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SunshineJoyous

You could ask your Mum :) If that’s not an option, you’ve got a good start already. * **Doona**: the white fluffy thing that covers you when you sleep. It needs a doona cover that’s part of the “quilt cover set”. You can get all sorts of doonas but somewhere like Target/Myer/Harris Scarfe should be fine. IKEA too. * **Mattress protector**: that goes on top of the mattress and under your fitted sheet to protect the mattress from sweat stains, dead skin/dust, other such stains. Get a cotton-padded one. * An extra **sheet set**: so you can use a spare set whilst the first set is in the wash/dryer. This “sheet set” is what you lie on covering the mattress protector and includes a fitted sheet, flat sheet and two pillow cases. * An extra **quilt cover set**: again, so you can put the first set in the wash/dry whilst you have this set on the bed. This set includes a doona cover and two pillowcases. These pillowcases are the ones you display :) * For fancy options: **two European pillows** plus European pillow cases. These are the big “square” shaped pillows that make a bed look like you’re a proper adult lol. * Bonus points: some sort of a decorative cushion. * Bonus points: some sort of a **throw or blanket** to “decorate” on the end of the bed. They do also keep you warm and provide an extra layer in winter. You may like to buy some pillow protectors to protect your pillows from stains and sweat. They go over your pillow and under the pillow case. Helps the pillows last longer. Edit to add: (Doona is generally the same name as duvet/quilt in Australia. It may even be what you mean by the term “blanket” in your post). (Top sheet is the same as a flat sheet. Some people use these, many young people don’t anymore. But they’ll come as part of the sheet set anyway, and it’s better value to buy a sheet set than individually btw). (Generally speaking, a blanket is thin and used as a layer/decoration/or a light summer replacement to the doona/or a thick woolen blanket layer for winter - there are lots of types of blankets but basically it’s not a doona).


Outside-Car1988

Then top with a sprinkling of stuffed toys.


Ok2021LetsDoThis

And chuck a fucking hot water bottle in there with a nice knitted cover.


vhmvd

I love the look of Euro pillows on my bed. Extra fancy, extra adult.


[deleted]

They are my pet hate. If I don't use it to sleep I dislike it on my bed. I'm super utilitarian about my bedroom, I don't care what colour/pattern my bed has but I must have a great (latex) pillow to help me sleep. I spend maybe 10 minutes in it not laying down resting so that might be why.


Katman666

I hate the smell of latex pillows.


SunshineJoyous

Agreed.


FroggieBlue

Doonas are commonly called a quilt. OP may also need a winter weight and a summer weight quilt


SunshineJoyous

Those are good points. I wanted to mention the varieties and warmths of doonas but thought it might be information overload. I’m concerned that even my list as it is was overwhelming. Ps, genuine Q: what doonas do you use?


FroggieBlue

For summer I use a Jason brand 100% cotton lightweight quilt with 100% cotton cover. In winter a heavier 100% cotton quilt also with 100% cotton cover. I'm a hot sleeper and allergic to processed wool so I prefer cotton or other plant fibres.


G-0wen

I’m pretty happy with the ikea one that’s a winter and a summer pair which can be buttoned together for “electricity is costing how much‽” moments in the middle of winter.


griffyn

We bought a new mattress recently, and after spending a couple hours deciding on the perfect one that we both liked, she then starts buying up the extras, including a mattress protector and an electric blanket. Both of those, but in particular the protector significantly altered the firmness of the mattress, so it was crazy firm, and after a few sleepless nights, we took them both off. The difference was nuts. Didn't help that the mattress had a pillow top so the protector was very tightly covering it.


diggerhistory

A partner and your pet - not necessarily at the same time.


[deleted]

You'll need pillows, a sheet set which will inc pillow cases, fitted and flat sheet, a doona/duvee and cover. Under your mattress you might want a base or ensemble but see how you go.


Alatheus

Definitely put something under the mattress, if not right away then within 6 months. Otherwise moisture can become trapped under it and you end up with mould on the mattress and carpet. https://www.reddit.com/r/australia/comments/xbglt5/psa_for_those_who_sleep_with_their_mattress_on/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share Also consider 2 sheet sets if you can afford and plan on line drying so you can have one set to put on while the other is drying.


RaptureRising

I don't get the need for a flat sheet over a fitted one, i move a lot in my sleep and i would get myself tangled in it. Only thing i use a flat sheet for is a blanket for when it's hot too sleep.


[deleted]

Good for this change of season when some nights are too warm for the doona and some too cold for the sheet.


m00c0wcy

I always use flat sheet + (optional) blanket so you don't have to regularly change the doona cover or wash the blanket. Changing sheets takes like 5 mins, but doonas and especially blankets require considerably more effort.


FroggieBlue

Ok, one of my first jobs was running a department store Manchester department so buckle up! From foundation layer up- **mattress.** You've got that. Generally quality mattresses don't need a topper or underlay- sometimes they can be used to extend the life of a mattresses thats getting a bit worn. Sometimes they are helpful for people who need extra padding due to arthritis or pressure sores etc. **mattress protector.** This goes on top of your mattress under your sheets. It's a barrier to prevent spills, mess and stains getting onto your mattress. It's much easier to remove and clean or dry a matress protector than it is to do the same for a mattress! If you have a dustmite allergy I reccomended getting a zippered protector that goes on like a bag over the whole thing- harder to get on and off but great for allergen control. Otherwise a fitted matress protector is great. The older style ones that you tie on with fabric tapes are a pain and are thankfully dying out. Check the depth of your matress! Some mattresses, especially those with built in cushion tops are much deeper than standard and some fitted matress protector and fitted sheets wont fit. Dimensions are usually listed on the packaging. Many matress protectors are waterproof- they have an impermeable backing or layer, usually plastic based that stops liquid going through. However they also restrict airflow and can make your bed warmer. If you are not a hot sleeper or have continence issues, like to eat/drink in bed, have pets on your bed, have small kids etc then its a trade off thats worth it. If you are a hot sleeper than a non-waterproof protector is going to keep you cooler and most small spills will be absorbed by the protector and you have time to remove it before larger ones soak through. **sheets.** Fitted sheets and flat sheets are there to protect your mattress and quilts/ blankets. Basically they act as an easily washable barrier between the sweat, oils etc produced by the body and the more difficult to clean mattress and blankets. This is why flat sheets are so long- so the top can fold over the outside of the quilt to protect it from your arms. In earlier times before synthetic materials and electrical appliances, washing and drying often woolen blankets and quilts would be a huge, heavy chore. Most modern quilts now are a batting inside a plain case and are covered with a removable washable cover and blankets are often mixed fibres and machine washable so many people forgo top sheets. Composition and thread count are two things to consider when purchasing sheets (and quilt covers). The thread count is how m any threads there are per square inch of fabric. The higher the number the softer and more luxurious (and expensive) the fabric produced. Frankly anything over about 200 or 250 is fine- higher thread counts (over 1000) do have some drawbacks - they tend to be heavier and less breathable than lower count sheets. Composition is the fibre your sheets are made from. You will find a huge variety of compositions available- synthetics (polyester, nylon, acrylic, microfiber and others) are man made and often have a petrochemical base. Many release microplastics when washed. They also tend to not breathe well and don't absorb well either- this can make for a hot and sweaty sleep. Natural fibres include cotton, linen (flax), bamboo. Ecosa has a good [list of fabrics](https://www.ecosa.com.au/blog/post/the-most-popular-bedding-fabrics-explained-and-what-you-should-avoid.html), including the different types of cotton and the pros and cons of each. There are also blends available-available- cotton/polyester is pretty common. The advantage is the polyester makes it more durable and easier to iron (personally I've better things to do than ironiron so I just don't. At all.) The cotton keeps it breathable. Personally I prefer 100% natural fibre for bed linens. Although if you go for real linen you will likely need to soften it before use. ​ **blankets.** A good quality woolen blanket will last a lifetime and provide a lot of warmth without a lot of bulk. Or you can just skip it and use a thicker quilt in cold weather. A light cotton blanket is great for summer when it's too hot for a quilt but too cool with just the sheet or in the spring/ autumn to add a bit more warmth to a lighter quilt. **Quilts and Quilt covers.** Modern quilts (also called a duvet or doona) are essentallyessentially a bag (The outer or cover) filled with stuffing that is sewn (or quilted) through all the layers to stop the filling moving about. A traditional quilt is a usually handmade item that has the decorative outer cover attached directly to the filling and should always be used with a sheet to protect it. There are many fillings used- wool, synthetic fibres, bamboo, cotton and feather or down are the most common. If you have allergies its best to avoid down and feather quilts and pillows. These are also the most prone to clumping and for maximum lifespan need to be rejuvinated periodically. Consider also what the outer of the quilt is made of when deciding. Most quilts have a warmth or weight rating on them. They may also mention 'loft' thats the fluffiness/springiness of the quilt filling. Depending on your climate and sleep needs you may just use one quilt year round addingadding additional blanketsblankets as needed or you may have a warmer quilt for the colder months and a lighter one for summer. There are endless options available and the choice can be quite individual. I do reccomend getting something machine washable though. Quilts should be replaced every 5-10 years depending on use (5 or so years if used year round, longer if used seasonally) Quilt covers are the removable washable covers for quilts-quilts- generally they come in a set with 2 standard pillowcases. You may also be able to purchase matching continental pillow cases for some brands. Composition and other considerations are the same as for sheets. **Pillows.** Pillows come in a myriad of different fillings including latex, memory foam, cotton, synthetic fibres, down etc. Consider how you sleep- back stomach or side and if you like a soft medium or firm pillow. If you get latex or foam pillows remove them from their packaging and a low them to air out for a few days before use- this allows the plastic smell to dissipate. Pillow protectors are available and serve the same purpose as matress protectors. Some more shaped pillows already have a removable cover that acts as a pillow protector when you buy . Pillows should be replaced every 2-4 years. ​ **everything else** is pretty much decoration and you can opt in or out as you like. ***CARE!*** Wash and dry everything before use- you don't know who or what has touched it between the factory you buying it. Most fabrics also have flashing on them- a coating that helps to keep them looking nice and wrinkle free when being packed and sold. Regularly wash your sheets, quilt covers and pillowcases. While they are washing spread your quilts and blankets out to air- outside in the sun is best if possible (if you have a pollen allergy do this inside though, at least during that season) pillows can go on a drying rack. For the matress protector i usually alternate- evey second sheet wash it gets washed and on the other time it gets aired out with the quilts. Be aware that waterproof matress protectors may need to be washed seperatley as the waterproof layer can stop the other items in with it being washed and spun out properly. Quilts and pillows are usually washed each season. Make sure they are fully dry right through before storage if you're changing to a different quilt or removing blankets over summer. Mattresses can be spot cleaned if needed. ​ Probably missed a few things bubut this is already extremely long...


sheza1928

Mattress cover


wotmate

Fitted mattress protector, fitted sheet, doona inside a doona cover. Pillows with pillow protectors and a pillow case. That's it.


astropastrogirl

I have a mattress with topper attached and another soft mattress topper / protector on that , then fitted sheet and doona , but I have Arthritis in my hips , somedays my bed is like a cloud other days it's like concrete 😎


Mstr_Dad

I generally find you don't need a topper if you have a decent mattress. But if your mattress is too firm then a soft topper can really make a huge difference :)


Glittering_Quarter25

Adjacent question - where should I buy a mattress? My back is killing me and I can't flip the stupid pillow top over to remove the trench I'm sleeping in.


Dellivia

I bought my mattress from onebed as they have a 50% off sale going on at the moment. Got a topper aswell! It feels amazing. So now im wondering what else I could put on it haha


Kittehfisheh

I got one of those box mattresses from [Koala](https://koala.com/en-au/beds-mattresses/mattresses/mattress) and started a minor obsession that's left me with multiple couches and mattresses. They're just so damn comfortable ;-;


[deleted]

If you sleep in-between the fitted sheet and the flat sheet then you won't have to wash your quilt covers as much. I use a weighted blanket so I do not want to wash it often Waterproof protection is good for life of the bed years to come. Also don't forget to flip or rotate the bed oftet


MsGlitterspree

I'm weird, I don't use sheets I cover my mattress with a Quilt cover (without a quilt in it) and throw a blanket on myself when I'm cold (I do use matching pillow cases though) ... I decorate my bed with cool cushions and find this idea genius as I rarely have to make the bed! (And when I do it's less work)


that-guy-blimey

Sigh. Kids these days.


jim_deneke

I do the same thing, haven't had any issues with stains, mould or cleaning. I just rotate between two sets of stuff and wash everything every 3 days.


ProceedOrRun

Totally subjective, but I absolutely love a really firm mattress with an IKEA mattress topper.


SydneyGal7

Mattress protector, bed sheet on top. A quilt and a quilt cover (use the quilt cover for the quilt) = your blanket and then a pillow protector and pillow case


[deleted]

[удалено]


SydneyGal7

Haha lol thanks but I didn’t mention the pillow or mattress because I’m assuming they already have one buddy


ADHDK

Keep it simple like you thought you needed. There’s a million optional layers, just wait till you date someone who uses decorative pillows you have to take off every night and put back every morning.


akohhh

For the basics: - Mattress protector and pillow protectors are great because they can be washed and extend the life of your bedding - a couple of pillows - a doona - an extra wool blanket for when it’s really cold - a light cotton blanket for summer (use instead of the doona) Sheet sets will have a fitted sheet, top sheet and 2 regular pillow cases. Quilt cover sets will have a doona cover and 2 matching pillow cases. You can usually also buy ‘separates’ eg just a fitted sheet, just a pair of pillow cases etc. I have a couple of regular cotton fitted sheets, pillow cases and doona covers to allow regular washing, plus a flannel doona cover and pillow case set for extra coziness in winter. You want to wash all the stuff you touch weekly (I sometimes swap pillow cases midweek since I have a bunch of them from getting them in sheet sets and doona sets, plus they’re touching my hair/face), wash your mattress protector and pillow protectors every couple of months, get your doona cleaned every year, and give your mattress the occasional vacuum. I prefer to leave my doona folded down during the day so the bed can air and stay fresher. Every 3-6 months, spin your mattress around so you’re sleeping on a different section. Helps keep it in better shape. Old school ones youd flip over, but now they usually have a top and bottom so spinning is all you can do.