durable.'

'Linen bedding is one of the most breathable fabrics available, allowing air to circulate freely,' agrees Molly Freshwater, co-founder of Secret Linen Store. 'Its natural fibres help release heat and moisture, making it ideal for hot, humid nights.'

M&S Collection

Pure Linen Bedding Set

Secret Linen Store

100% Linen Duvet Cover

Piglet In Bed

100% Linen Duvet Cover

3. Hemp

And whilst linen bedding is usually the easiest fabric to get your hands on, it's not the only material that offers good cooling properties.

'Hemp also works in a similar way to linen,' says Natalie. 'The fibre structure allows heat and moisture to move away from the body, rather than building up, which helps keep your sleep environment more balanced through the night.'

(Image credit: La Redoute)

'Because of how those fibres are formed, hemp can also adapt to changes in temperature, keeping you comfortable if you get too warm, but not feeling cold if your temperature drops.'

'It’s also one of the more durable natural fibres,' shares Natalie, 'and it softens over time with washing, which improves how it feels against the skin and helps your body relax into sleep.'

'Hemp is a great, often overlooked option,' agrees Jack Davies, category lead at sleep brand Dreams. 'It’s naturally breathable, durable, and very effective at wicking away moisture. Like linen, it softens over time while still maintaining airflow, which makes it a good choice for maintaining a consistently cool sleep environment.'

4. Bamboo

This said, both linen and hemp have a textured feel that can take a little getting used to. If you prefer something (a lot) smoother, then silky and cool-to-the-touch bamboo is another cooling favourite amongst sleep experts.

'Bamboo is probably one of my favourite bedding materials to recommend,' says Hannah Shore, head of sleep science at Mattress Online. 'It's a natural material that has great breathability and wicks moisture away from the skin, but it also dries out very quickly, too. This makes it perfect for hot (and sweaty) sleepers.'

But Hannah does add a warning that it's important to consider which parts of your sleep setup incorporate bamboo.

'The closer to the skin, the more you feel the benefits,' says Hannah, 'so look for bamboo bed linen or pyjamas. Often, when bamboo is in a mattress, it is turned into foam, which may be more breathable and refreshing than normal memory foam, but not as much as any fibres.'

Panda

100% Bamboo Bedding Set

Lost Loom

Luxury Bamboo Set

Luff

Bamboo Silk Bedding Set

And that leads us on to our last wonder fibre, because ensuring your bedding materials are made of the most breathable fibres possible definitely results in a cooler sleep, but what's underneath you, in your mattress, matters too.

5. Latex

All of the materials mentioned above can help to create a cooler mattress, so looking for a mattress that incorporates wool, or natural fibres like hemp, cotton, or flax (which becomes linen when woven into fabric) can result in a more breathable, and therefore, cooler sleep.

And in addition to these, there's one more material our sleep experts recommend, and it's definitely become a favourite of mine, too.

'Natural latex is a good option if you’re looking for something supportive but still breathable,' explains Jack. 'It allows for better airflow than many synthetic foams and doesn’t trap heat in the same way. It’s also durable and hypoallergenic, making it a practical choice for both comfort and health.'

'Latex is a fantastic material,' agrees Hannah, although, like Jack, she points out this is only the case when it is in its most natural form. 'Unfortunately, a lot of latex on the market is synthetic,' Hannah explains, 'which reduces its natural antibacterial and temperature-regulating properties. So, natural latex is great; synthetic latex may have the same feel, but not all the same wonderful properties.'

(Image credit: Future PLC)

All in all, 'natural, breathable materials are always a safe and effective choice for keeping cool at night, sums up Jack. 'Cotton, linen, and even silk all allow for good airflow and help wick moisture away from the body, which is key for maintaining a comfortable sleep temperature.'

'I would suggest sleeping with bedding made from natural fibres to anyone,' agrees Chris, 'but it’s especially important for those who tend to overheat at night or during warmer weather.'

'Ultimately, creating a cooler sleep environment is about layering the right materials, from your mattress and protector through to your duvet and sheets, so everything works together to keep you comfortable throughout the night,' says Jack.